Lewis Black | fave pizza places | fantasy draft parties | Bobby Flay
PRIMM VALLEY CASINO RESORTS IS
GERARDO ORTIZ
With four No. 1 albums, Regional Mexico singer Gerardo Ortiz has ridden a tremendous wave of success to become the contemporary “King of Corrido”.
AUGUST 17
ROCK LEGENDS REVISITED
A TRIBUTE FEST TO Bon Jovi • Eagles & Linda Ronstadt Journey • Stevie Nicks & Fleetwood Mac
AUGUST 31
LOS HURACANES DEL NORTE
Los Huracanes del Norte have established themselves as one of the most popular Norteño groups in the genre.
SEPTEMBER 7
I LOVE THE 90’S
Oh, snap! The I Love the 90’s Tour pulled out all the stops to put together a list of hitmakers that speaks for itself: Vanilla Ice, Tone Loc, Young MC, C&C Music Factory, and more!
SEPTEMBER 21
JUST SOUTH OF VEGAS I-15
Located on the Lower Level
Cover Feature
Vegas Prime Magazine Editor-in-Chief
Don Chareunsy’s top to-do picks while you’re in Las Vegas.
Prime Picks
Our recommendations for the best pizza in Las Vegas and the places to host Fantasy Football draft parties.
Hometown heroes The Killers begin 10 shows at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace in celebration of the 20th anniversary of their debut album “Hot Fuss.”
Attractions
The Rita Deanin Abbey Art Museum, Cabinet of Curiosities, Immersive Exhibitions, Selfie Studio and hiking at Lake Mead.
Dine
Sugar Ray, Tonic, Vertical Horizon + The Rembrandts. Also: SaadiQ, Carlos Mencia, Sebastian Bach + Cory Harwell.
Celebrity Spotlight
Dancer Jennifer Romas talks about her career from the beginning to now. Sexxy!
Lewis Black is at The Venetian, Rick Springfield + Richard Marx at The Palms, Howard Jones, ABC and Haircut 100 at Virgin Hotels and Alan Parsons Live Project at The Smith Center.
Brassie B by Bobby Flay, Palate in The Arts District and Executive Chef Sterling Buckley, Hakkasan’s new menu items and Spritz Life at Eataly.
Health + Wellness
Stay fit through a very hot Las Vegas summer with these indoor sports.
The Last Word
Vegas Prime Whispers: Celebrity and Las Vegas gossip and sightings. Ssshhh!
JAMAL M. PARKER Publisher
DON CHAREUNSY Editor-in-Chief
ARTURO PERALTA Art Director
BRIANNA KOURETAS Senior Account Manager
DANIEL HOWARD Account Executive
MICHAEL URIARTE Account Executive and Events
Editor's Letter
As two weeks of the Summer Olympics wrap up in Paris, France, it’s time to turn our attention to another sport – the NFL and our Las Vegas Raiders – and back to The Entertainment Capital of the World, where our hometown heroes The Killers kick off 10 sold-out performers at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. And there is Bobby Flay’s nearby French restaurant Brasserie B for new dining in town.
It’s a news season for The Raiders, and we’re rooting for the gridiron team and its coaches, players and organization once again. We’re ready for some football at Allegiant Stadium! I’ve been fortunate to see The Killers live multiple times in Las Vegas, and my fanaticism is intact. I’m “Human,” after all. Meanwhile, the Meyer Lemon Margarita at Brasserie B is one of this summer’s cocktail obsessions. Thanks, Bobby.
Speaking of food, our Time to Dine options in this issue of Vegas Prime Magazine are the fabulous new Palate in The Arts District with owners
Rudy Aguas and Marisa Martino and Executive Chef Sterling Buckley; Hakkasan Restaurant and its new menu items at MGM Grand; and Spritz Life and its nearly 20 iterations of the Aperol Spritz at Eataly in Park MGM. Yes, 20!
Also in this issue of Vegas Prime Magazine: Our favorite places for pizza and hosting a Fantasy Football draft party; That’s Hot! (our picks for the can’t-miss); Celebrity Takeover by dancer and all-around badass Jennifer Romas; Sugar Ray, SaadiQ, Cory Harwell, Lewis Black, Rick Springfield and Howard Jones; Rita Deanin Abbey Art Museum, Cabinet of Curiosities and Selfie Studio; hiking and The Last Word; and more.
Vegas Prime Magazine loves Las Vegas, so let’s make it a killer time and raid the dining room at Brasserie B – OK, this wasn’t my best one. Be good people (thanks, James A. Janisse).
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Vegas Prime Magazine
OUR FAVORITE THINGS VegasPrime.com
LAS VEGAS RAIDERS Raiders.com
Are you ready for some football? The 2024-2025 NFL season is just around the corner (yes, we’re in preseason now), and Vegas Prime Magazine can’t wait to see what’s in store at Allegiant Stadium for the Las Vegas Raiders, new Head Coach Antonio Pierce and Quarterback Aidan O’Connell.
Vegas Prime Magazine has created lists of our favorites in Las Vegas, from burgers, doughnuts, dim sum, buffets and headliner shows to tacos, beer pubs, fried chicken and pizza. We want you to have the best experience while in The Entertainment Capital of the World!
MUSIC, MUSIC + MORE MUSIC
We have the details of the jam-packed musical lineup in Las Vegas: The Killers at The Colosseum, Rick Springfield and Richard Marx at Pearl Concert Theater, Alan Parsons Live Project at The Smith Center, Howard Jones, ABC and Haircut 100 at Virgin Hotels and more. And for comedy, there’s Lewis Black at The Venetian.
RITA DEANIN ABBEY ART MUSEUM RitaDeaninAbbeyMuseum.org
An under-heralded gem in Centennial Hills, The Rita Deanin Abbey Art Museum is a vast and glorious collection of artworks. The late Las Vegas artist’s widower, Dr. Robert Belliveau, died on July 3, and Vegas Prime Magazine is beginning coverage of the museum and its legacy.
HOT!
THE STEAKHOUSE ISSUE VegasPrime.com
We featured 50 of our favorite steakhouses in Las Vegas in the July 14 issue of Vegas Prime Magazine. Our six Prime Picks: Bavette’s Steakhouse, Bazaar Meat by Jose Andres, Carversteak, The Steakhouse at Circus Circus, Papi Steak and Scotch 80 Prime. So many awesome steaks, so little time!
‘LADY LIKE’ VirginHotelsLV.com
“Lady Like – A Retro Modern Burlesque Show” at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas debuted last October, was created by Jaimee Gallego and Summer Soltis, stars Maren Wade and celebrated 100 shows on July 26. “Lady Like” features the glitz and glamour of the 1950s and 1960s mixed with modern-day humor and choreography. 9 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays.
By Don Chareunsy Editor-in-Chief
| Vegas Prime Magazine THAT’S
Courtesy Photos
Here are
Vegas Prime Magazine's
00 Pie & Pub
DoubleZeroPie.com
Chef Michael Vakneen’s Double Zero Pie & Pub in Chinatown recently celebrated its first anniversary and being named to the 50 Top Pizza USA list. Must-order pies: margherita, pepperoni, funghi and salami rosa. Also: 00 Spritz, Wagyu carpaccio, scallop crudo, insalada verde (with anchovies) and deconstructed cannoli. All delicious.
Evel Pie
EvelPie.com
A pizza spot in the heart of Downtown Las Vegas that pays tribute to the iconic Evel Knievel, with memorabilia and a rock-and-roll ambience. Evel Pie serves old-school New York-style pizza – whole pies or by the slice. Evel Pie also has a full bar and offers inexpensive beers.
Good Pie GoodPie.com
Between the garlic knots and craft cocktails, Good Pie on Main Street is the pizza outpost we all need. This Brooklyn-style spot headed by Chef Vincent Rotolo has been serving up every classic pie type since 2018. The Grandma Pie, topped with gorgeous ricotta flowers plopped across the cheese, is one taste treat among many.
Metro Pizza MetroPizza.com
A Las Vegas staple for many decades on Tropicana and in Henderson. Although Metro Pizza has larger dining rooms than most pizza places, you still get a homegrown New York-style pie and ambience that are incredible. Must-order: The New Yorkstyle plain cheese pizza. A classic from childhood.
Prime Picks for pizza in Las Vegas:
Northside Nathan’s Detroit Pizza NorthsideNathansLV.com
Detroit style in Las Vegas! If you’ve ever had Detroit-style pizza, you know what we’re talking about: focaccia style, square-pan pizza with caramelized edges. Crispy wings and a Midwest ambience make this place at 7531 W. Lake Mead Blvd. a no-frills go-to.
Secret Pizza SecretPizzaLV.com
This hidden gem at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas always hits the spot. New York-style pizza – from white pie to a hearty combo, there is something for everyone. Finding it, though, that’s an adventure. A little hint: It’s on the third floor. Another little hint: Look for Blue Ribbon Sushi.
Side Piece Pizza SidePiecePizza.com
Side Piece Pizza is New York and Sicilian styles in the food court at Red Rock Resort. By the slice or takeout, Side Piece is one of the best pizzas on the westside, as we’re fans of Chef Carlos Guerrero. And there are worse things to do than go to Nielsen’s Frozen Custard next to Side Piece afterwards.
Courtesy Photo
Photo by Eugene Dela Cruz/Oneseven Agency
Blasts From the Past
Sixwire, Sugar Ray, Tonic, Vertical Horizon and The Rembrandts take over Sammy’s Island
The All-Star Jam Featuring Sixwire, at Sammy’s Island at Palms Casino Resort on July 20, was a hot, humid, super-fun and free outdoor concert evening headlined by Nashville band Sixwire.
Sixwire’s guests were The Rembrandts (“I’ll Be There for You”), Emerson Hart of Tonic (“If You Could Only See”), Mark McGrath of Sugar Ray (“Every Morning,” “Someday,” “Fly,” “When It’s Over”) and Matt Scannell of Vertical Horizon (“Everything You Want,” “Best I Ever Had”).
The crowd was sparse, mostly likely due to the excessive heat weather, but the fans were appreciative of the acts, who performed their hits as well as covers by The Cure, Fleetwood Mac and others. Hart dined at nearby La Popular post-concert.
Upcoming free concerts at Sammy’s Island: The Eagles tribute band Hotel California (Aug. 23) and UnZepped, a unique tribute to Led Zeppelin with a moody, atmospheric twist (Aug. 24). Grammy-winning reggae fusion artist Shaggy headlined on Aug. 2.
Credit: Denise Truscello
R&B and B-sides Only
SaadiQ Wednesdays has launched at Hakkasan Nightclub at MGM Grand
SaadiQ Wednesdays, the R&B and B-sides only party, has launched at The Studio inside Hakkasan Nightclub at MGM Grand.
The party, which began in 2019 through a collaboration between Made Nightlife and Tao Group Hospitality, makes its way to Las Vegas from L.A., where it has drawn a star-studded guest list including LeBron James, Sharon Stone, Travis Scott, Drake and others.
SaadiQ has also hosted pop-up parties at major events such as Art Basel in Miami and Paris Fashion Week in France.
Now, SaadiQ, aka as American singer-songwriter Raphael Saadiq, has teamed up with Las Vegas legend DJ Franzen to bring this residency to The Studio at Hakkasan. | TaoGroup.com Courtesy Photos
Laugh Out Loud
Carlos Mencia kicks off Stars of Comedy residency at Harrah’s Las Vegas
Legendary comedian and actor Carlos Mencia officially kicked off his brandnew residency with Stars of Comedy, the series at Harrah’s Showroom at Harrah’s Las Vegas.
Known for hosting Comedy Central’s “Mind of Mencia,” starring in the feature film “The Heartbreak Kid” with Ben Stiller and touring at comedy clubs across the U.S., Mencia offers fearless humor and standup routines delivered with razor-sharp wit.
Mencia’s headline performances at Harrah’s every Sunday and Monday deliver non-stop laughs and unforgettable moments, making them a must-see engagement for locals and visitors alike.
Stars of Comedy, presented by Pompey Entertainment, also features an ever-changing lineup of guest comedians and surprise performers.
Upcoming in Stars of Comedy: Jeremy Piven from Nov. 1-2 and Paul Zerdin from Nov. 21-23.
StarsofComedy.com
Rock On
Sebastian Bach takes over Fremont Street Experience’s Downtown Rocks
Rocker Sebastian Bach took over the six-block entertainment district Fremont Street Experience in Downtown Las Vegas as the latest headliner in the continuing free concert series Downtown Rocks on July 20.
Bach, widely known as the former frontman of Skid Row, took 1980s rock fans on a journey back in time with his hits including “By Your Side,” “Everybody Bleeds” and “What Do I Got To Lose?”
Fremont Street Experience’s Downtown Rocks free concert series continues Aug. 31 with rock artist Common Kings on the Third Street Stage beginning at 9 p.m.
More: VegasExperience.com.
Key to the City
Carson Kitchen founder Cory Harwell receives honor from Mayor Goodman
Cory Harwell, founder of Carson Kitchen, received a Key to the City from Mayor Carolyn Goodman on July 24 in recognition of his impactful contributions to the city and Downtown Las Vegas culinary scene.
Since opening in 2014, Carson Kitchen (124 S. Sixth St.) has stood as a dining experience cornerstone in downtown and has been a pivotal force in transforming the culinary scene as one of downtown’s first destination restaurants.
“This is so longtime coming to you as you’ve been so instrumental in helping us revitalize the beautiful Downtown Las Vegas, our historical and now culinary center,” Mayor Goodman said.
“This is home for me; I’m 26 years in Las Vegas. It is such an honor to be given this and to understand the impact Carson Kitchen has had on Downtown Las Vegas and Las Vegas as a whole. I thank all my staff here,” Harwell said.
Founded by Harwell in partnership with celebrity chef and his dear friend, the late Chef Kerry Simon, Carson Kitchen has garnered prestigious “best of” recognitions from Thrillist, Eater, USA Today and Culture Trip, as well as numerous mentions and appearances on TV platforms, including A&E Networks’ “Twisted Classics.”
WHERE CHAMPIONS EMERGE BUFFALO BILL HOSTS
WORLD CHAMPION SLOT TOURNAMENT SERIES
Get ready for August at Buffalo Bill’s Resort & Casino in Primm with the World Championship Slot Tournament Series. Building on the competitions in July, Buffalo Bill’s boasts one of the largest tournament arenas where champions emerge. In August don’t miss an opportunity to progress toward the $100,000 Grand Finale on New Year’s Eve. Here’s how to get in on the action in August:
Weekly excitement: $5,000 Sunday Qualifier Tournaments from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Earn 1,000 base points to enter the tournament.
The top five places qualify for the $100,000 New Year’s Eve Finale Tournament, and the top 16 participants will share $5,000 in cash and free play prizes.
Major Weekend Qualifiers: $25,000 Qualifier Tournaments from Aug. 2-4 and 23-25. Earn 3,000 base points to enter the tournaments. Earn a second-chance round by earning 30,000 same-day base points. $25,000 qualifiers pay down to the top 50 spots. More: PrimmValleyResorts.com
Romas loves the rush of being onstage
By Jennifer Romas
Dancer Jenni fer
and figuring out who I was and who I’m becoming to be a better version of me to inspire others. Life’s had its ups and downs, from being a top academic student, gymnast, athlete, instructor and dancer traveling, touring and performing all over the world doing countless TV shows and racking up career highlights.
TO SUFFERING CAREER-ALTERING INJURIES,
surgeries, divorce, eating disorders, auto-immune issues and emotional, personal, professional and financial struggles. To then finding my fire again and again to start over, start my own company, become a Las Vegas headliner and produce multiple successful shows –including “Sexxy,” “Exxcite” and “Red Velvet Burlesque” –with my face, name and brands I own and work for lit up for all to see in the greatest entertainment city in the world.
ACCOMPLISHMENT
MY BIGGEST PERSONAL
is that my parents get to share this all with me and how proud they are. There have been many times this little girl from Minnesota, who said she wanted to be a dancer one day and chose to follow that
ADVICE FROM THE START THE DREAM IS FREE, the hustle is sold separately! Find your passion and follow your dreams. There are no failures in trying. Success comes to those who don’t give up. Take all the beautiful memories, successes, obstacles and hardships so you can grow and become stronger, but don’t miss out on all the amazing things in the present or the things to come because you’re stuck in the past or focused on what didn’t work out.
BE OPEN TO CHANGE. Obstacles are really assets, and they’re not here to defeat us but to strengthen us. It’s OK not to be perfect –no one is, so embrace being imperfectly perfect and believe in you. There is only one you. That is your superpower, so never forget that. Know your worth. Learn to forgive, not for them, but for you so you can move on. You are your only competition.
dream, has rethought this lifestyle and career and many times where I have fallen, or the course has changed, but they continue to believe in me and aren’t afraid to tell it to me straight at times.
SHINING I HAVE AN UNDYING PASSION for the art of dance and music. This is how entertainers tell our stories. We are constantly putting ourselves out there to be judged, and we must constantly reinvent ourselves while trying to stay true to ourselves with honesty, integrity and hard work. We sleep, eat, breathe and dream our craft. It’s not a job; it’s a way of life. I LOVE THE RUSH OF BEING ONSTAGE, and that will never go away. That is my passion. This is when magic happens. I leave my heart on the dance floor. I am trying to still find ways and new adventures and experiences in life to fill my passion as I begin the next chapters of my personal growth and professional journey. We learn and grow every day, and I’m beyond blessed, grateful and thankful for the journey thus far, and I know I am just getting started. Stay tuned!
ALWAYS
LIFE ISN’T EASY, and it isn’t always fair, so how we learn, grow and handle things will be our greatest strength. If you feel like you’re jumping out of a plane and assembling the pieces on the way down, you’re doing it right. Jump! You’ll assemble quickly. I wear so many hats and am quite overwhelmed most of the time and have come to realize I will never be 100% ready, so trust the process and trust you will be OK.
ACHIEVEMENTS + ACCOMPLISHMENTS CREATING MY OWN COMPANY
JRR Enterprises and the trademarked brand and show “Sexxy” from the ground up gave me purpose at a time when I lost who I was and didn’t know what direction my life was taking –or if I’d ever be able to perform again after being dropped and my kneecaps shattered. I found strength I did not know I had and learned to embrace me and the beauty in growing and transitioning. I FOUND HEALING AND HELP through helping others, the support of my family, finding love and companionship and love for myself again
Credit: Steve Bagley
By Ed Condran
What’s All the
THE KILLERS CELEBRATE 20 YEARS OF DEBUT ALBUM, HEADLINE CAESARS PALACE
AUG. 14-SEPT. 1
There has never been a Las Vegas-based band on a par with The Killers. The alt-rock band led by dynamic singer-songwriter and keyboardist Brandon Flowers has enjoyed great success since forming in 2001. The Killers have sold more than 28 million albums and have filled stadiums and arenas around the world.
However, there is nothing like a hometown residency. The Killers will kick off their long-awaited run Aug. 14 at The Colosseum in Caesars Palace, and the dates continue through Sept. 1.
The Killers will mark the 20th anniversary of their exceptional debut album “Hot Fuss” by playing the album in its entirety for the first time. Such infectious, synth-driven tunes as “Smile Like You Mean It,” “Somebody Told Me,” “All These Things That I’ve Done” and The Killers’ signature song “Mr. Brightside” will be delivered.
Since there are only 11 “Hot Fuss” songs, there will be plenty of time for other material. It’ll be curious how many deep cuts The Killers will render. There is plenty to draw from since the band has seven albums.
The Killers, which also features guitarist Dave Keuning, bassist Mark Stoermer and drummer Ronnie Vannucci, is a dynamic live act. Flowers is adept at engaging the audience, and it’ll be a blast to experience what the gifted tunesmith waxes about during the residency.
It’s no surprise The Killers took off after forming. Lo-fi was in vogue during the turn of the century. However, there was a group of music aficionados who were clearly underserved. They craved glitzy, dramatic songs of love and loss, and The Killers have been more than happy to comply.
The band is skilled at crafting agreeable guy-longs-for girl cuts. Its winning Cure-meets-Depeche Mode-with-atouch-of Duran Duran helped the band move quickly up the chain to headlining substantial venues.
Unlike many recording artists, The Killers have never been down with the phrase “less is more.” Bigger has always been better for The Killers, who have a knack for delivering stylish, atmospheric and arena-ready tunes.
The Killers, who took their nickname from the bass drum of a fictitious band who appeared in New Order’s “Crystal” video, are one of the few larger-than-life bands on the circuit.
Each of the group’s albums has received critical acclaim and commercial success, which is difficult to pull off. The Killers have been working on a new album. However, nothing has been released since 2021’s "Pressure Machine.”
Perhaps The Killers will hit the studio after their residency and tour conclude.
SINGLES BY the
KILLERS
“Mr. Brightside”
“Somebody Told Me”
“All These Things That I’ve Done”
“Smile Like You Mean It”
“When You Were Young” (hit No. 1)
“Bones”
“Read My Mind”
“Human”
“Spaceman”
“Runaways”
“Shot at the Night”
“The Man”
“Run for Cover”
“Caution” (hit No. 1)
“My Own Soul’s Warning”
“Boy” (hit No. 1)
“Your Side of Town”
Black Is Back
Happiest angry man comic is ‘at my best when I’m angry’
By Ed Condran
Most comics don’t embark on final tours, but then most standups spend their 20s trying to find their voice as humorists. Lewis Black, who is on his “Goodbye Yeller Brick Road Tour,” which stops Aug. 16-17 at The Summit Showroom at The Venetian, isn’t like most of his peers.
Black, 75, was a playwright throughout his 20s. Black fell into standup and forged his own path by creating his own style. There is no comic that’s quite like Black, who practically froths at the mouth in the middle of his unpredictable diatribes.
Black is the happiest angry man you’ll ever meet. The comic is fueled by rage, which is evident during his hilarious rants.
“We’re living in a phenomenally well-written piece of satire,” Black said while calling from his New York City apartment. “If you saw what we’re living like in a book and it was fiction, you would have to laugh.”
Black always appears on the edge of losing it, but that anger is an energy that propels the caustic humorist.
“Having this rage is huge because that’s when I’m funniest,” Black said. “I’m at my best when I’m angry and frustrated. It connects with the audience because of their frustration.”
Black follows in a long line of iconic comics who were inspired by their anger such as George Carlin, Richard Pryor and Lenny Bruce.
“All of those guys have had such an impact on me,” Black said. “It’s fine to be angry and a comic.”
The Yale Drama School graduate insists that he’s as pleased now as he was when he was a struggling playwright in New York during the 1980s. “I’m no happier now than I was back then,” Black said.
After studying playwriting for seven years at the University of North Carolina and Yale Drama School, Black barely made ends meet. Black can’t help but look back and laugh at one missing aspect from his prestigious education.
“No one at UNC or Yale ever taught me about plot,” Black said. “It’s like teaching math to students but never having anyone in class learn about numbers.”
Like Carlin, who had hoped to become the next Danny Kaye but fell into standup, Black did comedy on the side. At midlife, Black realized that standup was his ticket out of poverty.
“I didn’t become successful until I was 40,” Black said. “It took that long to figure things out, but it’s fine.”
Grammy-winning singer-songwriters Rick Springfield and Richard Marx are bringing their “2024 Acoustic Tour” to Pearl Concert Theater at Palms Casino Resort on Aug. 17, and the co-headlining performance begins at 8 p.m.
The Two Richards
Rick Springfield and Richard Marx co-headline at Palms on Aug. 17
Over the past 40 years, Springfield has worn many hats as an entertainer and performer. The creator of some of the finest power pop of the 1980s, the singer-songwriter and musician has sold 25 million albums and scored 17 Top 40 hits, including “Jessie’s Girl,” “Don’t Talk to Strangers,” “An Affair of the Heart,” “Love Somebody” and “Human Touch.”
His acting credits include “Ricki and the Flash” opposite Meryl Streep, creepy Dr. Irving Pitlor in HBO’s “True Detective,” Lucifer on The CW’s “Supernatural,” the insane
Pastor Charles on FX’s “American Horror Story” and Dr. Noah Drake on ABC’s “General Hospital.” His new album “Automatic” is out now, his first album of all-new original material in five years.
Marx has sold more than 30 million albums, starting with his self-titled debut that went to No. 8 on the Billboard Top 200. The album spawned four Top 5 singles, including “Hold on to the Nights” and “Don’t Mean Nothing,” which earned him a Grammy nomination.
His follow-up, 1989’s “Repeat Offender,” was even more successful, hitting No. 1 and going quadruple platinum with two No. 1 singles, “Satisfied” and “Right Here Waiting.” He has since made history as the only male artist whose first seven singles reached the Top 5 on the Billboard charts.
Marx has written on a No. 1 single in each of the last four decades, an accolade previously only reached by Michael Jackson. He has written with and for numerous artists, including Barbra Streisand, Keith Urban, Kenny Rogers, Celine Dion, Chicago, Natalie Cole, Kenny Loggins, Vince Gill, Daughtry, The Tubes, Martina McBride, Lifehouse, ’N Sync, Michael Bolton, Vixen and Josh Groban.
He won a 2004 Song of the Year Grammy for co-writing Luther Vandross’s “Dance With My Father.”
Welcome to the Prog-Rock Show
Alan Parsons Live Project takes The Smith Center stage on Aug. 17
Master of progressive rock Alan Parsons and his Alan Parsons Live Project will return to The Smith Center for the Performing Arts by popular demand on Aug. 17 at 7:30 p.m. to play his hits on the band’s “Reset and Power Back On Tour.”
A Grammy Award winner and rock music legend, Parsons began his career on the engineering team at London’s Abbey Road Studios before forming The Alan Parsons Project in 1975. The act garnered acclaim for albums including “I, Robot” (1977) and “Eye in the Sky” (1982) –both certified platinum – and Top 40 hits like “Eye in the Sky,” “Time” and “Don’t Answer Me.”
Since 1999, Parsons has toured with his Alan Parsons Live Project, featuring a cast of musicians including vocalist P.J. Olsson, lead guitarist Jeff Kollman and drummer Danny Thompson.
Parsons has also released two studio albums, 1999’s “The Secret” and 2022’s “From the New World,” which include guest appearances from guitarists Steve Hackett (Genesis) and Joe Bonamassa and singers Lou Gramm (Foreigner) and Jason Mraz.
A 13-time Grammy nominee, Parsons won a Grammy for Best Immersive Audio Album in 2019 for the 35th Anniversary Edition of classic Alan Parsons Project album “Eye in the Sky.”
Parsons began his career as an assistant engineer at Abbey Road Studios, working on projects such as The Beatles’ “Abbey Road” and “Let It Be.” Following his engineering work on Pink Floyd’s “The Dark Side of the Moon,” he became one of the most sought-after names in the recording industry.
Parsons has remained a leading figure in technology ever since, blending tech with art as a recording engineer, producer and performer. “The Art & Science of Sound Recording,” his book and DVD set based on his years of expertise, is a work unlike anything else on the market.
Things Have Gotten Better
Howard Jones, ABC and Haircut 100 headline Virgin Hotels on Aug. 18
New wave and alternative pop icons Howard Jones (pictured here) and ABC have announced their onenight-only debut at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas on Aug. 18, and they’ll be joined by Haircut 100, who will be playing to North American audiences for the first time in more than 40 years with their original lineup.
Jones said: “I’m very excited to be hitting the road with my friends ABC and Haircut 100. Our audiences can look forward to some seriously top tunes night after night! Bring your celebratory selves to the party.”
ABC frontman Martin Fry stated, “ABC in the USA. Very excited to hit the road alongside Howard Jones and Haircut 100 for an electrifying summer tour across the USA! Get ready for an unforgettable musical journey as we bring the hits to stages nationwide. Let’s make memories and rock the house together!”
Haircut 100’s Nick Heyward added, “Ever since our last tour in 1982, we’ve been pining to play in North America again, so this is a dream come true for us. Come down early and get your dancing shoes on because there’s a lot of catching up to do.”
Jones’s hits include “New Song,” “Things Can Only Get Better,” “Life in One Day,” “No One Is to Blame” and “Like to Get to Know You Well.” His most recent album, “Dialogue,” was released in September 2022.
ABC’s hits include “Poison Arrow,” “The Look of Love,” “How to Be a Millionaire,” “Be Near Me” and “When Smokey Sings.” Haircut 100 is known for “Favourite Shirts (Boy Meets Girl),” “Love Plus One,” “Fantastic Day” and “Nobody’s Fool.”
A Museum of Inspiration
By Don Chareunsy
In my first visit to The Rita Deanin Abbey Art Museum in far Northwest Las Vegas, I was blown away by the late artist and UNLV professor’s talent, prolific career and diverse creations in multiple mediums. I especially loved her sculptures, and her 2-year-old museum is absolutely worth a visit for inspiration.
The Rita Deanin Abbey Art Museum honors a passionate artist who has left a magnificent legacy. The museum opened in 2022 – one year after the artist’s death – and presents a wondrous selection of art created by one woman – Rita Deanin Abbey. In the mid-1980s, Abbey and her husband, Dr. Robert Rock Belliveau, built a home, artist’s studio and sculpture garden on this 10-acre site.
In the 2010s, they undertook the construction of the 10,500-squarefoot museum, which today presents a career-spanning exhibition of Abbey’s work in all its variety – from abstract
Rita Deanin Abbey was prolific, creative and diverse in multiple mediums
expressionist paintings to figure drawings, enamels, landscapes, stained glass, murals, sculptures and more.
She worked with an enormous range of materials, techniques, styles and themes to create artworks from the delicately small to the multi-ton steel sculptures on view in the sculpture garden. Abbey said, “The infinite wonder of nature has had the greatest influence on my work. I have explored desert landscapes and have been deeply affected by rock formations, vistas, sunsets, rivers and the colors and textures of secret canyons.”
Moving to Las Vegas in 1965, Abbey served as an art professor at UNLV for more than 20 years. She retired from teaching in 1987 and devoted full time to writing and making art, including creating monumental public art installations and participating in solo and group exhibitions worldwide.
Abbey died on March 20, 2021. Belliveau, esteemed pathologist, artist and husband to Rita Deanin Abbey, died on July 3. Our next feature on the museum will focus on the couple and their legacy in Las Vegas.
HEAD OF THE CLASS
Mastering Mixology at Horseshoe offers fun, knowledge and cocktails
Photos by Jeff Ragazzo/J3creative
The Mastering Mixology masterclass led by Master Mixologist Daniel Ponsky in the speakeasy The Lock inside The Cabinet of Curiosities and The Lock at Horseshoe Las Vegas is interactive, fun and informative – and participants imbibe three cocktails.
One of which is based on the flavor profiles and ingredients of the participant’s choosing. Sign us up! Located in the lower level of Horseshoe, The Cabinet of Curiosities is a cool speakeasy-style bar, aka a bespoke lounge and bar, that is home to the secret speakeasy The Lock – and a speakeasy inside The Lock, as well. Confused yet?
In Mastering Mixology, learn how to make three cocktails, imbibe them, gain helpful knowledge about avocados, basil, torches and more and receive a souvenir apron and booklet.
Pro tip: Be certain to ask the amiable Ponsky, who is armed with the cocktail ingredients and jokes, any questions – he’s very knowledgeable – and check out that speakeasy within the hidden speakeasy. Reservations are required.
If You Go
Imagine Exhibitions offers ‘King Tut’, ‘Real Bodies’ and ‘Dino Safari’ in Las Vegas
Narrative-driven and immersiveexperiences leader Imagine
Exhibitions is offering its Las Vegas Combo Ticket with access to all three of its Las Vegas attractions: “Discovering King Tut’s Tomb” at Luxor and “Real Bodies” and “Dino Safari: A Walk Thru Adventure” at Horseshoe Las Vegas.
The Las Vegas Combo Ticket, available now and valid for redemption through Dec. 31, can be enjoyed at a guest’s leisure where they can choose to make an immersive week of it or use each ticket over the course of the year.
The Las Vegas Combo Ticket is available for locals and tourists for $70 for all three attractions.
The Las Vegas Combo Ticket takes guests through an immersive and educational journey across time, history and the human body as it features all three of Imagine’s Las Vegas attractions.
Get transported to ancient Egypt and discover one of the greatest archeological achievements that took place 100 years ago with “Discovering King Tut’s Tomb” at Luxor through the perspective of famed archaeologist Howard Carter.
Travel even farther back in time to the days of the dinosaurs at “Dino Safari: A Walk Thru Adventure” at Horseshoe Las Vegas and experience more than 30 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs as they’re presented in their natural habitats.
Then open your mind with “Real Bodies” at Horseshoe Las Vegas and learn the physiological aspects of the human body, but also the emotional experiences that are part of it all.
KingTutVegas.com
DinoSafari.com
‘The Selfie Studio: Decades Tour’ returns to Fashion Show Las Vegas
The vibrant installation “The Selfie Studio: Decades Tour” will once again bring nostalgia and Insta-worthy backdrops, allowing guests to travel through the decades, at Fashion Show Las Vegas. The time-traveling art installation kicks off Aug. 1 and continues through Aug. 27.
The complimentary nostalgic activation will allow guests to journey through the decades and capture vibrant Instagrammable photos. Partnering with the Atlanta-based NGK Agency for a second year, FSLV will be home to eight eye-catching containers featuring interactive backdrops and fun themes:
The 1950s - The Diner: The exhibit re-creates the beloved local hangout, the diner, featuring bright neon signs, chessboard flooring, retro wall art, a counter and stools, a jukebox with custom lighting and more.
The 1960s - Mellow Meadows: A lively backdrop inspired by the flower power era, Mellow Meadows allows shoppers to snap a groovy pic in front of a VW van with bright and dynamic patterns. This trendy and glittery backdrop will make shoppers feel the beat with an array of disco balls, flashy signs and more.
The 1970s - Disco Fever: This trendy and glittery backdrop will make shoppers feel the beat with an array of disco balls, flashy signs and more.
The 1980s - The Gamer: A retro wonderland with giant video game icons, vivid custom seats and neon lights, making for the ultimate gamer haven.
Back to the 1990s - The Video Store: A nostalgic video store of the 1990s welcoming guests to experience the thrill of browsing and picking movies from stacks of VHS tapes as they remember the Be Kind, Rewind sign, the video return slot and more.
The 2000s - Teenage Dream: A fetch backdrop boasting pink fur-covered walls and ceiling, custom lockers, an oversized lip seat and mirror.
The Now - Gone Viral: An interactive pop-up that will have guests reciting their fave memes as they check out the floor-toceiling photo series featuring some of the Internet’s most viral memes.
The Future: A look to a time far, far away, this space features sleek design elements, LED lighting, custom seating and more as guests are transported to the future.
The Selfie Studio will be in the Great Hall at FSLV More: FSLV.com/events.
Hiking in Lake Mead
By Todd Schacherl
Hamblin Mountain
This 7-mile loop hike goes past fossils of shells when this area was a sea, past petrified wood, near a hogback ridge (geologists will know what that is) and of course Hamblin Mountain, which is an ancient volcano that split in half. The other half is about 10 miles or so east. Hamblin has a great view of Lake Mead and Las Vegas. This hike starts at mile marker 18 on Northshore Road. The trail starts across the road from the pullout parking area.
Arizona and Gold Strike Hot Springs
Gold Strike Hot Springs is on the Nevada side while the Arizona Hot Springs are on the Arizona side of the Colorado River. Gold Strike is accessed by exiting US 11 at exit 2 and making a right at the roundabout at the end of the offramp and parking in the dirt lot to the right. The trail starts just up the hill and from the lot back where the road ends. It’s just over 5 miles to hike down to the river and back. This is a great hike for the views; the pools are usable but not the best.
The Arizona Hot Springs are located at mile marker 4 on US 93 at White Rock Canyon Trailhead. There are two routes. Following White Rock Canyon to the river and then going down river for about a quarter mile and then back up to the springs. This route is every bit of 6 miles out and back. I prefer to come down this route but not go up as it’s mostly wash and like walking on sand. Not fun going uphill.
The short route brings you to the top of the springs and is 5 miles out and back. Go to the Arizona Hot Springs if you want a good soak. There are usually four pools that range from 114 degrees in the top pool to 96 degrees at the bottom pool. Both trails are closed from May 15 to Sept. 30 due to the heat.
Fortification Hill
This is that big, black, slanted mountain on the Arizona side of Lake Mead. It’s an extinct volcano that has some of the best views of Lake Mead, the dam and Las Vegas. The challenge with this hike is that a 4x4 vehicle is necessary for the last 2 miles up the wash to the trailhead. The hike itself is about 4-5 miles round trip.
by Todd Schacherl
Photos
Seven Dry Falls
There are several kayaking opportunities, mostly in the Black Canyon area, which is the area of the Colorado River from the dam to Willow Beach. There are two options: One can hire an outfitter that will put you in just below the dam, and from there it’s 11 miles to Willow Beach. There are quite a few canyons where hot water is running down them, not to mention the Sauna Cave, which was an exploratory tunnel blasted out during the construction of Hoover Dam. Now it’s a 100-yard tunnel with really hot water. Bring a headlamp.
One can also camp at the beach where the Arizona Hot Springs are located. The one thing to pay attention to when kayaking is the wind. One would think that paddling down the Colorado River would be easy, but the winds tend to blow upstream and the river is more like a lake than a river as the current only flows about 2-3 mph. Thus, any winds can actually blow a kayaker upstream if they stop paddling. Very frustrating. Winds above 13 mph and certainly above 15 mph are going to make kayaking very difficult.
From Willow Beach, a kayaker can go about 3 miles upstream to Emerald Cave, which under the right conditions, the water glows a bright emerald green. Later in the day, around 1-3 p.m., is the best time.
Going from Willow Beach downstream about 1 mile, one can find Queho’s Cave, where Queho’s remains were found in the 1940s. Queho was Nevada’s last “Indian Renegade” and Nevada’s first serial killer. It’s claimed that he murdered at least a few people and as many as 19. It’s a great story; look it up.
Anniversary Narrows
The start of this hike is at mile marker 16 on the Northshore Road in Lake Mead. It’s about 2 miles to the narrows through a mining area. Yes, there are mines you can check out, but be safe. The slot canyon itself is about a quarter mile long. This is one of the most spectacular slot canyons in the Lake Mead area.
Bowl of Fire
This is an area of red rocks that is accessible from the trailhead near mile marker 20 on Northshore Road. There are several hikes, including Raven’s Balcony which goes to the giant red rock wall at the back of the bowl and offers stunning views of the whole bowl as well as Lake Mead.
Where to Connect
Finding people for hiking is easier than one might think. Meetup.com, and specifically Meetup.com/VegasHikers, is a great resource to join hikes with folks who know where they are going. There are more than 27,000 members with events of varying degrees of skill levels and multiple events daily. It’s the most active group on Meetup.com. Activities include hiking, scrambling, backpacking, camping, kayaking, canyoneering and climbing. Oh, and it’s free. Just sign up.
Monsieur Flay en Français
Celebrity chef offers French fare at bright brasserie in Caesars Palace
Brasserie B by Bobby Flay in Caesars Palace, the latest restaurant by the celebrity chef at the Las Vegas Strip property following in the footsteps of the now-closed Mesa Grill and its successor Amalfi Coast, soft opened in December and celebrated a grand opening during Super Bowl weekend in February, in the former home of Old Homestead.
The bright, classic and open brasserie design of Brasserie B by Bobby Flay is a complete overhaul of the former old school steakhouse, and one can’t help but get swept up in the casual chic ambience and design. Oh la la!
An early dinner at Brasserie B by Bobby Flay, near Nobu, Montecristo Cigar Bar and Amalfi Coast, included crispy oysters, roasted prawns, mussels, prime ribeye piquant frites, chicken brasserie, duck confit, macaroni Gruyère gratin, chocolate soufflé and coffee ice cream, Meyer Lemon Margaritas and cappuccino.
Everything was excellent, including the service and main server Nabil. The standouts: the roasted prawns, duck confit, chocolate soufflé and coffee ice cream, Meyer Lemon Margaritas and cappuccino.
The crispy oysters, mussels and macaroni Gruyère gratin also were devoured. Longtime fans of Bobby Flay, we would definitely return to Brasserie B by Bobby Flay. Santé!
Credit: Caesars Entertainment
Pleasing to Your Palate
New modern American restaurant in The Arts District is an inventive gem
By Don Chareunsy
Bar-Kada Hospitality Managing Partners
Marisa Martino and Rudy Aguas opened their modern American restaurant Palate in The Arts District in Downtown Las Vegas in May boasting “colorful cuisine, local art and community.” The dynamic duo also behind Basilico in Southwest Las Vegas have hit the mark with all three.
Dinner was a home run the first night by Executive Chef Sterling Buckley, who infuses flavors that are inventive and daring – and they work. Coincidentally, Jason has been our server the three times we’ve dined at Palate, and all the staff and servers have been friendly.
Our dinner: Lady in Green, Scallops “Tiger Style,” miso pork belly, Duck Dynasty, outstanding scallops and grits, strawberry rhubarb cobbler, macaroni and cheese and cocktails including Smokin’ Section (we ordered the last one of the night), The Rose (served with a rose) and Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off. Everything was excellent.
Brunch service is delightful (don’t ignore the homemade biscuits and jams, and the fried chicken sandwich was a hit) and includes live music, on a particular Sunday a talented songstress at the piano.
The third meal at Palate, dinner again, was a focused visit for the Southern Hospitality, a large-format dinner featuring eight pieces of fried chicken, kimchi macaroni and cheese, carrots and biscuits. It was flavorful and filling comfort food for the soul, and it was worth the wait.
On certain nights, you’ll find GM Gene Belvis wearing a Patrick Nagel/Duran Duran T-shirt. Evening and weekend business has been very good, but weeknights have been quiet. The short rib has been a customer favorite, but we haven’t had a misstep at the pleasing Palate yet.
The glam royalty design, by Martino, is fabulous and luxe and features rich red and purple velvet chairs, chandeliers and local art, including by Martino’s mother. Congratulations, Palate, and bon appetit!
Credit: Daniel Howard
By Bob Barnes
Chef Sterling Buckley spent his teenage years as a musical artist performing, writing and recording music but discovered his true passion was in the kitchen pursuing culinary artistry.
After pursuing his craft and bringing his creative takes to a variety of cuisines at some of the Las Vegas Strip’s top restaurants, for the first time in his
career he has the freedom to create a menu that is 100% his own at the newly opened Palate in The Colorado building in The Arts District in Downtown Las Vegas.
Vegas Prime Magazine talked with the talented 38-year-old Le Cordon Bleu graduate to learn of his path to becoming a chef, the opening of Palate and more.
Executive Chef STERLING BUCKLEY of Palate in The Arts District
Credit: Daniel Howard
Your mother, Hazel Payne, won the Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 1979 with the group A Taste of Honey. You were on the verge of following in her footsteps and was almost a breakout singer-songwriter before becoming a chef. What led to you deciding to make culinary your career, and how did you make that happen?
Well, when I got my first taste of the restaurant industry, I instantly fell in love. I was frustrated with the fact that the music industry wanted me to be someone I was not, and at that point I was ready to move on. I made the decision to go to culinary school and get serious about food. I put my head down and worked really hard to learn whatever I could from every chef I worked with and do the things that everyone hated to do or thought was too hard.
Over your career, you’ve cooked in kitchens at topnotch eateries on The Strip such as La Cave at Wynn, Gordon Ramsay Steak at Paris and Momofuku at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. What will be different about your new executive chef position at Palate?
Palate is where I get to absolutely be myself on a plate. When you work for
celebrity chefs, sometimes you have to fit into their concept and work around the vision they set for the restaurant. Palate’s food is all my paint and canvas. The owners have allowed me to be free and have fun with the food.
You grew up with Southern influences. Are there any examples of your roots on your new menu?
Yes, I wanted to show love to the Southern table but in my special way! So, we have our biscuits of the day, which have gone from shallot confit to roasted shishito and smoked cheddar to scallion and Pecorino Romano. Also, we have our scallops and lemongrass grits with chorizo relish and shrimp sauce. And I’m making fresh jams and preserves that remind me of my grandmother sending us peach preserves during the summertime.
What are some of your favorite dishes on your menu?
You can’t pick a favorite child (laughs)! But if I had to choose, it would be the shrimp gnocchi with local Desert Moon mushrooms, chili espuma, xo-frito, lobster truffle and chicharrones, and the miso pork belly with crispy maitake mushrooms, smoked pearl onions, watermelon radish and grilled pineapple. These two dishes really explain me as a chef. | PalateLV.com
New Culinary Offerings
Hakkasan, Luchini, Chez Bippy + Beauty & Essex offer menu additions
Hakkasan Restaurant, a Las Vegas favorite alongside its adjoining nightclub since opening in 2013 at MGM Grand, has debuted new seasonal dishes, including a Golden Iberico Char Siu Bao, Grilled Wagyu Loin and Wok Fried Chicken with Walnut. They’re beautifully plated and absolutely delicious.
For a true Hakkasan experience, indulge in one of three signature menus: the Dragon, Lotus and Phoenix offerings, which range in price from $108 to $198 per person and include the option of a wine pairing addon. These menus feature several of the new dishes.
Don’t forget the creative cocktails and decadent desserts. Hakkasan set a new standard in dining and nightlife when it opened more than a decade ago, and it remains firmly perched at the top – in terms of customer service, as well.
Also at other Tao Group Hospitality restaurants:
Luchini + Chez Bippy at MGM Grand
The Pasta Affair takes over Luchini each Thursday starting at 9 p.m. (it kicked off on July 11). The pre-speakeasy, pre-nightclub dining experience features a DJ to get things started and a pasta flight featuring three of the Italian restaurant’s most popular dishes –rigatoni al pesto, regginette alfredo and penne alla rosa – designed to share for $59.
Continue the evening at Chez Bippy, hidden inside Luchini, with Whisper Thursdays featuring music and handcrafted cocktails, playful and alluring libations that are New York-inspired and eye-catching. New York Minute is served in a ceramic “to-go” cup. It has Bulleit Rye Whiskey, hazelnut, cynar, demerara, cocoa and espresso and is garnished with a lady finger cookie.
Lip Service features a presentation where the cocktail (Grey Goose Vodka, pamplemousse, white peach and lemon) is served with a tall, etched ice cube. A server pours a Berry Rosé compote into the etched ice to reveal a set of lips.
Beauty & Essex at The Cosmopolitan
At Beauty & Essex, the inspiration for the new cocktail menu was to echo the theme of dining inside a jewelry box, with some named after precious stones and jewelry such as Jade, Mother of Pearl and Ring of Fire.
In an Instant is a tequila cocktail with Cincoro Tequila, a “buzz button” (spilanthes) liqueur that gives your mouth a tingly, slightly numbing sensation, watermelon and lime. It’s served in a camera lens; when you order it from the bar, they’ll take your picture and garnish the drink with it.
Another perfect sip for summer is Rose Gold, a mango-infused Aperol Spritz with lemon, grapefruit soda and prosecco. More: TaoGroup.com
Puttin’ on the Spritz
Aperitivo program ‘Spritz Life’ is available at Eataly Las Vegas through September
Eataly Las Vegas at Park MGM is offering “Spritz Life,” a collection of 19 spritz variations at its restaurants and bars featuring their own collection of spritzes, encouraging guests to explore Eataly and discover the variety of summer sips.
“Spritz Life” at Eataly features traditional presentations such as the iconic Aperol Spritz as well as cleverly crafted twists showcasing Italian liqueurs such as Ramazzotti, Pallini and Italicus, non-alcoholic options and more. The cocktails are available at La Pizza & La Pasta, Gran Caffé Milano, L’Aperitivo Bar and Toscana Ristorante & Bar.
LA PIZZA & LA PASTA:
There is nothing like dining all’aperto (outdoors) and enjoying a spritz in the warm weather.
•Pallini Spritz: Choice of Limoncello, Raspicello or Peachcello, Prosecco, Fever Tree Club Soda ($18)
•Pompello: Casamigos Blanco, Ruby Grapefruit Syrup, Lemon, Fever Tree Grapefruit Soda, Prosecco ($19)
•Ibisco: Botanist Gin, Starlino Rosa, Hibiscus Syrup, Sparkling Rosato, Lemon ($19)
•Regina Rosa: Crown Royal Peach, Aperol, Lemon, Sparkling Rosato ($19)
Courtesy of Eataly Las Vegas
TOSCANA RISTORANTE & BAR:
Unwind in Toscana Ristorante & Bar with spritz offerings created to pair with the traditional Tuscan fare.
•Donna: Sipsmith Strawberry Smash Gin, Borgogno Vermouth, Lemon, Fever Tree Elderflower Tonic, Sparkling Rosato ($22)
•Monarca: Remy VSOP, Pallini Limoncello, Lambrusco, Lemon ($23)
•Citronella: Grey Goose Essences
Strawberry and Lemongrass, Italicus, Lemon, Moscato d’Asti ($21)
•Giallo: Casamigos Blanco, Midori, Pineapple Juice, Pineapple Mint Syrup, Lime, Prosecco ($23)
GRAN CAFFÉ MILANO BAR
:
Upscale Italian bar showcasing specialty cocktails, Italian wines by the glass and bottle and traditional Italian flair.
•G&Spritz: Malfy Rosa Gin, Lemon, Moscato d’Asti, Fever Tree Elderflower Tonic ($19)
•Botanico: The Botanist Gin, Ramazzotti Rosa, Grapefruit Juice, Fever Tree Cucumber Tonic ($19)
•Frangolina: Grey Goose Essences
Strawberry and Lemongrass, Borgogno
Vermouth, Lemon, Moscato d’Asti, Feve Tree Club Soda ($21)
•Emilia: Remy VSOP, Rosa Amara Amaro, Orange, Fever Tree Club Soda, Lambrusco ($23)
L’APERITIVO BAR:
Nestled within Eataly’s Cucina del Mercato sits L’Aperitivo Bar. Wander more than a dozen authentic Italian eateries and counters to discover this intimate wine and cocktail bar.
•Azure: Botanist Gin, Blueberry Syrup, Prosecco, Lemon ($19)
•Melone: Grey Goose Essences Watermelon & Basil, Moscato d’Asti, Watermelon Juice, Lime ($20)
•Limone: Don Julio Blanco, Pallini
Limoncello, Luxardo Maraschino, Lemon, Prosecco ($19)
•Bella Rosa: Remy Martin VSOP, Ramazzotti Rosa, Hibiscus Syrup, Lemon, Fever Tree Club Soda, Sparkling Rosato ($21)
NON-ALCOHOLIC SPRITZ OPTIONS:
•Eatalian Spritz: Lyre’s Italian Spritz, La Gioiosa Zero “Prosecco,” Lurisia Aranciata, Fever Tree Club Soda ($14)
•Limonzero Spritz: Pallini Limonzero, La Gioiosa Zero “Prosecco,” Fever Tree Club Soda ($14)
There is a possibility “Spritz Life” could be extended past September depending on the weather. Eataly Las Vegas is located inside Park MGM and can be accessed through the casino floor or from Las Vegas Boulevard. Eataly Las Vegas is open daily from 11 a.m.-11 p.m. More: Eataly.com
Stay fit through a Las Vegas summer with these indoor sports
By Jen Avison Smith
It’s August … and therefore too hot to exercise outside in Las Vegas. It’s basically too hot to go outside, and that can affect a consistent fitness regimen.
Luckily, Las Vegas contains a wealth of workout forms that live inside air-conditioned spaces and accommodate athletes of all types.
Don’t skip the workouts during these triple-degree weeks and check out these indoor ideas to keep us all fit until the fall.
SWIMMING
Fun fact: There are no indoor pools on the Las Vegas Strip. That doesn’t mean other establishments are lacking cool, refreshing pools to dive into during the summer. Enjoy gym swimming holes at Life Time or local facilities.
PICKLEBALL
Pickleball is all the rage right now. Famously an outdoor activity, some facilities have taken this ultra-trendy court sport indoors. Vegas Indoor Pickleball and Life Time Summerlin are two such spots, where fanatics can dink inside and away from the hot turf of the pickleball court.
SOCCER
A surprising number of indoor fields are in the city proper, perfect to practice and play a variety of sports. Head inside when the sun beats down on the outdoor grass and kick the ball around at sports parks up and down residential areas, mostly on the westside. Visit Indoor 5 Soccer Arena or Las Vegas Indoor Soccer for a pickup game or head up a general indoor field for sports like football or baseball.
HOCKEY
Now is the time to get into the hottest sport in Las Vegas –by lacing up those skates. Indoor ice rinks offer more than just hockey lessons and leagues. Try figure skating for a fun twist on open skating and learn some beautiful moves to keep in the repertoire for winter.
MMA
A lively summer sport is never a bad idea. Any mixed-martial arts class is guaranteed fun for all ages, and classes are held exclusively indoors. Choose from muay Thai, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, kickboxing, wrestling, boxing or judo, among others.
YOGA
Yoga is the soothing practice that helps loosen muscles and treat stiff joints while building strength and promoting relaxation. Want another challenge? Try taking a hot yoga class at a designated studio or try Hotworx for an infrared sweat session. That way, yogis get all the positives of intense heat without the sun’s glare.
TRAMPOLINE PARKS
While trampolines don’t sound like conventional workouts, moving the body for hours at a fun park is a great family activity. Take the kids – and spry adults – to bounce through courses and cool spaces covered in trampolines.
PAINTBALL
We know paintball isn’t a sport, but the physical aspect of running around and launching brightly colored pellets at friends is an undeniable thrill. Plus, visiting a paintball center is an excellent way to incorporate exercise into a birthday party or other special event. Grab several friends and make teams for this fun pastime.
ANYTHING AT ALL
No matter the physical fitness form, Las Vegas has an outlet for it, indoor or otherwise. If you or your community indulge in a workout session, tag us on @vegasprimemagazine to share the experience. Happy sweating!
LAST WORD The CELEBRITY SIGHTINGS
In honor of the late Robin Leach, Vegas Prime Magazine has reimagined his longtime Wicked Whispers & Racy Rumors as Vegas Prime Whispers – as a tip of the toque to the verymuch-missed colleague, mentor and friend.
VEGAS PRIME WHISPERS
Which latest Strip split is raising eyebrows from the fallout and accusations from one side of the couple? (So what else is new?)
Which Strip celebrity chef isn’t playing very nice with media? (So what else is new?)
Which Strip celebrity is trying to persuade her significant other to move to Las Vegas permanently?
Which Strip star and personality (two separate people) have especially scandalous side pieces? (So what else is new?)
What was the reason for the latest last-minute show cancellation on the Las Vegas Strip?
Email your Vegas Prime Whispers to editorial@vegasprime.com.
Easy Day Foundation, a nonprofit organization committed to assisting veterans as they reintegrate into society, with mental health, employment and family services, and founded by Frank Fertitta IV and Landon Gyulay, hosted an inaugural fundraiser at Red Rock Casino & Resort that raised more than $1.3 million and was attended by Drew Taggart and Alex Pall of The Chainsmokers. EDF’s partner organizations include USO, Folded Flag, Boot Campaign and UNLV’s Military and Veteran Services Center. Taggart, Fertitta, Gyulay and Pall are pictured in the photo. More: EasyDay.org
