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Restaurant Week has ended but one meal is still on my mind. Sage inside CityCenter’s Aria is a real gem; it is transforming California’s freshest harvests into inspired culinary delights. [Read more] - [Read more]

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The 2010 edition of Las Vegas’ Restaurant Week has come and gone and what a week it was!  I love Restaurant Week. I love it very much.  After a week of eating some delicious food, my wallet got a hell of a lot lighter and just when I thought it wasn’t possible, somehow I got [...] - [Read more]

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Because the video is over-sized, you’ll have to continue after the jump to see and hear ELV rhapsodizing over the food at Monta, with Emmy-Award winning Denise Valdez.

ELV note: Here is the link to this article as it appears today (in somewhat truncated/adulterated/less colorful form) in the Las Vegas Weekly. Or read on if you want to make things easier (and funnier) on yourselves. ALOHA SPECIALTIES Hawaiian people eat so much white food, it’s a wonder their bowels ever move. It’s almost as if [...] - [Read more]

I had heard earlier this month that a lion attacked a trainer at The Lion Habitat at MGM Grand.  Come to find out, a tourist was shooting video when it all took place!

The attack begins off camera.  It appears the male lion decided he’d had enough of the thinner trainer.  After the initial attack, the lion and trainer are separated only for the lion to go after him again a bit later in the video.

Here’s a thought – let’s stop thinking that putting a wild animal in an unnatural environment isn’t going to eventually piss it off.

I had heard earlier this month that a lion attacked a trainer at The Lion Habitat at MGM Grand.  Come to find out, a tourist was shooting video when it all took place!

Here’s a thought – let’s stop thinking that putting a wild animal in an unnatural environment isn’t going to eventually piss it off.

This is the final part of a series about the problems that MGM Resorts International faces at CityCenter and how those problems may be impacting the important relationships they need to run their businesses. Based on fascinating new insight into operations at the various CityCenter components, we dive deep into... - [Read more]

How well do you know Las Vegas? Match your wits against the other Geo-Sleuths who swing by here every Thursday mornings.... [Read more] - [Read more]

FANTASY, the Strip’s most exciting adult revue, just got even hotter with the introduction of powerhouse vocalist and exotic beauty, Lorena Peril. In celebration of its 11th anniversary, FANTASY at Luxor reveals 17 high-energy scenes, brand new choreography, special guest performers and a singing starlet that will keep the temperature rising in Las Vegas.

Peril takes center stage alongside FANTASY’s sizzling, international cast in this engaging, intimate production great for both couples and singles alike. Every seat in Luxor’s Atrium Showroom provides up-close-and-personal views showcasing a gorgeous lineup of dancers who captivate audiences, luring them into their wildest fantasies.

“We are pleased to introduce Lorena Peril in celebration of our 11th anniversary,” said Anita Mann, producer of FANTASY. “With looks and moves like Shakira and a voice like Christina Aguilera, her fierce vocals and dynamic personality will astound audiences.”

Routines include a diverse lineup of FANTASY favorites such as “Feeling Love,” a sensual silk aerial act, “Salsa,” a spicy Latin number, and “Save a Horse,” a saucy rendition of the country hit, in addition to wildly funny comedic interludes and spot-on celebrity impersonations by Sean E. Cooper. Brand new performances include “Desnudate,” FANTASY’s opening act showcasing Peril’s Latina flair, “Hips Don’t Lie,” a flirtatious belly dance number and duet featuring Peril and Cooper, and “Lady Marmalade,” an upbeat performance demonstrating Peril’s amazing vocals.

FANTASY was created and re-choreographed by Mann in celebration of the show’s 11th anniversary. The adult revue performs nightly in the Atrium Showroom, located on the second floor inside Luxor. Tickets range from $39 to $59 for VIP seating, which includes seating in the first three rows. All tickets prices are subject to taxes and handling fees. Guests must be 18 years of age or older. For more information, guests may call the Luxor Box Office at (702) 262-4400 or visit www.Luxor.com.

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Luxor Hotel and Casino

In honor of Mexican Independence Day on September 16, Fusion Mixology Bar at The Palazzo is offering Ambhar tequila drink specials throughout September. 2010 marks the bicentennial year of Mexico’s independence and the Latin-inspired Fusion bar featuring spectacular hand-crafted cocktails with ingredients from Mexico is the best place on the Strip to celebrate. Trained mixologists use fresh fruits and the muddling technique of grinding sugar and fresh limes and lemons to create one-of-a-kind libations.

During September, the mixologists will create a special drink called “El Grito de la Independencia,” after the famous battle cry of the Mexican War of Independence. Consisting of Ambhar tequila, strawberries, lime juice, rock candy syrup and basil leaves, and topped with lemoncello foam, guests will be shouting “Viva Mexico!” after sipping this delicious drink. Fusion will also offer shots of Ambhar tequila for $7.

Fusion is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week on the casino floor near Dos Caminos.

WHERE: Fusion Mixology Bar, The Palazzo Las Vegas, 3325 Las Vegas Blvd., South

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Palazzo Resort Casino

Fall means football and this season Rock & Rita’s has winning food and drink specials to delight even the most crazed football fans. With 27 big screen televisions including two 9-foot video walls and two jumbo projector screens, Rock & Rita’s has the best seats to catch every play all season long.

Starting the first week in September, football enthusiasts will be eager to drink beer, eat grub and watch ball as Rock & Rita’s offers $4.25 draft beers served throughout the venue and 25-cent hot wings served at any of Rock & Rita’s three bars during all NFL games.

For Saturday and Sunday games, spectators can start their tailgate off right with Rock & Rita’s $6.99 football brunch menu. Guests will enjoy eggs, toast or home fries, and a choice of chorizo, sausage, bacon or ham from 10 a.m. to noon or a selection of seven delicious lunch menu items like the pulled pork sandwich, sloppy Joe or chicken Caesar wrap, served from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. for just $6.99 all weekend long.

Rock & Rita’s, the brand-new dining and entertainment venue at Circus Circus showcases an all-American menu, rock ‘n’ roll and the world’s top flair bartenders. From the same owners that made Kahunaville at Treasure Island a flair bartending phenomenon, Rock & Rita’s is set to take the flair bartending world to new heights. With food served 24-hours daily, Rock & Rita’s offers reasonably priced menu selections for breakfast from 7 a.m. until 11 a.m., lunch from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m., and dinner from 4 p.m. until 10 p.m., as well as a late night menu. For more information about Rock & Rita’s, visit www.RockandRitas.com or call 702.691.5991.

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Rock & Rita’s Information

Circus Circus Hotel and Casino

Commemorating 200 years of Mexican Independence, the fun begins with Latin singing superstar Luis Miguel as he spices things up with four nights of special holiday concerts during Mexican Independence Day week at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. One of the most successful and prolific musical artists in Latin American history, Miguel takes the stage at 9 p.m. nightly Sept. 15-18. Miguel’s string of chart-topping hits is virtually unrivaled and he has consistently broken many box office records.

Tequila lovers rejoice. The Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino is hosting the fourth annual Las Vegas Tequila Fest, Sept. 17-18. A unique tequila tasting event, sample legendary brands from renowned international labels as well as new and upcoming brands from spirits distilled in the heart of Mexico. Continuous live entertainment adds to the festive atmosphere. The event takes place in the Miranda Room on Sept. 17 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and on Sept. 18 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Guests must be 21 years of age with a valid ID. Tickets are $60 and available in-person at the Rio Box Office, by calling 702-777-7776 or visiting www.ticketmaster.com.

The celebration doesn’t end there; The Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino is also hosting the Las Vegas International Mariachi Festival on Saturday, Sept. 18 at 8:00 p.m. This historic gala commemorates 20 years as the most prestigious Mariachi event in the United States and is proud to include special guests Shaila Durcal and Antonio Aguilar Jr. along with Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán, Mariachi Sol de Mexico de José Hernández and Mariachi Los Camperos de Nati Cano The festival will take place at The Pavillion with elegant table seating available. Tickets are $75, $110, $150 and $185, available for purchase at the Rio Box Office, by calling 702-777-7776 or visiting www.ticket master.com.

Harrah’s Entertainment will also feature roving Mariachi band performances at their resort properties throughout the festive weekend for all to enjoy.

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Luis Miguel Tickets

Caesars Palace Hotel and Casino

Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino

Autumn is the perfect time to re-energize the senses and indulge in relaxation. This season Caesars Palace, Qua Baths & Spa and COLOR, a Salon by Michael Boychuck, put an emphasis on total beauty with decadent facials, wellness classes, glamorous body paint and head-to-toe pampering.

Michael Boychuck “Colorist to the Star’s” Fall Style Tip:

“Loose, soft curls will be a big hit this fall, what I call ‘wrap around curls.’ To achieve this look, start your curls from root to end, rather than the other way around. This will leave you with a carefree, beautiful bouncy look.”

Repair sun-kissed skin with the ultra-moisturizing HydraFacial at Qua Baths & Spa

The HydraFacial is an 80 -minute service that combines diamond-tip microdermabrasion, painless extractions and spot treatments, application of hydrating serums, red light therapy and a relaxing décolleté massage. The secret to this facial is a vortex tip extraction system that removes dead skin and impurities, while simultaneously delivering nutrient-rich, hydrating serums. This is the perfect facial for dry, oily, sun-damaged, aged or hyper-pigmented skin. The HydraFacial is available for men and women at $300.

Qua Baths & Spa Announces New Yoga Times and Personal Training Prices

Intended to relax your mind and re-energize your body Qua yoga classes are offered on Saturday mornings at 11:00 a.m. (there is no longer a Wednesday, 6:00 p.m. class). Led by yoga master Swami Ramananda, the 90-minute class places and emphasis on rhythmic breathing and guided meditation. Guests seeking additional activity may also enjoy Ramanada’s Water Qi Gong class, offered each Saturday at 2:00 p.m. in the Bacchus Pool, overlooking the Garden of the Gods pool oasis. Yoga and Water Qi Gong classes are available for $15 per person for each class; each class may be paired with fitness facility access for $35. Guests may experience a class and have access to the fitness room, the Roman Baths, therapy pools, steam sauna and Arctic Ice Room for $55.

Guests seeking fitness guidance during their stay, may book personal training with Qua’s certified personal trainer, Palani Young. Wellness training is offered in 30, 60 and 90 minute intervals for the rate of $55, $75 and $100 respectively. An additional person may be added to any session for $25. The fitness facility features free weights, cardio machines and state-of-the-art exercise equipment. For more information on Qua Baths & Spa at Caesars Palace visit www.quabathsandspa.com or call 866 – 782 – 0655.

Make your body a canvas this Halloween with Body Painting at COLOR Salon

For those who are seeking a unique, over-the-top look for Halloween, COLOR, a Salon by Michael Boychuck is just the place for memorable make-up and body paint. Book a session with some of the city’s most talented and award-winning make-up and body paint artists. COLOR artisans work with dozens of colors and textures and can create everything from a simple eye or face application to a full body masterpiece. Artists within the salon have created looks ranging from “Gaga Barbie,” to wild giraffes and mermaids. Prices are based on consultation. To make an appointment for body painting or consultation call COLOR at 866-730-7791.

Relax with a Mani, Pedi and Reflexology combo service for $160

Treat your feet to some extra TLC with COLOR Boutique’s new Manicure, Pedicure and Reflexology combo for just $160. The service combines the relaxing three signature services, each approximately 30 minutes. Performed in the chic Caesars Palace COLOR Boutique, this trio of services is a perfect precursor to a night on the town. To book your service at COLOR Boutique call 702-731-7297, walk-in appointments welcome.

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Caesars Palace Hotel and Casino

Replenish, revitalize and rejuvenate the skin from the harsh summer sun with special Fall services at Canyon Ranch SpaClub at The Venetian and The Palazzo. To fully restore the skin to its fully moisturized and smooth state, combine treatments for the ultimate spa getaway. Fall services at Canyon Ranch SpaClub include: Cloudberry Dream Massage This nurturing full-body massage [...] - [Read more]

WHO: Silverton Casino Lodge and the San Gennaro Feast.

WHAT: Silverton Casino Lodge is celebrating Italian heritage with the 31st annual San Gennaro Feast. Guests can enjoy six days of mouth-watering authentic Italian and international food including sausage and peppers, pizza, pasta, stuffed artichoke, zeppeloi, cannoli, roasted corn, jumbo turkey legs and much more.

Hourly performances on the main stage by talented entertainers including Tony Sacca, Lena Prima, Dick Contino and more will keep the energy flowing throughout the week with singing and dancing. To add to the excitement the entire family can enjoy games and amusement rides.

Guests can win a trip to Italy by playing their favorite casino games at the Silverton Casino Lodge during the San Gennaro Feast. Discovery Card Club members can earn one entry for every 50 base points between Sept. 14 and 19. Must be Discovery Club member and present to win. All new Discovery Card Club signups will receive $5 in Free Slot Play and 10 free entries into the drawing. See Discovery Club for complete rules and details. Membership is free. Must be 21 or older to signup. Drawing will be held Sept. 19 at 8 p.m. at the aquarium. Offer is non-transferrable and courtesy of Prestige Travel.

WHEN: Tuesday, Sept. 14 – 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Wednesday, Sept. 15 – 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Thursday, Sept. 16 – 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 17 – 4 p.m. to midnight
Saturday, Sept. 18 – 11 a.m. to midnight
Sunday, Sept. 19 – 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

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Silverton Hotel & Casino

Lolita’s Cantina & Tequila Bar, which recently opened within Town Square at 6605 Las Vegas Boulevard South, announces the debut of Lolita’s Funhouse. During the day, Lolita’s is home to a contemporary Mexican restaurant featuring handcrafted, regional cuisine. After the sun sets, put on your dancing shoes as Lolita’s Cantina & Tequila Bar transforms into [...] - [Read more]

Stratosphere Casino, Hotel & Tower brings back Pro Football Headquarters for the second year in a row to score big with football fans. What did football fans do before Pro Football HQ at Stratosphere? Luckily, there’s no need to look back, as the “Best Sunday Football Experience in Vegas” gears up to kick off the new season. Beginning September 12, 2010 and running throughout the playoffs in January 2011, the Stratosphere Showroom will be transformed every Sunday into what has been called the “Best Kept Secret on The Strip.”

Boasting nine 9′ x 12′ big screens in a theater setting, this 7,776 sq. ft., smoke-free showroom elevates the experience to the next level; putting fans exactly where they want to be – in the middle of all the action. “It’s like tailgating in a theater surrounded by nine huge screens with unobstructed views,” said Ed Malinowski, Director of Race & Sports/Poker. Throughout the season, enjoy free admission, live Blackjack tables featuring beautiful entertainment dealers, and four live betting stations dedicated to football bettors. “There’s nothing else like it on the Strip. Just ask the sports fans and bettors who enjoyed Super Bowl and March Madness in our showroom or those who have come here from other football showrooms. Once you experience Pro Football HQ at Stratosphere, you won’t want to watch anywhere else,” added Malinowski.

Of course, no matter how their favorite team is doing, there are folks who are just as concerned – if not more – about their fantasy football team. Fantasy Football die-hards; Pro Football HQ has got you covered, too – set up your laptops, view updates and keep tabs on the competition.

Savor Jalapeño Beer Brats with sautéed peppers and onions, BBQ Pulled Pork Ciabatta, Buffalo Chicken Wings and Build-Your-Own Baked Potato Bar—all only $2 each. Quench your thirst with $5 pitchers of Bud Light, delivered to your table by Cheerleader Cocktail Servers in the only showroom on the Strip to offer table seating. That beats cramped theater-style seats any day. Plus, free T-shirts will be given to the first 500 guests every Sunday while supplies last.

Showroom doors open at 9 a.m. every Sunday beginning September 12 at Stratosphere Casino, Hotel & Tower to maximize your football viewing and betting experience. Pro Football HQ is in the Stratosphere Theater of the Stars showroom, located one level above the casino floor. Go up the escalator across from Roxy’s Diner.

About Stratosphere
Stratosphere Casino, Hotel & Tower is a Las Vegas Strip resort with an 80,000 square foot casino. The 1,149 foot Stratosphere Tower is the tallest free standing observation tower in the United States, featuring the Top of the World restaurant and highest view of the Las Vegas Strip from the Observation Deck as well as SkyJump Las Vegas and thrill rides Big Shot, X-Scream and Insanity. Known as a great value to gamblers, Stratosphere is located close to the Convention Center at the gateway to downtown Las Vegas. It features 2,427 guest rooms and suites, uniquely themed restaurants, the Tower Shops and the American Superstars™ and BITE® shows. Additionally, Stratosphere’s ace | PLAY™ program allows players to enjoy awards, comps and exclusives based on their loyalty to American Casino & Entertainment’s four properties: Stratosphere Casino, Hotel &Tower on the Las Vegas Strip, Aquarius Casino Resort in Laughlin, Nevada, and two Arizona Charlie’s locations in Las Vegas. For more information, visit StratosphereHotel.com, call 702-380-7777 or 800-99-TOWER (998-6937).

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Stratosphere Casino Hotel and Tower

It’s time to party before starting those papers, and booze before opening those books. Summer is slowly coming to an end and it’s time for new notebooks, new professors and hoards of homework – but not before one last hoorah. Rockhouse invites revelers to ring in “Another Effen School Year” Monday, September 20.

Vegas’ only ultra-dive bar bleeds red and black, and will let its true colors show with back-to-school specials for UNLV students. Runnin’ Rebels with college ID will enjoy free cover all night long along with $5 you-call-it Effen cocktails and shots as they party one last time before buckling down with their course load. Those that really want to party hearty can take advantage of Rockhouse’s “student special,” with bottle service starting at $100.

Day or night, it’s always the right time to party at Rockhouse. Whether people watching on the rowdy Strip-side patio by day, or dancing on the bar with an 80-ounce guitar by night, the ultra dive bar is one of Vegas’ best-kept secrets. Rockhouse will give partygoers the ultimate nightlife experience – minus the “VIP” attitude. With a knockout lineup of gorgeous bartenders, bottle service that won’t break the bank, a walk-away daiquiri bar and casual dress code, Rockhouse is definite must-visit hotspot for locals and tourists alike.

Blending a local dive bar with the glamour of Sin City’s party scene at a convenient center Strip location, Rockhouse is the top party destination on the Strip. Las Vegas’ only ultra dive bar features top-notch lighting and sound with the best DJs in Las Vegas blending upbeat rock, hip-hop and dance. With beautiful bartenders pouring drinks from the bar tops, playing in the giant bird cage and dangling from tire swings suspended from the ceiling, Rockhouse is the spot where the party never stops. Rockhouse is located on Las Vegas Blvd. in front of Imperial Palace, directly across from Caesars Palace in the middle of the Las Vegas Strip. The daiquiri and main bar open daily at 10 a.m. and the adjacent nightclub is open from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. nightly. For more information visit www.therockhousebar.com, and for bottle and table reservations call 702.731.9683 or email info@therockhousebar.com.