Cupid’s annual celebration might be right around the corner, but when it comes to romantic dining in Las Vegas, any day of the year can feel like Valentine’s Day. Whether it’s mid-February or mid-August there are dozens of romantic restaurants to choose from and most have incredible decórs and views to go along with their gourmet delights.

Here is a quick run-down of a few favorites:

Romantic Restaurants with a View

Guests lucky enough to get a patio seat at Picasso can view the spectacular Bellagio fountain show along with their gourmet dinner.  Tastefully decorated, Picasso features the French and Spanish flavors from the regions that inspired Pablo Picasso, as interpreted by master chef Julian Serrano. Reservations are strongly recommended. Call 866-259-7111.

One of Vegas’ best epicurean gems is located northwest of the Strip in the Lakes District. About a twenty minute cab ride from either downtown or the Strip Marche Bacchus has been a local’s favorite for years. The patio seating around the man-made lake is so serene and quiet you feel like you’re at someone’s house. Picking out a wine in the attached wine market to accompany your meal means you can afford dessert. Marche Bacchus is small and intimate, so be sure to call (702) 804-8008 for reservations.

Another great option for patio dining that features a moderately priced menu is Mon Ami Gabi located outside Paris Las Vegas. In addition to being open for dinner, the gourmet bistro is also pen for lunch and week-end brunch. Sitting right along the Strip, it offers lots people watching and one of the best views of the Bellagio fountains.

Another quality gourmet restaurant with a view at Paris Las Vegas is the Eiffel Tower Restaurant located atop the iconic tower. Other great views: Nove Italiano in the Palms Fantasy Tower, Top of the World at the Stratosphere and the Foundation Room at Mandalay Bay.

(For just a drink with a view, check out Mix atop the THEhotel at Mandalay Bay tower.)

Excellent Italian Restaurants

French restaurants don’t have a corner on romantic fine dining in Las Vegas. For those who love great Italian food, Valentino’s at the Venetian has been winning epicurean awards ever since it opened in 2003. One reason is their attention to detail. For instance they smoke their salmon for 23 days in-house and Chef Luciano Pellegrini uses wild mushrooms, goat cheese and other exotic ingredients in secret, unbelievable top-chef ways.

Nove Italiano at the Palms has a great view and is another excellent choice for Italian food in Las Vegas. Note: like the Palms resort itself, Nove Italiano generally attracts a younger, sexier crowd, due in part to its location just below the Playboy Club in the Palms Fantasy Tower. Call (702) 942-6800 for reservations.

Other gourmet Italian restaurants on or near the Strip are: the exclusive Sinatra’s at the Wynn, Wolfgang Puck’s Trattoria del Lupo inside Mandalay Bay, the old school wise guys and local’s favorite Piero’s at 355 Convention Center Drive and Il Mulino at New York New York.

Excellent French Restaurants

Many of the best French restaurants in Las Vegas also have great the best romantic views (see above). The aforementioned Marche Bacchus in the Lakes District, the Eiffel Tower Restaurant and Mon Ami Gabi at Paris Las Vegas compete with Le Cirque at the Bellagio for best French food in Las Vegas. Reservations are a must at Le Cirque, (866) 259-7111

Another excellent French restaurant in Las Vegas is Andre’s at the Monte Carlo. It offers an excellent French Nouveau menu along with a separate cognac and cigar bar to continue your conversations after dinner.

Excellent Seafood Restaurants

For gourmet seafood lovers, the exquisite Italian dining experience at Bartolotta Ristorante di Mare at the Wynn will also make you immediately start planning your return visit. Specializing in Italian seafood, chef Paul Bartolotta uses sea bass, purple snapper, turbot and a host of other types of fish in so many spectacular ways he won the 2009 James Beard Foundation award for Best Chef Southwest (that’s best chef for the entire southwestern United States!). Mostly he likes to roast them whole and serve them by weight, but the menu is also full of classic Italian fare. Reservations required, call (888) 352-3463.

Other top quality, romantic seafood hideaways: Sushi Roku at Caesar’s Palace, The Tillerman at 2245 E. Flamingo, the brand new American Fish at Aria and Hugo’s Cellar downtown at the Four Queens.

For a run-down of Best Steakhouses in Vegas click here .

For those looking to cover all tastes, check out Charlie Palmer’s Aureole inside Mandalay Bay. Known for their four-story wine rack and award winning blend of European and American cuisine, they feature an excellent Parallel Tasting Menu that will delight your taste buds, fill your belly and make you smile. Whether you do the tasting menu or not, it’s hard to get out of Aureole for anything less than $100/pp ($150/pp with wine), but for those who want to celebrate a special occasion, you won’t be disappointed. (Reservations strongly recommended, (877) 234-6358.) Note: Aureole has added a Happy Hour from 5:30-7PM nightly featuring 2-for-1 pricing on all wine, beer and cocktails in both the downstairs lounge and the upstairs wine lounge!

Looking for a romantic place to stay in Las Vegas? Check-out our Top Romantic Getaways in Vegas.

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Plan ahead! The holiday season is over and new year resolutions are probably being tested, but Valentine’s Day is on the horizon, so plan ahead now for a romantic getaway in Las Vegas.

Anytime of the year is great time to indulge in a romantic getaway.  Vegas gives you the option year-round,  but this time of year comes with a few extra reasons.  First and foremost, the elegant spas in some of the resorts. Secondly, the easy access to fine dining. Some people might argue that entertainment should be the next reason, but this time of year I put weather third.  Fifty-five to seventy degrees and sunny is without a doubt a great time of year to go beyond the Strip and explore other parts of Vegas and the Mojave. (check back soon for “Vegas in the Spring: Outdoor Recommendations”!)

For romantic getaways in Las Vegas, two of the best spa-oriented resorts are Paris Las Vegas and Bellagio.

Paris Las Vegas

Romantic getaway packages are designed to fit a range of travel budgets at Paris Las Vegas resort. In 2008 they redesigned  the rooms on the top floors of the hotel. These super luscious “Red Rooms” offer sensuality and sophistication for all romantics.

Cagley & Tanner’s contemporary, fun design gives way to clean, marble bathroom layouts in each room. The hip color palettes and signature sofas shaped like plump, puckered lips make staying at Paris Las Vegas especially memorable. The rooms include modern technology like 42″ plasma-screen HDTVs and iHome units that combine iPod dock, alarm clock, radio and stereo sound. The Premier Red Room suites offer sweeping Eiffel Tower and pool views and normally run from $100-$300/night depending on demand. Click this link for current promos at Paris the hotel.

Warning! Strolling around the casino or stepping outside to enjoy the view from the top of the Eiffel Tower can easily cause spontaneous hand-holding — which is exactly what makes any visit to Paris Las Vegas a perfect romantic escape. Even for those who wish to stay somewhere else, the resort offers one of the best romantic experiences for a very affordable price. Go ahead and share a kiss 460 feet above the Las Vegas Strip atop the Eiffel Tower Experience (tickets range from $7.50 – $22).

The Restaurant Eiffel Tower built one hundred feet above the Strip offers one of the best French fine dining options in town. (call 702-948-6937 for reservations) For those seeking the quintessential French bistro experience, Mon Ami Gabi, located right along the Strip is open for dinner and also for lunch and weekend brunches. (dinner and brunch reservations recommended, 702-944-4224)

Bellagio

The Bellagio resort has been a premier destination for romantics ever since it opened in October 1998. Need to be reminded? The room, spa and restaurant options at this resort are among the best in class.

For those who can afford to really splurge, “Bellagio’s Romance Retreat“ package includes:
* One Night Lakeview Cypress Suite Accommodations
* Limo Transportation to and from McCarran Airport
* 50 minute Couples Massage at Spa Bellagio
* Dinner for 2 at your choice of either Picasso or Michael Mina

There are other perks too, like chocolate covered strawberries and a chilled bottle of Veuve Clicquot brought to your room. The package price of $995 is high, but the experience is guaranteed unforgettable. Call the Bellagio at 1-888-987-6667 for reservations.

The Bellagio Spa also offers a “Couples Pampering Package” for $350 which includes manicures and pedicures in a private, candlelit room, with champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries, followed by
an herbal-infused massage for the legs, feet and hands. This package does NOT include a room, but you’ll be floating on air when you leave, so you won’t care.

Other decadent Bellagio Spa deals can be found here.

Of course, fine dining abounds at the Bellagio. Picasso, Chef Julian Serrano’s AAA Five Diamond Award winning restaurant featuring a blend of French and Spanish cuisine located alongside the fountains is urban, modern and delicious. The colorful and jubilant atmosphere of Le Cirque, another AAA Five Diamond Award winning restaurant, is another excellent option.  (Reservations are necessary for both restaurants, especially on week-ends. Call 702-693-7223 in advance and ask for a window seat.)

Click here for a look at other romantic dining options in Las Vegas.

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If you are looking for a cheap package deal to Las Vegas then check out this promotion at Southwest Vacations. Get a great deal on flight and hotel getaways to Las Vegas.

• Book a Package to select Vegas hotels and qualify to save up to $80 per reservation!
• Plus 2 show tickets, or a FREE night, or a FREE buffet at participating hotels
• Book direct with Southwest Airlines Vacations

More Details: Save on Flight and Hotel Packages to Las Vegas – Save up to $80 on Las Vegas Packages (Expires February 2nd)

Reservations are limited. Check the link for restrictions.

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The Bowl game between LSU and Alabama was super for college football fans, but it pales in comparison to the truly biggest football game of the year. If ever there was an excuse to visit Indiana, Sunday February 12, 2012 would be it. For the rest of us, we have the luxury of flying (or driving) to Las Vegas to watch the division champions meet.

Vegas always has a lot to offer any football fan. Especially for fans who enjoy plush leather seats, gourmet food, a full bar and a cozy room upstairs.

Top Five Recommendations for Watching the Big Game in Vegas

#1 – Emeril Lagasse’s Stadium at the Palazzo

BAM! Lagasse's Stadium is our numero uno spot for Big Game action

Huge, plush couches. A 9’x16’ big screen. Great food. Some of the cutest referee’s serving drinks this side of sports heaven. This upscale venue will fill up VERY quickly. Reservations STRONGLY recommended so call 702-607-2665 now. Otherwise, don’t even bother to look for parking unless you plan to arrive early and tip the host/hostess a Benjamin just to put you at the top of list. To help make up your mind, check out their menu here.

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#2 – Ravello Lounge at the M Resort

This is another luxury sports book with limited seating that aims for quality instead of quantity. It also attracts a good mix of regular locals and visitors from out of town. Last year there was free entry into two prize drawings, $10 buckets of Bud, $3 margaritas, $2 shots of Cuervo along with burgers, dogs, cheese steaks and wings starting at $1.50. Although under new ownership, management roughly stayed intact so look for them to serve a close repeat to last year’s offerings. More info about the M Resort here.

#3 – The super sportsbook at the new LVH (formerly the Hilton)

This is the granddaddy of Vegas sports books. Huge. Loud. The array of championship propositions is the best in Vegas because it goes far beyond who will win the coin toss. Over 300 seats, over twenty giant screens including one 40’x30’ HD monster. NO RESORT FEES and great room rates mean you can afford to take Monday off! More info about the new LVH here.

#4 – Bally’s Sportsbook

That’s right. Bally’s. It’s big. It’s comfortable. It’s classic Vegas right on the corner of Flamingo Road and the Strip. If it’s full, look for the spill over party in the Indigo Lounge. Click here and book a great NO RESORT FEE room deal!

#5 — Crazy Horse III Gentleman’s Club

This is on the list because it is so quintessentially Vegas. If you’re in Vegas with your golf buddies dodging the endless snowstorms in the Midwest or on the East Coast, what better place to watch the biggest sporting event of the year than inside the cozy confines of a premier gentleman’s club? The giant HD screens are even big enough to keep your attention! $30 at the door includes a catered buffet, an OPEN BAR during the 1st quarter, a raffle for prizes (one of which is a 46″ flat screen TV), free limo transportation and many other perks too obvious to mention. Call (702) 673-1700 for more info or to book a free limo.

Other Venues

The sports books at the Bellagio, Caesar’s Palace and Wynn are top-notch premium viewing venues too. They are guaranteed to be packed with celebrities, retired sports stars and famous high-rolling poker stars. Getting a good seat might take a little grease, but who knows who might end up sitting next to you.

Some good spots off the Strip that may not be packed by noon (kick-off is at 3:30PM Vegas time) are the newly remodeled sports book at the Southpoint where they will be hosting free, live-feed spill-over parties in the Grand Ballroom and Napa Showroom; the 125-seat book at the Orleans; and the roomy, local’s friendly Sunset Station.

There’s nothing like being at the game, but for visitors and locals Vegas offers some real pleasant alternatives to being crammed in a stadium with 65,000 other people. Single malt scotch anyone?

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The horses, cowboys and cowgirls are coming back to Vegas next month for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo! From December 1-10, 2011, fans, tourists and locals won’t be able to miss the spectacular showcase of cowboy culture. Fortunately, great deals on travel, rooms and side attractions are still available, however they’re selling out quicker than last year.

Start planning your itinerary now for the busy 10-day event. Here are some NFR 2011 Vegas tips and resort suggestions to make your life easier.

EVENT SUMMARY

Sponsored by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) and Wrangler Jeans, the event, known as the “Super Bowl of Rodeo”, determines the annual world champion in seven different rodeo events: bareback riding, steer wrestling, team roping, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, barrel racing and bull riding.

National Finals Rodeo. December 1-10, 2011

The main competitions will be held at the Thomas & Mack Center on the UNLV campus. But other events scattered around town make exploring the many faces of Las Vegas fun. For instance, the Cowboy Christmas Gift Show will be held everyday at the Las Vegas Convention Center. The always fun 24th Annual Downtown Hoe-Down will be held December 5th under the canopy of lights of the Freemont Street Experience in downtown Las Vegas.

Other events include: the 65th PRCA National Convention, Auction and Trade Show in the South Point Exhibit Hall from Nov 28-Dec 1; a live feed from the show in a 740-seat Hollywood theater at the MGM Grand including shows and cowboy theme decor sprinkled throughout Aria and Mandalay Bay; sexy cowboy/cowgirl, fun drinks and mechanical bull dares at the PBR Lounge at Planet Hollywood; and live music nightly (no cover) with Gary Leffew’s Legendary Buck’n Ball and the National Finals Tonight Show at the Gold Coast Casino, located just off the Strip on Flamingo Blvd. between the Rio and the Palms.

TICKET INFO:

Multi-day passes to the main-event competitions, or tickets to individual NFR events, can be purchased at the Thomas & Mack UNLV box office, or in advance here. Advance purchase is recommended as many of the most popular events, like steer wrestling, tie-down roping and bull riding usually sell out. Mad Dash tickets (no assigned seating) are $49/day.

Even tickets to the 4-day Miss Rodeo America Pageant can become hard to find, but that’s not hard to believe when you look at this year’s Miss Rodeo America contestants. Tickets to the Miss Rodeo America pageant events will be sold online here until November 15 and after that will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis at the pageant venues in the South Point and the Orleans casinos.

RESORT INFO and DEALS:

Once again, the South Point and the Orleans casinos are two of the main venues for the National Finals Rodeo event. Unfortunately, rooms at the South Point sold out not long after the 2010 event. But rooms at the Orleans, Gold Coast and Fremont are still available, some starting as low as $40/night! Check out the special NFR package deals that all the Boyd resorts are offering.

If you’re driving into town or renting a car, consider Sam’s Town, the Cannery and a few other casinos out there on Boulder Highway. They’re convenient to the Thomas&Mack Arena and the convention center are some rates are as low as $30/night. Many of them have week-end package deals that include food discounts and tickets to the rodeo.

Several Station Casinos also fit right into the crosstown patterns of the NFR. Sunset Station at the corner of Sunset and the I-93/95 is right in the middle of the action. It’s immediate access out towards the barren escapes of Lake Mead, or to Boulder City, the Hoover Dam and the northern Arizona desert, is most attractive. Palace Station and Green Valley also offer good access to all the event locations. Check here to check availability.

Although the Southpoint and Boyd casinos have been hosting the NFR faithful for years, the Strip resorts aren’t missing the fact that champion cowboys are going to be winning lots of money during these rodeo finals. Their entourages and fans will be looking to win lots of money during the first week of December, so that means they’ll be betting big from the beginning. Look for special NFR deals at the MGM Grand starting at only $60/night.

If food is an important consideration in your decision making, check out our review of Best Steakhouses in Vegas or our review of Best Buffets.

Wherever you’re having fun, if you happen to hear some cowboy introduce himself to a pretty girl with the old line, “Howdy, ma’am. What’s a nice girl like you doing at a craps table like this?” Well, smile, let him buy you a drink and roll the dice along with him!

A complete schedule of Performance Schedule for the 2011 National Finals Rodeo can be found here. In planning your transportation to and from your hotel, allow time to stand in line for autograph sessions, people watching and sight-seeing.

If you’re traveling to Las Vegas from outside of Nevada for the National Finals Rodeo event, be sure to click the sponsor link for Southwest Airlines to get special low-fare, direct flights to Las Vegas. East Coasters: keep in mind Southwest now flies to Atlanta!

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Hundreds of professional cowboys and thousands of excited fans will stampede into Las Vegas October 26-30 for the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) 2011 World Finals. Here’s a look at some special PBR Hotel Package Deals, a Competition Update and some advice on how to get PBR tickets for this year’s thrilling championship run.

Eight seconds can seem like eternity when you’re a professional bull rider. But it’s generally long enough to qualify for the prize pool. Or sustain serious injury. That’s what makes bull riding such a popular spectator sport. This year, contestants from the United States, Mexico, Australia, Brazil, Canada and several other countries will ride a host of mean, snorting, kicking 2,000 pound bulls to vie for more than $3 million in prize money during the five-day PBR World Finals event.

Competition Update: Last year’s PBR champion, Renato Nunes recently confirmed he intends to compete in the finals again this year, although he has been out of competition since mid-May when he had surgery on his left shoulder (riding arm). He fractured and dislocated the shoulder during competition in Tampa and then re-aggravated the injury in early May in Seattle. Currently Renato is in 30th place and fellow Brazilian Silvano Alves, a pro for only three years with already over $630,000 in career winnings is ranked #1 in the 2011 BFTS Stats.

2011 PBR Hotel Package Deals

Neon Cowboy Vegas Vic likes to watch the PBR World Finals from a safe distance.

Many Las Vegas resorts are offering special deals for the PBR 2011 World Finals. Packages usually include seating at the event, deluxe room accommodations and transportation back and forth to the arena at the Thomas and Mack Center on the UNLV campus. Since regular tickets cost $18 to $248 per day, per person (before taxes and service fees) and a cab ride could easily cost $30 each way, hotel package deals can be a great way for groups of fans to save money. Often it’s a great opportunity to stay in the same resort as many of the cowboys who are participating too.

For instance, the Silverton Casino has two options. The Balcony Package for $829 includes 5 nights lodging (including taxes and resort fee), transportation back and forth to the event site everyday and 2 tickets per day in the upper deck seating (Balcony Section 209). The Plaza Package for $1,299, also includes room and transportation but offers an upgrade in seating with two Plaza Seats (Section 103). If purchased separately, the Plaza Seats for two people for all five days would cost almost that with taxes and fees, so the room and transportation are basically free with this offer. To get in on either of these last minute deals, call Angela McLaughlin at 1-866-722-4608 ext. 8695 or email her at: angela.mclaughlin@silvertoncasino.com

The Gold Coast, located just off the Strip between the Rio and the Palms on Flamingo Road, offers a tiered, 6 day/5 night based on room occupancy. It includes Plaza seat(s) and daily round trip transportation to the event. The single ticket, single occupancy rate is $869. The double occupancy, two Plaza Seats per performance package is $1,419; the triple occupancy, triple ticket package is $1,904; and the quadruple occupancy, quadruple ticket package is $2,449. It’s not quite as good a deal as the Silverton, but rooms and tickets to the PBR World Finals are selling out fast and the Gold Coast is more centrally located. Call 800-331-5334 and mention offer code YPBR11 for this deal.

The 2011 PBR World Finals Package at the South Point Casino is offering a similar tiered occupancy/Plaza Seat (section 118 or 120) and transportation each day deal ($975 single occupancy/single ticket/day; $1,530 double occupancy with 2 Plaza Seats/day; $2,085 triple occupancy with 3 Plaza Seats/day; and $2,640 quadruple occupancy with 4 Plaza Seats/day). The added perk of staying at the South Point is that many of the performers (along with their leather vest and cowboy hat wearing entourages) will stay there too because of the plentiful RV and tractor trailer friendly parking. Also, the South Point completed a major re-model of their sports book last year and much of the PBR action will be available there on closed-circuit TV. They also have a 64 lane bowling alley and a $2 any drink Happy Hour on Fridays from 4-10PM. Call 1-866-791-7626 for more info or to book.

Aside from special events during the 2011 PBR World Finals at Mandalay Bay, the MGM Grand, South Point and Hard Rock, many fans and contestants are likely to wander into the new PBR Rock Bar and Grill at Planet Hollywood. In addition to a 3,000 square foot patio that faces the Strip, 115 flat screen TV’s, and close proximity to Holly Madison’s Peep Show, there is a very popular daiquiri bar where lots of attractive tourists from all over the world find their courage before climbing aboard the mechanical bull.

Between all the fun and PBR festivities, don’t forget to eat! Check out our rundown of the BEST STEAKHOUSES In VEGAS and our look at the BEST BUFFETS IN VEGAS.

For a full list of events at the 2011 PBR World Finals click here.

More information about the contestants, the Professional Bull Riders 2011 World Finals, or other events on the bull riding circuit can be found by clicking here. To purchase tickets to the 2011 Professional Bull Riders World Finals directly, go to www.UNLVtickets.com or click here.

Check back soon for deals and information about the National Finals Rodeo (NFR) which will be held in December right here in the neon paradise that is Las Vegas!

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Restaurants in Las Vegas serve up some of the best (and most expensive) cuisine in the world. From Aug. 29, 2011 through Sept. 11, 2011 visitors can feast on a tantalizing variety of top chef dishes at a fraction of the regular price, thanks to the return of Restaurant Week.

For its fifth year anniversary, Restaurant Week is extending the affair an extra week with over 130 restaurants all over the city participating. Dozens of top-ranked, celebrity chef properties are offering either special three-course, prix-fixe lunch menus for $20.10, or prix-fixe dinner menus for either $30.10 or $50.10. It’s a great opportunity to sample a restaurant you’ve been dying to try and all proceeds from Restaurant Week benefit Three Square, a non-profit organization dedicated to ending hunger in Southern Nevada.

Some of the Best Restaurants in Las Vegas participate in Restaurant Week

Local favorite Twin Creeks at the Silverton Lodge is also participating in Restaurant Week 2011

Restaurants participating in this fundraiser include Wolfgang Puck’s (MGM), Aureole (Mandalay Bay), Stratta (Wynn), American Fish (Aria), Andre’s (Monte Carlo) Prime Steakhouse (Bellagio) and Spago’s (Caesar’s Palace).

The values are tremendous. For example, for the entire two weeks, Stratta is offering a three-course menu for $50.10 from 5:30PM to 10 PM with a choice of: Seared Sea Scallops w/fava beans, pancetta, Cippolini onions and roasted corn sauce;
~OR~ Roasted Pork Chops w/sweet cherry peppers and fried potatoes in a special vinegar sauce;
~OR~ Chicken Francaise w/citrus butter, capers and crispy breadcrumbs.
First course selections include a warm goat cheese salad, Caprese salad or spicy pepperoni pizza. Desert choices are: Spumoni ice cream; Chocolate, Pistachio and Cherry Gelato Swirl with Pizzelle Cookies, or Stratta’s famous Bombolini w/warm amaretti and ricotta beignets filled with Nutella.
(For late night and late late night diners, Stratta will also have an equally appetizing special menu for $30.10, available from 10:30PM to 5AM.)

American Fish is offering dinner for $50.10:
Starters: Caesar Salad or Shrimp and Grits or Manhattan Clam Chowder.
Entree: Poached Diver Scallops or Mediterranean Branzino or Mixed Grill featuring creamed corn, marbled potatoes and Peach Panzanella.
Dessert: Mascarpone Cheesecake or Valrhona Chocolate Custard or Red Velvet Cake.

Andre’s at Monte Carlo is offering a five course $50.10 prixe-fixe menu:
Starters include Chilled Consommé, an heirloom tomato salad and an artichoke soup with summer truffle mousse.
The Entrees is a choice of Grilled Ribeye Cap, Berkshire Pork, Scottish Salmon, or Free Range Chicken with foie gras mole.
Dessert is grilled white peach with almond milk sorbet and a vanilla bean jus. Note: Andre’s is closed on Mondays.

Another example of gourmet dining for only $50.10 is at Prime Steakhouse inside the Bellagio. For starters they are serving a choice of Tomato Gazpacho, Roasted Baby Beets with yogurt, hazelnuts & fresh herbs, or bacon wrapped shrimp with passion mustard and cumin scented honey. Yum!
The Entree is a choice of: Roasted Organic Chicken w/asparagus & shiitake mushrooms; or Slow Baked Salmon w/baby bok choy & a ginger-chili vinaigrette; or Filet Medallions w/sweet corn, crispy spaetzle & fiore sardo cheese.
Save room for dessert too because it includes a choice of: Warm Valrhona Chocolate Cake w/vanilla ice cream; or New York Style Cheesecake w/compressed pineapple, mango & tamarind; or Summer Berries w/a strawberry gelée & marsala cream.

More about Three Square

Three Square is an organization that serves as a central location for donated and rescued food to be collected and distributed to those in need. It provides a variety of foods, including dairy, produce and ready-to-eat meals to non-profit and faith-based organizations all across the Valley. As a community collaborative project it works to “serve hope to the hungry” by partnering with businesses all across Southern Nevada, including the gaming industry, non-profits, food distribution companies, the University Of Nevada-Las Vegas, government agencies and more. In its brief, five year history, it has provided more than 17 million pounds of food and grocery products to more than 570 program partners in the region.

For more information on Restaurant Week in Las Vegas, check out this list of participating restaurants and their Restaurant Week menus or visit ThreeSquare.org and start planning your meals now.

These two weeks in late August and early September are an excellent time to treat yourself to a gourmet meal in Vegas at nearly half the regular price. When you’ve decided upon a restaurant, be sure to call ahead for a reservation because foodies and other fans of gourmet dining will certainly be getting in line with you!

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Choosing the best steakhouse in Las Vegas is impossible. Fortunately, depending on your location, bankroll and sense of adventure, there are enough excellent choices to satisfy even the most finicky quest for the perfect steak amidst the neon glamour.

(Bonus Tip: Las Vegas’ best kept secret for a premium steak dinner will be revealed at the end of this article!)

Nevada is one of the few states in the union that still has wild horses. That means we have cowboys. By virtue of the National Rodeo Finals, Bull Riding championships and an interstate that connects the cowboy heartland to the West Coast, the neon oasis that is Las Vegas knows a lot about cowboys. Cowboys mean cattle and cattle means steak. The freshest, most perfectly aged and seasoned steak in the entire country to be exact.

On The Strip

SW Steakhouse at The Wynn has received the AAA Four Diamond Award in 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011. Sophisticated with celebrity clientele and a beautiful outdoor terrace over looking a waterfall, SW Steakhouse is absolutely guaranteed to make any special celebration memorable. Chef David Walzog specializes in a wide variety of prime-aged steaks, lamb chops and prime rib, as well as poultry and seafood specialties. Pricey, but worth it. They’re open everyday for dinner, but only until 10 PM. Call (702) 248-3463 for reservations.

The Chef’s Selection at Craftsteak at the MGM Grand is never disappointing and offers something for everyone, even picky meat eaters. It’s a three course menu that includes two cuts of meat and a vast array of delicious appetizers and side dishes. Don’t miss the ribeye, yukon gold puree or any of their homemade sorbets! With no outdoor seating and far fewer celebrities, it’s not quite as expensive as SW Steakhouse and a lot more convenient for those staying on the southern end of the Strip. Call (702) 891-7318 for reservations.

Delmonico Steakhouse at the Venetian is probably one of the best known steakhouses in Las Vegas. Started by tough guy celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse, Delmonico is classy, upscale, pricey because of the celebrity appeal, but reliably delicious. They’re open everyday for lunch and dinner and they stay open until 10:30 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. Call (702) 414-1992 for reservations.

Other notable mentions for best steakhouse along the Strip in Vegas are:

• CUT at the Palazzo
• Prime Steakhouse at the Bellagio (*outdoor seating*)
• Charlie Palmer Steak Las Vegas (Don’t miss the “Cut of the Week” deal)
• Eiffel Tower Restaurant at Paris (romantic with a great view)
• Joe’s Seafood Prime Steak & Stone Crab at Caesar’s Palace (*outdoor seating*)

Best Steakhouses in Vegas – Strip Adjacent

The Golden Steer at 308 W. Sahara is an increasingly rare time capsule tucked just off the Strip in a little shopping mall. Despite it’s modest exterior, it’s a classic restaurant that has been serving delicious steaks, prime rib and twice baked potatoes since 1958. Classy with abundant old-school charm inside, get your waiter talking and you’ll feel like Frank, Deano, Elvis, Benny Binion or anyone featured in the movie “Casino” could be sitting next to you. Always an epicurean delight and reasonably priced ($30-50 entrees) even if you add cab fare. Call (702) 384-4470 for reservations.

The Cortez Room at the Gold Coast is worth a notable mention, especially if you love prime rib. It’s delicious and a great value. (note: The Cortez Room will be closed from August 1 to Sept 6, 2011 for re-modeling)

Best Steakhouses in Downtown Las Vegas

Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse in Houston is regularly voted one of the ten best steakhouses in the U.S.. Their two-year old sister location at the Golden Nugget in downtown Vegas is quickly becoming equally famous. The succulent, seasoned steaks and the eclectic wine list are priced above the downtown average, but they don’t come without the sticker shock of some Strip properties. A fifty-dollar steak at Vic & Anthony’s never disappoints and choosing between their rib-eye, or their turf and surf (which features fork tender filet mignon with juicy, perfectly cooked Australian lobster) will be one of the hardest choices of your visit.

Hugo’s Cellar at the Four Queens gives a long stem red rose to every woman, young or old, that they seat. It’s always an immediate hit with the ladies and guaranteed to put the brakes on any argument or misunderstanding. The service is warm and friendly. The steaks, lamb chops and seafood always perfectly seasoned and served. Reservations suggested but walk-ins welcome. Good value. Don’t miss their Hot Rocks Specialty appetizer prepared right at your table (tenderloin medallions, marinated swordfish, chicken and jumbo shrimp grilled on a sizzling slab of granite). Call (702) 385-4011 for reservations and allow some extra time for some good blackjack and roulette action upstairs.

Off the Strip

Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak House at 3925 Paradise Road offers the same premium quality steak choices that it does at its other locations. It’s located near the Convention Center one block north of Flamingo. There are eight private dining rooms, live music nightly, a cigar patio, a sports room and even seating in the wine cellar. Call 702-796-0063 for reservations.

The Best Kept Secret in Las Vegas for Premium Steak?

Twin Creeks is our pick for Las Vegas’ best kept secret for a premium steak dinner

Twin Creeks at the Silverton Lodge & Casino on Blue Diamond Highway just of the I-15 is one of the newest, best kept secrets for premium steak in Las Vegas. They have a half-price Happy Hour at the bar from 6-8PM every night that includes a delicious array of appetizers. Think bacon-wrapped jumbo shrimp or seasoned scallops for $5. There’s even more good news for those on a budget: from 8-10PM appetizers at the bar go to 75% off! Those looking for a full dinner experience won’t be disappointed or have price shock in the restaurant either. Try the bone-in bourbon BBQ bone t-bone or the 24oz. porterhouse steak (both are less than $30). Call (702) 263-7777 for reservations, or just show up and hang out for a drink or two in the bar while you wait for a table. Twin Creeks is definitely one of the most affordable premium steakhouses in Vegas and it has an excellent and very reasonably priced wine list, too.

Happy Eating! Be sure to leave a comment if you want to let us know your favorite Steakhouse in Las Vegas.

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The annual Concerts on the Beach series offers a great line-up of artists, performing in a one-of-a-kind setting, at the Mandalay Bay Beach. Warm Summer nights, sandy beaches, fire cauldrons and great music! There is still a great lineup of upcoming headliners to enjoy highlighted by:

• Peter Frampton – Friday July 29th at 9pm
• Beach Boys – Saturday September 3rd at 9pm
• The B 52′s/Human League – Sunday September 4th at 9pm
• Blondie – Saturday October 8th at 8pm

Click this link for a complete lineup of the remaining 2011 shows. The shows are all general admission and recommended for 18 and over. B.Y.O.B. Bring your own blanket!

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If I didn’t already live here, the newly re-modeled Tropicana Resort would be my new first-choice Vegas destination. Tucked across from the MGM and New York/New York on the south end of the Strip, the Trop’s view, value, new rooms and huge grassy pool area would make me brave the I-15 from either direction, or jump on any airplane.

All New South Beach Styling

Instead of the recent wave of glass towers that has made the famous Las Vegas skyline start to look like Hartford, CT, the Tropicana Resort underwent a modern twist on its classic design. Despite the woes of the national economy, the Trop just completed Phase 1 of a $180 million dollar restoration plan. Their bold confidence has really paid off and lucky guests are sure to spread the news back in their hometowns about a fun, classy nostalgia that has returned to prominence on the Strip.

Remodeled Rooms feature Flat-screen TV’s, Plantation shutters, and new euro-top beds

The Nikki Beach and Cafe Nikki brand fits right into the new look Tropicana and promises to attract a younger party crowd that is already mixing well with long-time fans of the resort. “Mob Experience” is the new, interactive attraction at the Tropicana, which adds fuel to the desire to relax, kick-back with a martini and talk about the old days with interesting strangers of all ages.

For those who like the newest technology, the Sportsbook at the Tropicana is fully integrated with the latest interfaces available from Cantor Gaming. Simply put, you can sit by the pool and see all the odds on every option in the Sportsbook and place your bets without ever leaving your spot in the shade.

Take advantage of the seasonal room offers that TropLV.com regularly offers. Discounts of up to 20% for 30-day advance booking, VIP (quick) check-in, no change fees, a 48-hour cancellation policy and late checkout are just a few of the things the Tropicana is doing to attract new customers.

The resort recently hired 600 new service staff and under new CEO Alex Yemenidjian they are committed to giving their customers exceptional, personalized service. That means don’t hesitate to ask for room upgrades when you check-in, or ask for a Strip-view when you book. Not that you’re likely to be disappointed with a southeast-facing room. The view over the main runways of McCarren Airport against the colorful, distant mountains of the Mojave Desert is never the same twice.

One of the Best Pool Areas in Vegas

James Bond, Elvis Presley and Ann-Margaret made the Tropicana pool famous in “Diamonds Are Forever” and “Viva Las Vegas”. The huge, 4-acre pool has lost none of its fun, classy, old glitter, yet the grassy areas surrounding it seem more vibrant and alive than ever before. For those who prefer a little shade with their sun, few pools in Vegas can match the something-for-everyone appeal of the Tropicana pool. (Daybeds and cabanas are available to rent for those who plan to eat, drink and lounge all day.)

With the addition of the Nikki Beach Club, guests even have their choice of pool experience. Open to the public for a price, Nikki Beach features live DJ’s, exotic cocktails and even private, air-conditioned teepees for those who don’t want to break a sweat as they party like rock stars poolside.

Attractions and Shows

The new show “Mob Experience” at the Tropicana should not be missed for any fan of Las Vegas history. The interactive glimpse into the past features is riveting and made personal by various entertaining tour guides along the way. It features 157 different artifacts from the mob-era, including Meyer Lansky’s Medal of Freedom and Mickey Cohen’s actual living room set. Tickets are $39.99/pp and tours are catered in small groups.

For those who liked being assigned a passenger ID in the Titantic exhibit that was at the Trop up until last year, you’re ultimate fate at the end of the “Mob Experience” tour is, shall we say, also uncertain.

The Tropicana Comedy Club currently currently features funnyman Brad Garrett. Tickets are reasonably priced at $39 and $59 (plus tax). Aside from just performing up on stage, Brad also makes unexpected visits around the resort and often surprises guests while they’re checking-in.

Feel like catching “Midnight Train to Georgia” or “Heard It Through the Grapevine”? Seven-time Grammy Award winner Gladys Knight performs Tuesdays-Saturdays in the newly revamped Tropicana main theater. Tickets start at just $40. America’s Got Talent finalists Recycled Percussion also perform at the Tropicana. Or, for those in the mood for a mix of DJ’s and live music, check out the brand new, 4,000 square foot Ambhar Lounge.

Now through December 27, 2011, the Tropicana has special room and 2-for-1 show packages to see Recycled Percussion, starting at $59 during the week and $99 on week-ends. The deal also includes $10 off tickets to see Brad Garret, VIP check-in and late check-out options.

Dining

Two new restaurants at the new Tropicana cater to steak and seafood lovers and lovers of gourmet Italian food. Both restaurants are open and breezy and decorated in a classy, understated South Beach style. Biscayne features certified fresh fish and juicy cuts of premium steak. Bacio features signature salads, pasta and pizza along with an extensive and unique wine list.

Enjoy a Relaxing Breakfast on the Patio at Cafe Nikki

Steering away from the traditional buffet spread at other casinos, the Tropicana features a smaller “boutique buffet” for guests inside Cafe Nikki priced at $17.99. There’s also the still expanding South Beach Marketplace that gives guests a range of options including Starbucks, Pellegrino’s Pizza and an all new gourmet ice cream place.

Gaming & Other Amenities

There is a daily Tropicana Resort Fee of $9.99. This includes access to the Tropicana Fitness Center and free Wifi access throughout the resort. The Tropicana Spa is due to open in July 2011.

The Tropicana Players Club is currently offering their “Even the Odds” promotion. On the day new members join the Players Club, they have a $200 safe credit on their slot machine play. If you play the slots and lose on the day you join the Tropicana Players Club, the Tropicana will reimburse you up to $200 on your losses.

Note: the “Even the Odds” promotion does not apply to table games like blackjack, roulette or losses at the sportsbook, but it’s still a very attractive offer for first-time guests at the new and vastly improved Tropicana.

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