Reviews of the most interesting hotel/casinos from Las Vegas Visitor - insider reviews of restaurants, casinos, attractions, and online shopping for Vegas collectibles and gifts.

First, Some Good Advice
Before trying to book a hotel room in Las Vegas check the convention schedule and special events schedule. You can find it at lasvegas24hrs.com. This will direct you to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority web site. It is virtually impossible to get a booking during major events such as COMDEX and the NATIONAL FINALS RODEO. Unless you want to pay $400 for a room, that is.

The cheapest hotel rooms can be had after the Rodeo and before Christmas, the two slowest weeks of the year. Remember, a lot of shows and lounge acts will be in hiatus during that time.

If calls to hotel reservations are fruitless try the following: call one of the private booking companies. They reserve blocks of rooms in various hotels to which the hotels themselves have no access. So, even if the hotel tells you rooms are not available they might in fact be sitting on vacant rooms.

Las Vegas Hotels (some more advice)
Read this, you might learn something!

When I started this project I did not want it to be like any other Las Vegas website, which are merely lists. I want to give you a short commentary about Las Vegas hotels. After having lived in Las Vegas for almost thirty years I thought I knew it all. Until I started research for this project. Then everything changed. The reality is: there are only a few hotels/casinos in Las Vegas that deserve my green check mark as measured against my bench marks. Quite a few are built only as overnight warehouses for gambling patrons. I guess they weren't expected to spend any time in their rooms, but most of their time in the casino. Look for the red mark for examples of that type of hotel. I gave the green check mark to those hotels that I thought had the most well rounded package of gambling/entertainment/food. Click on the link where provided for more on facilities and amenities, and to make online reservations.

Some friendly advice (for free):

Avoid using your room telephone. Some hotels charge a dollar for local calls, even for 800 numbers.
Should your room get burglarized, call the police. In-house security will not do anything but take a report. No telling where those are filed. Publicity, you see.
Do not change foreign currency at the hotel cashier cash. Use a currency exchange instead. You will get better rates. Some hotels do not know the difference between the Euro and the Euro-Dollar. So, watch your step.
The Wynn beats them all. In room faxes $8, last time I checked. They want to nickel and dime you.

Alexis Park Resort
375 E. Harmon St., Tel: 702-796-3300
Beautiful boutique style non-gambling hotel about three blocks from the strip. All Mediterranean style construction (I call it California eclectic). Small gift shop with high prices. I guess their clientele doesn't mind. Food is good, gourmet style. Conventioneers hang out here for the most part. Expense accounts I guess.

Arizona Charlie's East
4575 Boulder Highway, Tel: 702-951-9100
Small, non-descript. Bad air, poor gift shop.

Arizona Charlie's West
740 S. Decatur Bl., Tel: 702- 258-5111
Same comments as above for Arizona Charlie's West. This location is the original Arizona Charlie's that started as just a bowling alley in the 1980's. Check their lounge show for classic rock bands. Lousy gift shop, poorly managed. Constant health dept. problems.

Bally's
3645 S. Las Vegas Bl., Tel: 702-739-4111
Huge is the watchword here. Is connected by private monorail to the MGM Grand and has a walkway to the Paris which is next door. Features one of the first in-hotel shopping malls in Las Vegas. I was a chef in this hotel from 1975-1980 when it burned down. Not that I set the creme brulée on fire. I was at home at the time. At that time food, working conditions and pay were absolutely fabulous. Food is still very good. I can't say anything about the other stuff.
Restaurants:
· al Dente - Italian. 967-4696
· Bally's Steakhouse, 967-4661 $25 - $50.
· Chang's - Chinese. 967-4653 $15 - $25.
· Big Kitchen Buffet, 967-4930. Under $15. »»See detailed review
· The Sidewalk Cafe - American. 967-4111. Under $15.
· Stage Deli -Jewish style deli. 967-4111.
· Snack Bar - fast food. 967-4111.
· Terrace Cafe - sandwiches, salads. 967-4111.
· Indigo Room - intimate lounge. 967-7999.

Barbary Coast
3595 S. Las Vegas Bl., Tel: 702-737-7111
Unattractive little dive across the street from Bally's. Has a few hotel rooms. I had lunch in their coffee shop last year. It was the trout almondine with a baked potato and string beans. Everything was swimming in melted butter, just like the old days, you know the fifties and sixties. Bad idea for a middle aged guy like me who is watching his fat intake. Let's forget about this place and move on to something a bit better.
Restaurants:
· Drai's - gourmet. 737-0555.

· Michael's - Continental. 737-7111.
· Victorian Room - coffee shop. 737-7111.

Bellagio Hotel
3600 S. Las Vegas Bl., Tel: 702-693-7111
Steve Wynn allegedly spent almost a billion and a half dollars to put this place up. Fantastic water works, fountains and gardens. Everything here is upscale, including the pricing. Don't miss the million dollar chandelier in the lobby. For my taste this place is overdecorated but to each his own. It also has a nice art gallery and a conservatory loaded with flowers. I would rate this a must see even if I don't agree with the interior desecrators. If you want to get rid of your shopping dollars fast this could be the place for you. I would not miss this place for any money. It is fabulous. For shopping you can select from the following: Armani, Chanel, Gucci, Hermes, Moschino, Prada and Tiffany.
Restaurants: Reservations 693-7223 · »»
· Le Cirque - contemporary French. 693-7223.
· Buffet - 693-7111. »»
· Cafe Bellagio - coffee shop. 693-7111.
· Jasmine - Hong Kong Cantonese. 693-7223.
· Noodles - Hong Kong bbq. 693-7111.
· Olives - Mediterranean. 693-7223.
· Picasso - art and food. 693-7223.
· Prime - Continental. 693-7223.
· Michael Mina - seafood. 693-7223
· Fix - Classic American. 693-7223
· Shintaro - Teppanyaki, kaiseki, sushi. 693-7223
· Sensi - international dining.693-7223
· Petrossian - tea and caviar 6927223
· Pool Cafe - closed in winter. 693-7111.
·

Binion's
128 Fremont, Tel: 702-382-1600

This is the former "Binions Horseshoe"
If you like old stuff this is for you. But it is pretty well run down. Right in the heart of downtown Las Vegas. Out front is the Fremont Street Experience, a canopy with light displays. In the old days, when Jack and Ron ran this place it was very delightful. Good food, clean, inexpensive. Now that Becky has taken over things have changed and not for the better. A lot of cocktail servers got the axe. I would sack them last, customers ask for service. If they don't get it they'll take their business elsewhere. The gift shop has no gifts to speak of, the news stand is all out of good stuff. They used to have lots of watches at very low prices. I am talking $8-9 here. That is all gone. Well, no reason to stop by here I guess. This must be the only hotel in the Universe (except for Inner Mongolia perhaps) without a web site. So, you are on your own.
Restaurants:
· Coffee Shop
· Steakhouse
· Lunch Counters (2)

NOW IN FINANCIAL DIFFICULTY AND CLOSED DOWN. REOPENING IS UNCERTAIN AT THIS TIME.01/12/04 HERE IS THE LATEST. HARRAH'S BOUGHT THE PLACE ONE DAY AFTER IT CLOSED. LET'S SEE WHAT HAPPENS NOW.

Has now re-opened under new ownership. (Harrah's)
02/01/05 - Has now been sold by Harrah's. New owners to take over at some future date.
It is now simply called "Binions". The name Horseshoe has been retained by the former owner (Jack Binion) for possible future use.

Boulder Station
4111 Boulder Highway, Tel: 702-432-7777
Part of the Station Casinos group. They own a bunch of them around Las Vegas. Specializing on the local trade mostly. They have a place for you to drop off your kids (Kids Quest), they have a large Multiplex movie theater, an Arcade with games for the kids, Bingo, buffet, Mexican dining, Coffee Shop, Italian, Steak House, 99¢ Margaritas, etc. Also very ample parking. Watch out for the parking structure out back. I have heard reports of robberies occuring there. Say hello to Mary Ann in the gift shop.
Restaurants:
· The Feast Buffet
· China Express
· Starbucks
· Boulder Cafe
· Pizza Palace
· The Broiler
· Viva Salsa
· Guadalajara Bar and Grill

Caesars Palace
3570 S. Las Vegas Bl., Tel: 702-731-7333
As of 02/01/01 the hotel/casino has been renovated. New facade etc. Very attractive!
A large jumble of casino areas, shopping, bars, restaurants, hotel towers etc. I don't like it but perhaps you might. I remember in the old days their parking lot was so large they staged automobile races on it. And the Flamingo wash ran right through it and periodically swept cars towards Lake Mead. This wash then runs underneath the Imperial Palace and down the center of the small street behind that hotel. It drops down a grating just before Koval Lane and comes out on the other side of it. Boy I have seen some good sized floods going down that wash. One time a lot of cars got swept down from the Caesars parking lot and wound up at the Imperial Palace. Cadillacs, Lincolns and what have you. They have flood control now. Those days are long gone. It still is extremely popular (Caesars Palace) and pretends to be the class of the strip. Watch out for parking, it is in the rear. From the strip use the tunnel that runs underneath the hotel. An easier way would be to use valet parking in the tunnel. You will be right at the entrance to the Forum shops. If you want to self-park you would be better off to use Industrial Rd. That is the one behind Circus-Circus. That way you do not have to fight strip traffic.
Bette Midler now headlines in the showroom, following Celine Dion's successful run of several years. Elton John fills in several times per year.
Restaurants: Reservations 731-7731.
· 808 - Euro-Pacific.
· Bradley Ogden - seasonal farm fresh
· Cypress Street - interactive (?) casual.
· Empress Court - Cantonese. 731-7888.
· Hyakumi - sushi. 731-7519. »»See detailed review
· La Piazza Food Court - various.731-7846.
· Nero's - steaks, seafood. 731-7560.
· Terrazza - Italian. 731-7568,
· Cafe Lago - coffee shop. 731-9175.
· 8-0-8 - Hawaiian/pacific. 731-7110.

California Hotel
12 Ogden, Tel: 702-385-1222
Part of the Boyd Group. They own a bunch of places. Here we are back in downtown Las Vegas. I can say without hesitation that most hotels downtown are sub-par, with the exception of the Golden Nugget. Some are so bad I don't even list them on the hotel page. Places like the El Cortez, the Westerner and others. You do well to stay away from them. Strangely enough the California has a lot of business from Hawaii, so get your lomi-lomi, pipikaula, cracked seed and haupia right here. A skywalk connects it with the Main Street Station across the street, part of the same gaming group. I would not rate this hotel very highly as far as convenience, food or shopping goes. I noticed too that most of those hotels do not have a decent gift shop. Just the basic stuff, booze, papers and cigarettes. Quite a difference from the strip.

Circus Circus
2880 S. Las Vegas Bl., Tel: 702-734-0410
Thousands of rooms, shopping, midway, RV park, wedding chapel, reasonable prices. You have to be able to put up with all the kids. If you do travel with your kids you really should consider staying here, if you can get a room. The prices are right and there is lots to do for them. Stuff that won't cost an arm and a leg. They also have lots of shopping with interesting items. Check out their clown display at the gift shop next to the entrance (Exclusively Circus). I always find this hotel to be a very nice, exciting experience.
Restaurants:
· Blue Iguana - Mexican. 734-0410.
· The Steak house - 734-0410.
· Stivali Italiano - Italian. 743-0410.
· Buffet - 734-0410. »»See detailed review
· Pink Pony - coffee shop. 734-0410.
· Pizzeria - 7340410.
· Barista - coffees. 7340410.

Excalibur
3850 S. Las Vegas Bl., Tel: 702-597-7777
The "castle" is truly a fun building and a fun theme for this resort. They have a large entertainment area for kids downstairs, shopping and more show on the second floor. Plenty of restaurant choices in the middle range. This is one place to stay if you bring your kids, it is more family oriented than many other hotels.
Restaurants:
· Regale Italian - 597-7777.
· Sherwood Forest Cafe - coffee shop. 597-7777.
· Sir Galahad's - prime rib. 597-7777
· Camelot - steaks. 597-7777.
· Buffet - 597-7777.
· Village Food Court - Krispy Kreme, McDonald's etc. 597-7777.

Fiesta Rancho
2400 N. Rancho, Tel:702-631-7000
It is called that because there also is a Fiesta Henderson. Both properties are owned by the Station Casinos group. Restaurants:
· Gardunos of Mexica
· Pizzeria Regina
· Pipe Organ Pizzeria
· McDonalds
· Panda Express
· Subway
· Old San Francisco Steakhouse
· TCBY
· Festival Buffet
· Mr. B's Diner
· Blue Agave Oyster and Chili Bar
The Buffet received a bad health report on 12/22/00. This may be due to the fact the hotel was in transition at the time. Let's see what happens.

Fitzgerald's
301 Fremont St. Tel:702- 388-2400
Downtown Las Vegas. Has a large hotel tower and parking adjacent. Other than that no distinguishing features If you want to get some souvenirs try their gift shop. It has some very good buys on watches, watch sets and knick-knacks. If you need anything special in the gift shop than contact Edith, the manager. She knows how to treat her customers well. Check the watch display inside the gift shop. Fantastic is the word.
Restaurants:
· Limerick's Steakhouse - 388-2400.
· Molly's Buffet - 388-2005.
· Shamrock Cafe - coffee shop. 388-2400.
· Vincenzo's Italian Cafe - Northern Italian. 388-2400.
· McDonald's - fast food. 388-2400.
· Mr. O'Lucky's - ice cream and coffee parlor. 388-2400.

Flamingo
3555 S. Las Vegas Bl., Tel: 702-733-3111
Invented by Bugsy Siegel. He got his'n in California by a shot gun. Now the place is run by the Hilton people. Pretty good food. Check out the park out back. Real live penguins! I have one objection: every square inch of that property has been put to use. Looks pretty bleak. They call it profit enhancement I guess. There is a sizable shopping mall and a nice pool. Otherwise mostly slot machines.
Restaurants:
· Ventuno - Italian. 733-3333
· Conrad's - steaks, prime rib. 733-3333.
· Sushi Bar Hamada - Japanese. 733-3333. »»See detailed review
· Pink Ginger - Chinese. 733-3333 ·
· Paradise Garden Buffet - 733-3333
· Lindy's Coffee Shop - 733-3333
· Margaritaville - for Parrotheads.733-3333 »»See detailed review
· Hamada of Japan - japanese 733-3333

Four Queens
202 Fremont St.Tel: 702-385-4011
No special features here just the usual gambling. Practically all downtown properties with the exception of the Golden Nugget, look run down, this one included.

Four Seasons at Mandalay Bay
3960 S. Las Vegas Bl., Tel: 702-632-5000
A five star hotel, very elegant and quiet. It has a separate entrance from the Mandalay Bay itself. It is farther south. There is a golf course adjoining. And a beauty it is. Check my golf pages!!

Fremont Hotel
200 Fremont St.Tel: 702-385-3232
No point in going there unless you have your own private reasons to be there. The food is poor. The casino is large and without any personality at all. Just rows of slot machines. Pretty grim. Also owned by Boyd Gaming. Unless you get a room dirt cheap or comped you shouldn't stay there. There is a buffet but it is pretty much no account too. Besides, the food is not very tasty.

Gold Coast
4000 West Flamingo. Tel: 702-367-7111
Bowling, dance hall and movie theater. Other than that just another casino. It is as plain as it possibly can get. The bowling alley is pretty large though. I used to hang in the western dance hall there. But now there is a very confusing format. Some nights country and some nights ballroom. There is a large bingo room but it is very busy, hardly any chance to win anything. Food is lousy.
Restaurants: All tel: 367-7111
· Mediterranean Room - Italian and seafood.
· Buffet -
· Cortez Room - beef, poultry, seafood.
· Monterey Room - coffee shop.
· Kate's Korner - desserts.

Golden Gate Hotel
1 Fremont St.Tel: 702-385-1906
Sits on the corner of Main and Fremont, downtown Las Vegas. One of the original downtown hotels.

Golden Nugget
129 Fremont St, downtown Las Vegas Tel: 702-385-7111
If there is no other way out and you feel you must stay in downtown Las Vegas, than at least stay at the Golden Nugget. It is the class of downtown. Clean, nice decor, good food, showroom, several restaurants and a very good buffet. I almost forgot, the largest gold nugget ever found is on display. Go to the boutique near the front entrance and go to the hallway on the right. You can't miss it, it is sitting there in a showcase. Some guy in Australia found it in his backyard.
Restaurants: All tel: 385-7111.
· Golden Nugget Buffet.
· California Pizza Kitchen »»See detailed review
· Carson Street Cafe - coffee shop.
· Lilly Langtry's - Cantonese.
· Stefano's - pasta and seafood.

Has recently undergone a series of ownership changes and is now owned by the Landrys restaurant group who have indertaken a huge renovation and upgrade of the property.

Green Valley Ranch
Opened 12/18/01. Located off I-215 , at the Pecos off-ramp. About 5 miles east of the I-15 interchange.
This is the newest hotel in the Station Casinos chain. Typical Station Casinos architecture: lots of detail, nice materials and an upscale atmosphere that is a bit more relaxed than the strip casinos. The neighborhood is brand new too, and has been built with strict design guidelines and lush landscaping to provide an elegant mood. The casinos has several nice restaurants that will not disappoint you, and a good buffet where you will wait in a long line on Friday nights and weekends. Take a step back into the ultra-mod 1960's at the Drop Bar, with its cool, white-molded-plastic decor and starburst chandeliers; or visit the very authentically decorated Irish pub, Fado. The casino does not feature Bingo, Keno or Caribbean Stud. Next door is the District, a new shopping "village" designed like an old-fasioned Main Street , with medium to upscale stores, bars and restaurants, and often outdoor entertainment that has become quite popular as a place for normal people to hang out. The stores are nice, but nothing too out of the ordinary except for the sporting goods store.

Hacienda Hotel
in Boulder City, about 2 miles from down town on Highway 93.Tel: 702 293 5000
The first thing one has to say about this hotel is its remarkable location. It is actually inside the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. It is about 3 miles from Hoover Dam itself and about two miles from Lake Mead. In fact it overlooks Lake Mead. Some people may not know this but this lake is the largest man made lake in the Western Hemisphere. Very popular with the fishing and boating crowd. You simply cannot get any closer to this lake and stay in a modern, comfortable, affordable hotel at the same time. I recently had the opportunity to have dinner (and lunch also) at the newly remodeled buffet. And what great food it was too! A large salad bar, plenty of hot dishes and a great selection of desserts. All at a very popular price. I am a beer fanatic and was presently surprised about the quality and selection of brews at the bar. Exotics on tap. You don't see that every day. All in all an outstanding and pleasant experience. I can heartily recommend this hotel/casino. Here is a little inside info for you. They have an ad in the yellow pages. All you have to do is to mention it and you will get a 10% discount on your room rate.

Hard Rock
4455 Paradise, Tel: 702-693-5000
Gamble amidst rock paraphernalia. Mostly populated by younger people. The parking lot is very confusing. There must be a better way. Try the entrance off Harmon. Paradise Road is so busy these days. They issue collectible casino chips every once in a while, depending on which band is playing. You might try to get some back issues. I like the Black Crowes and the Halloween chip. Very collectible. Lots of Japanese visitors who are picking up souvenirs from the gift shop.
Restaurants:
· A.J's
· Mortoni's
· Pink Taco
· Hard Rock Cafe »See detailed review
·

Harrah's Las Vegas
3475 S. Las Vegas Bl., Tel: 702-369-5000
I knew Bill Harrah in Reno when he was a small operator. What have you wrought Bill? All in all a pretty mediocre place by Las Vegas standards. Don't dine here, the food is horrible. Unless you are a steak/eggs/potato guy. This casino is so large you can lose your way inside. The buffet is inexpensive but way below standards. Just like slopping hogs.
Restaurants. All tel: 369-5000
· Asia -Chinese and Asian.
· Cafe Andreotti - Italian.
· The Garden Cafe - coffee shop.
· The Range - steakhouse.
· Buffet
· Club Cappuccino - specialty coffees.
· Winning Streaks Cafe - fast food.
· Carnaval Court Bar and Grill - semi fast food.

Harrah's Laughlin
Laughlin is a small gambling town about 125 miles south of Las Vegas off Rt. 93. I have been going to that burg for well nigh 15 years and I can state without hesitation that I have never had a decent meal in the entire town. Now, it could be just my bad luck or bad timing but I have had the same comments from other people. Take for example my latest experience which occurred on Saturday 4/28/01. I had travelled to Laughlin to participate in the annnual River Run, a meet for Harley-Davidson enthusiasts. On previous trips I had partaken of the Harrah's buffet and I sworn then to never do that again. So, we decided on the Monterrey cafe, which seemed nice enough in decor, what with the South-of-the-Border ambiance. I asked about the imported beers on the menu. The foodserver's reply was -"yes we have Bud, Bud Light and Coors". Probably imported from California. Well, some people call that a foreign country. My friend then ordered the house special margarita for $6.25. It was totally watered down. Profit enhancement I suppose. The food was equally terrible and expensive. A grilled chicken sandwich with cole slaw set me back $8, the grilled cheese my friend had was $5. I finally received a Newcastle Brown Ale which set me back $4.25. All in all a total rip-off. I would not recommend that place. On the other hand, the other places have food that is equally as bad or worse. I spoke about it to the restaurant manager but she seemed to be annoyed with me and did not try to help. Well, I won't be back there anytime soon.

Hilton (Las Vegas Hilton)
3000 Paradise Rd., Tel: 702-732-5111
They have that Star Dreck (excuse me Star Trek) experience ride. I don't know if that will stay. I don't think it is attracting the masses they had hoped for. From what I hear the VP in charge of that project had to take an early out. They have an old Elvis suit in a glass case on display.
Restaurants: Reservations:
9 AM-5 PM 732-5801
5 PM-11PM 732-5111
· Andiamo - Italian.
· Benihana Village - Japanese. »»See detailed review
· Garden of the Dragon - Chinese.
· Hilton Steakhouse
· MargaritaGrille - Mexican.
· Quark's Bar and Restaurant - American. »»See detailed review
· Buffet
· Paradise Cafe - coffee shop.
· Check the health report before dining there.

· · ·

Hooters
115 E. Tropicana Av. Tel: 702-739-9000

formerly the San Remo
Across the street from the MGM Grand and next to the Tropicana, one block east of the strip. This place has absolutely nothing to offer but rooms and gambling.

Hyatt Regency Lake Las Vegas
at Montelago, 101 Montelago Bl., 702-567-1234
Actually in Henderson rather than Las Vegas. On top of that it is not in Henderson proper but quite a bit east. Very exclusive, very new, very elegant. At a man made lake. Golf course adjoining. If you like privacy this would be the place to be. Has the advantage of being connected to the Hyatt world-wide reservation system. Allegedly 5 stars.
· Tajine An American fusion restaurant. »»See detailed review
·

Imperial Palace
3335 S. Las Vegas Bl., Tel: 702-785-5555
Here is a place that managed to squeeze the most amount of building on the least amount of land. Stupid. Look out the window and what do you see? Nothing, just another wall. This place has nothing going for it except the car collection which is humungous. I am talking Duesenbergs galore. They also have Hitler's car I believe. And quite a few other expensive cars. A must see for the car afficionado. The guy who owns it all, Ralph Engelstad, is one of the richest persons in America. He recently donated $100 million for a stadium at a univeristy in the Dakotas. I forgot where.
Restaurants: All tel: 794-3261 (except Buffet).
· Embers - steaks and seafood.
· Ming Terrace - Mandarin and Cantonese.
· The Seahouse
· Buffet - 731-3311.
· Betty's Diner - coffee shop.
·

Jerry's Nugget Casino
1821 N. Las Vegas Bl. Tel: 702-399-3000
No special features here just the usual gambling. No hotel rooms, just a casino only. In a poor neighborhood, but the casino has recently undergone major renovation and expansion. It is very clean, friendly, secure and offers excellent food.
· Coffee Shop. »»See detailed review
·

Las Vegas Club
202 Fremont St.Tel: 702-385-4011
No special features here just the usual gambling. Practically all downtown properties with the exception of the Golden Nugget, look run down, this one included. Food here is pretty poor. Needs improvement.
Coffee Shop.
08/23/05 - Mahalo Express. 32 demerits. Grade "C"
Flies throughout facility; plastic food containers used to line food storage shelves; rice scoop stored in standing water.
; »»See detailed review
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Lady Luck
206 N. 3rd St.Tel: 702-477-3000
No special features here, just the usual gambling. This one started out as a small joint in a shopping center and expanded from there. Pretty clever really. They have a beverage cart that comes around and doles out free drinks. The food here is really poor. The buffet stinks. The coffee shop isn't any better. But, it is very inexpensive.
Restaurants:
· The Burgundy Room
· Marco Polo
· Winners Cafe
· Buffet
01/03/06. This property is closed for renovations (?).

Luxor
3900 S. Las Vegas Bl., Tel: 702-262-4000
The only pyramid shape hotel in the US, so far as I know. Because of its shape you take inclinators rather than elevators. And if you are at the wrong entrance you cannot get to the right inclinator to your floor. So, watch it. Very interesting inside and lots of stuff to see. Arcades and rides for the youngsters. I like to visit from time to time and look at things. Don't forget the shops downstairs. Interesting stuff.
Restaurants: All tel: 262-4000.
· Isis - steaks.
· Sacred Sea Room - Five Stars.
· Buffet
· Nile Deli
· Pyramid Cafe - coffee shop.
· Hamada - Japanese.
· La Salsa - Mexican.

MGM Grand Hotel
3799 S. Las Vegas Bl., Tel: 702-891-1111
Gigantic is the only word to describe this place. I have heard it is the largest hotel in the world, 5000 rooms. Lots of everything, bars, restaurants, shops, gambling. Too big for me, I prefer smaller places. There is a lion display with live lions. Shopping mall downstairs. Check out the Rainforest Cafe. Actually I would call it the Rainforest Gift Shop with cafe attached. Like a jungle.
Restaurants:
· Emeril's New Orleans Fish House - Cajun/Creole. 891-7374
· Grand Wok and Sushi bar
· Nob Hill - San Fran. flavor.
· The Rainforest Cafe - American. 891-8580
· Craftsteak - natural flavors.
· Wolfgang Puck Cafe - eclectic. 895-9653
· Diego - mexican. 891-1111.
· L'Atelier - chef Joel Robuchon, french 891 -7777
· Joel Robuchon at the Mansion - french 891-7777
· Stage Deli. 891-1111.
· Fiamma - modern Italian. 891-1111.
· Pearl - Chinese modern. 891-7777
· Seablue - simple fish.891-7777
· Shibuya - sushi
· Studio Cafe - casual 24hr dining
· Wichcraft - gourmet sandwiches
· MGM Grand Buffet - buffet

Main Street Station
200 N. Main, Tel: 702-387-1896.
Developed by the same entrepeneur who developed the one in Orlando, FL. Beautiful antiques throughout and a real good buffet. I mean REAL GOOD. Somehow they manage to keep the vagrants and panhandlers outside. We are talking downtown Las Vegas here.
This property is now owned and managed by the Boyd gaming group (Sam's Town, Stardust etc.)

Mandalay Bay
3950 S. Las Vegas Bl., Tel: 702-632-7777
I have to admit it. Of all the hotels in Las Vegas I like this one the best. The pool area is out of this world. A brand new golf course is adjoining. There is another one up the road a short distance. And check out the bars and restaurants. Wolfgang Puck has a place in here. There is a Russian place (Red Square) with a statue of Lenin out front and about 50 kinds of Vodka. Another restaurant has a wine tower so large it takes a person in a wire harness to retrieve bottles of wine, all visible from the outside, cool!
Restaurants:
· Aureole - formal, french gourmet. 632-7401 »»See detailed review
· Border Grill - gourmet Mexican (what's that?). 632-7403 See detailed review
· House of Blues - Southern. 632-7777.
· Raffles - coffee shop. 632-7777.
· Rumjungle - flaming skewers. 632-7777. See detailed review
· Shanghai Lilly - Cantonese, Szechwan. 632-7409.
· Trattoria del Lupo - contemporary Italian. 740-5522
· Bay Side - buffet. 632-7402.
· China Grill - Asian inspired (?). 632-7777.
· 3950 - contemporary classic
· Fleur de Lys - Bay Area haute cuisine.
· Red Square - Russian classics (some). 632-7407.
· Turf Club Deli - 632-7777.
-· Mix - night club and dining
· China Grill Cafe and Zen Sum - entertainment and dining. 632-7777.
· Red White and Blue - American and deli See detailed review

Mirage
3400 S. Las Vegas Bl., Tel: 702-791-7111
Home of the white tigers, Siegfried and Roy, the Dolphin Encounter, and a mini-rain forest, the Secret Garden, the superlative aquarium behind the front desk Siegfried and Roy's hidden garden, and more. A real nice buffet and lots of nice restaurants. A MUST see for Las Vegas visitors.
Restaurants: reservations 791-7111
· Kokomo's - steak and seafood. no kids under 5.
· Mikado - teppan-yaki. See detailed review
· Moongate - Szechwan and Cantonese. See detailed review
· Onda - Italian.
· Renoir - contemporary French
· Samba Grill - Brazilian (steaks).
· Buffet
· California Pizza Kitchen
· Roasted Bean - coffee and pastry.
· Caribe Cafe - coffee shop. See detailed review
· Casino Snack Bar.
· Coconuts Ice Cream.

Monte Carlo
3770 S. Las Vegas Bl., Tel: 702-730-7777.
Aside from the gaming, the micro brewery is the best feature. The beer and the atmosphere are wonderful. Noisy but fun. One of the first hotels to provide a fast food court.
Restaurants:
· Andre's French Restaurant, 798-7151
· Blackstone's Steakhouse. 730-7000.
· Market City Caffe - coffee shop. 730-7966
· Monte Carlo Pub and Brewery - specialty beers and munchies. 730-7777.
· Dragon Noodle Company. 730-7965.
· Food Court - Nathan's, Sbarro, McDonald's. 730-7000.

Nevada Palace
5255 Boulder Highway. Tel: 702-458-8810
Don't let the name fool you. It is not a palace. Minimal amenities, not worth a stop. They usually have something going for Oktoberfest.

NewYorkNewYork
3790 S. Las Vegas Bl., Tel: 702-740-6050
A must see for all visitors to Las Vegas. It's all here, the statue of Liberty, the stock exchange, old New York etc. Everything but the muggers. Check out the giant roller coaster all around the building. I recommend this place highly and I am not on their payroll.
Restaurants:
· America - eclectic.740-6969 »»
· ESPN Zone - sports pub type. 933-3776.
· Gallagher's Steakhouse, 740-6450
· Gonzales y Gonzales - Mexican, Mexican. 740-6455
· Chin Chin - Chinese. 740-6969.
· Il Fornaio - Italian. 740-6969.
· The Village Eateries - healthy foods(?). 740-6969.

Orleans
4500 West Tropicana Av., Tel: 702-365-7111
A couple of miles west of the strip. Not much here, but the buffet is good. I eat there quite regularly. Check their show listings for classic and has-been rockers.
Restaurants: reservations 365-7550
· Big Al's Oyster Bar
· Bones, The Rib Joint
· Canal Street - American food.
· Don Miguel's - Mexican.
· La Louisiane - Cajun.
· Courtyard Cafe - coffee shop.
· French Market Buffet.

Palms Resort
West Flamingo Rd.,a few blocks west of the Strip across the street from the Gold Coast.
Well, here we are and the newest hotel in Las Vegas opened around 11/15/01. Talk about bad luck and bad timing. After the events of 9/11 and the reduced visitor volume in Las Vegas this hotel had the misfortune to open. I just hope business picks up quickly enough for them to be able to fill their rooms. We dropped by on Thanksgiving and it seemed as if there was quite a bit of business on that day. I hope it holds up. I like the architecture of the building. Quite unlike any of the other hotels in Las Vegas. It sort of looks like Art Deco but somehow modified. Very pleasant indeed. The interior is also quite detailed, from the bamboo canopies above the bars, the outrageously rich decorated oriental restaurant and the Brendan movie theaters. Unfortunately the places I really came to see - Nine and the Ghost Bar, were closed. Well, some other time.
Restaurants:
Gardunos - south of the border.
Fantasy Market - buffet
Nine - steaks.
Sunrise Cafe - 24hr American.
Little Buddha - oriental.
Blue Agave - oysters and chile favorites
Alize - French gourmet

Palace Station
2411 West Sahara Av., Tel: 702-367-2411
A very popular locals hotel just off the strip on W. Sahara. Has great give-aways and incentives. I urge you to obtain the Station Casinos players card. Check the health report before dining there.

Paris Las Vegas
3655 S. Las Vegas Bl., Tel: 702-946-7000
A bit of France in Las Vegas. Complete with a 3/4 scale Eiffel Tower. Next to Bally's with which it is connected via a walkway. Had one disappointing meal experience when they first opened, but since then the food has been very good. And the restaurants are pricey. The tower is open for (paying) visitors. It's worth a walk through. I rode up to the top of the tower. It starts out harmless enough but gets scary real fast. Try it anyway, you'll like it.
Restaurants:
· . La Rotisserie des Artistes - upscale rotisserie. 946-7000
. · Le Provencal - Italian (why the name?). 946-7000.
· . Eiffel Tower Restaurant - French. 948-6937.
·. Mon Ami Gabi - coffee shop/French steak house. 946-7000.
·. Ortanique - Caribbean. 946-4346.
·. Jean Jacques Boulangerie - sandwiches, pastries. 946-7000.
.. Le Cafe Ille St. Louis - sandwiches, coffee. 946-7000.
.. Le Village Buffet - 946-7000.
.. Ah Sin - Pacific Rim cuisine. 967-7999
·.

Planet Hollywood
3667 S. Las Vegas Bl., Tel: 702-785-5555

This is the former Aladdin which went under (poor management and poor design). The modern theme is new for Las Vegas, and worth a walk thru.
It has a large shopping mall as advertised, which isn't earth-shaking, but interesting , with some nice decor (it is an imitation middle eastern outdoor market) and some nice restaurants. Some of the restaurants listed below are in the PH itself, others are in the Desert Passage Mall adjoining the hotel and accessible from the hotel.

Restaurants:
· · Commanders Palace - Creole and New Orleans. $25-35. 892-8272. »»See detailed review
· Spice Market Buffet 736-0111. $15 - $25 »»See detailed review.
· The London Club - fusion (Asian, Middle Eastern · and · European.
· Zanzibar Cafe - coffee shop. 736-0111. $15 - $25. ·See detailed review
·· Lombardi's Romagna Mia - italian.735 1755
· Bonsai - sushu, sashimi, sake.

Plaza
1 Main Street downtown Las Vegas., Tel: 702-386-2110
The railroad station is inside (Southern Pacific), the Greyhound station is adjoining. You know what that means. Pretty well run down. Their idea of entertainment is a guitar playing singer with back-up from a sound generator. I would not frequent the (so called) dining rooms/restaurants here.

J.W. Marriot - Las Vegas
221 N. Rampart Bl., Tel: 702-869-7777
(formerly Regent Summerlin). Brand new resort in an out-of-the-way place. On the far west side of the valley. Several good golf courses nearby. Also nearby is the recently opened Suncoast hotel. Several of the upscale businesses in the hotel seem to have closed. I only spotted a few dinner houses (Spiedini and OXO), a snack bar and an Irish style pub.

Railroad Pass Hotel/Casino
2800 S. Boulder Highway, Tel: 702-294-5000
This is a good spot for truckers coming in off Route 95/93. There is a huge parking lot and everything is dirt cheap. Part of the Circus-Circus group. Other than a large parking lot there isn't much else they have to offer. The gift shop is full of trite trinkets available just about anywhere else in the universe. For heavens sake let's have some originality.
02/03/06 Gets cited witrh some regularity by the Clark County Health Dept. In fact one of the restaurants was actually closed by them recently.

Red Rock Casino Resort Spa
11011 W. Charleston, 702-797-7777 or 1 (866) 767-7773.
Station Casino's brand new foray into the upscale market. Huge place with modern architecture and impressive interior design. Station Casinos focuses on the locals market, and this is still a locals' casino for the upscale Summerlin mega-development. So new that it is usually crowded, parking is a hassle, and forget about dinner unless you have reservations. This stretch of Charletston used to be so far out of town that it was a two-lane road in the desert with a asphalt bike path to Red Rock. No sign of that now. Dining options include the Salt Lick BBQ, a long-time Texas operator that is generating a lot of buzz around town; a creole Oyster Bar, an Italian place, a Mexican place, a heavy-duty steakhouse, and Stations' usual Feast Buffet (always excellent) and Grand Cafe. Worth a visit if you have been to Vegas numerous times and are ready to explore the locals' casinos.

Rio
3700 West Flamingo, Tel: 702-364-9192
A little bit west of the strip. Could be reached by walking but I recommend a cab. I really do not know what to think of this place. They always place very highly on readers' polls etc. but I sure don't like it all that much. Very unique in that they have entertainment coming out of the ceiling. You got to see this one! They put on airs about their food but some of the restaurants are pretty shaky, especially the one on top of the building. I have had several meals there and they have been disappointing, considering what I paid. Well, to each his own. The Italian place was good but I haven't eaten there in about a year. The buffet I do not like at all, typical mass feeding and the room is uncomfortable. They could do better.
Restaurants:
· All American Bar and Grille - mesquite grill. 252-7767 »»See detailed review
· Antonio's Ristorante - Italian.(dress code). 252-7737
· Bamboleo - Mexican. 252-7777.
· Buzio's Seafood Restaurant, 252-7697
· Fiore Rotisseri and Grille - steaks, seafood (semi-formal). 252-7702
· VooDoo Cafe - Creole/Cajun, entertainment. 252-7777.
· Carnival World Buffet, 252-7757
· Star Deli & Bakery. 252-7777.
· Rio Java - coffee shop.

Ritz-Carlton, Lake Las Vegas
1610 Lake Las Vegas Parkway, Henderson.
Elegant and much more sedate than casinos on the Strip. Mediterranean architecture on a hillside above an artificial lake where there are often art shows and outdoor concerts. Interior decor right out of Architectural Digest. I have had two meals here, and both should have been better for what they charged. The little "Italian" village of shops in the back, on the bank of the lake with a few cobblestone streets, is a pleasant place to stroll when the weather is cooler. The village has some nice restaurants, galleries, knicknack shops and a real gourmet convenience store for the people staying in the condos above the shops. The "Italian" buildings are sort of a cartoon version of the real thing, much like the District in Henderson, as if the detailing needed to go one step further. The landscaping is gorgeous, and this hotel is worth seeing and strolling through.

Riviera
2901 S. Las Vegas Bl., Tel: 702-734-5110
A formerly nice place. Now it is huge, uncomfortable and poor quality. I just don't see how you can squeeze so many buildings on so little land. Profit enhancement I suppose. The buffet is really lousy here. One of the few places where I can make that statement without flinching. If they were to charge maybe $3-4 I could see it. But for what they charge it ain't much. One good thing - the cocktail servers in the casino are on the ball. Very good service in that area.
Restaurants:
· Kristofer's Steakhouse, 794-9233
· Rik Shaw's, 794-9537
· Ristorante Italiano, 794-9363
· Kady's - full service deli. 794-9318
· Buffet. 734-5110.
· Under Hound Doggies - hot dogs, shrimp cocktails. 734-9403.
· Food Court - about five different fast food places.

Sahara
2535 S. Las Vegas Bl., Tel: 702-737-2111
Present ownership formerly owned Circus-Circus. They put an enormous amount of money into the property. Now all they need to do is to get good food, especially in the buffet. It is very reasonably priced but even with that not worth it. You gotta see their roller coaster. It zips through the building, goes underground and comes back out through the sidewalk (or almost). Their Grand Prix race simulator is good too. Bring puke bags.
Restaurants:
· NASCAR Cafe - American. 734-7223.
· Paco's Hideaway - Mexican. 737-2515
· Sahara Steakhouse. 737-2111.
· Caravan Coffee Shop - 737-2111.
· Buffet - 737-2111.
·

Sam's Town
5111 Boulder Highway Tel: 702-456-7777
Western themed, complete with a western facade. Has recently undergone major restauration. Bowling, good buffet, western dance hall and movie theaters. You should see the indoor atrium! It has an animated western themed light and sound show complete with howling wolves and a waterfall. Very impressive. In between shows this atrium has trees, running water, a waterfall, singing birds in trees, etc. Free to the public and very nice. Also a 50's diner with low prices, bad food and huge portions. Part of the Boyd group of casinos. A huge expansion and renovation is under way as I am typing this. In the course of remodeling they have taken out the western dance hall. None of the renovations seem to cure their problem with stale air.
Restaurants:
· Billy Bob's Steakhouse, 45408031
· Papamio's Italian Kitchen, 454-8041
· Willy and Jose's, 454-8044
· Smokey Joe's, 456-7777
· Mary's Diner 454-8073
· Buffet

Santa Fe Rancho
4949 N. Rancho Dr. Tel: 702-658-4900
A nice locals place that belongs to the Station Casinos group. Bowling, fast food court, and a showroom that has some good acts. Up north near 95 and Ann Road, so pretty out of the way for most visitors, but worth a stop if you are heading to Mount Charleston or the Paiute Golf Resort.
Restaurants:
· Ti Amo Italian Eatery
· Kodiak Lodge
· Suzette's
· Pablo's Cafe
· Jen's Deli
· Santa Fe Coffee Co.
· Lone Mountain Buffet

I will list the new restaurants shortly. The buffet is gone.

Silverton Hotel Casino
near the intersection of I15 south and Blue Diamond Rd. about 5 miles south of McCarran Airport.
Has recently undergone major renovation. Has a huge sporting goods store (fishing and water sports). Also a very large fish tank with tropical fish and underwater performances by scuba divers. A large buffet and the obligatory array of restaurants and coffee shop. I recently tried the buffet and I can sum up the experience in a single word "forgetaboutidd" There ar better ones around. Especially considering the price.

South Point Hotel Casino
Originally opened at the southernmost end of the Strip as a Coast casino, pretty much a clone of the other Coast casinos. Gives you that real desert feel (the County apparently gave them a dispensation for any landscaping requirement).

Stardust
3000 S. Las Vegas Bl., Tel: 702-732-6111
Shows its age. I liked it better in the old days when Frank (Lefty) Rosenthal was the food and beverage manager and received a quarter of a million for his troubles. He left town on account of the Nevada gaming commission. Shortly after leaving he had some visitors who blew up his car. Close call. Now it is such a boring place. It has a fifties diner, and the usual steak house, Chinese joint, Mexican food and buffet. The food here isn't very good. At least when I tried the buffet a couple of months ago. Nothing to it just fill yourself up, that's about it. I contacted the Stardust for their website URL. Unfortunately the right information was not provided. Does that tell you something?

01/04/06. Slated for destruction soon. Let's see how that is going to get done.Restaurants: reservations 732-6500
· Sushi King - Japanese.
· Tony Roma's - ribs.
· Tres Lobos - Mexican.
· William B's Steakhouse
· Coco Palms - buffet.
· Island Paradise Cafe - coffee shop. »»See detailed review
·

Stratosphere
2000 S. Las Vegas Bl., Tel: 702-380-7777
Tallest building in Las Vegas, maybe in the west. Has two extraordinary rides on top. One is a roller coaster, the other one a kind of a rocket that blasts you up to the very top of the tower and then rockets up and down a couple of times. Real, real scary. Check out the dining room at the top. Pretty good food, pretty pricey. I also hear from other people they like the food up there. Bring plenty of cash or a good plastic card. There are quite a few vending kiosks leading up to the entrance of the tower. Also has a viewing area.
Restaurants: reservations 380-7711
· Fellini's Tower of Pasta
· Montana's Steakhouse
· Roxy's Diner - American. »»See detailed review
· Top of the World - fine dining(?)
· Stratosphere Buffet.
· Triple Crown Deli.
· Hamada of Japan - sushi.

Suncoast
9090 Alta Dr. Tel: 702-636-7111
Lots of golf courses nearby. Other than the location it looks like any other casino in town. I found the gift shop poorly stocked. Looks more like a clothing retailer. The usual Coast casinos layout with lots of slot machines. I found the movie theater interesting. It is a 16 plex. What they did here was to change the usual programming. Instead of having one movie run in any one theater all the time they have different movies running at different times in the same theater. As a consequence there are lots of choices available at any one time. Looks like very attractive planning. Worth a trip to see the upscale new part of town, especially if you think all of Las Vegas is like the strip. A lot of headliner concerts with acts you recognize if you're middle aged or older.
Restaurants:
· Via Veneto
· Senor Miguel's
· Primo's

Sunset Station
1301 West Sunset Rd., Henderson, Tel: 702-547-7777
About 15 m east of the strip. Very nice hotel with a very good buffet (recently remodeled). Outdoor concert venue with lots of big (but slightly dated) acts. The fast food restaurants inside this hotel get written up regularly by the Health Dept. In fact one of them got closed recently.

Terrible's Hotel/Casino
Corner of Flamingo and Paradise Roads. 4100 Paradise Rd. Tel: 702-733-7000.
This used to be the old, rundown, Continental Hotel. The Herbst people have done a marvelous job renovating. It is not a full service hotel, it is rather small, a couple of hundred rooms I think. There is a bingo room, a buffet and a coffee shop. I tried the coffee shop and found the food rather good and inexpensive. A comfortable and homey feel, but if you want to spend, spend, spend and feel luxurious, this is not the place for you . An okay neighborhood casino.
· Restaurants:
· Bougainvillea Cafe - coffee shop, mesquite grill. 733-7000.
· Terrible's Buffet - theme nights. 733-7000.
·

Texas Station
N. Rancho at Lake Mead. Tel: 702-631-1000
About five m north of down town. Very good food as with all Station casinos. See detailed review

Treasure Island
3300 S. Las Vegas Bl., Tel: 702-894-7111
An adjunct to the Mirage which sits on the same piece of land. They are connected by a tramway. You must see the sea battle that takes place in a moat outside of the hotel every two hours or so. One of the highlights of anyones visit to Las Vegas. Watch out for pickpockets during the show. There are quite a few, the cops are constantly getting complaints. One thing about these hotels: there is alway plenty of good parking available. Very good planning.
Restaurants:
· The Steak House - mesquite grill. 894-7223.
· Dishes The Buffet - 894-7444.
· Buccaneer Bay Club - fine dining/overlooks the sea battle. 894-7223.
· Canter's Deli - 894-7111.
· Francesco's - Italian. 894-7223.
· The Coffee Shop - coffee shop. 894-7111.
· Starbucks - coffees. 894-7444.
· Ben & Jerry's - ice creams. 894-7111.
· Isla Mexican Kitchen -mexican and tequila bar. 894-7223.
· Kahunaville - island restaurant and party bar

Tropicana
3801 S. Las Vegas Bl., Tel: 702-739-2222
The word is that this hotel is waiting for the wrecking ball. Has the air of being past its prime, but the employees are friendly and make you feel that there is a good spirit. The free aerobatic show "Airplay" plays several times a day above the slots and is worth seeing if you are in the vicinity. Still has the "Island" pool/garden area and the tropical birds on display, both nice features.
Restaurants:
· Mizuno's Japanese Steakhouse - teppan yaki. 739-2713.
· Pietro's - fine dining. 739-2341.
· Savanna - eclectic. 739-2376.
· Buffet - 739-2222.
· Java Java - coffees. 739-3883.
· Legends Deli - 739-2852.
· Tuscany - Italian
· Calypsos - casual 24hr didning

Trump
Yes, the Trumpster has announced his arrival in Las Vegas and is putting up a tower in the lot behind the Frontier Hotel.. There is ample room for the 64 story building that is going up as we speak. I know, I parked there in my camper several times during my gambling days in the 60's. They say this tower will be one story taller than the Wynn. Would somebody please check on this. Preferably with Steve Wynn?

Venetian
3355 S. Las Vegas Bl., Tel: 702-414-1000
They bill themselves as the world's largest. Maybe I am missing something here. I thought the MGM Grand was. Some nice architectural features. There is a canal inside with boats and singing gondoliers. Kind of laughable though, 1500 ft. of canal hardly a boat ride makes. But the atmosphere in the restaurants along the canal is enjable, though pricey. I enjoy the imitation Plaza San Marcos inside. I think this is the ONLY major hotel in town that does not have a buffet. Very strange! Or is this a new trend? It has a fast food court instead. Overall well worth a visit. Lots of shopping and restaurants. The place never seems to be quite finished. I'll have to go back and check again. Bring some credit cards, it ain't cheap.
They are building a 1000 room addition. Maybe it will be the worlds largest!
Restaurants:
· Delmonico Steakhouse - 414-3737.
· Lutece - fine dining. 414-1000.
· Piero Selvaggio Valentino - menu changes daily. 414-3000.
· Pinot Brasserie - rotisserie. 735-8888.
· Royal Star - Chinese. 414-1888. »»See detailed review
· Canaletto - Northern Italian. 733-0070.
· Grand Lux Cafe - coffee shop. 414-1000.
· Postrio - menu changes daily. 414-1000. »»See detailed review
· Star Canyon - Texas style. 414-3772.
· Taqueria Canonita - Mexican. 414-3773.
· Zeffirino - ? - 414-1000.
· La Italian -

A WORD OF CAUTION:
Do not go near the Venetian, do not enter their parking garage during one of their periodic conventions at their adjoining convention center. In contrast to other hotels on the strip they are short on parking. The situation is especially bad during the twice yearly ASD show. They also charge for parking at the adjoining lot. Last time I checked it was $10 with no in and out privileges.

Westin Casuarina Hotel and Spa
160 E. Flamingo Rd., Tel: 702-731-4300
This is the old Maxim Hotel.Strange how time flies. I arrived in Las Vegas in 1975, just when the Maxim was being built. It didn't quite last 30 years. The 1970's glass box was stripped and reworked into a 2000's postmodern with vibrant colors. The hotel has undergone extensive remodelling inside as well and is now a small, upscale boutique hotel. Very attractive! Still a small place, with a revue show, not on the top of the must-see list but pleasant if you are looking for accommodations in hotel that is not gigantic.

Wynn
3131 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 702 770-7000
The new $2.7 billion hotel/casino on the strip where the Desert Inn once stood, that you have to see because everyone will ask you about it when you get home. Feels like the Bellagio except with lots of skylights letting in soft, natural light (a nice touch). I predict skylights will become the new trend for every casino built in the next thirty years. Tons of architectural detail inside. The inferior desecrators (interior decorators) went hogwild in here, hardly a flat surface anywhere. The corridor to the meeting rooms reminds me of the Palace of Versailles. But I thought for $2.7 billion it could have been a little different. And why do people get in line to see the inside of the Ferrari dealership? No life in my opinion. I spotted a $5000 slot machine and several $100 slot machines. And fifty feet farther are the nickel and penny machines. That is quite a contrast.
A quick glance at the restaurant menus had me thinking their prices are about 15% - 20% higher than elsewhere. The buffet charges about $20 for lunch and $30 for dinner. There is no bowling, roller skating or ice skating, but there is golf.
Had lunch at a French restaurant there. Down the escalator and to your right,Daniel Boulud. Slooooooow service, hiiiiiigh prices. Had a Crock Monsieur. That is French for greasy sandwich with ham and cheese and then fried, with more grease in the form of french fries (freedom fries, ahem). Twenty bucks. But I also received a cup of soup. Pretty good too! I ordered hot tea, six bucks for that. My friend was a lot smarter. She ordered iced tea. Only $4.50. I call that a bargain. The setting is nice though. In front of this waterfall and pool with a real nice patio. and landscaping. That needs to be paid for so I didn't think the pricing was excessive. Total tab came to about $60 for two, tip included. I probably should not have tipped considering the snail's pace of the service.
4/17/06. I have more to report (nice things) about two more trips there. As soon as time permits.
Check out Luxury at Wynn Las Vegas!

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