Royallyflushed

Las Vegas restaurant offers for savvy travelers

C.C. Royal — Sun, 05 Aug 2012 23:21:03 +0000

Use a restaurant.com coupon to order the SUGARFOOT’S Dancing Chicken & Waffles with Wild Turkey American Honey maple syrup — a brunch “must-have” at First Food & Bar.

Las Vegas is filled with great restaurants and now you can find super dining deals at some of Las Vegas’ best restaurants. These restaurant offers — in the form of certificates from Restaurant.com — let you buy $10, $25 or even more $$$ worth of dining for a huge discount based on the newest restaurant promotion code currently available through the program.

These are the coupons you may have read about on the popular money-saving website WalletPop.com or you might have heard about them from friends or family. We use them all the time especially when we want to try a new restaurant in our hometown AND whenever we go on vacation and can save money on our dining-out costs.

Here are just some of the terrific restaurants on the Las Vegas Strip that you’ll find offering money-saving certificates at restaurant.com:

Find these restaurants at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino –

Aureole – Home of the famous flying “wine angels,” this beautiful spot features a fabulous seasonal menu from Chef Charlie Palmer.

Mix In Las Vegas – Perched atop THE Hotel at the resort, MIX is one of the most beautiful dining spots in all of Vegas. Inside hangs the largest chandelier in the world with 15,000 hand-blown Murano glass balls, a menu originally composed by French Master Chef Alain Ducasse and a balcony that offers the best sunset view of THE Strip.

Rick Moonen’s RM Seafood — If you love creamy clam chowder, garlicky steamed mussels and the freshest fish prepared in a variety of mouth-watering ways, then RM Seafood is for you. The casual downstairs bar and grill is our favorite place to order up a couple of ice cold beers and enjoy bowls of clams and mussels swimming in fragrant broth served with lots of crunchy cheese-topped country bread perfect for sopping up all that great liquid.

At The Palazzo:
First Food and Bar — located inside The Shoppes connecting the Venetian to the Palazzo — brings the authenticity and character of the neighborhood bar concept back to life, minus the kitsch. This hip, yet comfortable restaurant and lounge is set in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip and has the vibe of a late-night spot blended with the casualness of a local eatery. FIRST caters to those who stagger in to feed their late-night cravings, as well as those looking for a mid-day business lunch or dinner. FIRST features culinary options spanning from lunch to late… really late-night and the menu features American eats and drinks created by Executive Chef Sam DeMarco. Sunday Brunch with the bottomless champagne flute is not to be missed!

To find all the Las Vegas Strip restaurants participating in this money-saving program, go to Restaurant.com and search zip codes 89119 and 89109 for the selection of top restaurants you can choose from.

Be sure to bookmark this page so you’ll always have access to the latest restaurant.com discount code to save $$$ on some of the top restaurants in Las Vegas.

The latest deal: Restaurant.com Weekly Promotion! Save on $25 Restaurant.com Gift Certificates! You’ll also find the most current adlink at the bottom of this page — just click and go right to restaurant.com!

Score summer deals now at MGM resorts in Vegas

C.C. Royal — Mon, 09 Jul 2012 19:08:15 +0000

Dine, dance, play on the beach — it’s all there when you book a special summer room rate at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas!

This has been one hot summer! Instead of complaining, why not spend the time enjoying yourself at the cool pools of ARIA, the sumptuous restaurants of Mandalay Bay or the smoking blackjack tables and thrilling nightclubs of MGM Grand Las Vegas? Las Vegas room rates plunge as the temperatures rise so now is the time to take advantage of all this fabulous vacation destination has to offer.

New this week: (Click on the links for more information and to use the promo code!)

ARIA “Food & Beverage Credit – Limited Time Offer” *Reserve your luxurious two night stay at ARIA and receive Up to 20% off rates, and a $100 Food & Beverage Credit during your stay (*See site for additional details and restrictions). Promotion Runs: Jun 28, 2012 – Jan 31, 2013. Promo Code: ARFBLTOA (Exp 7/31/12)

MGM Grand “$75 Food & Beverage Credit” *Take advantage of this exclusive limited time offer – Book now (2nt Min) and get your $75 Dining Credit(*See site for additional details and restrictions). Promotion Runs: Jul 3, 2012 – Jan 31, 2013. Promo Code: ZFBC12 (Exp 7/31/12)

Mandalay Bay “Exclusive Offer” *MGM Resorts International would like to invite you to take advantage of an exclusive offer – Book now (2nt Min)and receive up to $75 Food & Beverage Credit (*See site for additional details). Promotion Runs: Jul 2, 2012 – Jan 31, 2013. Promo Code: ZFBC12 (Exp 7/31/12)

Casino lovers holiday gift ideas

C.C. Royal — Sat, 03 Dec 2011 18:37:48 +0000

Every year we run some short posts giving our readers some fun ideas on gifts for the casino aficionados on their holiday giving list. Here are a few of our top picks available from Amazon.com or you can check out some of your local stores for similar items!

IGT Slots put some of our favorite games into this home version including Lobstermania and DaVinci Diamonds.

Best home slots game — IGT Slots: Lucky Larry’s Lobstermania

IGT strikes gaming gold with this fun in-home slots game that includes such favorites as Cats, Carnival of Mystery (love this game at Caesars in Las Vegas,) Frog Princess and Stinkin’ Rich. At less than $20, it’s a great deal for those who want to play, not pay!

Best Cross Body Bag for Women — Cole Haan Bailey Bag

Here’s the dilemma — as much as you (or the woman in your life) love toting around that jumbo purse/suit

case/carryall, it just isn’t very practical for a day at the casino. Do you keep it on that sticky shelf between machines or clutch it to your body like you’re protecting the family jewels? And, please, don’t even think of hanging it off the back of your chair!

Solution: enter the Cross Body bag which — just as the name suggests — smartly and compactly sits across the chest holding valuables and necessities in neatly and stylishly. We couldn’t believe the price on this beauty (less than half the regular price!) and it comes in a gorgeous shade of lipstick red as well. This doesn’t have to go in her stocking…it can be her stocking! Love it.

Also, be sure to check out our extensive Gift Guide here.

Fright Dome at Circus Circus opens Saturday

C.C. Royal — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 17:04:10 +0000

Scaredy cats need not apply.... Fright Dome in Las Vegas is ranked in the Top 5 of Haunted Houses in America.

The popular annual fright fest, Fright Dome at Circus Circus Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, opens this Saturday, October 1 with a first-ever grand opening event — the premiere Black Carpet! The hotel promises the arrival of celebs, local headliners and more to opening night of one of the scariest haunted attractions in the nation. Carpet arrivals start at 6pm and doors open at 7pm.

Created by Jason Egan, Fright Dome at Circus Circus has been horrifying visitors to Las Vegas since 2003. Ticket prices this year are hovering right around $40 for General Admission. For an extra $15,guests can buy a VIP Pass and the ability to skip to the front of the line at attractions within the Dome.

More info can be found at the event’s website: Fright Dome at Circus Circus Las Vegas.

MGM Resorts promoting Las Vegas Spring Break 2011 package deals

C.C. Royal — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 23:06:24 +0000

Enjoy Spring Break in Las Vegas! Now through the end of April, SPRING BREAK 2011MGM Resorts in Las Vegas is offering a number of Spring Break specials at their hotels up and down the Strip. Each vacation package comes with a list of extras unique to the specific hotel. For instance, using the Spring Break Vegas promotion code at Mandalay Bay’s website will net you a $50 Cabana Credit, 2-for-1 Breakfast at House of Blues plus 30% off tickets to The Lion King. At Luxor, warm-weather revelers will enjoy free admission to CatHouse Ultra Lounge, $3 off a Brunch or Lunch Buffet at MORE, 2-for-1 Tecate or Tecate Light at T&T, a FREE Jell-O Shot at Dick’s Last Resort at Excalibur, 25% off Retail Purchases and $15 off a custom Airbrush Tan at Nurture Spa & Salon.

Here’s a list of the properties participating along with links and promo codes to cash in on the best Las Vegas Spring Break hotel deals. Just write down the promo code indicated and click on the hotel name to go to the website.

Mandalay Bay — Promo Code: PSBRKH (Exp 4/30/11).

Monte Carlo — Promo Code: XSPRB11 (Exp 4/28/11).

MGM Grand Las Vegas – Promo Code: SPRINGBR8K (Exp 4/28/11).

Luxor – Promo Code: PSBREAK (Exp 4/30/11).

Get your girls to Vegas — Tips for a ladies-only getaway

C.C. Royal — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 22:07:15 +0000

We love Louis! Even if it is just window-shopping the posh purses at CityCenter Las Vegas and this two-story Louis Vuitton shop, the brand's largest store in North America.

Something we read on VegasChatter today made us get off our blogging butts and write this post we’ve been meaning to do for ages. While most of our trips to Vegas are geared around couples, we do indulge in the occasional “Girls Getaway” and that agenda is a whole lot different from any we follow when the boys come along.

Here are just a few suggestions – tried and true – of what to do on your next (if you happen to be female) girls trip to Las Vegas.

1. We love to get our girlie on with a visit to Sephora at Planet Hollywood’s Miracle Mile Shops. Better yet, book a FREE make-over and you’ll leave there looking like a million bucks. And yeah, just try not to buy any of the fabuloso stuff they use to create the new you.

2. Speaking of the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, you’ll definitely want to spend some time traipsing the circular mile-plus path and hitting such fun stores as H&M, Betsey Johnson, BCBG MAXAZRIA, Urban Outfitters, kitchen specialty shop Sur La Tab and our fave shop for cheap Vegas T-shirts, ABC Stores. (There are actually two of them in the mall.) Leave time for a stop at Fat Tuesday’s Daiquiri Bar where we highly recommend the Banana Banshee and the Mojito. (Word to the wise, drink too many of the latter and you won’t be able to movito away from the bar.)

3. When we travel with the boys, we find ourselves at lots of casino buffets – big fat breakfast and lunch buffets. While that’s fine for those trips, we really appreciate relaxing with the girls over a more refined meal – one that includes servers who, well, serve us. With that in mind, check out these girlie favorites:

Serendipity 3 in front of Caesars Palace – Just look for the pink and white striped awnings and be sure to order the Cotton Candy Martini. Need we say more?
Payard Bistro inside Caesars – The tiny jewel box of a restaurant serves some of the best breakfasts in town. The one that gets our morning going in the right direction is the Eggs Benedict on Croissant. This is the real-thing: perfect Hollandaise sauce, gently poached eggs, lean salty ham and the BEST croissant on the planet.
Society Café at Encore – Yes, we know lots of guys like it but, really, take one look at all the frou-frou and fluff and it just screams gently whispers “Ladies-Who-Lunch” at you. The classic Tuna Nicoise and the fruit-and-nut laden Grilled Chicken salads are both fresh and, gulp, good for you as well.

4. No Las Vegas girls weekend is complete without this stop: Lunch or dinner on the Strip-side patio at Mon Ami Gabi restaurant which fronts Paris Las Vegas. This Vegas favorite combines the BEST people-watching opportunities with a menu sure to please the fussiest of groups (you know who you are) along with a front-row seat to the Fountain Show at Bellagio. Toss in a thoughtful wines-by-glass list, the must-have profiteroles for dessert AND superb service and you’ve got a spot to make everyone happy, happy.

5. Last stop, window-shopping at Crystals, the retail area of CityCenter, then onto ARIA Casino Hotel for our one big blow-out dinner of the trip at Sage. This funky yet sophisticated purple-and-gold outpost of Chef Shawn McClain is the most under-appreciated fine dining spot in Las Vegas. Really. The food is phenomenal and the service is excellent. The Roasted Day Boat Scallops with braised Oxtail/Wild Mushrooms/Salted Caramel Reduction (quoted from the menu) is one of the best scallop preparations we have ever had – anywhere. Start with the Foie Gras Custard Brûlée and end with any of the chocolate-centric desserts and you’ll leave a happy camperess. By the way, Sage now features Absinthe service, something we are definitely going to try during our next visit.

Top performers cruise into Vegas for March Madness music-style

C.C. Royal — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 21:09:09 +0000

Basketball may rule the month but music and the top performers appearing in Las Vegas this March promise to match or surpass anything you’ll see on the court. There’s a Las Vegas concert event for music lovers of all types starting with the much-heralded return of Celine Dion to the Caesars Palace stage.

Beginning March 15, Dion will be performing a brand-new Colosseum show featuring her most-beloved hits set to the music of a 30+ member orchestra. The show’s co-producer promises a technically-innovative sound and screen experience courtesy of celebrated Grammys director Ken Ehrlich. Although we’ve seen numerous reports of sell-outs, we found tickets available for even the debut performance through our affiliate at TicketNetwork – Las Vegas Tickets.

The month of March also sees some famed performers hit the stage at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. March 5 brings Eric Clapton to town for a single Saturday night show. Clapton, whose hit song “Layla” and accompanying album celebrates its 40th anniversary in March (yeah, makes me feel old, too) had a recent stop in Tokyo and you can read about the show on this special Eric Clapton website — WheresEric.com. Tickets (starting at $59) info: Eric Clapton Tickets 2011-03-05 Las Vegas, NV, MGM Grand Garden Arena.

March 19 is the date for the latest Las Vegas concert featuring Bon Jovi. This one-night show is their only Las Vegas stop during 2011 in a tour dubbed simply Bon Jovi Live in support of their newest “Greatest Hits” recording. Last year’s Circle Tour was named the highest grossing concert tour of 2010 according to Billboard’s annual Top 25 concert tours. Get Bon Jovi Tickets for MGM Grand Las Vegas at TicketsNow.

The Monster Ball World Tour featuring Lady GaGa takes the Las Vegas stage on March 25. Tickets at MGM Grand’s Garden Arena to see the “Born This Way” singer are scarce and pricey but we found some starting at $200 on TicketsNow. Lady Gaga Tickets.

March Madness Vegas-Style

C.C. Royal — Sun, 20 Feb 2011 21:31:22 +0000

Home to Barry Manilow, Paris LV is hoping new nightclub Chateau attracts its own set of fans.

March in Las Vegas means much more than basketball this year. Coming in like a lion, March pretty much stays that way all month long with performances from some top names in music plus the much-anticipated opening of the new nightclub at Paris Las Vegas and the return of Celine Dion to Caesars Palace.

Let’s start with the opening of Chateau Nightclub & Gardens at Paris. Making its debut on March 4, Caesar’s hopes this newest entry into the hot Las Vegas club scene will impress guests with its phenomenal Strip-side location and outdoor dance floor and cabanas. (We’re going to miss the gorgeous fountain they removed to make way for this club but, hey, we understand — commerce is commerce.)

Two stories of club action and six bars dotting a 40,000-square-foot venue will merge such seemingly disparate features as lushly-classic French gardens and architecture with DJ’s spinning “an eclectic blend of house, dance, hip-hop and mainstream music. “

The Grand Opening on March 5 features an appearance by Drake while on March 25, Flo Rida checks in to see if this club can handle him – or not. And what club in Vegas worth its designer-vodka drinks and scantily-clad servers doesn’t have an upcoming visit from at least one or more of the Jersey Shore crowd? The Chateau doesn’t disappoint with scheduled appearances by “The Situation” plus a Sammi Sweetheart birthday bash.

Links for more info: Chateau Nightclub LV newsletter or check out this official Caesar’s Chateau Las Vegas website. You can also follow them on twitter here: @chateaulv

Tomorrow – March’s must-see concerts in Las Vegas. In the meantime, enjoy this Flo Rida video –

Prop bets, Mario’s balls and the world’s best Buffalo chicken dip

C.C. Royal — Sat, 05 Feb 2011 04:57:47 +0000

Meatballs by Mario.

We love football — especially betting on football – and no game is more fun to bet than the Super Bowl. Flat bets are great but what we really love all the crazy “prop” bets that are circulating this time of year. How long will it take Christina Aguilera to sing the National Anthem? Will Fergie show up to perform at half-time dressed as a Cowboys cheerleader? Yep, those are just a couple of the bets available at offshore betting sites like bodog.com. In Vegas, where Nevada gaming regulations restrict prop bets to those directly related to specific game statistics, there are still plenty of “off-road” opportunities. Check out this article at National Football Post on the five best prop bets for this Sunday’s big game. For more info, check out these lists on EastCoastGambler.net as well — Super Bowl Prop Bets, Steelers and Prop Bets, Packers.

Now on to part two of our headline — Mario’s balls. So we’re watching “Good Morning America” last Friday and they’re doing a special segment on what to serve at your Super Bowl party and the chef du jour is Mario Batali of New York’s Babbo and Las Vegas faves B&B and Carnevino fame. He suggests making, among other things, meatball heroes for the big day. The recipe looked so good and we were so intrigued (mix the meat for 10 minutes!) that we just had to make them ourselves. We are here to tell you that these are the BEST meatballs on the planet. Really. We made a huge batch to have with pasta or serve on sandwich rolls but honestly, we simply want a big bowl of them topped with a little homemade marinara and a sprinkling of pecorino Romano cheese. Here’s the ABC video on Mario Batali’s meatballs plus the meatball recipe. (Use panko breadcrumbs in place of the fresh ones.)

And last, here’s an appetizer we make every Super Bowl and always get back rave reviews and an empty serving dish.

The Best Buffalo Chicken Dip

4 boneless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs)
1-12oz. bottle of Frank’s Hot Buffalo Sauce
2- 8oz. packages of cream cheese
1 cup each of Ranch and Blue Cheese salad dressings
8 oz. shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Poach chicken breasts in enough water to cover for 30 minutes or until done.

Drain and when cool enough to handle, shred chicken then combine with the hot sauce.

Spread in a 13×9 baking pan.

Heat oven to 350 degrees.

In a sauce pan, combine cream cheese and both dressings, stirring until smooth and hot.

Pour mixture evenly over chicken.

Bake uncovered for 20 minutes.

Sprinkle cheese on top and bake uncovered for another 10 min.

Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, celery sticks (or just a big spoon.)

Have a great Super Bowl Sunday!

Super Bowl Prop Bets Add Spice to Sunday’s Big Party

Party like “The Bachelor” at ARIA Las Vegas. Or not.

C.C. Royal — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 18:54:10 +0000

We just posted some info on our sister site, BestLasVegasValues.com, about how you can save 30% on show tickets to Viva ELVIS at Aria Las Vegas when we saw a couple of other opportunities to save you some bucks.

These limited-time offers for room discounts and special credits come directly from MGM Resorts and pop up fairly frequently but always on different properties. The current ones happen to be for ARIA Resort and the Vdara, the non-gaming hotel across the traffic-circle, weird entryway, courtyard from ARIA. (If you caught “The Bachelor” on ABC last night, you would have seen Brad Womack under the ARIA portico awaiting his posse of bachelorettes. What? No gaggle of ~~desperate~~ gorgeous women to accompany you? No problem, you can still stay there.)

We have to admit it. We are strangely attracted to ARIA and, no, it has nothing to do with Brad. We actually enjoy playing slots there (IGT’s Secrets of the Forest is a fave) and Julian Serrano has become our routine stop for yummy tapas — try the warm spinach salad with garlic and pine nuts — and white sangria.

Here are the latest deals we have as an affiliate of MGM Resorts: (Affiliate means we get a couple of bucks if you book through our site. Thanks.)

ARIA “$50 DAILY ARIA Resort Credit” The Center of Excitement has Shifted! *Be our guest on select dates now through June 30, 2011 and enjoy a daily $50 ARIA Resort Credit (*see site for additional details and restrictions). Promotion Runs: Jan 28 – Jun 30, 2011. Promo Code: AR7D50 (Exp 2/2/11)

Vdara – Room Rates From $119/nt.

And here’s a video look at “Secrets of the Forest” slot machine from IGT.

FIRST it’s hard to find and FIRST it’s worth the effort

C.C. Royal — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 21:15:12 +0000

Lindeman's and Guinness Stout combine to make the Cupid's Arrow at First Food & Bar, Las Vegas.

Have we told you how much we *heart* FIRST Food and Bar at The Palazzo? No? Then let us count the ways:

FIRST feels like one of those secret out-of-the-way joints that only “insiders” know about. Really. To get there, you have to go to the second floor of the retail shopping area connecting the Venetian to the Palazzo; hang a right at Barney’s New York; and then make your way down the corridor to the barely-marked restaurant. (We had a hard time just getting past the shoe display in Barneys’ windows.)
It’s open late — ’til 1 a.m. during the week and even later on weekends.
The front-of-the-house manager stops by — more than once — to check on your food, drinks, service, etc. On our last visit, we felt like “regulars” by the end of the meal.
The food: big yummy portions of amped-up diner food. Burgers to blackened steak, pasta to pizza: this is comfort food meant to help banish your hangover (or get you poised to work on a new one.)
Hearty breakfast sammie with Tater Tots at First Food Bar at the Palazzo, Vegas.

Sunday brunch (11 a.m. – 4 p.m.) — A traveling Bloody Mary bar complete with a cute mixologist ready to make it your way. (Our way? Extra Tabasco and black pepper plus enough green olives to mimic a salad bar.) A $10 per person all-you-can-drink champagne deal. This may not be Krug or Cristal but face it, there’s something abnormally fun and decadent about washing down your corned beef hash or chicken and waffles with a glass or two — or eight — of bubbly. Try the Breakfast Mini-Burgers with cheese, bacon, Hollandaise sauce and a side of Tater Tots.
The Cupid’s Arrow — Just like drinking an alcoholic dark chocolate truffle. Take a bottle of Guinness Stout and a bottle of Lindeman’s Framboise Ale then pour them — simultaneously — into an iced schooner. Drink. Drink. Burp. Drink.
Strip view. Grab a spot near the windows and gaze out onto Treasure Island and, if the sun has set, the pirate battle show.

Fido and Flossie do Vegas

C.C. Royal — Tue, 18 Jan 2011 18:53:26 +0000

Dogs are welcome at eight Caesars properties where bad beat jackpots are paid in kibble and Nylabones.

You know the look. The one you get as soon as you pull out the good suitcase and start packing it with all your Vegas finery. The guilt-inducing look that says “So I’m off to the kennel while you go have all the fun.” (Personally, we get the “We’re stuck here with Aunt Marge (who still hasn’t figured out that we like our dinner microwaved for 28 seconds not 30) while you go dine at Guy Savoy” – death stare.)

Well, fret no more: Caesars Entertainment now welcomes your canine friends at eight of their Las Vegas properties. The new PetStay program debuted in October at Caesars Palace, the Rio and Imperial Palace and now includes Paris, Bally’s, Planet Hollywood, Harrah’s and the Flamingo. The program seems to be doing quite well as we saw a number of dogs out and about during our last visit to Caesars Palace. And, yes, we mean the four-legged variety. Sort of.

In addition to the $25 (Imperial Palace) to $40 (Caesars Palace) upcharge per night, there are some rules and restrictions:

* Dogs staying at any of the participating hotels must weigh 50 pounds or less and be present at the time of check- in.

* Up to 2 dogs per room are allowed.

* Dogs are permitted to walk through designated common areas while on a leash and accompanied by the owner. (Damn, we figured we’d stick a leash on them and let ‘em run wild through the sports book while we hit the spa.)

* Can only play blackjack if they know not to split 10′s.

Okay, so we made up that last one. Sort of.

For more info on pet-friendly hotels in Las Vegas, visit the Caesars website for all the PetStay policies.

More new stuff to do in Vegas for CES 2011

C.C. Royal — Wed, 05 Jan 2011 20:26:41 +0000

Part Two of our look at what’s new and different in Las Vegas this year continues: (That’s why the list starts with #8 just in case you thought we couldn’t count.)

8. The newest slot game to hit the casino floor is the “community game” based on American Idol and you can play it at any of the MGM Resorts properties. MGM has a 30-day exclusive on this new IGT game and going by what we saw of it at the gaming expo in November it is going to be a blast to play. Look for it at Mandalay Bay, MGM Grand, NYNY, Luxor, Mirage, Bellagio and ARIA. (We snagged a photo of it from the gaming expo’s trade show floor.) Just think, this may be your last chance to see Simon snark his way through the competition – other than in reruns.

The coolest game to hit the casino floors this year -- American Idol -- can be found exclusively at MGM properties this weekend.

9. We dig the new Munch Bar at Caesars Palace. It’s located within ear-splitting distance of the Pussycat Dolls blackjack tables but the food is fast, fun and a good nosh when we feel like eating lunch at 3 p.m. or 3 a.m. Try the Philly Cheesesteak sliders, the sweet potato fries with a wicked garlic dip, the grilled cheese bites with tomato dipping sauce or one of the monstrous burgers.

10. PBR Rock Bar – the cowboy-themed BBQ spot that opened at Planet Hollywood is another good spot for lunch or dinner. Two people can easily share the plate-sized pulled pork sammich with the mini-vat of creamy potato salad. The place heats up at night when the mechanical bull starts bucking drunks patrons onto the floor. And you definitely don’t want to miss this: Friday, January 7, 10 p.m. — “Party with some of adult entertainment’s finest and get a chance to compete in the mechanical bull riding competition. The most impressive bull rider will win a $500 cash prize. Revelers can get down and dirty with 2-for $8 beers and two-for-one Hoedown-Throwdowns, PBR Rock Bar’s specialty cocktail.” Honest, they’re calling it the Hoe-Down Pornstar Bull Riding Contest. (Kinda’ makes that American Idol slot game look a little less exciting, huh?)

11. Check out the Strip’s first high-end Greek restaurant — ESTIATORIO MILOS — at the new Cosmopolitan. An NYC/Montreal import, the restaurant features fresh fish and other menu items done up in creative Mediterranean style. We can’t wait to try the fried zucchini and eggplant appetizer. (We heart zucchini done this way.)

12. While Las Vegas is expecting some chilly weather this weekend, it will be downright freezing if you stop by the Monte Carlo and the newest Minus5 Ice Lounge. Enjoy Vodka cocktails in this lounge made entirely of Canadian ice. (Why Canadian ice? Imported is always better. We think….)

Here’s that guarantee we talked about: Not having an enormously exciting time in Vegas? We’ll be at PBR at Planet Hollywood, sitting at the bar enjoying a giant guitar-sized frozen fruity-thing, at 11 p.m. Saturday night and will ride the bull if our promise to provide you with fun things to do in Vegas has not been met. No, really, just look for us.

New year, new CES, new stuff to do in Vegas

C.C. Royal — Tue, 04 Jan 2011 19:30:32 +0000

Tapas at Julian Serrano at the ARIA are perfect for sharing with a crowd and the sangria rocks.

Headed to Las Vegas this week for CES 2011? Here are some new places to see/things to do/food to eat guaranteed – yes, this post comes with a guarantee – to make your CES visit enormously exciting. (Okay, so we know the electronics are the raison d’etre for this trip but trust us, Hubert Keller’s “Top Chef Masters” competition-winning “In The Shower” Mac & Cheese made with lobster and brunoise vegetables is what you’ll still be talking about come summer.)

1. Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas – You’ve seen the ads now see the real thing (sans kittens, goats, Westies and hopefully, pants-free bellboys.) Drinks at inside The Chandelier bar is a must as is dinner at Jaleo which will no doubt be the toughest table to lay your hands and fork on this weekend.

2. Hash House A Go Go has opened on the Strip. At Imperial Palace to be exact. Lots of great diner food including the famed – for good reason – Farm Benedicts. Open Friday and Saturday until 2 AM, it’s the perfect spot to head for when you need something to soak up that bottle of Grey Goose that kept calling your name at the club.

3. While it may be too cold for swimming, check out the new pool digs at Encore and the renovated space at Caesars Palace. Summer – in Vegas, anyways – is just around the corner.

4. New games to try: Lord of the Rings at Caesars Palace; Sex and the City at ARIA and Planet Hollywood; Triple Spin Poker at ARIA or Ultimate X video poker at the Bellagio.

5. If you didn’t make it over to ARIA last year or if you did but missed dining there, be sure to check out Julian Serrano for tapas (the warm spinach salad and the country bread with tomatoes are both wonderful as is the white sangria.) Sage Restaurant is awesome as well. The boy knows what to do with scallops, foie gras and lamb.

6. Sip some outstanding grape while noshing on small plates at the new La Cave Wine and Food Hideaway located inside Wynn Las Vegas. We’ve heard good things about the space and will also be checking it out for the first time this week. (We’re the two chicks – dressed in East Coast black — huddled over the baked clams with pepperoncini and Parmesan.)

7. That mac and cheese we were talking about? Find it here at Fleur by Hubert Keller, now open at Mandalay Bay and serving, as the press release calls them, “inventive small plates, sweet endings and dramatic cocktails.” (Hey, put enough liquor in and we find any cocktail to be “dramatic.”) We are ginormous fans of Chef Keller and of liquid nitrogen so we’ll be there as well this weekend. (We’re the two dramatic chicks at the bar no doubt dressed in black.)

Come back tomorrow for more ideas and that guarantee we told you about….

From A(ria) to (Jay) Z — Vegas will usher in the New Year in $tyle

C.C. Royal — Sun, 26 Dec 2010 22:17:26 +0000

LAVO at the Palazzo will ring in the New Year with hostess Holly Madison on hand to party with Las Vegas revelers.

“Maybe it’s much too early in the game
Aah, but I thought I’d ask you just the same
What are you doing New Year’s,
New Year’s eve?” *

Las Vegas for New Year’s Eve? That’ll work. So “who” will be lighting up the desert and ringing in 2011 with the masses? Here’s a list of “hosts” (we’re still not quite sure what that means…) plus performers booked into various Strip venues this year.

New Year’s Eve 2011 Events, Las Vegas

Reality star/entrepreneur/serial dater and “smart” sister, Kim Kardashian, will be hosting the party at TAO Las Vegas at the Venetian. (Unfortunately for us girls, her liaison with Halle Berry ex, Gabriel Aubry, is over so no extra eye-candy for the $$$ you may be shelling out.)

Holly Madison, Las Vegas’ version of the girl-next-door (if you happen to live next door to a huge casino resort such as Planet Hollywood,) will be mingling with revelers at LAVO, the Palazzo’s celeb-heavy club. (We thought it odd that she wasn’t snapped up for a gig at one of the Harrah’s Caesar’s properties.)

Mario Lopez (we’re assuming sans baby and Screech) will be making an appearance at Eve nightclub inside the Crystals at CityCenter. Eve – owned by Eva Longoria (we’ll drop the “Parker”) – has a ton of packages available including the $10,000 “Celebrity VIP” blitz with admission for you and 14 of your BFF’s plus “Unlimited Premium Liquor, 4 bottles at a time, and 2 Bottles of Dom Perignon Magnum.”

Sean “Diddy” Combs will be hosting the blow-out at LAX at the Luxor. Other hip-hop and rap stars in town and hosting and/or performing for the night’s festivities include Ludacris at Vanity at the Hard Rock Hotel — packages start at $150 with open bar – plus NELLY at Haze in the new ARIA Resort and Casino or how about B.o.B. at the Mirage’s JET nightclub.

The most talked about “by-invitation-only” event is the Jay Z/Coldplay concert at the brand-new Cosmopolitan casino resort. Reportedly, the Empire State star is getting a cool mil for his performance. For this event, high-rollers only need apply. If your casino play is grand enough to impress the Cosmo’s powers-that-be, here’s a run-down on the event — Coldplay & Jay-Z LIVE Concert, Cosmopolitan Las Vegas NEW YEARS EVE 2011 — plus an email addy you can use to try for tickets. (We’re assuming your 2009 tax return complete with W-2G’s is the key to getting your golden ticket.)

Check out all the info on lots of New Year’s Eve in Las Vegas events at our favorite BestOfVegas.com site where tickets, line passes and more are available for purchase.

* “What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve?” Music and lyrics — Frank Henry Loesser

Eat. Play. Love. Cosmopolitan Las Vegas debuts tomorrow

C.C. Royal — Tue, 14 Dec 2010 18:49:00 +0000

The Cosmopolitan resort, the newest component of CityCenter Las Vegas, opens December 15.

Some news you probably already know – The Cosmopolitan opens tomorrow in Las Vegas. We say “probably” because we assume you’ve either seen the TV commercials (they started in 2005 or maybe it just seems that way) or read the press releases or followed any number of the Yellow Brick blog posts/tweets leading to the opening of the newest Emerald CityCenter component.

We’ll be checking out the new digs come January and here’s what we’ll be looking for:

The Casino at The Cosmopolitan — Although you wouldn’t know it from the ads, they do have one. Already we know that Blackjack at The Cosmo is nothing to write home about so we’ll be interested in seeing the pay tables for video poker along with which slot games made the cut. Wanna’ really be avant-garde, Cosmo? Be one of the few on the Strip to give your guests a fair gamble.

The Cosmopolitan Restaurants – The biggest coup for the new property no doubt comes from bringing acclaimed Spanish chef José Andrés (protege of famed El Bulli chef Ferran “The Father of Foam” Adrià) to Las Vegas. Andres will be at the helm of Jaleo, China Poblano and The Henry. We’ve eaten at Jaleo in Washington, D.C. so we’re most interested in trying out China Poblano which promises diners a spot where “Noodles and tacos come together in a festive, stylish setting designed by SEED.” Hmm.

Other top toques brought in to run the high-end hash houses of the Cosmo include both Scott Conant (Italian,) and David Myers (who looks like Kerry Simon’s moody younger brother.) The spot we’re really psyched about is Estiatorio Milos by restaurateur Costas Spiliadis, the Strip’s first 5X$ Greek restaurant.

The Guest Rooms at The Cosmopolitan — Honestly, the balconies over-looking the Strip — with doors-that-open-so-you-can-sit-out-on-them-balconies — are what most piqued our interest. Because we like to gamble and eat and enjoy the random cocktail — a lot — we don’t spend all that much time in the room. We are hoping, though, that one of those cute little Westie terriers got lost during the filming of the Cosmopolitan’s TV commercials and we find him/her under the bed. A hotel that would offer a room complete with cute puppy or kitten — or maybe a duck for the tub? — would be our idea of a really great hotel concept.

Hit the jackpot with these unique gift ideas for slot machine players

C.C. Royal — Tue, 14 Dec 2010 13:36:52 +0000

The Crazy Diamond Slot Bank is a top-seller this holiday season.

We posted ideas for buying gifts for poker and card players so time to give you some hints on what to get for the slot machine fan on your list. There’s still time to order these items from Amazon.com and have them under the tree on Christmas morning. And don’t forget — if none of these ideas floats your boat there are scads more in our Gift Guide storefront.

This is, by far, my fave gift for women, myself included…hint, hint — a cozy Pashmina-style wrap for those chilly casino floors. Really, I’ve been in meat lockers that are warmer than your average casino. In a luscious solid color, posh print or smooth neutral, this is a great gift item for travelers as well. (Sure beats those skanky-looking airplane blankets.)

Maybe we have a skewed sense of humor but we love this hoodie! The BusyBodies Slot Machine Hooded Sweatshirt simply makes us smile every single time we put it on. Win or lose, it’s a great gift for a dedicated slot machine player.

Redesigned for music and Multi-Touch, the Apple iPod nano is smaller and lighter than ever. You can clip it to your sleeve, jacket, or running shorts and keep your favorite songs at your fingertips. There’s even a built-in FM radio so you can tune into your favorite game while you play the machines.

Top Gift Idea — Here’s a cool way for your slot machine fan to save up for that next trip to the casino — the Crazy Diamonds Slot Machine Bank. This large-scale replica features a chrome bevel and tray, a jackpot bell and a flashing light. This is our best-selling item for 2010.

Book a stay at the ARIA Resort and Casino and you'll be in the heart of the exciting new CityCenter Las Vegas.

Last but not least, how about a trip to Vegas for the casino lover on your list? We can’t think of a better gift than a three-night stay at the Bellagio, Caesars Palace or one of CityCenter Las Vegas’ newest spots — the ARIA Casino Resort or Vdara Hotel. Click Here for the Best Las Vegas Hotel Deals!

Casino-themed holiday gifts to make them smile

C.C. Royal — Wed, 08 Dec 2010 17:31:58 +0000

This "Powered by Poker" hoodie would be a great gift for any card player to find beneath the Christmas tree.

Looking for gifts for casino players? We’ve got lots of ideas for you. From stocking-stuffers to more substantial offerings, we’ve picked gifts for slot machine players and card players – ones we know they will love. There’s still plenty of time left to shop online and we’ll be posting some of our fav picks from Amazon.com’s extensive gift catalog right up until the bitter exciting end of this year’s holiday shopping season.

Best Gifts for Cards and Poker Players:

Whether you are just learning to play poker or looking for advice on advanced strategy, this is one of the books to own and read. Harrington on Hold ‘em is one of the few books players agree on — it’s a five-star guide to winning the game of poker. One reviewer says, “This book paid for itself immediately. Some of the fundamental concepts in this book seem extremely obvious once they’ve been pointed out to you, but cost real money until you grasp them.”

Instead of a stocking stuffer, how about the entire stocking? Accented with a royal flush, this Playing Cards Christmas Stocking will definitely make any card player smile come Christmas morning.

A fun little goodie to put into the stocking: this World Series of Poker Texas Holdem Handheld Video Game.

Here’s a colorful addition to any Christmas tree and especially one belonging to a poker player — this holiday ornament representing stacks of poker chips.

Home poker parties continue to be all the rage these days and this Poker Platter With Aces is a perfect gift for entertaining. An optional set of Poker Snack Plates is also available.

Want more gifting ideas for casino players? We’ve assembled a huge variety of gifts to choose from in our storefront Casino Gifts Guide. (Don’t miss the cute ornaments featuring the poker dogs. Yep, those ubiquitous “Dogs Playing Poker.”)

Harrah’s changes name to Caesars Entertainment

C.C. Royal — Wed, 01 Dec 2010 02:09:08 +0000

While we were tied up baking pies, simmering cranberries and brining our turkey last week, Harrah’s Entertainment was busy officially becoming Caesars Entertainment Corporation. From all reports, the new name is considered by the company to be more connotative of the higher-end casino experience Caesars wishes to portray as well as being more well-known internationally.

According to the Company’s own press release, “The Harrah’s name will continue to be one of the company’s primary brands, along with Caesars, Horseshoe, Total Rewards and World Series of Poker.

“In recognition of Caesars’ status as the world’s preeminent and most respected casino brand, we have changed the name of our parent company to Caesars Entertainment Corporation,” said Gary Loveman, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Caesars Entertainment. “The change reflects our evolution as the industry’s leading provider of branded casino entertainment.”

We don’t care a whole lot about the name change but what we do wish they would change is their video poker pay tables. We would be happy to “All Hail Caesars” if we saw more 9/6 games in their casinos.

More information: Here’s an interesting article on the Pokerati.com website about the name change — “Harrah’s Inc. is now Caesars Corp. – we think..“

MGM Resorts promotes “Holiday Sale” for Vegas hotels

C.C. Royal — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 19:34:48 +0000

Rooms at ARIA Casino Resort at the heart of CityCenter Las Vegas are on sale during MGM Resorts' holiday promotion.

This year, “Black Friday” shopping can include snagging a great deal on a winter getaway to Las Vegas when you book with one of MGM Resort’s special holiday sales.

One of the properties participating is the new ARIA Casino at CityCenter, home to two of our newest fave restaurants: tapas bar Julian Serrano and Sage Restaurant. Serrano’s eponymous spot features a wide selection of luscious “small plates” such as salmon with truffle bechamel and portabello mushrooms, a deconstructed Mediterranean Stew with shrimp and sole and a warm salad of spinach, garlic, pine nuts and raisins that is unforgettable and guaranteed to keep vampires away for at least a week. (Yes, there is that much garlic and it is divine.) Also, don’t miss the white wine sangria with notes of pineapple and pear.

Book the holiday sale rates through 12/1/10 for travel dates through February 28, 2011. Use the links and promo codes below to check out all the dates and details:

ARIA “10 Day Holiday Sale” Promotion Runs: Nov 22, 2010 – Feb 28, 2011. Promo Code: AR10DAY (Exp 12/1/10)

Mirage ” Winter Sale” Promotion Runs: Nov 22, 2010 – Feb 28, 2011. Promo Code: MIRBLK10W (Exp 12/1/10)

Luxor “Holiday Special” Promotion Runs: Nov 22, 2010 – Feb 28, 2011. Promo Code: L1122 (Exp 12/1/10)

Another special deal from MGM hotels comes just in time for the Wrangle National Finals Rodeo happening December 2 – 11 at the Thomas & Mack Center on the UNLV campus. Stay at MGM Grand and get not only a great room rate but also lots of 2-for-1 deals and freebies.

MGM Grand Las Vegas “NFR at MGM Grand” Rates from $69/nt. * Your NFR Maximum Vegas package is at the MGM Grand – Your package includes: 2 for 1 buffet, Two (2) complimentary admissions to Studio 54 or Tabu Ultra Lounge, Two (2) Complimentary cocktails at the 4 main bars (*See site for additional details and restrictions). Nov 24 – Dec 18, 2010. Promo Code: MKT410 (Exp 12/11/10)

Here’s one more great deal — this one from the Monte Carlo Las Vegas which offers easy access to NYNY and to CityCenter. Monte Carlo is also home to the new Minus5 Ice Lounge, a cool (pun intended) spot for a late night cocktail.

Check out all the nice goodies that come along with this terrific room rate offered in the Vegas Partyscape package: Monte Carlo “Vegas Partyscape” Rates from $39.20/nt (2nt Min). *Two Neighbors – One Vegas Playground – Book now and enjoy all of these inclusions – NYNY: Free $10 Game Card at The Sporting House, 2-for-1 Breakfast at Il Fornaio, 2-for-1 Admission to The Roller Coaster, 2-for-1 Admission to ROK Vegas Nightclub,One Free Dessert at Nine Fine Irishmen (refer to NYNY Coupon Book for details)- Monte Carlo: Free Margarita with entrée at Diablo’s, 2 for 1 Buffet, Free shot with entry at Minus5 Ice Lounge, Buy 2 get 1 free Cupcakes at the Cupcakery, 2-for-1 “Mouth Watering Burger” at The Pub (*see site for additional details and restrictions). Oct 28, 2010 – Feb 28, 2011. Promo Code: XPRTYWB (Exp 2/28/11)

One day only — Save big at top Las Vegas restaurants

C.C. Royal — Thu, 30 Sep 2010 17:56:22 +0000

Today only, the popular dining discount certificates from restaurant.com are on sale for an all-time low price of $1 for a $25 certificate. Restaurants across the country participate in this terrific marketing program including some of the hottest restaurants in Las Vegas. You’ll find great restaurants at Mandalay Bay, the Venetian, Miracle Mile shops at Planet Hollywood and many more. Use them to save big on your next dinner out.

Just check out some of the award-winning top Las Vegas restaurants that participate in this money-saving program:

• Fresh fish and creamy chowders at Rick Moonen’s RM Seafood at the posh Mandalay Bay resort

• Succulent steaks at Rare 120 or coffee-shop favs at the famous Mr Lucky’s, both inside the Vegas Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

• Authentic Italian favorites at Valentino Las Vegas inside the elegant Venetian Hotel

• Spicy South-of-the-border specials at the rockin’ Tacos and Tequila at the Luxor

• LV’s only revolving restaurant offering breath-taking views and fine cuisine, the Stratosphere’s Top of the World

Buy several coupons and save on every Las Vegas dinner during your next trip.

Here’s the latest code and link for your path to big dining discounts!

ONE DAY ONLY! Save 90% off Restaurant.com $25 Gift Certificates! Use code WOW at checkout through 9/30/10.

Las Vegas room sale — Discounts of 20% and more at MGM, ARIA, Mandalay Bay

C.C. Royal — Tue, 28 Sep 2010 20:17:23 +0000

This regal bronze statue greets guests at the entrance to the sleek new ARIA resort in Las Vegas. Room rates are 20% off this week.

Snap up some big discounts on Vegas hotel rooms during the 7-Day Sale from MGM Resorts happening this week. These special discounted rates — available at a number of their Las Vegas resorts — are yours when you use our featured promotion codes.

Looking for luxury? Choose the 20% off rate at ARIA and pay just $127.20 per night on select days to stay at the Strip’s newest high-end resort and the focal point of the new CityCenter development. Sleek, sophisticated rooms feature the most advanced guestroom technology in the world with touch screen controls for lighting, temperature adjustment and more.

The resort offers players a 150,000 square-foot casino featuring some of the latest slot machines on the market. Guests will also enjoy the three pools, 16 restaurants, 10 bars and lounges (including Haze nightclub) plus an 1,800-seat theater housing Viva ELVIS™, a tribute to the life and musical legacy of Elvis Presley from Cirque du Soleil®. (Check out Cirque du Soleil’s newest show Viva ELVIS!) Adjacent to the resort is the stunning Crystals retail development with its selection of exclusive stores and restaurants including Beso, the popular dining spot backed by Eva Longoria-Parker.

Other properties on sale this week include:

Mandalay Bay
Luxor
Excalibur
MGM Grand
Mirage

This is a limited-time offer but reservations can be made for dates through January 31. Use the links and promotion codes below to take advantage of these special savings today.

ARIA ARIA “7 Day Sale.” Rates from $127.20/nt * ARIA would like to invite you to take advantage of an exclusive offer – Receive 20% off our Room and Suite rates, on select dates(*See site for additional details and restrictions). Sep 27, 2010 – Jan 31, 2011. Promo Code: AR7DAY (Exp 10/3/10)

MIRAGE Mirage “7 Day Sale” Rates from $64/nt. * Book Now and enjoy 20% off our lowest rates(*See site for additional details and restrictions). Sep 27, 2010 – Jul 31, 2011. Promo Code: MIR7DAYW (Exp 10/4/10)

MANDALAY BAY Mandalay Bay “7 Day Sale” Rates from $71.99/nt. * Book your stay within the next 7 DAYS and enjoy up to 20% OFF(*see site for additional details and restrictions). Sep 27, 2010 – Jan 31, 2011. Promo Code: PA7DAY (Exp 10/3/10)

MGM GRAND MGM Grand Las Vegas “7 Day Sale!” * Maximum Vegas is at MGM Grand – You have seven days to make a one minute decision: Book your room with rates starting from $55/nt(*see site for additional details and restrictions). Sep 27, 2010 – Jan 31, 2011. Promo Code: 7DY1MN (Exp 10/3/10)

LUXOR Luxor “7 Day Special” *Rates starting at $38/nt (*see site for additional details and restrictions). Sep 27, 2010 – Jan 31, 2011. Promo Code: L7D927 (Exp 10/3/10)

EXCALIBUR Excalibur “7 DAY SALE” *Rates starting at $28/nt (*see site for additional details and restrictions). Sep 27, 2010 – Jan 31, 2011. Promo Code: X7D927 (Exp 10/3/10)

Posh trip, big savings — Mandalay Bay Las Vegas is the perfect getaway

C.C. Royal — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 22:21:14 +0000

Stay, dine and see a show at Mandalay Bay Las Vegas for less. This plush resort is offering great deals right now.

Mandalay Bay is one of our favorite Strip hotels in Las Vegas and everything from the rooms to the restaurants to tickets for the award-winning show, The Lion King, are on sale now!

From that first whiff of the pineapple coconut-scented lobby, we know we have arrived at Mandalay Bay, a lush Caribbean-themed resort on the Las Vegas Strip. There are so many things to enjoy while staying here that there’s really no reason to venture out if a laid-back, relaxing trip is the goal.

Mandalay Bay “More for Less” Rates from $89.99/nt. *Includes: $25 Food and Beverage Credit, $100 Cabana Credit, 25% Off Spa Treatments, Complimentary Access to House of Blues Foundation Room, 50% off mid-week entry into Moorea Beach (Monday-Thursday,) 2-for-1 Original Margaritas at Hussong’s Mexican Cantina, and 2-for-1 Breakfast at House of Blues (Monday – Thursday) – (*See site for additional details and restrictions.) Good for travel select dates March 8 – Sept. 9, 2010. Promo Code: PHSPR10 (Exp 9/9/10).

Pool — Home to one of the best pool complexes in Las Vegas, the Mandalay Bay Beach Club is one of the big attractions drawing visitors from all over the world. Located on 11 acres, Mandalay Bay Beach offers a wave pool, lazy river, three swimming pools, jogging track and 2,700 tons of real sand. There’s even a beachside casino located just steps from the pool.

Restaurants — Sushi to steaks, burgers to pasta, Mandalay Bay has a fabulous array of restaurants and we have the promo code to get $25 worth of dining for just $2 right now. Here are the hotel restaurants participating in this money-saving program: (Click the name of the restaurant for more info and to purchase the certificates!)

Aureole – Home of the famous flying “wine angels,” this beautiful spot features a fabulous seasonal menu from Chef Charlie Palmer. Be sure to leave room for dessert from the decadent sweets menu.

Mix In Las Vegas – Perched atop THE Hotel at the resort, MIX is one of the most beautiful dining spots in all of Vegas. Inside hangs the largest chandelier in the world with 15,000 hand-blown Murano glass balls plus a menu originally composed by French Master Chef Alain Ducasse and a balcony that offers the best sunset view of THE Strip.

Shanghai Lilly – We’ve heard good things about the eclectic Cantonese cuisine featuring some spicy Szechwan dishes plus the relaxing dining room looks perfect for kicking back and sharing a meal.

Special Online Promotions at Mandalay Bay Las Vegas

Raffles Cafe — Mandalay Bay’s 24-hour restaurant offers diners breakfast, lunch or dinner in a relaxed yet beautiful atmosphere. From waffles to prime rib, this cafe has it all.

NEW to Restaurant.com — Mizuya Sushi and Sake and The Cafe plus The Noodle Shop all at Mandalay Bay!

Special Online Promotions at Mandalay Bay Las Vegas.

Save on The Lion King – The Tony award-winning Broadway favorite, The Lion King, has been wowing audiences in Las Vegas with its soaring musical score, fantastic costumes and make-up and magical storyline since opening at Mandalay Bay. Visit BestOfVegas.com and receive a Complimentary Upgrade to VIP seating (Your Price: $126.00, Regular Price: $177.25) or a Category 3 Upgrade to Category 2 (Your Price: $93.00, Regular Price: $133.25).

Room deal: For Best Rates at Mandalay Bay, Book Online!
Restaurant discounts: Click here for Restaurant.com Gift Certificates
Show tickets and more!: BestOfVegas.com

Chocolate creations delight at new Jean-Philippe Patisserie at Aria Las Vegas

C.C. Royal — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 00:21:19 +0000

A bonsai tree constructed from chocolate holds a beautiful cake creation from Jean Philippe Patisserie at Aria Las Vegas.

You know from past posts how much we love desserts and sweets and pastries (oh my!) so we were pretty excited to visit famed pastry chef Jean-Philippe Maury’s newest location. His fabulous new shop is inside ARIA Resort & Casino at CityCenter. Located in a prime casino-side spot, this new cafe/patisserie features all the yummy desserts we love from the Bellagio pastry shop as well as lots of gourmet sandwich, salad and beverage choices. A huge gelato case tempts with a number of flavors both traditional and offbeat. There is plenty of seating available and the cafeteria-style line moves quickly.

In addition to the cafe, the spot features a retail shop selling Jean-Philippe’s exquisite line of custom chocolates, chocolate sauces, handmade marshmallows plus many other goodies perfect to take home as gifts — or as a sweet reminder of your trip!

Not to miss: A number of Chef Maury’s amazing cake creations plus a dazzling array of chocolate flowers in a glass-enclosed display case are highlights of the cafe’s fun decor.

Stay at ARIA for less when you use this link and promo code! ARIA “7 Day Sale” Rates from $103.20/nt. *Receive 20% off our Room and Suite rates, on select dates (*See site for additional details and restrictions). Jul 6 – Sep 30, 2010. Promo Code: ARLO720 (Exp 7/12/10)

Luscious daisies made from dark, milk and white chocolate at Jean-Philippe.

Picture-perfect pastries at Jean-Philippe at ARIA Las Vegas.

Fourth of July events to light up Las Vegas

C.C. Royal — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 17:03:47 +0000

Caesars Palace will turn their huge Roman Plaza into an ice palace for the Fourth of July.

If you’re heading to “Camp Las Vegas” (don’t you just love this year’s ad campaign!) for the Fourth of July you’ll find lots of special events planned to entertain you this weekend. From celebrity-hosted pool parties to fireworks shows, Las Vegas will be flashier and more fun than ever. Here are just some of the special events going on plus some links to get more info to turn your Las Vegas Fourth of July into a weekend to remember.

Caesars Palace will be the site of a “fire and ice” celebration as the hotel giant transforms its Roman Plaza into an ice palace then lights up the Strip with a fireworks show at 9 p.m. on July 4th. The huge plaza area just in front of the hotel (behind Serendipity 3) will be transformed into a winter playground for the holiday weekend! This cold zone will feature snowboarding and skiing on a four-story snow jump plus plenty of other 4th of July activities.

Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino will also host a 9 p.m. fireworks display originating from the hotel’s famed “Mandalay Bay Beach Club.” A $25 cover charge on July 4th includes admission to the stunning pool area, the fireworks show plus music by Mystic Roots.

Station Casinos celebrates the Fourth of July with five of their casino properties offering free fireworks displays. Fireworks displays — nine-minute shows at each location — will begin at 8:45 p.m. at Green Valley Ranch, Aliante Station, Red Rock Resort, Fiesta Rancho and Texas Station.

Check out these links for all the Fourth of July 2010 events coming to Las Vegas this weekend:

“Best of Vegas“ has all the info on the Caesars Palace celebration plus tickets for shows, concerts and more.

Vegas.com — Find all the special events and fireworks happening in Las Vegas at this comprehensive site.

The Las Vegas NBC TV affiliate lists lots of July 4th events on this website page: Fun Events for the Fourth of July!

Happy Fourth of July and stay cool my friends.

Bellagio gardens dazzle in summer finery

C.C. Royal — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 04:05:02 +0000

A visit to the Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Garden is always near the top of our list of best free things to do in Las Vegas and last week’s stop didn’t disappoint. This summer’s display is filled with whimsical creatures, psychedelic mushrooms, over-sized garden tools and a collection of bonsai-styled olive trees — a setting that would make Johnny Depp’s Mad Hatter feel right at home.

If you are heading to Las Vegas this summer be sure to check out this fabulous free display. If possible, be there once the sun goes down as the gardens become even more beautiful when decked out in a custom lighting display that off-sets the night sky above.

Tip: No stop at the Bellagio is complete without a visit to Jean-Philippe Patisserie for a perfect Napoleon, raspberry tart or fondant-adorned mini-carrot cake.

Enjoy these photos from this summer’s display at the Bellagio gardens.

ARIA Las Vegas — Summer room sale

C.C. Royal — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 17:50:37 +0000

Click the ad to go to ARIA's sale page.

It’s here…the ARIA Las Vegas room deal. In an exclusive 72-hour sale, MGM is offering rooms at the newest hotel and casino on the Las Vegas Strip for 20% off the usual rates. These luxury Strip rooms and suites can be booked for trips from June 21, 2010 – September 30, 2010.

ARIA Resort & Casino is the centerpiece of the newly-opened CityCenter development. This 67-acre parcel of prime Strip real estate — site of the largest privately financed construction project in United States history — is now home to a “city within a city,” an urban landscape of shining skyscrapers, public art displays, an elevated train, residential condos, luxury shopping at the Crystals and even a “pocket park.” (Our full article and photos of CityCenter here.)

Check it out because the sale ends on June 23, 2010.

Room Sale — MGM Las Vegas offers $5 suite upgrade, 30% off at Circus Circus

C.C. Royal — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 17:28:22 +0000

Grab some great Las Vegas room deals at Strip icon MGM Grand and family-fav Circus Circus LV during this limited-time sale.

Here are more great offers in the on-going summer sales promotion program from Strip giant, MGM Resorts International, the new name for MGM Mirage. These “best rates on Las Vegas hotel rooms” are available to book just until midnight on June 19 so you’ll want to take advantage of these offers quickly.

MGM GRAND Discounts — In this latest offer, guests can book at rates as low as just $55 and get an upgrade to a Bungalow Suite for just $5 more per night! According to MGM, the Bungalow King Suite is a “comfortable 675 square foot petite suite with an over-sized bedroom connected to an extended living area, features a conversational area with a plush couch, chair and coffee table. Bungalow suites are available with one king bed and include a separate tub and shower with a double sink vanity. All rooms feature wireless high-speed internet access.”

MGM Grand Las Vegas link: “72-Hour Sale!” Rates from $55/nt. *Book your limited time exclusive offer now and receive: * Discounted rates starting from $55, $5 upgrade to a Bungalow Suite (*See site for additional details and restrictions). Jun 16, 2010 – Mar 31, 2011. Promo Code: MKT431 (Exp 6/19/10).

Circus Circus Las Vegas — Another Las Vegas Strip casino property featured this week is Circus Circus LV where guests can get an additional 30% off on already-reduced room prices. One of the Strip’s first “theme” resorts, CCLV beckons families with features such as the AdventurDome, America’s larget indoor theme park and a “2010 Best of Vegas” winner for Best Arcade and Best Family Attraction. A quick check showed mid-week room rates as low as $21 – $23 per night with the promo code!

Circus Circus Las Vegas link: “3-Day Sale” Rates from $22.70/nt. Limited time only! *Stay with us now through May 31, 2011 and receive up to an additional 30% discount off our already reduced online rates(*see site for additional details and restrictions). Jun 16, 2010 – May 31, 2011. Promo Code: XJUN33D (Exp 6/19/10).

South Point Casino to host free video poker classes this summer

C.C. Royal — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 18:52:23 +0000

Free video poker classes plus a low $42 room deal make South Point Casino in Las Vegas a great summer stay value.

South Point Casino in Las Vegas will be hosting a series of free video poker classes this summer featuring pro player, author and columnist Bob Dancer. The 10-week session begins June 15 with classes held every Tuesday at the casino’s Showroom. Classes start at 1 p.m. with a beginner’s class from 1 to 2:30 p.m. followed by an intermediate class from 3 to 4 p.m. The schedule changes during the final four weeks of the session when there will be one class beginning at 1 p.m. The schedule along with topics and more information can be found on www.bobdancer.com.

Video poker is one of the most popular casino games and learning proper video poker strategy can have a huge impact on your bottom line. Different games require different “holds” and knowing which cards to keep when playing a specific game version can spell whether you come out ahead or you let the casino keep your cash. Luck will always play a part but having a clear understanding of the game will give you a better outcome on your video poker play.

During this summer’s class run, Dancer will teach two games for the very first time and those are the popular 8-5 Bonus Poker Quick Quads and the 15-9-4-4-3 Deuces Wild version of Ultimate X Poker. Both versions — along with many other favorite video poker games — are from leading manufacturer, Action Gaming. (If you haven’t played these games, check out the company’s videopoker.com site where you can play video poker for free.)

Stay and Play details: Hotels.com is offering rooms at South Point Hotel, Casino, and Spa for as low as $42 per night PLUS receive a FREE VIP coupon savings booklet containing hundreds of dollars in discounts at spots on and off the Strip including the popular Forum Shops at Caesars Palace.

Aria Las Vegas on Sale — “72-Hour Offer” on rooms, suites

C.C. Royal — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 03:37:25 +0000

ARIA Resort & Casino at CityCenter Las Vegas glows in the late day sun.

Updated promo code available! Click here to get the latest details on “Aria rooms on Sale.”

The newest addition to the Las Vegas Strip, ARIA Resort &Casino, is the latest property to be featured in this summer’s hotel room promotion from MGM Mirage: the “72-Hour Sale” event. ARIA is the focal point of the casino giant’s massive CityCenter project located on the Strip between the Bellagio and Monte Carlo hotels. (A monorail runs among the three properties making it easy for guests to move around in the summer heat.)

Featuring the requisite host of fine dining celeb chef outposts including such digs as Jean Georges Steakhouse from the award-winning Jean-Georges Vongerichten and Sage from Vegas newcomer (and James Beard winner) Shawn McClain plus a stylish ultra-pool, Liquid, luxury spa and the hip-shaking, toe-tapping Viva ELVIS™ by Cirque du Soleil®, ARIA offers guests a plethora of activities. There’s also a 150,000 square-foot casino to keep visitors entertained. A high-end poker room named after pro player Phil Ivey recently opened in the casino.

Reservations start at $103 per night (not including taxes or resort fees) for select dates from now through September 10, 2010. That’s a 20% savings off published rates. The room sale is for a limited time only so book before June 9, 2010. Click the link below and use the promotion code ARLO20.

ARIA “72 Hour Sale” Rates from $103.20/nt. *Receive 20% off our Room and Suite rates, on select dates (*See site for additional details and restrictions). Jun 7 – Sep 30, 2010. Promo Code: ARLO20 (Exp 6/9/10).

Check out this description of Cirque du Soleil’s newest show Viva ELVIS!

Last minute Las Vegas travel deals — Mirage 72-hour sale

C.C. Royal — Fri, 28 May 2010 01:51:31 +0000

The Mirage Las Vegas is a great Strip destination.

Las Vegas hotel specials for summer are starting to pop! Check out this limited-time offer (and we do mean limited!) from MGM property and Strip icon The Mirage. One of the first luxury properties on the Las Vegas Strip, the Mirage Las Vegas offers guests a number of reasons to both stay and play at the home of the famous fiery volcano show.

Mirage Restaurants

With such favorites as BLT Burger at the Mirage and its justly-famous juicy burgers and decidedly adult milk shakes (try the “Campfire Marshmallows” shake) to the coolly chic interior of the hotel’s Cravings buffet, the Mirage offers a wide-array of dining choices. Dessert lovers won’t want to miss the New York-style cheesecake at the Vegas outpost of Carnegie Deli.

Bare Pool

What would a Strip hotel be without its own “ultra-pool?” Bare is the European-style pool at The Mirage and features an expansive pool plus two “dipping” pools, one of which features a see-through wall.

Shows/Entertainment at The Mirage

Take a trip back to the groovy days of the Beatles with the Cirque du Soleil® production of LOVE, the highly-touted musical production that has both critics and show-goers dancing in the aisles.

Jet nightclub at The Mirage is open Thursdays – Saturdays and features celebrity-attended events as well as all-night dancing and partying to the beat of Vegas’ best DJ’s.

Mirage Hotel discount promotion code:

Mirage “72 Hour Sale” Rates from $63/nt. *Book NOW and receive 20% off our lowest rates (*See site for additional details and restrictions). May 26, 2010 – Apr 30, 2011. Promo Code: MIRAGELTO2 (Exp 5/28/10).

Caesars Palace introduces redesigned “Garden of the Gods” pool playground

C.C. Royal — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:39:32 +0000

The iconic Garden of the Gods pool complex at Caesars Palace debuts a major reno this summer.

Summer comes early to Las Vegas with the opening of “ultra” pools all around town and none is more famous than the sybaritic “Garden of the Gods” oasis at Caesars Palace. Debuting March 19th, Caesars has taken its already iconic pool complex and renovated the Roman-themed attraction to feature eight — yes, EIGHT — pools primed and ready for summer sunners, swimmers and gamblers. To celebrate the renovations, Caesars is offering summer “pool packages” with special room rates, pool credits and more.

At the heart of the mega-resort, the sprawling Garden of the Gods has been completely redesigned to highlight lavish amenities, over-the-top statuary and landscaping plus, of course, the stunning new water playgrounds. For instance, the new Fortuna pool features an 18-foot waterfall plus swim-up blackjack for guests who want to catch some rays and, with a little luck, a few 21′s! Over at the “invitation-only” Bacchus pools, private shallow sun chaise pools and butler-attended cabanas are featured.

Private pool cabanas at Caesars Palace

In addition to the extravagant new pools, there are 44 new private cabanas each with a stocked refrigerator of juice and water, flat-screen TV, DVD player, iPod docking station, wireless Internet access, ceiling fan and plush furniture. With hundreds of new vibrant blue deck chairs, plush daybeds and loveseat-inspired scoop chairs, guests can keep it simple and do nothing but enjoy a day of sun-worshiping. Completing the Garden of the Gods additions is an all-new whirlpool retreat and an added garden wedding venue.

Spa treatments at the pool

For guests looking to indulge not only in the sun but also spa, CP’s Qua Baths & Spa, a Strip-favorite, offers poolside treatments. Spa services also include neck massages at deck chairs as well as full-service massages in the large Jupiter spa cabana.

Promo code for special Caesars Palace pool package

To be among the first to experience the new Garden of the Gods, go to caesarspalace.com/gog to book hotel, pool and dining accommodations. The “Garden of the Gods Pool & Hotel Package” includes a 3-day, 2-night stay, $25 Garden of the Gods pool credit and a pool bag complete with bag, towel and other necessary pool items. Package begins at $110 per night, based on availability. Use promotion code: PKGCGOG.

Insider’s Tip: When staying at CP, escape the crowd with breakfast at the tiny but plush Payard Pâtisserie & Bistro at Caesars Palace. Surrounded by buttery walls and vanilla leather banquettes, enjoy the rich, European-style coffee and luscious Eggs Benedict on Croissant. Before you leave, be sure to pick up one of Payard’s fabulous pastries at the counter next door.

Busy Barry Manilow opens March 5 at Paris Las Vegas Theater

C.C. Royal — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 19:40:27 +0000

Barry Manilow's new CD, "The Greatest Love Songs of All Time," hit the streets today.

Promising “something new” and a production “definitely not to be missed,” Barry Manilow will begin a new two-year stint at Paris Las Vegas on March 5. The mega-hit singer will perform 78 shows each year in the 1500-seat Paris Theater at the Harrah’s-owned property and tickets for the new Manilow show – including tickets for opening night! – are available online and at the Paris box office.

Manilow has been out and about quite a bit lately with appearances on one of Conan O’Brien’s last “Tonight Show” episodes, an interview on “Access Hollywood” as well as hosting his very own QVC special on January 19 to hawk his newest song collection, The Greatest Love Songs of All Time. This newest CD dropped today and is already #10 on the Amazon sales list.

The new show at Paris comes on the heels of his long-time run at the Las Vegas Hilton which began in February 2005 and claimed gross ticket sales of more than $70 million over the years. The new show is under the direction of Jeffrey Hornaday (Flashdance, A Chorus Line, High School Musical), and Manilow promises an all-new production for his legion of “Fanilows.”

Check out Ticket Network for Barry Manilow Tickets Las Vegas.

Bright Shiny Objects: Vdara Hotel, Crystals and Mandarin Oriental mark opening of CityCenter Las Vegas

C.C. Royal — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 21:53:56 +0000

CityCenter's towering Vdara Hotel shines brightly in the Vegas sun.

Like a Broadway debut from the city it’s trying to emulate, CityCenter on the Las Vegas Strip is opening…softly. Beginning last week with the December 1st grand opening party at the 1,495-suite Vdara Hotel, project CityCenter continues to open piece by glittering piece with the Crystals retail and dining complex and the new Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas now open as well. All three properties are, however, a prelude to the main act: the 61-floor MGM MIRAGE Aria Resort & Casino featuring over 4,000 rooms, a new Cirque du Soleil show – Viva Elvis – plus eateries from such well-known chefs as Jean-Georges Vongerichten and Julian Serrano. Aria will open December 16th.

CityCenter is not just another high-end gaming property opening in Las Vegas. This 67-acre parcel of prime Strip real estate — site of the biggest privately financed construction project in United States history — is now home to a “city within a city,” an urban landscape of shining skyscrapers, public art displays, an elevated train, residential condos and even a “pocket park.”

We visited last week and got a first glimpse of the Vdara Hotel and the Crystals shopping area. Both are striking examples of the city-chic contemporary architecture guiding the entire project. All sharp angles and shimmering surfaces, the thin December sunlight bounced from one building to the next creating an urban canyon of sorts. And, honestly, having lived in D.C. as well as having spent considerable time in NYC, we have to say that we really did feel like we were in a major metropolitan neighborhood.

We entered CityCenter via the new pedestrian walkway running from the Bellagio into the Vdara Hotel. It is a striking contrast to go from the lush Italianate surroundings of the Bellagio and into the stark yet stunning halls of the ultra-modern Vdara. (Be sure to check out the bar at Silk Road restaurant before continuing on into the hotel’s reception area.)

Bar Vdara is a cozy spot for a cocktail (albeit an expensive cocktail )and affords a great view of the interior courtyard of CityCenter which features a Nancy Rubins sculpture in a starburst design composed of castoff canoes. (Read more about the artist and see a similar sculpture here.)

The Crystals retail and dining area can be accessed from the Strip via a new pedestrian bridge and walkway (across from Planet Hollywood) or by tram (the “elevated train” mentioned earlier) from the neighboring Bellagio. (The tram continues on to the Monte Carlo conveniently linking all three MGM MIRAGE properties: Bellagio, CityCenter and the Monte Carlo.)

At Crystals, we found a lot of construction still underway with only about 40% of the retail area occupied by stores. This is high-end (think nosebleed-level) shopping. From the three-story flagship Louis Vuitton boutique ( a Strip-side LED light show will take place every night from dusk to dawn) to Roberto Cavalli, Mikimoto pearls, Hermes and Prada, this is destination shopping at its finest. BESO, a fine-dining spot from actress Eva Longoria Parker with celeb chef Todd English in charge of the kitchen, is open on the first floor. The spot also features, Eve, a swank nightclub. Additional restaurants from English, Wolfgang Puck and other top toques will be opening in the future.

Here are some pics from our recent trip PLUS the latest promotion codes and links for getting the best room rates at both Aria and Vdara. Also, check out the CityCenter website for more information on the project.

The multi-level Crystals shopping and dining area at CityCenter Las Vegas.

Opening December 16, the new Aria Resort & Casino is the crown jewel of CityCenter Las Vegas.

Veer Towers form a background for the new Crystals shopping area at CityCenter Las Vegas.

Bar Vdara at CityCenter is highly-recommended for people-watching.

There's a sculptural feel to the burnished metal portico marking the entrance into the Vdara Hotel.

The CityCenter tram runs past the Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas and Veer Towers.

Vdara “Winter Special” Rates from $139/nt (2nt Min). *Stay Two Nights at Vdara Hotel & Spa at a Special Introductory Rate from $139 and Receive a $50 Resort Credit (*See site for additional detail and restrictions). Dec 1, 2009 – Mar 31, 2010. Promo Code: VRLVCVA (Exp 4/1/10)

ARIA “Winter Special” Rates from $159/nt (2nt Min). *Enjoy this incredible offer at ARIA, MGM MIRAGE’s newest resort-casino at CityCenter – Stay Two Nights at a Special Rate from $159 per night and Receive a $75 Resort Credit (*See site for additional details and restrictions). Dec 17, 2009 – Apr 1, 2010. Promo Code: AR159G75 (Exp 4/1/10)

Check out Amazon where “Black Friday” is now “Cyber Monday”

C.C. Royal — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 19:42:54 +0000

Have you checked out Amazon.com today and the phenomenal deals available on what is now called Cyber Monday? I’ve got the Amazon “Lightning Deals” page minimized on my desktop while I write a couple of articles I have due for the next issue of Casino Player magazine. I simply hit on the tab and check out each hour’s deals (Right now I’m waiting to see the price on an upcoming deal: the Dell Inspiron Mini 10 10.1-Inch Netbook.) This is way more fun than trolling the malls looking for deals plus I’m getting some work done at the same time I’m doing my holiday shopping.

I can't wait to use this pretty red and gold Mikasa Parchment dinnerware on Christmas Eve.

In addition to the hourly deals, there is a whole section of all-day Cyber Monday sales also going on at Amazon. I picked up this Mikasa Parchment Red 40-Piece Dinnerware Set, Service for 8 for the holidays for just $130. That’s 78% off the regular list price of $580!

I’m also getting this Wusthof knife — Wusthof Classic Ikon Santoku. The Santoku is made in such a way that the blade cuts through food with less drag and allows for thinner slicing of almost anything. (Caution: This includes your fingertips!) The lowest price I’ve seen on this particular knife is $89 so this is a fab deal, especially for cooks like me who first became a fan of the brand back in culinary school.

(And, yes, I know this post has nothing to do with Las Vegas or gaming but I just felt that my readers would love getting a good deal(s) as much as I do!)

Cyber Monday deals at eBags, Restaurant.com and more

C.C. Royal — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 08:34:51 +0000

Cyber Monday is here and we’ve got some cool offers and promo codes we thought our traveling readers might like to take advantage of during this holiday shopping season.

Save on great gifts like laptop bags, handbags and travel items at eBags.com with our links.

The ravishing raspberry hue will make this travel kit stand out in any suitcase.

Here’s an exclusive offer from eBags.com — Use this link and you’ll get to take 25% off on one item this Monday only: Cyber Monday Super Deal: 25% Off Any 1 Item! Got more shopping to do at eBags? Do it and you’ll also save 20% off additional items plus get free shipping today. Use link: Cyber Monday Double Deal: 20% Off + Free Shipping on Orders over $100 at eBags.com. We’d love to see this “pack it flat” travel bag (in raspberry!) under our tree this year and at less than $25 on sale, it’s an affordable gift idea.

From Restaurant.com comes this 80% off deal on their popular $25 restaurant gift certificates. Think stocking-stuffers for friends who love dining out at top restaurants in Las Vegas or in lots of other major U.S. cities. Also, be sure to check out all the new restaurants now participating in the program including several at Las Vegas favorite, Mandalay Bay. 80% off Restaurant.com $25 Gift Certificates. Use code SAVE and Pay just $2 through 11/30/09.

You have until midnight on Monday to save $25 on a hotel stay when booking at Expedia.com with the travel company’s first-ever Black Friday weekend promotion. Use promo code BlackFriday25 to get your discount along with this link: Black Friday Special: Get $25 off a hotel booking of $150+. Use Code BlackFriday25 at checkout. – Expires 11/30/09.

Looking for a pre- or post-holiday getaway? Then check out this deal at the all-new Vdara Hotel & Spa at CityCenter in Las Vegas:

Vdara “Winter Special” Rates from $139/nt (2nt Min). *Stay Two Nights at the new Vdara Hotel & Spa at CityCenter at a Special Introductory Rate from $139 and receive a $50 Resort Credit (*See site for additional detail and restrictions). Dec 1, 2009 – Mar 31, 2010. Promo Code: VRLVCVA (Exp 4/1/10).

Happy shopping!

Friday Finds — Free Las Vegas show tickets, promo codes for Aria, Vdara and more

C.C. Royal — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 02:03:14 +0000

Vegas is wooing out-of-town shoppers with free tickets to shows like Blue Man Group at The Venetian.

Here’s how to roll three of my favorite things — Las Vegas, shopping and free — all into one sentence: Do your holiday shopping in Las Vegas this year and get free show tickets. No kidding. Non-Nevada residents who shop from 11/29 through 12/13/2009 and spend $500 or more at participating retail shopping areas such as the brand-new Crystals at CityCenter, the Forum Shops at Caesars, the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood, the Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian and even the stores at the Las Vegas Premium Outlet mall can qualify for two complimentary tickets to shows like Phantom at the Venetian, Peepshow at PH, Donny & Marie Osmond and more. Find all the details at VisitLasVegas.com.

Speaking of CityCenter, the sure-to-be-spectacular new Aria and Vdara resorts are both taking reservations and you can get special rates when you use the promo codes plus these links:

Aria: ARIA “Winter Special” Rates from $159/nt (2nt Min). *Enjoy this incredible offer at ARIA, MGM MIRAGE’s newest resort-casino at CityCenter – Stay Two Nights at a Special Rate from $159 per night and Receive a $75 Resort Credit (*See site for additional details and restrictions). Dec 17, 2009 – Apr 1, 2010. Promo Code: AR159G75 (Exp 4/1/10).

Vdara: Vdara “Winter Special” Rates from $139/nt (2nt Min). *Stay Two Nights at Vdara Hotel & Spa at a Special Introductory Rate from $139 and Receive a $50 Resort Credit (*See site for additional detail and restrictions). Dec 1, 2009 – Mar 31, 2010. Promo Code: VRLVCVA (Exp 4/1/10).

Also, take advantage of more great rates this winter by booking a room at MGM Grand with this cool offer –

MGM Grand Las Vegas “Holiday Spree” — Rates from $75 per night. *Promo includes: $35 Dining credit, $25 Spa services credit, and 15% off retail purchases. (*See site for additional details and restrictions). Nov 4, 2009 – Mar 31, 2010. Promo Code: MKT320 (Exp 1/31/10).

Garth Brooks Las Vegas tickets on sale tomorrow

C.C. Royal — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 18:36:35 +0000

Encore Theatre at Wynn Las Vegas will host special performances by Garth Brooks beginning in December.

Country superstar Garth Brooks is ending his retirement in a deal with Steve Wynn where the singer will perform a limited number of engagements at the Encore Theatre in Las Vegas. The all-acoustic performances begin with a single weekend in December and will continue on select dates throughout the term of the 5-year arrangement.

The price for tickets (said to be a point of discussion between Wynn and Brooks) is a very “reasonable-for-Vegas” $125 plus a $5 service charge and a $13 tax to equal a total of $143 and go on sale this Saturday, October 24 at 8:00 a.m. Pacific (9:00 a.m. MT, 10:00 a.m. CT and 11:00 a.m. ET). Tickets are available by calling 702.770.1000 and online at the Wynn Las Vegas box office.

The following weekend dates have been released with all performances happening at the Encore Theatre at Wynn Las Vegas Resort:

December 2009: 11 – 13

January 2010: 1 – 3 and 22 – 24

February 2010: 12 – 14 and 26 – 28

Performance times are: Fridays – 8:00pm; Saturdays – 8:00pm & 10:30pm; and Sundays – 8:00pm.

More information about ticketing can be found on the official Garth Brooks website plus there’s lots more info on the deal in a good article on CMT News online: “NASHVILLE SKYLINE: Garth Brooks Goes Back to Work.”

You can check out room rates here for Encore at Wynn Las Vegas and for Wynn Las Vegas where we found rates ranging from $235 on up with a $75 resort credit. There are lots of options nearby including TI – Treasure Island Hotel and Casino ($101 – $139,) or The Venetian Resort Hotel & Casino and The Palazzo Resort Hotel & Casino at the Venetian for $219 per night each plus slot credit of $50 and dining credits as well.

Save these dates for Vegas “gift” days

C.C. Royal — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 23:39:25 +0000

Harrah's will host the "Great Gift Wrap Up" from November 12 - 16, 2009. Another event happens at Caesars Palace in December.

If you’ve been playing Las Vegas this year and using your all-important players club cards, you’ve probably been racking up “gift points” at lots of casinos up and down the Strip. Now is the time to make plans to cash in those annual points by attending the big “gift-o-rama” events held each year by the various participating casino companies. Make your room reservations now since you must be there in person to cash in your points and these special shopping days bring in lots of visitors to Vegas.

Here are the dates and venues for this year’s big gift giveaways in Las Vegas:

Harrah’s Entertainment will be hosting their fourth annual “Great Gift Wrap Up” on November 12th – 16th, 2009 at Harrah’s Las Vegas and again from December 3rd – 7th, 2009 at Caesars Palace. Go to GreatGiftWrapUp.com for details plus a look at this year’s merchandise catalog. You can even get your point total.

MGM Mirage’s popular “Holiday Gift Shoppe Event” will be taking place at participating Las Vegas properties from November 28 – December 13, 2009. Check out this special event at the company’s PlayersClub.com site and click on the “Holiday Gift Shoppe” logo for gift ideas and a special count-down clock.

Grazie Club members can cash in the points they’ve earned by playing at both the Venetian and Palazzo resorts during the “Grazie Gifts” Holiday Shopping Extravaganza in November. From November 20 – 29, 2009, players here can choose from such high-end names as Tag Heuer, Ralph Lauren, Coach and more in exchange for their points. Get the details on this event at Venetian.com and click on the “Grazie” tab then select “Grazie Gifts” as your destination.

Halloween hotel rates in Vegas are “scary good”

C.C. Royal — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 19:04:57 +0000

New York New York in Las Vegas celebrates Halloween with great room deals and the "Zombie Precinct" attraction.

There’s still plenty of time to book a trip to Las Vegas for Halloween weekend and with rates this good — weekend rates, at that! — we can’t find any reason not to go. I have been going to Vegas for Halloween for years and I truly cannot remember when I last saw rates this low! Book these hot deals on Strip hotel rooms and you’ll still have plenty of cash left over for a really good costume and lots of Halloween candy, too.

Last-minute deals on Las Vegas hotel rooms include this smokin’ offer from MGM Grand: The “Halloween Treats” room offer includes a $35 beverage credit good at hotel hotspots like Studio 54 and one of our favorite spots for an intimate drink, the elegant Rouge Lounge, PLUS 2-for-1 buffets for breakfast, lunch and dinner at their Grand Buffet. Check out these amazing rates: $67 for Thursday, 10/29; $110 on Friday, 10/30; just $118 on Saturday 10/31 and $84 for Sunday, 11/1. Use this link — MGM Grand — and Promotion Code “MKT329″ to get this great deal.

Across the street, check out New York New York “ZOMBIE PRECINCT” Oct 8 – 31, 2009 and the hotel’s big Halloween weekend promotion that includes: Park Avenue Strip View Room Weekend, 2 Haunted Bridge Admissions, 2 Rok Vegas Nightclub Admissions, and 2 Roller Coaster Passes (*See site for additional details and restrictions). Oct 9 – 31, 2009. Use Promo Code: ZOMBIEWE (Exp 10/29/09) and get it all starting at just $199 per night, 2 night minimum.

Other really great deals include the Flamingo Las Vegas ranging from $41 on Thursday to $109 on Saturday night; downtown favorite the Golden Nugget from $58 to just $99 for the weekend nights; and mid-Strip Harrah’s property, Paris Las Vegas, for rates from $56 to the $136 tab for the Saturday night stay. These and other best deals on Las Vegas hotel rooms are available online at i4Vegas.com at: Great Vegas Hotels from $20!

*All rates quoted are pre-tax and do not include any hotel fees or add-ons. Check each deal for any fine print or other restrictions.

STRIPSTEAK merits prime spot on any “Top Las Vegas Steakhouses” list

C.C. Royal — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 21:58:59 +0000

In-house aging is one key to the juicy tender steaks at STRIPSTEAK LV.

I recently had lunch with a friend of mine (a professional food writer and guest reviewer here) who made the most spot-on comment I’ve ever heard when it comes to Chef Michael Mina’s food: “The man is a wizard with potatoes!” So, you’re thinking if this is a review on STRIPSTEAK LV, why do I care what the chef does with potatoes? It’s the meat that matters not the sides. Well, in this case, while the steaks are more than worthy, it is definitely the spuds that make for a memorable meal. And, did we mention that said spuds are free? No kidding, these crisp crunchy beauties come courtesy of the chef… au gratis… n/c.

First, the restaurant itself: Located at Mandalay Bay Las Vegas, the space is sleek and edgy with enough hard surfaces to make sound somewhat of an issue if you were hoping for an intimate dinner for two.* But keep in mind, the sound bouncing from walls to ceiling comes from people having fun! This is a great spot for celebrations like bachelor/bachelorette parties, birthday bashes and other group events or for couples looking to dine in a high-energy atmosphere. (We had a terrific time chatting away with the couple at the table next to us who also happened to be from Phoenix. Yeah, it’s that kind of place.)

This trio of spectacular fries is presented au gratis with dinner at the winning STRIPSTEAK LV.

The fries: Okay, back to those marvelous complimentary potatoes. After ordering drinks (wine for P.B., a draft for me) and dinner, the server brought out this very cool serving stand filled with three tubs of perfectly cooked-in-duck-fat fries – herb-flecked, paprika-dusted and saffron garlic – along with three dipping sauces: housemade ketchup, perky BBQ sauce and our hands-down favorite, a luxurious truffle cream sauce I would’ve eaten with a spoon! The serving is so large we couldn’t finish it but, oh, how we tried.

Dinner: For an appetizer, we chose to share the Maine lobster fritters, a dish we unfortunately wouldn’t order again. The batter was too heavy for the delicate seafood flavor to come through and the bacon mentioned in the menu description seemed to be AWOL from our dish. In hindsight, we would have merrily munched on the fries with our drinks and ordered a salad to share with the yummy warm potato focaccia (served in a cast iron skillet) before the main course. For our steaks, we chose the American Kobe beef – the Rib Eye ($64) for P.B. and the Rib Cap ($65) for me. (STRIPSTEAK also offers Japanese A5 Wagyu beef at Market Price.) Chef Mina’s steaks are heralded for their cooking method which entails a long slow-poach in clarified butter and then a quick turn on a high heat (think 1,000 degrees!) grill. The process renders a steak that is meltingly tender inside with a beautifully crusty exterior. As we expected, our steaks were superb. As a side, we shared a de-lish mountain of creamed spinach topped with crumbled bacon bits. (Note to self: next time we eat here, we walk back to our room at the Bellagio.)

Well-marbled and perfectly cooked, the rib cap American Kobe steak is a terrific menu choice.

Dessert: Overkill for sure but the “Beignets with Macallan 18-Year Butterscotch Pudding” were just way too tempting to resist and we’re so glad we didn’t. Plump, fluffy pillows of warm donut dipped in scotch-flavored caramel pudding…uh, what’s not to like? (Do be aware that the liquor really comes through in this decidedly “adult-flavored” dessert.)

Service and other highlights:

Excellent, attentive service even on a busy Saturday night during prime time dining hours of 8 – 10 pm.

Another freebie courtesy of STRIPSTEAK — A bag of gourmet dark-chocolate-drizzled caramel corn made in-house sends you out the door.

I have to say that I knew we were in for a great meal when Las Vegas local, UNLV professor and famed foodie, Patti Shock, highly recommended the place to me via Twitter. (If you are interested in food and Las Vegas you should follow her. @PattiShock)

The best: We used a $25 certificate purchased for $2 at Restaurant.com (use coupon code “FOUR” and the link below) to pay for part of the meal. At the restautant, be sure to present it early on so they have time to validate the certificate before the check comes.

STRIPSTEAK definitely merits a top spot on our list of “Best Las Vegas Steakhouses.”

(*Looking for a romantic spot to dine? Try Fleur De Lys or Mix In Las Vegas, both located at Mandalay Bay and both participate in the Restaurant.com certificate program.)

Save 80% off on every $25 Gift Certificate order. Use code “FOUR” and pay just $2 through 10/12/09 only at Restaurant.com.

Springer brings America’s Got Talent Live! to Las Vegas Strip

C.C. Royal — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 21:11:48 +0000

Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas will play host to this year’s top acts from summer’s popular “America’s Got Talent” reality entertainment competition in a live stage show beginning Wednesday.

Starting October 7 and continuing through December 13, tabloid TV host (and, I kid you not, former Cincinnati mayor and Ohio congressional candidate,) Jerry Springer, will emcee the new variety show. Headlining the show is former chicken catcher now million dollar show winner, singer Kevin Springer, who will star in the new production along with other favorite acts from the show. (We thought the best acts from this year’s show were Recycled Percussion and the weirdly-named Acrodunk. And, really, are we the only ones who thought opera singer, Barbara Padilla, had a great back story but as an opera singer isn’t exactly what we consider a “Vegas act?”)

Springer will host the 10-week run of America’s Got Talent Live!, with shows running every Wednesday through Sunday at Planet Hollywood’s 1300-seat CHI Showroom. Tickets range from $64 – $104 but we have seen mailers from PHo touting 2-for-1 ticket deals with certain room packages. Or check out this deal from i4Vegas — Planet Hollywood from $69 per night!

Dishing about Top Chef, Las Vegas and the M Resort

C.C. Royal — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 19:23:53 +0000

The posh pool complex at the M Resort in Las Vegas was featured in a recent episode of Top Chef Las Vegas.

We’ve always been big fans of the Bravo channel’s popular reality show, Top Chef. We confess –watching some of the contestants’ huge egos positively wilt under head judge Tom Colicchio’s incredulous stare or sharp-as-a-Wusthof criticism is the high point of our Wednesday nights. (No doubt that particular joy comes from our experiences dealing with the many prima donna chefs we encountered during our decade-plus in the restaurant industry.)

So, take one of our favorite guilty-pleasure TV shows, combine it with our favorite guilty-pleasure city in the world then set it within the walls of a swanky new casino resort and… wait, wait, you know it’s coming… you have a recipe (there, we said it!) for a hugely entertaining waste of an hour every week.

This year, filming takes place at the stunning new Henderson-located M Resort Spa Casino. When I interviewed the M’s Anthony Marnell III back in March for Casino Player magazine, the CEO made it very clear that food and the nine dining outlets of the M were going to be the highlights of the new resort. At the time, Mr. Marnell said “We believe food is one of the most, if not the most important reason why guests will visit the property. The restaurants we have developed will introduce a new kind of dining experience that reflects my family’s reputation for great food and great value.” We think that by agreeing to let the show film at his resort, Mr. Marnell further cements the M’s reputation as a “destination-dining” spot in Las Vegas.

Now, back to the show: Last week’s episode offered viewers the chance to get a glimpse of some of the best chefs working not only in Las Vegas but in the world today. The assembled group of top toques was so impressive that even Chef Colicchio admitted to being humbled in the presence of such cooking masters as Joël Robuchon, the man awarded the title “Chef of the Century” by the venerable dining and travel guide, Gault Millau. Chef Robuchon’s Las Vegas restaurants — L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon and Joël Robuchon at The Mansion – are located at the MGM Grand. 5 Diamond Award Winner: Joël Robuchon Restaurant at MGM Grand.

Last night’s show found the contestants far from the neon lights of the city and cooking over open firepits in the sizzling 100+-degree stark Nevada desert. Their guests (and critics) were a group of real Southwestern cowboys. As always, some dishes stood out for their taste and originality while others were remarkable for their awfulness. Ceviche for cowboys? I don’t think so. With that, Mattin, the French chef (who reminded me of the character Remy from the movie “Ratatouille“) was told to “pack up his knives and go.”

Tips and More Info:

For a taste of the new M, try the resort’s highly-praised 500-seat buffet restaurant, “Studio B,” where a live-action exhibition kitchen features the restaurant’s chefs preparing signature appetizers, entrées and desserts.

Check out Top Chef on Bravo TV’s website and you’ll find lots of ideas for hosting viewing parties with a Vegas vibe. You can also catch up on past shows from this season as well as those from other years.

Get a glimpse into the world of renowned chef, Joël Robuchon, with a visit to his website where you’ll see pics of his Las Vegas and other restaurants plus read articles on his accomplishments in the culinary field.

A room with a view — the Bellagio Las Vegas

C.C. Royal — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 00:10:48 +0000

A stunning view of Paris Las Vegas as seen from our 25th floor room at the Bellagio.

“Where to stay in Las Vegas” — Hotel Review — The Bellagio:

After our recent three-night stay at the Bellagio, we’re happy to report that the resort remains one of the best hotels in Las Vegas. From the perfect center-Strip location to the recently-remodeled rooms; the posh selection of shops and restaurants and the sophisticated casino; the Bellagio is a worthwhile splurge for Las Vegas visitors.

We’d recently heard rumors that the Bellagio – open since 1998 — was showing its age but if so, we certainly didn’t see it in the maintenance of the hotel or the room we were given. Our room was luscious and restful: sage green, soft golds and creamy ivory tones in the bedding and upholstery were set off by the dark woods used for the furniture and bath vanity. Adding immensely to our enjoyment of the resort was the magnificent view of the Strip and the Bellagio fountains which we had from our 25th floor front-and-center perch. The biggest complaint we had about the room was the small outdated TV but since we don’t spend much time on vacation watching the tube, it wasn’t a huge issue for us.

Bellagio restaurants

We love the restaurant selection at the Bellagio: Olives by Todd English (read our review of Olives here); Palio for a quick breakfast; the decadent Jean-Philippe Maury patisserie; the Bellagio’s own buffet plus the sunny Café Bellagio overlooking the pool and the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens are a few of our favorites when in town.

The pool complex is perfect for a sunny summer day and offers lots of shady spots courtesy of the many trees and well-placed umbrellas. Pool aficionados may want to reserve one of the large cabanas ringing the main pool.

A “Best Bet” on the Strip

With its great location, plush surroundings plus all the amenities of a AAA Five Diamond Award Las Vegas hotel we can confidently recommend the Bellagio to our readers looking for a posh Vegas getaway. Take a Virtual Tour of Bellagio here.

The new CityCenter construction provides a back-drop to the Bellagio's pool complex.

A comfy king-sized bed plus soft colors make for a restful stay at the luxurious Bellagio Las Vegas.

Fall is the perfect season for Las Vegas visitors

C.C. Royal — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 20:13:34 +0000

Take a tour of Hoover Dam and you'll also get to see the new bypass bridge currently under construction.

We love Las Vegas ANY time of year but particularly in the fall. There just seems to be something special about the warm sunny days and temperate evenings. Visit in October and you can expect daytime temps ranging from the 80′s to high-70′s with evenings in the 50′s and 60′s — that’s sweater weather for desert dewellers like us. With weather like that, it’s a perfect time to put down the dice, back away from the buffet and visit some of the top things to do in Vegas that don’t involve the Strip or the gaming tables.

Hoover Dam — This marvel of engineering is located just thirty minutes from the Strip and offers visitors an amazing example of engineering wizardry. In an article entitled “The Grand Dam” by Julian Rhinehart, the author says “Few structures in America display the diversity of design and craftsmanship that you see at Hoover Dam. It is a showcase of seldom-seen skills of artists and artisans–beautifully presented terrazzo tiles, sculpture, metalwork, and even military emplacements.”

A visit to this “don’t-miss” Las Vegas attraction is further enhanced by the opportunity to view the construction of the massive new Hoover Dam Bypass bridge that will route traffic over and away from the dam. A mind-boggling assortment of pulleys, tracks, winches and cranes is in place and in use for workers building this newest engineering masterpiece. When completed next year, this signature bridge will span the Black Canyon (about 1,600 feet south of the Hoover Dam), connecting the Arizona and Nevada Approach highways nearly 900-feet above the Colorado River.

Lake Mead/Hoover Dam Cruise — Living in Phoenix, we drive to Las Vegas almost every trip and we still marvel passing by at how beautifully blue the waters are at Lake Mead! You can cruise Lake Mead, the largest man-made lake in the United States, aboard the “Desert Princess” paddle wheeler. While on the lake, you’ll pass by such sights as the colorful Arizona Paint Pots, Fortification Hill, and Boulder Island. Take this all-day trip and you’ll also visit Hoover Dam, make a stop at Ethel M Chocolate Factory and Botanical Gardens.

Red Rock Canyon – The stunningly beautiful Red Rock Canyon park, located just 17 miles west of the Las Vegas Strip on Charleston Boulevard/State Route 159, was designated as Nevada’s first National Conservation Area. The area is 195,819 acres and is visited by more than one million people each year and offers visitors access to a 13-mile scenic drive, more than 30 miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, plus a visitor center with exhibit rooms and book store. One of the favorite ways to take in Red Rock’s beauty is through a “Pink Jeep” tour of the area. (Take your camera for some memorable shots of the colorful Calico Hills that surround the park.)

Take advantage of these fall deals from Expedia.com and save on activities, hotel rooms and airfare packages for your visit to Vegas.

+ Book Las Vegas Activities and save on Expedia.com! Expires 9/30/09

+ Book Early & Save on October Trips: Air + 3 Night Vacations from $187! Expires 10/15/09

+ Fall “Free Nights” Hotel Sale: Stay 3, 4 or 5 nights & Get your last night FREE! Expires 10/15/09

Friday Finds — news on Las Vegas events, deals and more

C.C. Royal — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 22:33:01 +0000

Take in a show this fall then head to the new Pink's at Planet Hollywood for one of their legendary dogs.

We’re starting a new feature this week — Friday Finds – featuring news about Las Vegas that we find interesting plus lots of great deals on Las Vegas hotel discounts, travel packages, shows, concerts, restaurants and more. Take a look at what we’ve seen and heard this week:

We’re really digging some of the shows planned for this fall at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino’s “The Joint.” Tickets are on sale now for Van Morrison (September 25,) Creed in concert on September 27, actor/comedian Dane Cook on both October 9th and 10th at 8:30pm plus one of our all-time favorites, Bob Dylan, on Sunday, October 18th at 8 pm.

At Mandalay Bay, Britney Spears is back with her “Circus” tour; this time featuring special guests Jordin Sparks and Kristinia DeBarge. Special room + ticket deals are available at these properties:

Luxor “Britney Spears” Concert and Room Package. *Package Price of $154.00 plus tax and resort fee on Sunday September 27th includes: One night stay in a Tower Deluxe Room and Two tickets to Britney Spears in concert at the Mandalay Bay Event Center on Sunday, September 27 at 8pm (*See site for additional details and restrictions). Sep 24 – 30, 2009. Promo Code: PBRIT (Exp 9/24/09)

Mandalay Bay “Britney Spears” Rates from $194/nt. *The Final Act of the Circus Tour Starring Britney Spears at Mandalay Bay Sunday, September 27 –Book Mandalay Bay and receive 2 tickets to see Britney Spears Live in Concert on Sunday, September 27 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center (*See site for additional details and restrictions). Sep 22 – 30, 2009. Promo Code: PBRITH (Exp 10/1/09).

Also at the Mandalay Bay Events Center this fall, look for Grammy® -winning superstar Justin Timberlake who’s bringing his “Justin Timberlake and Friends, a Special Evening Benefiting Shriners Hospitals for Children” event to the stage at the Mandalay Bay Events Center Saturday, October 17, 2009 at 8 PM. Ticket prices for this charity concert range from $100 – $250. Check out tickets here: Justin Timberlake Las Vegas

On the restaurant front, don’t forget that Pink’s in now open at Planet Hollywood. The hot dog haven (which has been in business since 1939) has a loyal following — and a sometimes hour-long wait — at its original location in the city of Hollywood.

This week’s restaurant.com deal: Take 50% off w/every $25 Gift Certificate order! Use code MENU and pay $5 thru 9/8/09 at Restaurant.com. And just a hint, when you do use these certificates toward your meal, be sure to give it to the server early on so they have time to validate the certificate number before you get your final bill.

Wynn, Encore chefs to honor Julia Child during Restaurant Week Las Vegas 2009

C.C. Royal — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 19:05:40 +0000

Stratta will be one of the restaurants at Wynn Las Vegas honoring Julia Child at Restaurant Week Las Vegas 2009. (Photo/content copyright RoyallyFlushed.com 2009)

Masters in their own right, top chefs at Wynn Las Vegas and sister property, Encore, will be paying tribute to culinary icon Julia Child throughout next week’s Las Vegas Restaurant Week. Chefs like Alessandro Stratta, chief toque at Wynn’s two-star Michelin rated French restaurant ALEX and the more casual rustic Italian restaurant, STRATTA, will be offering special and specially-priced menus based on dishes associated with Julia Child and her impact on American cuisine.

Chef Stratta, who met and cooked for Child during his run at Renoir at Mirage Las Vegas, will be preparing his rendition of lobster Newberg at ALEX while at STRATTA, he’ll be offering a special version of coq au vin, the classic dish of chicken, mushroom, onions, bacon and herbs cooked in red wine and served with egg noodles. Diners will be paying at most $50.09 to dine at these and other top Las Vegas dining spots during the national charitable event. A portion of the proceeds from Restaurant Week Las Vegas will benefit Three Square Food Bank, a partner organization of Feeding America, which is working to end hunger in Southern Nevada.

Also at Wynn Las Vegas, award-winning chef Paul Bartolotta of Bartolotta Ristorante di Mare will draw on his experience of cooking for Child more than six times when he prepares moules a la mariniere along with gnocchi alla pariginia grainati al formaggi—sumptuous pasta pillows filled with cheese.

At The Country Club – A New American Steakhouse, diners can indulge in a number of Child-inspired creations including one of my personal favorites, coquilles St. Jacques a la Parisienne, a dish that features plump scallops and earthy mushrooms in a decadent white wine sauce. Chef of The Country Club, Carlos Guia, also has experience cooking for Child and in the August issue of Wynn Resort’s newsletter said this — “Her visit to Lutèce was both unexpected and truly special. Before leaving, she took the time to come into the kitchen, thank us personally and tell us how much she enjoyed her meal,” says Chef Guía.

Chef Mark LoRusso, the man in charge at the Encore-located Botero will be channeling Julia Child with his preparation of sole a la Normandie, a particularly scrumptious dish featuring the delicate fish alongside mussels and shrimp in a wine-infused sauce. Having tasted what LoRusso can do with Dover sole, this is no doubt a dish not to be missed. Check out our review of Botero.

Other Wynn Resorts dining establishments participating in Restaurant Week include Sinatra, Society Café and Switch at Encore and Daniel Boulud Brasserie, Okada and SW Steakhouse at Wynn Las Vegas.

A complete list of participating Restaurant Week establishments may be found by visiting www.threesquare.org.

80% off w/every $25 Gift Cert. order. Use code TASTE. Pay $2 thru 8/31/09 at Restaurant.com.

If you are not reading this post in a feed reader or at http://www.RoyallyFlushed.com then the site you are reading is illegally publishing copyrighted material. Contact me at c.c.royal@royallyflushed.com PLEASE. All text and photographs in this post are the original creations & property of the author unless otherwise noted. © 2008-2009 RoyallyFlushed.com

Make reservations now for Las Vegas Restaurant Week 2009

C.C. Royal — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 21:38:22 +0000

Restaurant Week Las Vegas starts just one week from now and brings with it your chance to try some of the city’s best – and we mean absolute BEST – restaurants for a fixed price of $20.09, $30.09 or a high (we think “low”) of $50.09. Running from August 31 through Sept. 6, more than 50 of the city’s top dining establishments will participate in the annual event which benefits Three Square Food Bank, a partner organization of Feeding America. Working to end hunger in Southern Nevada, a portion of all Restaurant Week sales will benefit Three Square.

When we say best, we aren’t kidding. Take a look at just some of the top restaurants (link to a list of all participating restaurants at the end of the post) that will be firing up the stoves for this national charitable event:

Wynn/Encore: Alex, Botero, Bartolotta Ristorante di Mare, Daniel Boulud Brasserie

MGM Grand: Cat House, Diego, Pearl Chinese Restaurant, SeaBlue

Caesars Palace: Bobby Flay’s Mesa Grill, Bradley Ogden

Palazzo/Venetian: Pinot Brasserie, Morels French Steakhouse & Bistro

Mandalay Bay: miX, Fleur de Lys (a favorite of ours,) RM Seafood, Aureole

Bellagio: Prime Steakhouse, Café Bellagio

In addition to the special pricing on select meals, many of the city’s best resorts are also offering Restaurant Week diners exclusive entertainment, spa and overnight packages.

For instance, MGM Grand is offering deluxe accommodations and a tasting menu for two starting at just $159 at any one of their signature restaurants including L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon, Nobhill Tavern, SeaBlue, Italian favorite FiAMMA, Diego, Pearl, Shibuya and the highly-rated Tom Colicchio restaurant, Craftsteak.

At Bellagio, the “Unforgettable Night” package is just $178 per person and includes a ticket to “O™” by Cirque du Soleil®, a prix fixe dinner menu at FIX or Yellowtail Japanese Restaurant & Lounge (terrific sushi!), a complimentary drink at Caramel Bar & Lounge as well as complimentary entrance to the high-energy nightclub, The Bank.

At Mandalay Bay, Aureole, Fleur de Lys, miX, Rick Moonen’s RM Seafood and StripSteak will all offer specially priced three and four-course tasting menus to pair nicely with the resort’s overnight packages. Both Mandalay Bay and THEhotel will offer special room rates for Restaurant Week visitors that include a dining credit to the House of Blues Restaurant plus other resort goodies.

There are no “tickets” but reservations should be made in advance if you want to secure your seat at the table for what will most definitely be a busy week at participating restaurants.

A complete list of participating Restaurant Week establishments may be found by visiting www.threesquare.org.

Tomorrow, see what the chefs at Wynn and Encore have planned for Restaurant Week Las Vegas.

MGM Grand Las Vegas “Maximum Escape” Rates from $69.99/nt. *Plus, $35 Activity Credit (per stay), 2 Line passes to Studio 54 or Tabu, and 25% off Spa Services (*See site for additional details and restrictions). Jun 23, 2009 – May 31, 2010. Promo Code: MKT205 (Exp 12/30/09)

Bellagio Hotel Promotions

Special Online Promotions at Mandalay Bay Las Vegas

If you are not reading this post in a feed reader or at http://www.RoyallyFlushed.com then the site you are reading is illegally publishing copyrighted material. Contact me at c.c.royal@royallyflushed.com PLEASE. All text and photographs in this post are the original creations & property of the author unless otherwise noted. © 2008-2009 RoyallyFlushed.com

CityCenter Las Vegas and Strip Construction Update

C.C. Royal — Sun, 16 Aug 2009 22:26:18 +0000

The Crystals in Las Vegas will open its doors to shoppers on December 3. (Photo/content property of www.RoyallyFlushed.com)

So much has happened since our January report on the happenings at MGM Mirage’s CityCenter Las Vegas that what we’ve decided to do is post our newest CityCenter photos and then give some highlights of the project along with a list of websites/articles you can go to for more info.

Aria Resort & Casino

Scheduled to open December 16, Aria is taking room reservations now at their new website. Click around the ARIA Home Page and you’ll find photos of the rooms, a section on some of the chefs and restaurants planned plus info on the new “Elvis” show at Aria which, to quote the website, comes from the “creative geniuses at Cirque du Soleil® (who) have created a new show exclusively for ARIA. The production pays tribute to Elvis’ music and life, fusing dance and acrobatics, live music and iconic tracks, nostalgia and modernity, high technology and raw emotion. In short, the show will be in Elvis’ image: powerful, sexy, whimsical and truly unique.”

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Las Vegas

This 47-story non-gaming hotel features 227 residences plus 392 Adam D. Tihany-designed rooms and suites with contemporary decor and “subtle oriental touches.” The 23rd-floor Sky Lobby is just one of the luxurious design elements guests will encounter when staying at the new hotel. Check out the Mandarin Oriental Hotel website for artist’s renderings of the rooms, the soaring lobby and an exclusive online brochure. Opening date is currently scheduled for December 4th and the hotel will begin taking reservations on August 17th.

A new bridge constructed over the Strip will give pedestrians easy access to the massive CityCenter Las Vegas project. (Photo/content property of RoyallyFlushed.com)

The Crystals Retail Complex

More than 500,000 square-feet of retail and dining space will open December 3rd in this stunning shopping complex fronting the Las Vegas Strip. High-end brands such as Louis Vuitton, TIFFANY & CO., jeweler H. Stern, apparel store Marni and luxury men’s retailer/designer Ermenegildo Zegna will be among the exceptional brands dotting the corridors of the contemporary space. A French brasserie from CelebuChef extraordinaire Wolfgang Puck will join Katana, a sushi/Robatayaki concept (and L.A. favorite) from the same restaurant group that currently operates Las Vegas restaurants Sushi Roku and BOA Steakhouse. Read more here about the Crystals.

Vdara Condo-Hotel

The newest rumor has it that Vdara’s lackluster sales may push the project into a holding pattern while developers try to sell more of the Veers Towers and Mandarin Oriental residences. The newest info can be found in an August 15th article by Brian Wargo for the “In Business” section of the Las Vegas Sun.

The Harmon Hotel & Spa

This part of the massive CityCenter project was put on hold early this year and is not slated to open until late-2010. The original plans called for a condo component to the building but that has been scrapped in favor of an all-hotel-room project. The Light Group is still scheduled to operate the hotel once it opens. Read the latest on Light Group here.

Cosmopolitan (for now!)

What can we say about this project? Not a part of CityCenter but neighboring it and The Bellagio, this project has gone bankrupt and is currently owned by Deutsche Bank AG who has hired and fired architects in an attempt to make the project more commercially-appealing. (Not sure to whom.) The broken lines of the glass-fronted lobby are certainly interesting — not attractive but interesting. The Cosmo now has a new leader, former Caesars Palace exec, John Unwin, and there’s rumor that the Hilton group may be coming on-board to manage the hotel. The project is slated to open in September of 2010 but stay tuned for more info. Read more about the Cosmo’s troubles at the LV Business Press website and an article by Tony Illia.

For a fascinating look at Las Vegas today including an interview with the Sands Corp.’s Sheldon Adelson plus a report on the town’s real estate woes, check out TIME magazine writer/videojournalist Joel Stein’s article “Less Vegas: The Casino Town Bets on a Comeback.”

Big Labor Day Las Vegas hotel discounts now at hotels.com

C.C. Royal — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 16:44:04 +0000

Stay at the famous Golden Nugget in Downtown Las Vegas and enjoy the Fremont Street Experience's end of summer bash all weekend long. (www.RoyallyFlushed.com)

In case you needed an excuse to head to Vegas next month, here it is! Just in time for that last big summer fling in Las Vegas, the Hotels.com Labor Day Sale is here. Celebrate this last 3-day weekend of the “Summer of 2009″ by taking advantage of big savings on lots of great Las Vegas hotels plus check out all the cool stuff happening around town that weekend.

Our hotel picks:

Our number one choice for Labor Day weekend in Las Vegas is the downtown fav, the Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino at just $104 per night average. Spend the days lounging by the pool (considered to be one of Vegas’ finest) and the evenings at the Fremont Street Experience “End of Summer, What a Bummer Bash” featuring the last of a summer-long concert series the weekend of Friday, September 4 through Monday, September 7. Highlighting the weekend will be concerts by Canned Heat on Saturday, Sept. 5, and Three Dog Night on Sunday, Sept. 6.

Looking for a center-Strip location and a reason to party all weekend long? Think Harrah’s Hotel and Casino Las Vegas. No, this isn’t a “top luxury” hotel but the price is right ($142 per night avg.) for a busy holiday weekend plus the outdoor Carnivale Bar, the dueling pianos saloon and the great location all give it extra points in our book. (And the adjacent Ghirardelli’s ice cream shop doesn’t hurt, either….)

Cool pools, hot nightclubs and a brand-new show debuting from singer Matt Goss will be the highlights at Las Vegas hot-spot The Palms Casino Resort. With nine dining venues plus a casual food court, a 14-screen movie theater, busy gaming floor and two of Las Vegas’ hottest nightclubs — Rain and Ghostbar — The Palms will keep guests occupied all weekend long. Room rates: $151 per night avg.

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