The Young Family
The Young Family
If you have kids, you’ve been here. For the most part they are looking for things they can do in town with the whole family; however, they probably won’t need much coaxing to enjoy an adult night out at least once during this weekend. Heeeere you come to save the day.
8 a.m.
Growing kids (and tired adults) need a good, hearty breakfast before starting off the day. With five locations across Southern Nevada, you can’t go wrong taking your guests to Egg Works or The Egg & I (www.theeggworks.com) to get your morning going. Huge portions, fast and friendly service and crayons for the kids are a plus. Visit to find the location closest to you.
10 a.m.
If the nieces and nephews are a little older and, like most children, fascinated by crime scenes and whodunit games, The CSI Experience in the MGM Grand is the place to go (reserve in advance at http://lasvegas.csiexhibit.com). Is this your wild younger sister whose kid has a Mohawk? Then KISS by Monster Mini Golf (http://monsterminigolf.com/kiss), is the place for you. The sweet spot for just about everyone is the Lion Habitat Ranch (www.thecathouse.us) where the king of beasts will entertain even the most restless of kids (and adults).
1 p.m.
When in Rome. Even though we have a hard time being “tourists,” that doesn’t mean our holiday company isn’t down for a little cheesy Las Vegas style. That’s where the Rainforest Café in the MGM Grand comes in. Since you showed them a locals place for breakfast there’s no better, over the top complement. If you opt for The CSI Experience beforehand it’s convenient, too. The atmosphere is fun and different and will keep the kids distracted enough for you to gear up for Part II.
2:30 p.m.
Vegas is known for being hot, right? Let’s show your visitors and their kids that we’re creative, and if we can’t really have a white winter we’re sure going to manufacture one. The Ice Rink at the Boulevard Pool in The Cosmopolitan Las Vegas opens November 22 and is popular for creating the “winter” vibe we love so much. At $15 ($10 for locals) it’s the prime place to bring the kids for a fun, energy-expending afternoon. S’mores and firepit? Check.
6 p.m.
This is the opportunity for you to be the world’s best family member. Offer to watch the kids and send mom and dad out for a romantic dinner on their own. Off The Strip try for Marche Bacchus, 2620 Regatta Drive, or Hank’s Fine Steaks in the Green Valley Ranch, 2300 Paseo Verde Dr., in Green Valley. On The Strip we love Mon Ami Gabi, 3655 S. Las Vegas Blvd., if you can sit on the patio. They won’t be able to thank you enough. As for you, why not take the youngsters to Glittering Lights (www.glitteringlightslasvegas.com)?
The Outdoorsy/Active Types
The Outdoorsy/Active Types
These guys (and ladies) like to have good time, but not before getting their sweat on, enjoying quality time in the Great Outdoors or having some kind of risky undertaking to get their blood moving. Luckily our town is quite adept in risk taking and over-the-top adventures. You may even experience something new for yourself!
8 a.m.
Rise and shine it’s fresh air time. Two options less than an hour drive from town are the Red Rock Canyon Morning Horseback Ride ($119 at www.allvegastours.com) which includes breakfast and gorgeous views, or Huevos Rancheros and a Bloody Mary (bacon please!) at The Coffee Cup (www.worldfamouscoffeecup.com) in Boulder City followed by an invigorating zipline tour of Bootleg Canyon ($159 at www.flightlinezbootleg.com). Neither will disappoint.
1:30 p.m.
Head back into town to show your visitors The Strip is more than “Maltese Fortune” slot machines for sissies. The Stratosphere rides ($23-$34 at www.stratospherehotel.com) will get anyone’s heart pounding and if you’re really the crazy kind, spend the extra $110 on the new SkyJump™. Still not enough? Take a dip in the Shark-Reef at the Mandalay Bay (www.mandalaybay.com). At a whopping $650 per diver this one calls for advance planning…but hey…some only come here once, right?
4 p.m.
Ok, they’ve earned their stripes and obviously want to buy you a beer for being the “Best. Tour Guide. Ever.” Not just any beer, though. Let them experience hometown brews at one of our local breweries. We like Big Dog’s Draft House, 4543 N. Rancho Drive (5 tasters for $6 at www.bigdogsbrews.com); Tenaya Creek Brewery, ($1 per 4 oz. taster at www.tenayacreek.com ); Triple 7 in Main Street Station, (5 tasters for $3.95 at www.mainstreetcasino.com) or Barley’s Casino & Brew Pub, (4 tasters for $3.99 at https://wildfire.sclv.com/Barleys.aspx).
6:30 p.m.
Now’s time to show them the best restaurant in your neck of the woods, so they don’t go home telling people you live in a hotel. Honey Salt’s (1031 S Rampart Blvd) farm-to-table chic is a great fit for this granola group and has many options as well as a kid’s menu (www.honeysalt.com). The fresh ingredients and authentic feel of the new Novecento Pizzeria (expanded to 9460 S. Eastern Ave., www.novecentopizza.com), is sure to be a hit if you live in Green Valley. If they just HAVE to eat on The Strip, Sage at Aria should do the trick (3730 S. Las Vegas Blvd, www.arialasvegas.com).
8:30 p.m.
What’s Vegas without a little fun out on the town? Let’s show them the honkey tonk side of Vegas they probably didn’t know existed. For dancing, you can’t go wrong with Stoney’s Rockin’ Country in Town Square (www.stoneysrockincountry.com). Live music and buckin’ broncos (read: mechanical bulls) also abound at Coyote Ugly in the New York, New York ( www.coyoteuglysaloon.com/vegas) or Gilley’s in the Treasure Island (www.gilleyslasvegas.com).
A Tour for All Tastes
We all have one – Aunt Beth, Uncle Albert or a distant cousin who seems to know all the best places, shows, deals and tours to take out-of-town guests when they visit Las Vegas. The starry-eyed tourists get off the plane, are greeted by said family member at baggage claim and promptly whisked away for a weekend trip they’ll never forget.
Then, there’s you. Between back-to-school homework help, work, the gym and holiday gift shopping, somehow planning the perfect itinerary for your holiday visitors didn’t make the top priority list. You want to show them a good time, but some have different tastes (who knows what your niece on winter break from grad school wants to do), and for reasons unbeknownst to you, your motherboard has been completely stripped of ideas for a good restaurant aside from the one you frequent, maybe too often, down the street from your house. Well we are here to help!
Here are some great ideas for tour itineraries around our beloved city for different tastes and interests. We know there’s not one true stereotype, so feel free to pick and choose from each itinerary to get the perfect tour for your guests! You don’t even have to give us credit for making it look easy, but beware… soon Aunt Beth may be calling you for sightseeing advice.
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Click on the categories below for an itinerary:
The Outdoorsy/Active Types (“Let’s go on a hike”)
Could be:
– Living in a place where every person owns and regularly uses a mountain bike
– Has competed in a long and scary-looking obstacle course or 24-hour relay race
– Always looking for a new adventure
The Young Family (“Can we take the kids?”)
Could be:
– Juggling babies or young toddlers
– Looking for “family-friendly” Vegas
– Hoping for just one kid-free night (that’s where you come in)
Star Strucks (“Vegas Baby”)
Could be:
– Twenty or Thirty-Something’s
– You’ve heard them use the words “Foodie” or “Sin City”
– Wearing dark-rimmed glasses or possibly Greek letters from college
The Speed Tour (“We don’t have long”)
Could be:
– Just in for one day
– The “gawker”
– Need good photos and a good story for their friends back home
Vegas Cycle Pub – A Pedal Powered Pub Crawl
By Meghan Pescio
Ahh the pub crawl. Known by many names — beer crawl, gin walk, bar hopping or my personal favorite the Bohemian Death March, this European pastime leads groups of friends from pub to pub in search of a variety of ambience, drink specials, social experiences and, most importantly, a good time. Traditionally on foot (or hands and knees as the name implies) the pub crawl got its start in England where establishments were close enough together to walk. As life moved west and local parlors further apart, the custom became mobile (think party limos or buses) and with the age of sustainability it has morphed yet again. Enter Cycle Pub in Las Vegas’ newest hot spot Fremont East District, and you get a whole new…well…spin on things.
Not Your Average Five Speed
The newest trend in pub crawling? You guessed it – the bicycle. Originating in the heart of the burgeoning craft beer scene in Bend, Oregon, Cycle Pub (www.cyclepub.com) is the marriage of a highly unlikely pair: alcohol and exercise. Add that to the neon lights of downtown with Cycle Pub Vegas (www.cyclepubvegas.com) and things start to get a little crazy. Fun, that is.
This is not the bike you rode as a kid with gears, handle bars and the occasional basket for Toto. Think of it more as a bar patio on wheels, and you’ll get the picture. It is quite a spectacle with 14 seats (or saddles for the road biking enthusiast), six on each side opposite one another and a bench in the back for those staunch believers that cocktails and conditioning are better left separate. Groups from 6-14 people have two hour blocks to pedal their way from bar to bar in what is by far the most fun exercise routine I can think of. The adventure, starting at $192 for a base of six people and $32 for each additional rider, comes with a driver and second chaperone to get you and your friends, relatively unscathed, to three or four of the most popular local taverns off its Very Important Pub (www.cyclepubvegas.com/pubs) list.
Yes, that’s right, a driver. For the less cycling inclined, never fear. The Cycle Pub is not solely run on the energy of tipsy humans, but comes equipped with a power motor for inclines. Beware, however, as your playful tour guides can increase the workload based on your good (or bad) behavior.
A Different Perspective
Even more interesting than the apparatus is the downtown experience to be had in this uncharted territory between walking and driving.
Cycle Pub Vegas begins and ends at Mob Bar (201 North 3rd Street), in the Fremont East District. Harkening back to the days of Frank “Lefty” Rosenthal and Bugsy Siegel, it’s the perfect starting point to bridge the city’s colorful past with the new and exciting developments of the Downtown Project. A minimalist will be perfectly content sipping on the traditional Old Fashioned cocktail with brandy soaked maraschino cherries crushed at the bottom. While it’s hard to picture Tony “The Ant” Spilotro on a bicycle, the ambience of Mob Bar will get you in the mood for the adventure ahead.
Now for the fun part – pick your saddle (hint: near the wheels gets you out of peddling) and get ready to take off onto the streets of Downtown Vegas. Known as an excellent spot for people watching, you’ll be surprised by the amount of downtown partiers who are actually snapping shots of you and your group as you glide by. If you think ahead and load a playlist to your phone or other music device, the Cycle Pub is equipped with speakers. Pedal hard, admire the lights and nighttime personalities, and prepare to be the center of attention for the evening.
You can’t go wrong with any of the watering holes your Cycle Pub guide steers you toward. From back alley bars with DJs and teeter totters (you read right) to Atomic Bar, the self proclaimed “oldest freestanding bar in Las Vegas,” aptly named for its rooftop viewing parties of the atomic bomb testing in its early years. All are welcoming to your CyclePub crew, and your guides are more than happy to provide a history lesson should you be interested. Look into purchasing wrist bands from Cycle Pub to gain access to drink specials at each location.
If you make it to Gold Spike, be prepared for a throwback to your college years when frat parties reigned supreme. From a giant version of the beanbag toss game, Cornhole, to billiards, darts and cheap beer you’ll be hard pressed not to break out into a rendition of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing” in true college form. Speaking of college, if you get hungry during the night many of the pubs provide food as well. Your guides can even call your order ahead to save time for the rest of your crawl.
Fine Print
Like any business, Cycle Pub is subject to city statutes, so heed cautions from your guides on the rules. No alcohol is allowed on the Cycle Pub, but you’ll surely be too busy gawking at the views and “Downtowners” (try Cycle Pub on a First Friday!) to notice.
At an average speed of 5 miles per hour, this moving party is far from dangerous, but be sure to check out the Cycle Pub Waiver and Damage/Late Return Policy on Cycle Pub’s website to know the risks before you ride.
If you’re looking for a unique group party, Cycle Pub offers a fun and safe way to experience the new Fremont East District with a little flare. Visit www.cyclepubvegas.com or call (702) 706-5084 for more information on booking an evening. Have a safe ride, and try to keep from literally crawling!
Foodie’s Paradise – Preparing an Epic Dinner of Epicness
By Mike Sweeney
When the mood strikes us, my girlfriend and I love to pair up with another food loving couple who are good friends of ours and spend an entire day shopping, prepping, cooking and of course eating a delicious and decadent multi-course meal. We have dubbed these experiences “Epic Dinners of Epicness” or “EDoE” as there’s really no other way to describe such a bountiful feast.
Choosing Your Menu
Planning is half the fun of an EDoE, and we always have a great time getting together to work out a menu. Still, the question remains: how do you select the evening’s bill of fare? For us, it’s always part familiar and part adventurous. We like to explore different takes on foods that we know and love. What’s a new way to do prime rib? How can we gourmet up plain old dishes such as tacos or pot roast? What kind of new sauces or accompaniments can we add to an old entrée? We also like to use the opportunity to discover new things and take some risks. It’s as good a time as any to experiment with escargot, pâté or other things that may not be on the regular rotation for Tuesday night dinner – and trying new stuff is always more fun with friends!
To Market, To Market
There are no set rules for an EDoE. The menu can consist of whatever strikes your fancy. What you want to shoot for are multiple courses with fresh ingredients. Our EDoE starts with a visit to the farmers market, something that’s not in short supply in Las Vegas. Since there are many markets available on different days, you may need to do some shopping a few days beforehand.
Downtown Henderson offers the Country Fresh Farmers Market every Thursday in the bustling Water Street District (200 S. Water St.) where you can find a perfect selection of seasonal fruits and veggies. Fresh52 Farmers & Artisans Market is another open air market with a great sense of community and is often frequented by chefs from Le Cordon Bleu and the Culinary Arts School with demonstrations from other master chefs. You’ll find them at Town Square on Fridays, Tivoli Village on Saturdays, and at the Silverado Park Place shopping center on Eastern and Richmar on Sundays. Downtown 3rd Farmers Market takes things indoors every Friday in downtown Las Vegas, showcasing a hip vibe and plentiful offerings along with art shows. Quail Hollow Farms, one of the best local examples of Community Supported Agriculture (CSA), frequents both this market and the Bet on the Farm! Farmers Market created by chefs Mario Batali and Joe Bastianich, held on Thursdays at Springs Preserve (333 S. Valley View Blvd.). Visit www.fresh52.com for links and info about all of these markets.
Here’s our secret for gathering fresh fruit and veggies: do it yourself! Take a trip to Gilcrease Orchard (7800 North Tenaya; www.thegilcreaseorchard.org), where you can wander sixty acres of agricultural land and pick your own fresh and tasty goods in the great outdoors. The apples we found here turned our apple tart tatin into one of the most amazing desserts we’ve ever had. Other great row crops we’ve found include bok choy (excellent with our roast venison EDoE), kale (if you haven’t had kale chips, you haven’t lived), and pumpkins, which we carved out and used as a tureen in which we cooked a fabulous “pumpkin pie soup” courtesy of Alton Brown.
For some veggies and side dishes, you’ll have to visit a grocery store, but take our advice: visit Whole Foods rather than your typical Albertson’s or Smith’s. Yes, you’re going to spend a bit more, but you’re also going to get the freshest and tastiest ingredients. This is important for us, as our approach to EDoE involves making just about everything within reason from scratch.
The Main Course
While we love our fresh vegetables (grilled or sautéed only, by the way; steaming is a sin), the centerpiece of any EDoE calls for something grand. This has run the gamut from Beef Prince Orloff with soubise and duxelles stuffings to rabbit sausage and mushroom crepes to several entrées that served as part of our indulgent Feast of the Seven Fishes variation on EDoE last Christmas Eve. For your main dish, put the grocery store behind you and head for the butcher!
Branded Meats & Deli (1550 Horizon Ridge Pkwy.; www.brandedmeats.com) has some of the best beef in town, offering Prime and Upper Angus Choice Beef. We also found some delicious duck that we used for our duck tacos with corn salsa. Remember, you want to go beyond mere steaks or pot roast for EDoE. Things don’t need to get too exotic, but it’s a special occasion. On the west side, The Butcher Block (7625 S. Rainbow Blvd.; www.thebutcherblocklv.com) is another great location with a full range of meats. We picked up an amazing standing rib roast here for one of our plentiful home feasts, made even more amazing by aging it with a nice salt crust for almost a week. Family owned and operated, the Butcher Block has everything from Japanese Kobe and Wagyu beef to unique selections such as quail, partridge and pheasant.
For fresh seafood, there’s probably no better place than the 99 Ranch Market in Chinatown (4155 Spring Mountain Rd.; www.99ranch.com). We’ve picked up fantastic blue crab here for a crab boil EDoE edition (perfect with some andouille sausage from Whole Foods), along with the salted cod (head still intact and everything) that we prepared for Feast of the Seven Fishes. For a more adventurous EDoE, you can find exotic fare such as yellow eel, squid or sea urchin. Things can get crowded, especially on weekends, but the quality of seafood you get in return is worth it.
Pour the Wine
One thing you’ll quickly learn about our EDoE group: we’re just as big wine enthusiasts as we are foodies. When we can’t bring back some great pinots from our biennial trip to Paso Robles, there’s pretty much one place in town we hit up for vino, and that’s Valley Cheese and Wine (1570 W. Horizon Ridge Pkwy.; www.valleycheeseandwine.com). Even if you’re on the opposite side of town, you’ll find their eclectic wares well worth the drive. This is like our home away from home, and husband-and-wife owners Bob Howald and Kristin Sande help make it feel that way; it’s not even Valley Cheese and Wine to us anymore, but rather just “Bob’s.”
Bob and Kristin are all about what’s good, not what’s popular, and that’s the true spirit of EDoE. Local chefs seem to agree as culinary artisans from Bellagio, Mandalay Bay, Settebello and more make up some of their loyal customers. Tell them what you’re making and they’ll find the perfect wine pairing for you, from light chardonnay to full bodied cab. When we want something light to munch on while we’re cooking, we’ll always browse the cheese and charcuterie case as well, where you can find the best artisanal meats and fromage to suit any palate. You can even up your wine IQ by signing up for one of their incredibly fun and informative wine classes.
Dinner doesn’t need to be a grand affair, and most of us are too busy to spend a lot of time and money on an extravagant meal. But when you plan ahead and know where to go for the best ingredients, you can hold your own Epic Dinner of Epicness for a foodie’s night to remember.
The Sounds of Summer – Music in the Great Outdoors
By Mike Sweeney
Nothing helps to create those long lasting memories of summer quite like the tunes that always go with it. Joe Walsh’s smooth chords might bring back thoughts of listening to The Eagles on a vacation road trip. Jimmy Buffet’s southern pirate music may help you recall a season spent sailing on the lake. No matter how we spend our summer, music is always a big part of it, and thanks to some great summer concerts at a wide range of fabulous local outdoor venues, you can create new memories to carry with you as you soak in the tunes that bring out the summer fun.
Life’s a Beach
The nearest shoreline may be a four hour drive away, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find a small dose of sand and surf here in the desert. The Beach at Mandalay Bay is an aquatic playground in true Las Vegas style. Situated on eleven lush acres, this slice of paradise features 2,700 tons of real sand, a 1.6 million gallon wave pool and 100 rentable cabanas, bungalows, daybeds and personalized villas. Music lovers can crash on blankets in the sand or catch some waves in the artificial surf while enjoying the stellar lineup of music all stars set to take the stage.
Nostalgia is the name of the game at this summer concert series with two exclusive tours featuring hit makers of decades past. The Under the Sun Tour (7.6) features 90s superstars Sugar Ray, Smashmouth and Gin Blossoms, while the Lost 80s Live concert (8.10) rocks out with Wang Chung, A Flock of Seagulls, Bow Wow Wow and more. Four great bands will play four of their greatest records back to back at The LP Tour (7.19) featuring Big Head Todd and the Monsters, Soul Asylum, Wailers and Matthew Sweet. Other standout acts include Counting Crows with Wallflowers (7.20) and Sublime with Rome (8.17), while Ziggy Marley (9.1) closes out the summer season. Visit www.mandalaybay.com for a full schedule, tickets and more info.
Are You Experienced?
If any outdoor venue is distinctly Vegas, it’s the Fremont Street Experience. Where else can you enjoy nightly concerts on multiple stages beneath a canopy of blazing neon lights? The endless parade of costumed characters and awestruck tourists is a feast for the eyes, but it’s the rock and roll sounds that will keep you dancing and partying all summer. Rock music is a big tradition in this part of town; U2 even filmed their “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” music video here. From tribute bands to Elvis impersonators to local favorites and more, downtown has it all for rock aficionados. As summer kicks into gear, the rock and roll tradition continues with the return of the annual Rock of Vegas summer concert series at the Fremont Street Experience.
Rock of Vegas features some of the biggest names in rock music coming together to make the season a memorable months-long party filled with killer tunes. The series kicked off in May and continues throughout the summer with an all star lineup that includes Hinder (6.8), Three Days Grace (7.4), Sister Hazel & Tonic (7.20), Eve 6 (7.27), The Presidents of the United States of America (8.3), Third Eye Blind (8.17) and Puddle of Mudd (8.31). One of the highlights is sure to be the Summerland Tour 2013: Alternative Guitars (6.29) which unites Everclear, Live, Filter and Sponge for one amazing show that will give 90s rock fans something to shout about. All concerts are free of charge and start at 9:00 p.m. Visit www.vegasexperience.com for more info.
Jazz It Up
For those looking for a break from the hard hitting rock and roll of other venues, Lake Las Vegas provides the perfect alternative. The Aston MonteLago Village Resort offers a scenic promenade filled with fun shops and great restaurants with the architectural flair of an old timey township just off the Mediterranean. Lake Las Vegas has had a long standing tradition of providing great music to go along with its stunning views and upscale atmosphere. When things cool down in the evening, you won’t find a more relaxing spot to watch the stars and enjoy some soulful sounds.
Every Saturday night throughout the summer (and continuing into fall), Lake Las Vegas offers their Jazz on the Lake concert series featuring weekly performances by noted jazz musicians, many of whom will appear several times over the course of the season. Featured artists brining their distinctive sounds to the lakeside include Tommy Thompson, Everett B. Walters, Rick Arroyo, Lady “J” Huston & The Fireballs, Rocky Gordon and Anthony James Baker. For those who want to keep rocking, you can still enjoy the Father’s Day Classic Rock in the Park (6.16) featuring Three Blind Mice. Visit www.montelagovillage.com for a full schedule and more info.
Holiday Harmony
One of the most memorable parts of any summer is the Fourth of July holiday. It’s a great time to celebrate with friends and family, watch the fireworks and bask in the lazy days at the height of the season. And of course, music makes any celebration better, so why not “tune” in at a couple of special events that will offer plenty of fantastic music to go along with all the festivities.
The Las Vegas Philharmonic will play host to an afternoon of food, fun and fireworks on the grounds of Symphony Park at The Smith Center with hot dogs, hamburgers, ice cream and other summer favorites. But music is what we’re here for, and you can enjoy plenty of live entertainment on the outdoor stage, from twangy bluegrass to elegant jazz. If you feel so inclined, you can even grab a ticket to see the Philharmonic playing inside at Reynolds Hall, then head back outdoors for the fireworks. Visit www.thesmithcenter.com for tickets and more info.
Mission Hills Park will host the festivities in Henderson, where The Randy Anderson Band will bring their country, oldies and classic rock sounds to one stage, while a Battle of the Bands competition heats up stage number two. For a classier touch, the Henderson Symphony Orchestra will be on hand to add a vibrant classical score – including Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” – to the dazzling fireworks show. Visit www.hendersonlive.com for more info.
From rock and roll to jazz to classical and more, this summer offers a wide array of music at a host of outdoor venues for a rocking good time. The mercury may be climbing, but that’s no reason to miss out on all the fun. Whether you want to relax under the stars or dance the night away under more artificial illumination, the sounds of summer have something for everyone.
Raise Your Glass – The Downtown Cocktail Experience
By Mike Sweeney
With the kitschy pop of laser light shows, kiosks selling tacky Sin City souvenirs and a zip line that hurtles whooping tourists down the Fremont Street Experience, downtown Las Vegas seems to cater to a hip crowd looking for a “Vegas, baby!” good time. That’s all well and good for out-of-towners, but what about we locals who are seeking a different sort of downtown nightlife? Well, we’re in luck because the Fremont East district offers a host of bars and cocktail rooms that are big on style and run the gamut from low key to lively for a super fun night on the town.
The Perfect Aperitif
Before we begin our cocktail journey, let’s grab a bite to eat… but let’s chow down somewhere we can also find an exquisite beverage to kick things off. The Barrymore (99 Convention Center Dr.) may not be downtown, but it’s close by in the Convention Center district, still convenient enough for a pre-Fremont visit – and if you’re going to pre-game, you may as well do it with style. You can practically picture Ol’ Blue Eyes himself kicking back with a Manhattan in one of the comfy leather chairs or Angie Dickinson primping in front of the elegant mirrors.
The menu of classic American fare is constantly changing and evolving, but you can always find great steaks, chops and seafood to fit any particular taste. Still, let’s face it: this outing is all about the cocktail, so sip a martini (the Blue Corpse Reviver #2 has a nice citrus flair with a dose of absinthe), enjoy a Barrymore on the rocks with Gentleman Jack, or if Scotch is your thing, there’s a smooth Macallan 18 year that’s calling your name. With only fifty seats available, you’ll want to make reservations, so call 407-5303 or visit www.barrymorelv.com for more info.
Go East, Young Man
With our bellies full of food (and a smooth beverage or two to go with it), it’s time to head downtown and start up our cocktail room walking tour. We’re heading for Fremont East, so the big red garage at 4th and Carson is a good place to park: easy to get in and out of, close to the action, and there’s a convenient pay kiosk (cash or credit) that you can hit up as you leave.
Once you hit Fremont, head east across Las Vegas Boulevard, and you’ll see the Downtown Cocktail Room (111 S. Las Vegas Blvd.) just south of Fremont. The bohemian vibe here is super mellow this early in the night, making it a great place to unwind after work or bring a date for a quiet, romantic evening, and the drinks are just as sexy as the atmosphere, many infused with seasonal ingredients. The Apple Pie tastes exactly like it sounds; the Clever Genever has a dash of egg white for a unique spin; the S’mores Better and Root Beer Float add a touch of sweetness to their respective tequila and spiced rum. This is one place that celebrates the cocktail with style and sophistication. Call 880-3696 or visit www.thedowntownlv.com for more info.
Now that you’ve enjoyed a quiet diversion, let’s liven things up a bit. Head across Fremont to the Vanguard Lounge (516 Fremont St.), a post-modern joint that comes alive with high energy electronic music and the only street-side patio in the Fremont East District – a perfect place for people watching. Classic cocktails take on a modern twist here with selections like The Elderfashioned, a new spin on the classic Old Fashioned with Bulleit Bourbon, St. Germain liqueur and Angostura bitters. The Wob Woy twists up its sound-alike cousin with single malt whiskey, sweet vermouth and plum bitters. One of the specialties here are the “Neighborhood Negronis,” a 1920s Italian spin on the Americano cocktail served with various choices of gin, sweet vermouth and bitters. Call 868-7800 or visit www.vanguardlv.com for more info.
Not So Common
Keep the energetic vibe going as you cross back over Fremont at 6th Street and visit Commonwealth (525 E. Fremont St.), a bustling nouveau pub right out of the 19th century with dark wood, candlelight and exposed brick; old school Boston meets new world Vegas. Cocktails hail from both the modern and Prohibition era, served in everything from punch bowls to glasses made from recycled wine or liquor bottles. The Horny Tailgater is a standout, made with barbecue flavored bitters and garnished with beef jerky, served in a mesquite salt rimmed glass.
Head up to the rooftop bar for scenic views of downtown and an entirely different cocktail menu. While up here, sample a bright and tasty Exotic Feelings, made with vanilla vodka, coconut Nigori sake, fresh mint, lime and ginger beer. Speaking of beer, there are plenty of great craft brews on tap such as the Delirium Tremens from Belgium or the Stone IPA from San Diego, all served out of unique taps with handles made of everything from hammers to tennis rackets. Call 445-6400 or visit www.commonwealthlv.com for info. But hold on, we’re not done here yet…
Behind the Curtain
Want to know the best part about Commonwealth? Well, that’s kind of hush-hush… But we’re going to let you in on the secret. Located behind a hidden door inside the pub, The Laundry Room (the former site of the El Cortez’s actual laundry service) is the closest thing Las Vegas has to a traditional speakeasy. As such, there are a few rules to follow. Reservations are required, but they are only taken via text message. While you’re wrapping up your pre-cocktail dinner, shoot them a message to secure a spot. Once you arrive, your host will lead you into a separate hall to explain the rules of the house, among them “don’t be creepy” and “no name dropping.”
Only then will you enter the exclusive Prohibition-era domain with its tufted couches and old-timey music. Drinks are categorized by type of alcohol and you can sip everything from classics such as an Old Fashioned or French 75 to handcrafted, trendier beverages. The Bee’s Knee is a delight for gin lovers, accented with lemon and honey, while whiskey fans will dig the sweet Ward 8 with rye whiskey, lemon, orange and grenadine. Drinks run $15 a pop, but they’re strong enough to justify the price. What you’re really paying for is the experience of feeling like you’re part of a very exclusive club. Visit them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thelaundryroomlv.
As we wrap up our night and head back to the garage (or to the taxi stand, if we’re still feeling a bit tipsy), we can take comfort in the fact that we’ve enjoyed a nice dinner, good conversation, some lively atmosphere and a touch of special treatment. While downtown Las Vegas may be constantly reinventing itself, we can only hope that this vibrant cocktail scene is here to stay.
A Bite of Old Las Vegas – How to Eat Like a Native
By Mike Sweeney
With the rapid rise of trendy restaurants from all star celebrity chefs, the Las Vegas Strip has become a nerve center for new culinary creations. Foodies from around the globe may flock to upscale eateries, but true natives know that some of the best food in Vegas lies hidden among the neon, where tantalizing menus filled with classic fare will transport you back to another era.
The Old Guard
During the 1950s, Las Vegas experienced a building boom that gave birth to many legendary landmarks, including Bob Taylor’s Ranch House (6250 Rio Vista St). A veteran of World War II, Bob Taylor built the Ranch House in 1955, where he cut and cooked the meat himself over a mesquite coal fire, drawing guests from all over the city. Elvis and Ann-Margret even filmed a scene from Viva Las Vegas here. Cowboy movie posters and memorabilia encircle the dining room, while the aroma of seared meat fills the air as you can still watch thick cuts of beef being grilled right before your eyes. City slickers can opt for a chicken or seafood entrée, but steak is what they’re known for: ribeye, sirloin, prime rib and more, including the monster 32 ounce “Diamond Jim Brady” New York cut. The Wild West may be long gone, but the classic cowboy grub is still here. Call 645-1399 or visit www.bobtaylorsranchhouse.com for more information.
Glitz meets kitsch at The Peppermill (2985 Las Vegas Blvd.), a Las Vegas institution featured in TV shows and films such as Casino and Showgirls. Built in 1972, the restaurant and lounge has endured amid the closing of many neighboring establishments, including the legendary Silver City casino, and its upscale diner vibe has long been a favorite of locals and tourists. Celebrities such as Robert DeNiro, Debbie Reynolds and Holly Madison have all been guests; Penn Gillette of Penn & Teller even replicated one of the restaurant’s booths in his kitchen. Mirrored ceilings, fake cherry blossoms and neon lighting dominate the chic décor, while the menu features over 100 delectable food choices and signature desserts, from burgers and sandwiches to full entrees. You don’t need to go digging around in your closet for that old leisure suit to have a groovy time here, baby. Call 735-4177 or visit www.peppermilllasvegas.com for more information.
Downtown Destinations
No trip down memory lane is complete without a visit downtown, where you’ll find some of the best Mexican food in the city at Doña María’s (910 S. Las Vegas Blvd.). The casual and brightly colored cantina setting reflects the down home atmosphere of this family owned restaurant that has employed three generations of the Martinez family. From its humble beginnings as a quick bite taco shop in 1969, the business expanded into a full restaurant in 1990 that has long been known for its selection of hand crafted tamales, from spicy to cheesy to sweet dessert variations on this southwest classic. And don’t you dare run out that door before trying the juicy, tender beef fajitas. There’s no pretension here, no desire to be hip or trendy. Just good, timeless Mexican food done right. That’s the spirit that Doña María’s has been bringing to Las Vegas for decades. Call 382-6538 or visit www.donamariatamales.com for more information.
A favorite lunch spot for downtown employees is Chicago Joe’s (820 S. 4th St.), where the flavors of old world Italy come to life in a distinctly Vegas setting. While this quaint little brick house looks like anybody’s uncle could live there, it was converted into a restaurant over thirty years ago. Take a step inside and you’ll discover a cozy dining space with all the flair of the old country. As with Doña María’s, the menu doesn’t put on airs; it’s just old fashioned Italian food that makes you want to mangia to your heart’s content on lasagna, mussels or just plain pasta with garlic and oil thanks to recipes owner Joe Collura inherited from his grandmother. While the frills are minimal, the flavors are big, and the intimate setting is perfect for conversation. Bask in the warm candle glow and enjoy a feast of Italian flavors that only old Vegas can bring. Call 382-5637 or visit www.chicagojoesrestaurant.com for more information.
Gone But Not Forgotten
Once a fixture of the downtown scene for decades, the original Andre’s closed several years ago, but you can still enjoy the same great food that made chef Andre Rochet famous at their Monte Carlo location (3770 S. Las Vegas Blvd.). Ask anyone who’s been around Vegas for long and they’ll vouch for Andre’s, where you can find a touch of class combined with the spirit of traditional French cuisine such as pan seared foie gras and roasted venison. Rochet was one of the city’s original celebrity chefs, long before there was anything called the Food Network, and he’s still serving up ample appetizers, magnificent main courses and decadent desserts, along with a wine list full of over 15,000 legendary vintages. It’s a great taste of France and old fashioned Vegas all in one. Call 798-7151 or visit www.andrelv.com for more information.
Las Vegas continues to stand at the forefront of culinary innovation, but if you yearn for the days of good old fashioned food and the spirit of local institutions that have been feeding the residents of our fair city for generations, you won’t be disappointed in what’s still hanging around. Let your nose and stomach be your guide, and you’ll find yourself eating like a native in no time!
Neon Lights, Festive Nights – Christmas in the Desert
By Mike Sweeney
When most people think of this time of year, Las Vegas probably isn’t the first place that comes to mind. Our miles of outlying desert and neon canyons of mega resorts don’t exactly define the holiday spirit. But if you look beneath the surface during this festive time of year, our community comes alive with new energy and a seasonal excitement that rivals the North Pole.
Holiday Escapes
Part of the fun of spending the holidays in Las Vegas is discovering the local traditions that can transport you out of the desert and into another world. None of these extravaganzas are more spectacular than Winter in Venice, held at the Venetian and Palazzo now through January 6th. This magical showcase carries you far from the arid sandscape of Southern Nevada and into a new world steeped in rich folklore and old world Italian splendor. Holiday displays and 3-D light shows share space with roving entertainers such as stilt walkers, jugglers, magicians, puppeteers and more. Enjoy a whimsical nightly parade filled with colorful characters hailing from traditional Italian tales and stories, then skate to your heart’s content at the outdoor ice rink located above the Venetian’s Grand Canal, offering spectacular views of the resort’s hallmark gondolas. Visit www.venetian.com or www.palazzo.com for more information.
For a journey sure to transport you into the land of holiday enchantment, board the Santa Train at the Nevada State Railroad Museum in Boulder City. During the second, third and fourth weekends in December, you can join a festive railway for a 45-minute ride that includes a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. It’s like Southern Nevada’s own personal Polar Express. While you wait to board, have the little ones send off their letters to St. Nick at Santa’s Mailbox, then take a ride on the NSRM 503 train to visit the “bone yard” of unrestored equipment or witness demonstration runs from the 1875 Eureka steam locomotive. Whether you’re a railroad enthusiast or just looking for a fun holiday ride, this should get your season started on the right track. Visit www.nevadasouthern.com for tickets and information.
Fantastic Festivities
Once you’ve journeyed back from faraway lands, take a moment to embrace the local scene at the annual holiday gala known as WinterFest. Held in downtown Henderson from December 13th – 15th, this magnificent display of cheer will transport you to a winter wonderland with a stunning display of festive magic. The fun kicks off with the Henderson Symphony Orchestra performing their annual “Sounds of the Season” concert to set the “tone” for the festival, followed the next day by the arrival of Santa for a Tree Lighting Ceremony that illuminates the desert night. Santa will visit with the kiddies in his Christmas cottage, taking orders for holiday gifts. Wrap things up with some last minute gift shopping on December 15th as craft vendors fill the Henderson Convention Center with their seasonal wares. It all adds up to a down home winter gathering filled with love, laughter and lights. Call 267-2171 or visit www.hendersonlive.com for more information.
A similar festive twinkle can be found in many other locations off the Strip, including the amazing Holiday Spectacular at the Springs Preserve, held this year on December 8th – 9th and 15th – 23rd. The desert comes alive with the glow of thousands of beautiful LED lights, all eco-friendly, as one would expect from the Preserve. From tasty treats to holiday arts and crafts to photos with Santa, this family event has enough spirit to light up your season brighter than the biggest casinos. Take a detour into the Springs Café for delicious dishes, desserts and seasonal beverages, then head outside to enjoy the live entertainment by high school madrigal singers and other local artists. You can even get a jump on the festival with the snowman building contest and create your own Frosty to be displayed along the garden Snowman Stroll. As the lights turn on, you and your family are sure to feel the glow in your hearts as these glittering festivities brighten up your desert night with the sights and sounds of a Vegas holiday happening. Call 822-7700 or visit www.springspreserve.org for tickets and information.
Visions of Sugar Plums
With the recent opening of The Smith Center for the Performing Arts, a touch of class and sophistication has been added to the Las Vegas cultural landscape. The stage comes to life this holiday season as the new home for the Nevada Ballet Theatre’s performance of The Nutcracker, with seven shows running from December 15th – 23rd. Set to Tchaikovsky’s elegant classical music score, this Las Vegas tradition immerses audiences in an extraordinary fantasy world filled with magic, romance, pageantry and an entire Land of Sweets ruled by the Sugar Plum Fairy. Artistic director and choreographer James Canfield joins with the creative forces of scenery and prop designer Patricia Ruel and costume designer Sandra Woodall for this imaginative showcase of a timeless favorite. It’s a refined holiday gem well worth unearthing from the desert sands this December. Call 982-7805 or visit www.thesmithcenter.com for tickets and information.
No matter where you hail from, the holidays are always a cause for joyous celebration. But don’t feel like you need to pack your bags and rush out of town because you’re thinking there’s no seasonal magic to be found in our desert home. From ballet to festivals to train rides with Santa, Las Vegas has all the holiday charm you need to make the upcoming season a memorable one.
Neon Lights, Festive Nights – Christmas in the Desert
By Mike Sweeney
When most people think of Christmas, Las Vegas probably isn’t the first place that comes to mind. Our miles of outlying desert and neon canyons of mega resorts don’t exactly define the holiday spirit. But if you look beneath the surface during this festive time of year, our community comes alive with new energy and a seasonal excitement that rivals the North Pole.
Holiday Escapes
Part of the fun of spending Christmas in Las Vegas is discovering the local traditions that can transport you out of the desert and into another world. None of these holiday extravaganzas are more spectacular than Winter in Venice, held at the Venetian and Palazzo from November 18th through January 6th. This magical showcase carries you far from the arid sandscape of Southern Nevada and into a new world steeped in rich folklore and old world Italian splendor. Holiday displays and 3-D light shows share space with roving entertainers such as stilt walkers, jugglers, magicians, puppeteers and more. Enjoy a whimsical nightly parade filled with colorful characters hailing from traditional Italian tales and stories, then skate to your heart’s content at the outdoor ice rink located above the Venetian’s Grand Canal, offering spectacular views of the resort’s hallmark gondolas. Visit www.venetian.com or www.palazzo.com for more information.
For a journey sure to transport you into the land of holiday enchantment, board the Santa Train at the Nevada State Railroad Museum in Boulder City. During the second, third and fourth weekends in December, you can join a festive railway for a 45-minute ride that includes a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. It’s like Southern Nevada’s own personal Polar Express. While you wait to board, have the little ones send off their letters to St. Nick at Santa’s Mailbox, then take a ride on the NSRM 503 train to visit the “bone yard” of unrestored equipment or witness demonstration runs from the 1875 Eureka steam locomotive. Whether you’re a railroad enthusiast or just looking for a fun holiday ride, this should get your Christmas season started on the right track. Visit www.nevadasouthern.com for tickets and information.
The Light Fantastic
The blazing lights of Las Vegas Boulevard can be seen for miles, but when the holidays roll around, the neon glow of the Strip isn’t the only vivid display you’ll find in town. The Lakes Festival of Lights, held December 8th at The Lakes near West Sahara, brings a colorful spectacle of decorated boats to wow young and old alike. An impressive flotilla draws cheers from the crowd as the festive, sparkling vessels drift across Lake Sahara, casting their hypnotic glow on the still waters. In addition to the boat parade, the event also features a wide range of live family entertainment, arts and crafts, a car show, a petting zoo and visits with Santa. Best of all, this is a hometown local event through and through, completely planned, organized and operated by unpaid community volunteers. Visit festival.lakesassociation.com for more information.
That same festive twinkle can be found in many other locations off the Strip, including the amazing Holiday Spectacular at the Springs Preserve, held this year on December 8th – 9th and 15th – 23rd. The desert comes alive with the glow of thousands of beautiful LED lights, all eco-friendly, as one would expect from the Preserve. From tasty treats to holiday arts and crafts to photos with Santa, this family event has enough Christmas spirit to light up your season brighter than the biggest casinos. Take a detour into the Springs Café for delicious dishes, desserts and seasonal beverages, then head outside to enjoy the live entertainment by high school madrigal singers and other local artists. You can even get a jump on the festival with the snowman building contest and create your own Frosty to be displayed along the garden Snowman Stroll. As the lights turn on, you and your family are sure to feel the glow in your hearts as these glittering festivities brighten up your desert night with the sights and sounds of a Vegas holiday happening. Call 822-7700 or visit www.springspreserve.org for tickets and information.
Visions of Sugar Plums
With the recent opening of The Smith Center for the Performing Arts, a touch of class and sophistication has been added to the Las Vegas cultural landscape. The stage comes to life this holiday season as the new home for the Nevada Ballet Theatre’s performance of The Nutcracker, with seven shows running from December 15th – 23rd. Set to Tchaikovsky’s elegant classical music score, this Las Vegas tradition immerses audiences in an extraordinary fantasy world filled with magic, romance, pageantry and an entire Land of Sweets ruled by the Sugar Plum Fairy. Artistic director and choreographer James Canfield joins with the creative forces of scenery and prop designer Patricia Ruel and costume designer Sandra Woodall for this imaginative showcase of a timeless favorite. It’s a refined holiday gem well worth unearthing from the desert sands this December. Call 982-7805 or visit www.thesmithcenter.com for tickets and information.
No matter where you hail from, the holidays are always a cause for joyous celebration. But don’t feel like you need to pack your bags and rush out of town because you’re thinking there’s no seasonal magic to be found in our desert home. From ballet to festivals to train rides with Santa, Las Vegas has all the holiday charm you need to make your Christmas season a memorable one.
