The Verdict's Inn offers fresh breakfast and lunch.

The inspiration to open a café downtown for Las Vegas native Jill Schneider came from driving through the densely populated legal district and noticing the stark lack of restaurants. “Where do all these people eat? This is insane,” she often said to friends. This observation led Schneider to partner with longtime friend, Maggie DeBernardis Cupp, and mother, Jo Bourgeois, to open The Verdict’s Inn at 801 S. Las Vegas Blvd. The Verdict’s Inn serves both breakfast and lunch in the former Potato Valley Café location.

“My dream is to be a part of the downtown revitalization,” said Schneider. “For years I’ve watched my mother restore and sell antiques – taking old, neglected things and making them beautiful again. That’s exactly what we are doing downtown. We’re so grateful to Mayor Goodman for refusing to give up on his dream of a downtown makeover and we are proud to be part of it.”

Schneider says she and her team have received nothing but support from city council and neighboring businesses. “I have no complaints about the process of opening a restaurant downtown. We’ve been embraced by our neighbors at Resnicks, the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, the residents on the upper floors of our building at L'Octaine, the legal community and other workers throughout the area.”

As the name suggests, the café has a legal theme. Large black and white photos from iconic Hollywood court scenes cover the walls, and the menu is broken into ‘guilty’ and ‘not guilty’ categories to ensure both the health-conscious and the sweet-tooth are satisfied. 

In addition to the signature chopped salad, The Verdict’s Inn offers pastries, coffee, soups, sandwiches, wraps, Sabratt's hot dogs and fresh juices. Soon there will be outdoor seating along with beer and wine offerings.  

The Verdict’s Inn is open Monday – Friday from 9am to 4pm and Saturdays from 10am – 2pm. For menus, catering options and more information, visit www.theverdictsinn.com.

Photo: Inside The Verdict’s Inn