All About Las Vegas

Where to go in Vegas?  What to do in Vegas?  Where to stay?  Do we want to eat at the Delmonico Steakhouse at the Venetian? Stay at the Bellagio and eat at Olives? What about Sushi Roku at Caesars Palace? Do we visit Jet Nightclub, Ghostbar, or Body English?  Decisions, decision, but what delightful decisions! Vegas is all about luxury travel, luxury hotels and the trendiest restaurants.

Vegas, baby. Vegas! They weren't lying: what happens in Vegas... stays in Vegas!

How many times have you heard those catch phrases? Well, we agree - they are both very overstated. But, they really do sum up your Vegas experience. Bottom line: Las Vegas is about checking your husbands, wives, girlfriends, boyfriends, etc. at the door and cutting yourself loose from any morals, worries, conscience. This is the place where everyone seems to think that "anything goes" - and it usually does! People actually do enjoy pretending they are somebody else. Even the most conservative woman in your office will let her hair down and give in to that one night stand -- she is in Vegas, after all!

With all those poker faces and bluffs at the casino scene, everyone thinks they are somebody else long after they leave the tables.

Vegas is a place to act like that friend that always tells the best stories. It's a place to stay up way past your bedtime, gamble away your entire paycheck, act a bit crazy, or do the things you are always too scared to do in the "real world." It's a place where you're supposed to get into trouble and mix things up. It's a town of bling-bling and dreams - cause you never know when your luck is going to catch fire.

Somehow, despite all this crazy single silliness, Vegas is still a big enough town to offer plenty of options for the alterna-yuppie couples too. They can get all cleaned up and enjoy an exquisite meal or glitzy show. They can run the tables with the best of 'em and waste the afternoon away at the pool or spa. Things getting boring in the bedroom? Try one-part champagne, one-part swanky hotel room, one-part Vegas, and you'll be at it like jackrabbits again. Just don't get too liquored up, cause you might just wake up the next morning and learn you were married by Elvis in that tiny white chapel, complete with plastic flowers. Classy, ey? Bet the parents will love hearing that one!

Yes, Vegas has a lot of adrenaline and you'll feel the rush in everything you do here. In a town where people have $10,000 riding on one card, even the mundane everyday tasks like eating and drinking take on more excitement. And if eating and drinking is your thing, you've come to the right place. Top restaurants and chefs from around the world have dropped into town and opened up for business. Now, you too can enjoy the highest quality of cuisine on The Strip. Here then, are our journeyPod Picks for dining, wining and dancing Las Vegas style:


Restaurants

B & B (Venetian) - While the Venetian in Las Vegas may feel like you've traveled outside the Nevada dessert to Italy, B&B emphasizes a similar feeling by sending your taste buds on a journey to the rolling hills of Tuscany. Mario Batali has, (once again) perfected the recipe for the ultimate restaurant experience! From the expert sommelier to the colorful and delicious plates, B&B is an experience you won't soon forget. Go for a few small plates like the Beef Cheek Ravioli with Black Truffles, Crushed Duck Liver and the Stinging Nettle Pappardelle with Wild Boar Ragu -- absolutely delectable! But, be careful not to dine with someone who doesn't enjoy sharing food - because you'll want to dig your fork into everything on the table. B&B may easily become your new favorite spot - so you might as well introduce yourself to the staff while you're there! Want to cook like this from home? Make sure you ask the staff for a copy of "Molto Italiano" before you leave!

Check out our podcast with culinary ninja and Iron Chef Mario Batali as he chats with Steven Striker about his cuisine.

Bradley Ogden (Caesars Palace) - Famous California chef Bradley Ogden recently opened this sleek and modern Caesars Palace restaurant, his first outside of the Bay Area. In addition to a 60-seat lounge, the eatery boasts a patio dining area that faces Caesars Coliseum and a faux patio with torch-like fixtures and waterfall. The emphasis is on farm-fresh, regional and creative American fare - try the "opah" and the "halibut", and you'll realize why this restaurant is such a prize. Everything here seems to be perfect, and judging by the looks on the folks around the place, everything really is! Hint: try to get a seat in the rear dining room near the fireplace - it's the most romantic spot here. 

Tao (Venetian) - Want to feel like you're out on the town even while you're only at dinner?  A stop into Tao might be your own "call of the day."  A visually stunning 43,000 square foot restaurant, ultra-lounge and nightclub (on the 3rd floor), Tao has been a magnet for "A" list e stars. J Lo threw a party for her man, Marc Anthony, the night we popped in. Modeled after the sexy and successful NYC restaurant of the same name, Tao is located under the watchful eye of the lucky signature 20-foot Buddha. The menu boasts Hong Kong, Chinese, Japanese and Thai fare with full entrees and small plates. Make reservations at least a week in advance or even Buddha himself won't be able to get you a table.

Delmonico Steakhouse (Venetian) - Chef Emeril Lagasse has done it again - this time on the Las Vegas strip! Located in The Venetian, his newest Creole-influenced Old Tuscan monastery-style establishment take its name from the legendary, century-old New Orleans institution. Remember the time when lunch was a full-fledged event and cocktail hour was never to be missed? Delmonico Steakhouse remembers! Though beef is the main draw here, you won't be disappointed with all the other choices on this menu. And make sure you save room for the fresh blueberry bread pudding with lemon ice cream and caramel sauce. Psst... if you want the "ultimate" dining experience, try and reserve the chef's kitchen table and enjoy a six-course tasting menu.

Il Mulino (Caesars Palace) - This place is old school Italian that your grandma would be proud of.  Don't get too full on the free apps they bring out...yes they are tasty but you'll spoil your dinner and who takes home food while they're in Vegas?  We loved the fettucini alfredo and gnocci (pronounced en-yaw-kees). 

Daniel Boulud Brasserie (Wynn Las Vegas) - Who would want to pay $40 for a burger & fries? We would and we did and we loved it. Of course the beef was the finest in town and this was no ordinary burger. Boulud's other signature dishes like the beefsteak tomato, tarte pissaladi, crispy pork belly and the fricassee of Dover sole are...how should we say, "kick ass." If you're looking for upscale French cuisine that's served in a sumptuous-country themed setting - this brasserie is the perfect choice (overlooking the Wynn lagoon).

Andre's (Monte Carlo) - Repeatedly voted among the best restaurants in the city, Andre's is essentially located in a 1930's era Las Vegas home that's been converted into a charming and comfortable French Countryside chateau. Serving decadent French cuisine - everyone who leaves here is wowed. There are three private dining rooms and even a Louis XVI room, where diners can enjoy cognac and cigars. Tables are topped with Versace china, candlelight and fresh flowers. The menu is seasonal, and always features a bounty of fresh seafood, fowl and meats - try the duck wrapped in hazelnut crust.

Sushi Roku (Caesars Palace) - L.A.'s wildly popular sushi hotspot is now available in Sin City. With its critically acclaimed Modern Japanese fare and Zen-like atmosphere, Sushi Roku is not just a favorite among the hip, young visitors - the locals flock here too! And not only is the scene fabulous, but the food is to die for. Specialties include seared yellowtail sashimi with ponzu and diced chilies, and baked lobster roll with creamy spicy sauce. Signature cocktails are awesome; try the "Cantaloupe Martini" or the "Tokyo Cooler". And if you're in the mood for a view, booths 603 & 604 are elevated and allow you to gaze out at the Strip.

The Country Club (Wynn Las Vegas) - Overlooking the exclusive lush
golf course at at Wynn Las Vegas, this swanky eatery is the perfect
spot to take your business clients (or favorite caddy), before
afternoon tee-time. The exceptional service compliments the
superior dishes like the Chicken Paillard, a free-range chicken
topped with Parmesan and served with roasted tomatoes, zucchini and bacon. Chef Rene Lenger has truly captured the essence of North
American cusine within his refined menu at the Country Club.


Piero's Italian Cuisine If you're looking to relive the days of the Rat Pack, head on over to this retro-styled Vegas mainstay that's outside the casino strip (located at 355 Convention Center Drive). Piero's boasts leather booths and an attitude-infused setting. Don't be surprised if you see a few familiar famous faces here - they too can't stay away from the Roman-style stuffed artichokes and the restaurant's signature spumoni.

Prime (Bellagio) - For gorgeous views of Bellagio's dancing fountains, pop into Prime. Steaks come with six types of mustard and five sauces - all of which add sophistication to any cut. The restaurant's signature steak is the veal porterhouse with kumquat-pineapple chutney and caramelized cauliflower. And the dessert-of-choice, the chocolate cake with warm gooey center, ain't too shabby either! Note: If you've had a good day at the tables, treat yourself to a $1,050 shot of Chivas Royal Salute (bottled and launched in 1953 in honor of the newly-crowned Queen Elizabeth II).

Fleur De Lys (Mandalay Bay) - Prix-fixe French contemporary cuisine (with Mediterranean touch) is presented like artwork in this romantic and elegant enclave. Named as one of "the nation's Hot 50 Restaurants" of 2005, this is for many discriminating palates, hands down, the best food in Vegas. However, the food isn't the only thing impressive here, Fleur De Lys boasts a floral arrangement of 3,500 fresh ice-pink rosebuds, the theater-style curtains at the small tables and the hand-painted china at each table just exudes grace and style. If you're a vegetarian, don't fret: the chef has been known to whip up something unique just for you.

Olives (Bellagio) - A Mediterranean gem with a lakeside view (Bellagio's dancing fountains), Olives is the less-expensive relative of The Mirage's Onda (as well as a branch of our boy Todd English's original Boston-based eatery). Don't miss their signature wood-oven flatbreads with imaginative toppings and the little dumplings of goat-cheese in black-olive-flavored wrapping. Just make sure you save room for the vanilla-bean souffle - it's so good, it should actually be outlawed!

Michael's Steakhouse (Barbary Coast Hotel) - A culinary masterpiece for over 20 years, this intimate gourmet eatery is known for its epicurean delights! Exquisitely furnished in rich red velvet, the restaurant features a 40-panel stained glass-domed ceiling, oversized wingback chairs and imported Italian marble. When dining here, try the signature dishes that include the Chateaubriand Bouquetierre or Rack of Lamb. And, you must (we say: must!) save room for dessert - like the Bananas Foster, Cherries Jubilee or the famous chocolate-dipped fruit selection.

Aureole (Mandalay Bay) - Wine cellar meets rappelling competition at this Charlie Palmer masterpiece. It is as much of an event to eat at Aureole, as it is a culinary soiree - and the wine list is exceptional (restaurant boasts nearly 10,000 bottles). With that, guests are greeted by the spectacular, 42-foot wine tower that houses these bottles. Then there's the food. The menu changes seasonally, and the tasting menu which changes almost weekly offers three and eight-course tasting options. If you see the pork tenderloin with sage wrapped in prosciutto on the menu, do not think twice.

Chinois (Caesars Palace) - Chef Wolfgang Puck's casual Asian and French-inspired cafe features two levels of authentic Asian art, a trickling water fountain and windows big enough to inspire people-watching on the Forum Shops Strip. An exhibition-style kitchen allows restaurant guests to view the preparation of their tantalizing feasts. Try the passionately-popular Chinois Chicken Salad and the spicy Kung Pao Chicken. If you and your party are particularly ravenous, meals can be served "family style" to give you the chance to sample more than just one of Wolfy's dishes.


Bars & Nightlife

If it's nightlife you're after, you've come to the right place. Vegas provides a party all day and all night. But the town really comes alive when the desert sun sets and everyone's inner player and alter-ego come out. Every night in Vegas feels like an elaborate Bachelor party. If you're looking to have some fun, have a girl's night out or forget your past and meet somebody new, then a night on the town in Vegas is your best medicine.

The nightlife has significantly picked up in recent years, and now provides just as much buzz as the table games inside the casinos. So grab your little black dress and your best pickup lines and get on it! Roll the dice and see what the night has in store for you. Oh, what's that? You don't "normally" enjoy the clubs? Well, you don't normally go home with strangers either. Go out there and enjoy- don't worry, we won't tell!

PURE Nightclub (Caesars Palace) - If class, sophistication and style are what you're all about - this is the place you need to be (definitely the most upscale club in Las Vegas). With 36,000 square feet, PURE is like three clubs in one. The three distinct environments include The Red Room - a VIP haven with cocoon-like private booths and secluded from the main club; the Terrace - a 14,000 square foot enclave with private cabanas and panoramic views of the Strip (pay attention to the glass elevator or the twisting staircase that'll get you here). If you're a high-roller, celeb or just have enough cash to drop to feel like one, PURE is the spot to check out!

Tryst (Wynn Las Vegas) - From the moment you descend the marble staircase leading to Tryst, it becomes exceptionally evident that a distinctly unique nightlife experience awaits you. Surrounded with sound, style and sensuality, Tryst boasts the best-looking "A" list crowd in Vegas. As you emerge upon the club's centerpiece, you'll need to catch your breath at the sight of the 94-foot waterfall and walls covered completely by hundreds of mirrors. The club also boasts lush velvet - which can be found on the walls, draperies - everywhere you look at this oasis. You'll also enjoy observing the striking cocktail servers dressed in alluring attire (yes: you will need a bib). If you're not afraid to spend cash, request seating on the patio/lounge on a bed near the lagoon or checkout the VIP room, which features a stage and stripper's pole where even you (yes, YOU!), can show of your moves.

Light (Bellagio) - Exhilarating, glamour and intimate all describe the nightclub experience you'll enjoy here. The second outpost mirrors the chic and sexy design of the velvet-rope exclusivity of its trendy NYC predecessor. As you embark into the expansive space filled with billowing curtains, candles and recessed dance floor, you'll likely find yourself rubbing elbows with Tinsletown's elite (Bruce Willis, Leonardo DiCaprio, Sting, among others). Light boasts state-of-the-art lighting, sound and technology, along with world-class elegance found nowhere else on the Strip.

Rain in the Desert (Palms) - A 25,000 square foot hotspot that boasts all the bells and whistles you'd expect of a Las Vegas mega-club, this is probably the most "hyped" club in Sin City - thanks to MTV and the celebrity "A" list. A typical clubber's dream, the place has the styling of sexy dark hues, 14-foot fireballs (yes you can feel the heat) that light up an elevated dance floor and dancing water fountains. Eye candy presents itself with gorgeous go-go dancers that suspend on platforms from the ceiling and gorgeous patrons that need no suspension. If you're in the mood for a change of scenery, venture outdoors to the poolside mattresses (just remember to bring your poison - there's no bar outside).

GhostBar (Palms) - Make sure you aren't afraid of heights when you climb high in the sky above the Strip to this 55th floor, 360-view of the glittery city and beyond (we swear: the ride lasts only seconds). With a see-thru acrylic floor that looks directly at the Pool Lounge 55 stories below, you will have that "falling" sensation when you look down. GhostBar delivers a "Jetson-esque" venue that serves up great live DJ music (rock and hip-hop) and drinks. Warning: if you are afraid of heights, go anyway - just let yourself indulge in a few of the signature cocktails to help you out!

The House of Blues Foundation Room (Mandalay Bay) - One of the most exclusive clubs in Vegas that features an astonishing view of the Strip (that only compliments its extraordinary company), this usually members-only venue occasionally opens its doors to the general public - particularly on their signature Monday nights after-hours party, called "Godspeed." Accessible only by a private elevator, The Foundation Room (located 43 stories up) has an exotic, mysterious and sexy ambience. The club features a variety of private rooms and a fireplace is located in the main lounge area surrounded by cozy seating. With different DJ's to choose from, you'll have your choice of hip-hop, house and dance - depending on your mood.

JET Nightclub (Mirage) - Swanky and sexy, this is a nightclub where only the hip tend to gather. An evolution with a state-of-the-art sound system that offers the best of hip-hop, house and rock, JET provides the ultimate combination of sophistication and cutting-edge. Featuring three distinct rooms, dance floors (totaling 15,000 square feet), and European bottle service, this nightspot is as posh as posh gets. So, remember: If you reserve a table with bottle service, you'll surely increase your chances of getting in - which can be tough, considering the hordes of people lined up outside.

Tangerine (Treasure Island) - Sensuality and sophistication is what you'll find when you cross the threshold of this intimate lounge and sultry club. With beautiful bartenders (surprise, surprise) and burlesque dancers (it's all about the eye candy here), the nightly shows tantalize and provoke men and women alike, with flesh against flesh and barely-there garter belts. DJ's spin a mix of rock and dance, and the club/lounge also features a gorgeous outdoor patio that overlooks the Buccaneer Bay - so be sure to catch a glimpse of the outdoor show when you're out there. The spot in Vegas on Wednesday nights.

Body English (Hard Rock) - DJ AM (from LAX in L.A.) takes you on an unforgettable ride at this swanky club with its grand staircase and crystal chandeliers. Black, mirrored walls and leather booths are sexy and sleek, and the vibe is untouchable - you'll feel the energy the second you pass through the velvet-rope. Though getting through the front door can be tricky, you'll be partying with the likes of Justin Timberlake and the Hilton sisters if you can find your way in. Got your unlimited AMEX with you? Try the $1,000 martini - an extravagant cocktail that features a diamond-and-ruby-topped swizzle stick that you can even take home.

Club Ice - The city's first "MetaClub", Ice is the coolest lounge/club and provides an experience like no other. Six unique microenvironments (accessible in a circular pattern) cater to everyone's different tastes -- from intimate and loungy to downright sultry and boisterous. The clever mix of beats that keeps you moving and the contemporary, metropolitan decor makes this one of the most attractive nightspots in town. Sexy singles can enjoy the fur-lined walls of the Fur Room or the Ultra-Chic Lounge that boasts plush seating and minimalist furnishings. A feast for the eyes, go-go dancers gyrate on an elevated stage, while liquid-nitrogen keeps revelers calm, cool and collected.