The silver and black are back as the Las Vegas Raiders kick off the 2024-2025 NFL season at Allegiant Stadium. Also: the luxury Wynn Field Club at Allegiant.
Showtime
Vegas Prime Magazine Editor-in-Chief Don Chareunsy’s top to-do picks while you’re in Las Vegas.
Prime Picks
Our selections for where to watch NFL games this season – Go, Raiders! – and where to celebrate National Lobster Day on Sept. 25.
Photos of Carrie Underwood, Chelsea Handler, Nas + Las Vegas Philharmonic, 2024 Las Vegas Pickleball Cup + 2024 Modelo Vegas Kickoff Classic.
Celebrity Takeover
It’s Ben Carey, former Savage Garden and Lifehouse guitarist turned curator at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, and Las Vegas singer-songwriter Chadwick Johnson.
The long list this two weeks includes Keith Urban, Kacey Musgraves, Nicki Minaj, The Smashing Pumpkins, Anderson.Paak, Wu-Tang Clan, Bert Kreischer + more.
Time to Dine
Satiate your hunger and thirst at Raiders Tavern & Grill at The M Resort, the second Cider Fest at Silverton and with National Lobster Day options.
Noe Knows Vegas
Longtime and beloved culinary icon Noe Alarcon chats with longtime Chef Rick Moonen and his wife Roni Fields Moonen.
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
Editor's Letter
Three of our past four Vegas Prime Magazine cover stories have featured sports – the Las Vegas Aces at the 2024 Paris Olympics, the Modelo Vegas Kickoff Classic at Allegiant Stadium and Noche UFC 306 at Sphere –and this issue is the Las Vegas Raiders timed with the first home game of the 2024-2025 NFL season against the Carolina Panthers. Las Vegas is The Entertainment Capital of the World, a Dining Capital of the World and now a Sports Capital of the World.
To celebrate all things silver and black, Vegas Prime Magazine runs down Raiders Bar & Grill at The M Resort, with its great menu and natural lighting, and Wynn Field Club at Allegiant Stadium for a next-level, luxury experience at the home of The Raiders and many marquee events (Beyonce, Morgan Wallen, Taylor Swift).
Away from the gridiron, there are music and entertainment options aplenty these two weeks: Wu-Tang Clan at Virgin Hotels, Bert Kreischer at Resorts World, The Smashing Pumpkins at Fontainebleau, Tom Jones at Wynn Las Vegas, Kacey Musgraves at T-Mobile Arena, Nicki Minaj at MGM Grand, Anderson .Paak at Fontainebleau, REO Speedwagon at The Venetian, Sammy Hagar at Palms Casino Resort, Keith Urban at Fontainebleau – and there’s much more!
We also have two Celebrity Takeover columns this issue by guests Las Vegas sing-songwriter Chadwick Johnson and guitarist turned The Cosmopolitan curator Ben Carey; where to watch NFL games this season, celebrate National Lobster Day on Sept. 25 and attend Cider Fest at Silverton; and Noe Alarcon chats with longtime Chef Rick Moonen.
Go, Raiders!
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Vegas Prime Magazine
“MJ LIVE”
Tix4.com, MJLiveShow.com + SaharaLasVegas.com
Who’s “Bad”?! “MJ Live” at Sahara is an impressive, high-energy and super-fun, production. Jalles Franca, who alternates the lead role of Michael Jackson with Santana Jackson (no relation), sings and dances his face off and shows off his six-pack abs alongside solid dancers, and the band is equally great. A “Thriller” show!
LIV LAS VEGAS AT FONTAINEBLEAU LAS VEGAS
LivNightclub.com
Is there a stronger DJ lineup for New Year’s Eve in Las Vegas? Groot Hospitality’s Liv Las Vegas at Fontainebleau Las Vegas has announced its NYE lineup: Calvin Harris on Dec. 29, John Summit on Dec. 30 and Grammy Award winner Tiesto on Dec. 31. Wow! And plan ahead.
VEGAS PRIME PICKS
VegasPrime.com
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, late-night spots and pizza. We want you to have the best experience while in town! (click on Prime Picks in the navigation bar)
“PURPLE REIGN”
AT
PLANET HOLLYWOOD
Tix4.com, VTheater.com + PurpleReign.net
“Purple Reign,” the 75-minute Prince tribute starring Jason Tenner at V Theater in Planet Hollywood, has been entertaining audiences in Las Vegas for 27 years. Performances are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 8:30 p.m.
FREE PICKLEBALL AT PLAZA
PlazaHotelCasino.com
The Plaza Hotel & Casino in Downtown Las Vegas is offering special deals this month for Nevadans at its 13 pickleball courts, including free lessons, free open play sessions Sundays and Mondays and 50% off equipment rentals. Hours: 9 a.m.-7 p.m. daily. Parking will be validated.
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!
By
Don Chareunsy Editor-in-Chief
Go, Raiders! Touchdown!
This list is by no means comprehensive but rather picks of some of our favorites:
GENERAL ADMISSION
General Admission in The UnCommons in Southwest Las Vegas has great natural lighting, Tokyo Tots, chicken wings, miso salmon, solid desserts (including churros) and more. GeneralAdmissionLV.com
FLANKER
You know Flanker offers great ambience, food and drinks at Mandalay Bay because it’s by Carver Road Hospitality, the same group behind the top-notch Carversteak at Resorts World. FlankerLV.com
BEER PARK
The rooftop Beer Park at Paris offers the ultimate viewing experience with more than 75 HDTVs, craft beers, cocktails and bites like Shaq’s Big Chicken Sandwich. BeerPark.com
SAPPHIRE LAS VEGAS GENTLEMEN’S CLUB
“MNF” is celebrated every Monday with $25 tickets for two drink tickets, catered tailgatestyle buffet, 100 Sapphire “cheerleaders” and endless raffles and prizes.
SapphireLasVegas.com
WSKY STADIUM
WSKY Stadium, appropriately across from Allegiant Stadium, has 24/7 food, drinks and gaming, more than 40 TVs, 80+ whiskies and 22 beers on tap. Touchdown! WSKYStadium.com
EL DORADO CANTINA
Chips and salsa (request the habanero), guacamole, pozole, tostada salad, tacos, fajitas and margaritas, of course, at three locations. ElDoradoCantina.com
ATOMIC GOLF | BORN AND RAISED | CAESARS PALACE | CIRCA RESORT & CASINO | DAWG HOUSE SALOON & SPORTS BOOK | THE GEORGE SPORTSMEN’S LOUNGE | PT’S TAVERNS | STONEY’S NORTH FORTY | TAILGATE SOCIAL | THE TAVERN | TOPGOLF | THE VENETIAN
Check out the full list at VegasPrime.com
AXS.com/CarrieInVegas
Carrie Underwood Wraps Her Summer Run at Resorts World
Over the weekend of Aug. 23, eight-time Grammy Award winner and country music superstar Carrie Underwood brought down the house at Resorts World Theatre at Resorts World Las Vegas with a sizzling performance of her headlining production “Reflection: The Las Vegas Residency.”
Closing out her summer run on Aug. 24, the theater’s first and longest-running resident will return for six shows in October, marking her remaining performances of the year, before returning to Las Vegas in March for a recently announced six-show run. Tickets for all performances are on sale now.
On Aug. 23, Underwood made a surprise appearance at Dawg House Saloon at Resorts World as part of a joint event with SiriusXM and The Highway Music Row Happy Hour and Carrie’s Country.
Broadcasted live on both channels simultaneously, the event featured a ticket giveaway to six of Underwood’s fans, treating them to a front-row experience of her show.
Fans can catch Underwood starring in the show open for NBC’s “Sunday Night Football” for the 12th consecutive season beginning Sept. 8 filmed at and around Resorts World Theatre.
Remaining 2024 dates are Oct. 16, 18-19, 23 and 25-26. The just-announced 2025 dates are March 26 and 28-29 and April 2 and 4-5. Tickets for all upcoming performances are on sale now.
Credit: Jeff Johnson
CosmopolitanLasVegas.com
Chelsea Handler Launches Historic Residency ‘Chelsea at The Chelsea’ at The
Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas
During Labor Day weekend on Sept. 1, Chelsea Handler, the Grammy-nominated comedienne, TV host, six-time bestselling author and advocate, made history with the debut of her Las Vegas residency “Chelsea at The Chelsea,” the first female comic residency at The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.
To the delight of her audience on opening night Sunday, Handler made a grand entrance on stage flanked by two dancers from Excalibur headliners Thunder From Down Under.
Before the show, Handler surprised guests at CliQue Bar & Lounge at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas by making a specialty cocktail in honor of her residency.
The drink, aptly named “Chelsea’s Cocktail,” features a mix of some of her favorite ingredients: Tanqueray Gin, champagne, lemon syrup and simple syrup and garnished with a lemon twist. The cocktail will be available throughout the duration of Handler’s residency into next April.
Post-opening night show, Handler, dressed in black, posed for photographs with audience members at the foot of the stage.
As previously announced, Handler will donate $1 of every ticket purchased to “Chelsea at The Chelsea” back to The Animal Foundation, Nevada’s largest open admission shelter.
Credit: Denise Truscello
Nas Performs Sold-Out ‘Illmatic’ Debut With Las Vegas Philharmonic at Wynn Las Vegas
Grammy-winning rap icon Nas made his groundbreaking venue debut at Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas with the Las Vegas Philharmonic on Aug. 29.
Kicking off Labor Day weekend with a thrilling first-ever collaboration, Nas and the Philharmonic took over the intimate venue for a showstopping, sold-out performance of his globally acclaimed debut album “Illmatic,” celebrating the 30th anniversary of what Billboard has proclaimed the “No. 1 rap album of all time.”
Throughout the performance, Nas married his iconic lyrics with the incomparable instrumental talents of the Las Vegas Philharmonic, presenting an unparalleled evening of live music for hip-hop and classical music fans at Encore Theater.
“Nas With the Las Vegas Philharmonic”returned to the stage on Aug. 31 and Sept. 1. Three more dates have been announced: Feb. 5, 7 and 8. More: WynnLasVegas.com.
Timeless poet and rhyme-master Nas delivered his first full-length album “Illmatic” in 1994. Nas went on to release 14 subsequent albums, eight of which are multiplatinum and platinum, including “Nastradamus,” “Stillmatic,” “God’s Son” and “Street’s Disciple.”
With 16 Grammy nominations, Nas released “King’s Disease” in 2020, giving Nas his first Grammy for Best Rap Album, and released “King’s Disease II,” a sequel to the Grammywinning album produced by Nas and Hit-Boy.
Most recently, Nas released the third installment of the “King’s Disease” series. With no features, “King’s Disease III” was produced by Hit-Boy and executive produced by Nas and Hit-Boy.
Nas and Hit-Boy recently released “Magic 3” featuring 15 new tracks, marking the final chapter of the run for the rapper-producer duo. “Magic 3” serves as the duo’s sixth album together in the last three years and the third installment in the “Magic” series.
Anna Leigh Waters, 17, wins three golds at 2024 Las Vegas Pickleball Cup at Fontainebleau Las Vegas
By Don Chareunsy
2024 Labor Day weekend wrapped up on Sept. 1 for the 2024 (and first-ever) Las Vegas Pickleball Cup with championship Sunday at Fontainebleau Las Vegas, and the big winner of the tournament was No. 1-ranked women’s player Anna Leigh Waters, who won three gold medals.
Waters, 17, was dominant in all three championships, winning women’s singles, women’s doubles with Catherine Parenteau and mixed doubles with Ben Johns. Waters, talented in the sport at such a young age, was jubilant and friendly in the VIP Lounge on Sunday after her victory with Parenteau, also in the VIP Lounge.
The other professional winners at Fontainebleau on the Las Vegas Strip: Sabriel Tardio and Andrei Daescu in men’s doubles and Federico Staksrud in men’s singles.
Congratulations to the tournament’s many other winners, including Las Vegas champions Bryce Giorgio, Justin Chock and Monique Richards (who won in mixed doubles with Giorgio and women’s doubles).
It also was great to see the fabulous Mikalah Gordon of Las Vegas, “American Idol” and Vegas Prime Magazine Celebrity Takeover guest columnist for Issue #9 there as an announcer.
I would absolutely attend the Las Vegas Pickleball Cup again if it returns for a second time to the Las Vegas Strip next year.
Fontainebleau kicked off the first-ever PPA Tour Las Vegas Pickleball Cup with a Charity Pickleball Tournament benefiting Discovery Children’s Museum on Aug. 27.
USC Defeats LSU 27-20 in Modelo Vegas Kickoff Classic at Allegiant Stadium
2024 Labor Day weekend was highlighted the Sunday afternoon of Sept. 1 with the sold-out 2024 Modelo Vegas Kickoff Classic at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. It was a record attendance of 63,969, larger than the Super Bowl, for the game; USC defeated LSU 27-20 in a nail-biter, pulling ahead in the final minutes of the game; and attendees from Southern California, Louisiana and locals also watched the college football game in the luxe Wynn Field Club. Incomparable Las Vegas photographer Tom Donoghue captured incredible images from the Vegas Kickoff Classic during the holiday weekend.
Credit: Tom Donoghue
You find yourself sitting in a casino, double fisting cocktails, whipping out your credit card like it’ll never max out, and then you suddenly ask yourself, “Who the heck actually lives in Las Vegas”?
I do.
I am Chadwick Johnson, a local singer-songwriter who lives in Northwest Las Vegas roughly 10 miles away from the Las Vegas Strip. I even have a horse in my backyard. Totally true, I am an accomplished horseman who still frequents the rodeo circuit. But that’s another story for another time. The point is diversity of lifestyle is strong in Sin City, so buckle your prizewinning rodeo belt and come along for this ride.
Now, although there are about 300,000 people who make their living in the Nevada tourism industry, the rest of the city is booming in a whole other way. Las Vegas offers a complex and diverse culture that goes way beyond decadent restaurants, high-rolling slot machines and weddings performed by Elvis impersonators.
One of the prominent subcultures of Las Vegas is the arts community. Specifically, live music. We all know of the golden era of The Rat Pack and Ol’ Blue Eyes headlining the finest music venues on the Strip. Well, truth be told, it’s never gone away. There is a whole new generation of live music enthusiasts
and artists who are songwriters, headliners and curators.
I know, your mind is blown. Just like your getaway budget.
Live music is thriving in Las Vegas, and I’m about to let you in on some of my favorite hidden gems in the local scene. You may just find artists like me headlining in some of these delightful throwback venues that are stomping grounds for Las Vegas residents. But don’t worry: All cocktailgripping visitors are welcome, too.
The Italian American Club
Talk about retro, this Italian joint is a complete throwback to the good ole days where authentic Italian cuisine was paramount and where everyone seems suspect to possible Mob ties. I’m kidding! Or am I? We will never know. What we do know is that everyone feels like family, and there is live music every night of the week, whether it’s in their charming lounge or their Showroom, where I’ve headlined with my band more than I can count.
The Legacy Club at Circa Resort and Casino
To make room for this sleek new property, three Downtown establishments were demolished: The Las Vegas Club, Mermaids Casino and the infamous Glitter Gulch Strip Club, which still makes me giggle. But that, too, is another story. Back to Circa, I love this place,
especially The Legacy Club. I recently had my album release party there, and between the mixologist’s specialty drinks and the spectacular views of the Strip, this experience should not be missed.
Myron’s at The Smith Center for the Performing Arts
Year after year, this venue is ranked in the Top 10 performing art centers in the world. This is one of my favorite venues, and if you check out the October calendar, you’ll see me on Oct. 8 headlining my new show, where I’ll be featuring music from my forthcoming EP, “Seasons Change.”
Now, I would love to share more of the inside scoop, but I gotta run. But know this: You just made friends with a local Las Vegan (not to be confused with someone who only eats plant-based foods). The point is connect with me on
heck, send me a smoke signal. And I might just give you more insider tips. Happy drinking – and just tell yourself you’ve already won.
Music has been the heartbeat of my life for as long as I can remember. As a tyke in Australia, as soon as I could reach up to the keys, I would play my grandma’s piano my family had in our house. In 1986, a visit to a pawnshop outside Melbourne changed my life forever. I laid my eyes on the coolest thing I had ever seen – an electric guitar. When I saw it, I fell in love with how it looked and felt in my hands, and from there the trajectory of my musical career skyrocketed.
With Savage Garden and Lifehouse, I experienced the thrill of having a worldwide No. 1 hit, playing sold-out shows in the biggest arenas in the world like Madison Square Garden and major events like the closing ceremony at the 2000 Sydney Summer Olympics and ball drop in Times Square on New Year’s Eve. It all stemmed from my positive attitude. I’ve always felt an undying confidence my opportunity
CELEBRITY TAKEOVER
Ben Carey: Tenacity and music – from Australia to Las Vegas
was going to come, and that’s due to the confidence I have in the power of hard work.
I developed a tenacity and “work harder than everyone and never-give-up” attitude playing basketball when I was younger. It instilled in me the importance of having the drive to always improve, and it was the catalyst for me making it in this business. I’ve always felt the opportunity of a lifetime is only relevant for the lifetime of that opportunity. You must be prepared for that opportunity so that when it comes, you don’t waste it, as it might only come around once.
Landing in Las Vegas was an accident. I had come to the city to play a show with Lifehouse. Afterwards, I stayed and cruised around on my bike. A week turned into two, then three and so on, until I found myself trying to engrain myself in the city’s music scene and local venues. As I figured out this town, my trajectory changed in a positive way and about five years ago landed me at the doorstep of a new rocking venue, The Barbershop Cuts & Cocktails at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.
The exciting challenge of curating a venue like that, being in control of who stands on that stage and
what comes out of those speakers, became my focus. The Barbershop became something I’m extremely proud of and take very personally because so much time, effort, love and talent has gone into that room. It’s something I believe the artists who stand on that stage should be proud of –it’s a product that’s second to none anywhere in the country, let alone Las Vegas.
The Barbershop is unique in how it sounds, feels and looks. It’s the best-sounding small room in town, and the production is very specific to the space. When the end result is so good that you can see it on people’s faces, it’s a rewarding feeling because you know we’re representing the brand well. The bands who play there get an exceptional experience because they’re delivering an exceptional experience.
Everything in Las Vegas has an expiration date, as there’s always a new shiny toy in town. I still feel like we’re the shiny toy after five years because it’s a team effort. My aspiration is to keep The Barbershop fresh and cool and always find ways we can improve the experience inside the speakeasy. Being diligent and keeping that work ethic of always progressing is key. If you’re standing on that stage and not trying to figure out what you can add to tonight’s show or the next one, then your time is going to expire, and you won’t be cool anymore.
In the music industry, especially in Las Vegas, it’s all about being diligent and staying fresh and exciting by doing new, cool things.
2024-2025
SEASON IS OFF AND RUNNING FOR LAS VEGAS RAIDERS AT ALLEGIANT STADIUM
By Ed Condran
It’s a new era for the Las Vegas Raiders. Jimmy Garoppolo is history. The Hollywood handsome quarterback is aptly playing in Los Angeles with the Rams as Matt Stafford’s backup.
The quirky Gardner Minshew will line up behind center for the Raiders.
The interim tag is no longer on Antonio Pierce, who justifiably earned the head coaching job after nearly leading the Raiders to the playoffs last season. Pierce is a capable and intelligent coach who clearly has the respect of his players.
There was speculation that the Raiders would deal wide receiver Davante Adams, but Raiders General Manager Tom Telesco told NFL Insider Dianna Russini and former NFL quarterback Chase Daniel on the “Scoop City” podcast that Adams will remain with the silver and black.
“We need Davante right now,” Telesco said. “Whoever our starting quarterback is, he’s going to need the help of those guys, the receivers, the tight ends, the running backs. So having Davante here is a big deal for us.”
Much-hyped rookie tight end Brock Bowers impressed during the preseason. The Georgia product should enhance the Raiders offense. Bowers was a bit of a draft night surprise considering the Raiders selected tight end Michael Mayer in the second round of the 2023 draft.
Mayer has played well, and there are the needs at offensive line and defensive backfield. However, Bowers was considered a top five talent and looks as though he can move the needle and help the Raiders make the playoffs.
The offense needs to kick it up a notch this season, but the defense looks fine. The line is anchored by Maxx Crosby, who is an unblockable edge rusher. Crosby, who made his third consecutive Pro Bowl, has yet to miss a game during his five-year career and had 14.5 sacks and 50 QB pressures.
The Raiders defense is physical and unrelenting. Christian Wilkins is a terror on defensive line. Safeties Tre’Von Moehrig and Marcus Epps are key players in the backfield. Don’t be surprised if veteran defensive tackle Adam Butler makes a significant impact.
It’s not going to be easy in a division led by perennial Super Bowl champs the Kansas City Chiefs. However, if the quarterback play is solid, this could be a memorable year for the Raiders.
Speaking of quarterback play, the AFC West features two of the finest quarterbacks in the game. There is the otherworldly Patrick Mahomes with the Chiefs and Justin Herbert of the Los Angeles Chargers.
Herbert and his emerging squad finally have a competent coach since Jim Harbaugh, who led the Michigan Wolverines to a national championship in January, is now leading the Bolts.
The solace for the Raiders is that the Denver Broncos should continue to be a punching bag. The Broncos will start rookie Bo Nix, who will be surrounded by a bunch of players who are not quite ready for primetime.
There are several can’t-miss Raiders games. The silver and black will host the Cleveland Browns on Sept. 29. It should be a very competitive game. The Browns’s defense is dominant thanks to All-World defensive end Myles Garrett.
However, Browns quarterback DeShaun Watson has not lived up to the hype after Cleveland acquired him and spent a fortune on the once-dynamic quarterback.
The Raiders host the Chiefs on Oct. 27. It’s always worth the price of admission to experience Mahomes, who will break many of Tom Brady’s records if he remains interested throughout his 30s.
The final game of the season, Jan. 5, pits the Chargers and Raiders at Allegiant Stadium. The contest could have playoff implications for both teams.
Do the Raiders have enough for a playoff run? Will there be a revival of Minshew-mania, which rocked Jacksonville when the eccentric quarterback played for the Jaguars?
How many games will the Raiders win decided by a touchdown or less? It should be an exciting and eventful season for the Raiders.
WEEK 1 · Sun 09/08
FINAL - L 10 - 22 AT Los Angeles Chargers WEEK 10 - BYE
WEEK 2 · Sun 09/15 · 10:00 AM PDT WEEK 11 · Sun 11/17 · 10:00 AM PST
WEEK 3 · Sun 09/22 · 1:05 PM PDT WEEK 12 · Sun 11/24 · 1:05 PM PST
WEEK 7 · Sun 10/20 · 1:05 PM PDT WEEK 16 · Sun 12/22 · 1:25 PM PST
WEEK 8 · Sun 10/27 · 1:25 PM PDT WEEK 17 · Sun 12/29 · 10:00 AM PST
WEEK 9 · Sun 11/03 · 10:00 AM PST WEEK 18 · TBD
Wynn Field Club at Allegiant Stadium:
Premium nightlife experience in the end zone
Wynn Field Club by Wynn Resorts at Allegiant Stadium offers a premium experience for fans of the Las Vegas Raiders, Beyonce, Taylor Swift, Morgan Wallen and Pink alike with closerthanthis views in the end zone and nightlife amenities including VIP booths, bottle service and bottle servers.
As the Official Nightlife Partner of the Las Vegas Raiders and Allegiant Stadium and an Official Gaming Partner of the Raiders, the exclusive agreement brings a Wynn Nightlife experience to a premier location in Allegiant Stadium.
Wynn Field Club is situated at field level, spans the length of the north end zone
and offers ticketed guests an upgraded, high-energy nightlife experience amid the action. The nearly 11,000-square-foot venue features appearances by Wynn Nightlife’s roster of world-class DJs, premium bottle service and over-the-top access that can only be found in Las Vegas.
“The Wynn team specializes in creating one-of-a-kind quality guest experiences. The Wynn Field Club is no exception,” said Wynn Resorts CEO Matt Maddox.
“Allegiant Stadium welcomes the addition of the Wynn Field Club, where guests will be able to enjoy a distinctive stadium experience that is one-of-a-kind in The Sports and Entertainment Capital of the World,” said Raiders President Marc Badain.
More on Wynn Field Club
About: Designed by Manica Architecture, the free-flowing design of Wynn Field Club complements the architectural style of the venue and the Raiders brand. The state-ofthe-art audio-visual package consists of 42 televisions, a 9’ x 35’ LED screen, a 45,000-watt sound system and two DJ booths.
Design: From a direct entrance in the stadium exterior, guests are guided down an entryway into the club below. Striking contrast, flowing lines and gentle light draw guests through the club and into various zones. Custom built-in banquettes are organized throughout and accompanied by cocktail tables suitable for Wynn’s bottle service.
Dual DJ booths allow for a full game-day experience, where the DJ can be on display to perform for 65,000 fans in the stadium or directly within the club space during pregame, halftime or post-game festivities. The high-contrast, brand-forward materials and sweeping architecture capture the spirit of luxury hospitality while keeping guests close to the intensity and excitement of the stadium’s events.
Audio-Visual Effects: Theatrical and architectural lighting provided by SJ Lighting brings Wynn Field Club to life. More than 100 fixtures and lasers set in Raiders colors provide moving light throughout the venue accompanied by clean and precise architectural lighting.
Pulsing through the venue are 45,000 watts of total output consisting of acoustic speakers, amplifiers and processers, in addition to specialized “silent” subwoofers for the on-field booths.
Forty-two televisions and a giant LED screen ensure fans won’t miss a minute of field action while inside the club.
Is there a better place to watch the Raiders than at Raiders Tavern & Grill?
By Don Chareunsy
Is there a more apropos and better location to watch Las Vegas Raiders games than at Raiders Tavern & Grill in The M Resort? Even better, the restaurant is expansive; the design is welcoming, with plenty of natural lighting and great views of the Las Vegas Strip in the distance; and the food and beverages are solid.
The most recent stop at Raiders Tavern & Grill was for lunch on Aug. 6, and the meal delivered on all counts. It was hot as Hades outside, but there was plenty of free covered parking. Walking to Raiders Tavern & Grill, The M Resort still
feels fresh, clean and new since opening on March 1, 2009.
We over-ordered off the elevated pub fare menu, and it was awesome: chicken nachos, inside out pizza, the Mad Maxx Burger (by Maxx Crosby of the Las Vegas Raiders), chicken fried steak, supreme pizza (sausage, peppers + more), onion rings + we canceled our dessert order because we were very full.
The food was great, as was the service. We really enjoyed the inside out pizza, Mad Maxx Burger – especially if you love mushrooms – and onion rings, but everything was delicious.
The design and natural lighting really add to the enjoyment and experience at Raiders Tavern & Grill. It’s a solid place to watch the Raiders, and all sports, but without the dingy smoke and dark lighting.
And yes, we had a lot of leftovers. Additional bonuses: There is plenty of free lot and covered parking at The M Resort, and Raiders Tavern is open until 3 a.m. seven days a week. Touchdown!
Following their highly anticipated, sold-out debut at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas over Big Game Weekend (Feb. 9-10) and March Madness (March 22-23), iconic hiphop group Wu-Tang Clan is returning with two more dates this month in Las Vegas’s first-ever hip-hop residency.
“Wu-Tang Clan: The Saga Continues … The Las Vegas Residency” returns to the stage for back-to-back performances Friday, Sept. 27, and Saturday, Sept. 28.
Featuring all nine existing group members – RZA, GZA, Method Man, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, U-God, Masta Killa, Inspectah Deck and Cappadonna, “Wu-Tang Clan: The Saga Continues” is a tribute to the group’s prolific careers as individuals and as the most storied group in hip-hop history.
Throughout their debut performances at The Theater, Wu-Tang Clan welcomed thousands of fans to the venue to experience their legendary hits come to life on-stage including “C.R.E.A.M.,” “Bring Da Ruckus,” “Protect Ya Neck” and others, receiving thunderous applause as fans held up the official “W” symbol in the air throughout their sets.
Each performance was complemented by riveting visuals, high-caliber dance, martial-arts routines and more. USA Today noted the residency opened “with vigor to spread the hip-hop culture world,’” and another publication proclaimed the residency as a “triumph in Las Vegas” with “more substance than we could have ever hoped for.”
During the residency run, fans were offered once-in-alifetime, only-in-Las Vegas experiences with Wu-Tang Clan surrounding their shows, including VIP package add-ons such as an exclusive opportunity to play a round of blackjack with members of the group, meet-and-greets, preshow toasts with members of the group, exclusive commemorative merchandise and more.
The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas offers expansive VIP services including open bar packages, private expedited entry, dedicated hosts, merchandise delivery, custom swag and access to luxury suites and VIP lounges
Comedian, actor, podcast host and author Bert Kreischer is unveiling his all-new show “Bert Kreischer: Double Down” in his debut at Resorts World Theatre at Resorts World with back-to-back dates Friday, Sept. 27, and Saturday, Sept. 28.
“I love Vegas, so it was a no-brainer when this opportunity came up,” Kreischer says. “The parties, the lights, it’s the perfect energy for a show like this. Book the flight or plan a road trip, and bring out the boys for a wild weekend!”
Celebrated as Rolling Stone’s “No. 1 Partier in the Nation,” Kreischer has since become one of the top-grossing standups in the industry. Kreischer’s talents have also taken over the silver screen, starring in the major motion picture “The Machine” from Sony Pictures.
In March 2023, Kreischer released his fifth standup special, “Razzle Dazzle,” the follow-up to his previous standup specials, “Secret Time,” “The Machine” and “Hey Big Boy” all available for streaming on Netflix. Kreischer recently filmed his sixth Netflix special in his hometown of Tampa, Fla., selling out all six shows in one day following the announcement.
In addition to being named “one of the U.S.’s top standups over the past decade” by The Guardian, Kreischer has been celebrated for his popular podcast “Bertcast,” with more than 600 episodes, and “2 Bears 1 Cave” with Tom Segura, which consistently charts in the Top 10 comedy podcasts worldwide.
Kreischer also created, hosts and produces the YouTube cooking show “Something’s Burning,” which has earned more than 33.2 million views. No stranger to Las Vegas, Kreischer’s “Double Down” promises fans two nights of must-see, laugh-out-loud comedy that is not to be missed.
The Smashing Pumpkins, with guests PVRIS, rock Fontainebleau on Sept. 27
Expanding an already jam-packed schedule, iconic two-time Grammy Award-winning rock band The Smashing Pumpkins are touring North America this year and stop at BleauLive Theater at Fontainebleau Las Vegas on Friday, Sept. 27. The show kicks off at 8 p.m., and PVRIS is the opening act.
The Smashing Pumpkins continue firing on all cylinders live. During 2023, they headlined and curated their “The World Is a Vampire Tour” joined by Stone Temple Pilots and Rival Sons, while 2022 saw them canvas North America on “The Spirits on Fire Tour” alongside Jane’s Addiction.
A spectacle of eye-catching stage production and a setlist sequenced like a film with moments of heavy guitar catharsis and transcendent melodic singalongs, their shows have consistently garnered widespread critical applause.
NME said, “It’s indisputable that the band are responsible for many of the ’90s’s best rock songs, and this is as good as you’re going to hear them.” The Patriot Ledge said, “[The] Smashing Pumpkins proved they are still one of America’s most interesting – sometimes befuddling, but never boring –musical groups.”
And Miami New Times said, “The band took the audience back in time to when alternative music was the mainstream and the idea of browsing on your phone during a fantastic concert was bad sci-fi satire.”
Last year, The Smashing Pumpkins completed the three-act trilogy “ATUM,” releasing the 33-track project in its entirety. Among many highlights, it boasted “Beguiled,” which reached #6 at Active Rock and #12 at Alternative Radio Charts. “Spellbinding” emerged as the top most-added at Alternative Rock.
Rolling Stone said, “ ‘ATUM’ is clearly meant to be the kind of record that requires your full attention, and ‘Act Three’ makes for a nicely trippy conclusion to the whole project, as well as an intriguing listening experience in and of itself.” NME said, “This sci-fi-inspired epic is ambitious and complex.”
The Smashing Pumpkins are currently in the studio recording the follow-up to “ATUM” as they prepare to release new music this year.
Tom Jones has two dates at Wynn Las Vegas
Back and better than ever, legendary music superstar Tom Jones has announced his highly anticipated return to Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas with his “Ages & Stages Tour” this month.
Following his sold-out venue debut in October 2022, the incomparable performer from Wales will return to entertain crowds with back-to-back performances of his hits on Saturday, Sept. 28, and Sunday, Sept. 29.
With a career spanning more than six decades and over 100 million record sales, Jones is known for his many chart-topping hits such as “It’s Not Unusual,” “Kiss,” “Delilah,” “What’s New Pussycat” and many more.
In a highlight-filled career that includes iconic moments including being knighted by Her Majesty the Queen in 2006, Jones has also received Brit Awards for Best Male Solo Artist and Outstanding Contribution to Music, a Silver Clef Award for Lifetime Achievement, the Hitmaker Award from the U.S. Songwriters Hall of Fame, GQ Man of the Year and the U.K. Music Industry Trust Award.
Jones is considered one of the greatest singers and recording artists of all time, amassing record-breaking sales and continuously serving as an influential figure to others in the music industry.
Two lingering questions: Do fans still throw undergarments onstage, and does he accept them? Meow, Pussycat.
showtime
Kacey Musgraves’s ‘Deeper Well World Tour’
T-Mobile Arena on Sept. 28
Seven-time Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Kacey Musgraves brings her “Deeper Well World Tour” to T-Mobile Arena on Saturday, Sept. 28, and she’ll be supported by Father John Misty and Nickel Creek (Madi Diaz and Lord Huron are opening acts at other dates).
The headline world tour kicked off in Dublin, Ireland, on April 2, with stops in Europe and the U.K., followed by the North American leg starting Sept. 4 in State College, Pa. The “Deeper Well World Tour” marks Musgraves’s most extensive live tour of her career, playing cities across the U.S. and concluding with a two-night stand in her own backyard at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on Dec. 6 and 7.
Along with the “Deeper Well World Tour” announcement, Musgraves released the single “Too Good To Be True” on Feb. 29. “Too Good To Be True” showcases Musgraves’s luminous vocals set against a sparse, crystalline arrangement and an aching vulnerability when she sings, “Please don’t make me regret opening up that part of myself that I’ve been scared to give again.”
“Too Good To Be True” is the second track released ahead of her highly anticipated fifth studio album “Deeper Well,” which dropped March 15 on Interscope Records/MCA Nashville. Ahead of release, Musgraves
made her third appearance on “SNL” on March 2 and also performed on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” on March 14 and NBC’s “Today” on March 15.
The “Deeper Well World Tour” follows Musgraves’s first triumphant 2022 arena “Star-Crossed: Unveiled Tour” in support of her lauded album of the same name, which debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top 200 albums chart. The shows were acclaimed. Billboard said Musgraves “offered a mix of catharsis and humor” during her performance, while The Minneapolis Star Tribune said she “burned bright in the emotional, visual tour opener.” After headlining New York’s Madison Square Garden, Variety said, “Musgraves was equally at home being vulnerable, silly, wistful and in the mood to party.”
Musgraves’s groundbreaking album “Golden Hour,” and subsequent “Oh, What A World: Tour” spanned over two years, including an arena tour with Harry Styles. She has performed at festivals including Primavera, Coachella, Stagecoach, Fuji Rocks Festival, Global Citizen Festival, Austin City Limits, Outside Lands, Newport Folk Festival, Bonnaroo, Farm Aid, Lollapalooza and more.
“Golden Hour” earned Musgraves her third No. 1 debut on Billboard’s Top Country Album chart and distinguished her as only the third artist ever to take home Album of the Year at the Grammy Awards, Country Music Association Awards and Academy of Country Music Awards.
In 2023, Musgraves achieved her first No. 1 entry on the Hot 100 chart for “I Remember Everything,” a duet with Zach Bryan, which was crowned Best Country Song by a Duo or Group at the 66th Grammy Awards.
With the win, Musgraves became the only artist in history to receive a Grammy Award for Best Country Album, Best Country Song, Best Country Solo Performance and Best Country Duo or Group Performance.
Nicki Minaj’s ‘Pink Friday 2 World Tour’ returns to MGM Grand on Sept. 28
Due to fan demand, the one and only Queen of Hip-Hop Nicki Minaj has announced the second leg of her record-breaking and largest global outing to date, “The Pink Friday 2 World Tour,” and the new North America leg returns to MGM Grand Garden Arena on Saturday, Sept. 28.
“Nicki Minaj Presents: Pink Friday 2 World Tour” now holds the record for the highest-grossing rap tour by a woman and Top 10 highest-grossing rap tour by any rapper of all time. Minaj’s highest-selling tour to date, with more than 50 arena shows, transformed the U.K. and Europe into Gag City, the AI World created by Minaj’s dedicated fanbase The Barbz.
The tour features a vibrant stage production where Minaj performs hits from her critically acclaimed new album “Pink Friday 2,” including trailblazing pop culture favorites “FTCU,” “Everybody” and the platinum-certified lead single “Super Freaky Girl,” which hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
All have achieved widespread recognition and incredible virality across social media platforms. Setlist highlights also include fan-favorite classics such as “Anaconda,” “Super Bass,” “Starships” and “Chun-Li,” leaving The Barbz in awe with her unmatched talent and energy.
Minaj continues to dominate 2024 with the monumental success of her latest album “Pink Friday 2,” which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. With this showing, she made history, achieving the most No. 1s on the Billboard 200 by a female rapper ever. Plus, it’s her seventh Top 10 on the Billboard 200, the most Top 10 albums for a female rapper in history.
The tour offers a variety of VIP packages and experiences for fans to take their concert experience to the next level. Packages vary but include premium tickets and access to the Gag City Headquarters, Minaj’s VIP lounge with pop-up activations, exclusive merch and more.
at Fontainebleau Las Vegas on Sept. 28
Anderson .Paak has announced his 2024 tour across the U.S. celebrating his Grammy-nominated second studio album, “Malibu,” which was released in 2016 to critical acclaim. During his fall tour run, he will play “Malibu” in its entirety.
Produced by Live Nation, the 14-date tour makes a Las Vegas stop at BleauLive Theater at Fontainebleau Las Vegas on Saturday, Sept. 28, at 8 p.m., with guests Maurice Brown and Gawd.
.Paak has no plans of slowing down. He spent his childhood playing drums in his church band in Oxnard, Calif. Continuing to pursue his passion, he released his debut album, “Venice,” in 2014, followed by “Malibu” two years later, landing him his first Grammy nomination.
By 2021, he had four Grammy wins under his belt, most notably for his single “Lockdown,” which was released on Juneteenth after his participation in a Los Angeles protest against police brutality.
The same year, he debuted his collaborative R&B super-duo Silk Sonic, alongside Bruno Mars, whose single “Leave the Door Open” garnered more than 1 billion streams, earned them four Grammys and led to a sold-out Las Vegas residency.
Now an eight-time Grammy winner, producer, songwriter, artist and director, .Paak continues to expand his achievements. Debuting in 2022, his alter ego DJ Pee .Wee showcases his Vinyl DJ sets with past performances at The Met Gala, F1 Las Vegas and Coachella.
.Paak founded his own music label, Apesh*t, teaming up with Universal Music Group, while also directing multiple music videos, landing a 2022 BET Award for Best Director and being credited on the highly regarded music video for Leon Bridges’s “Motorbike.”
.Paak also continues his philanthropic efforts with The Brandon Anderson Foundation with his annual .Paak House event that benefits underserved youth in art and music. Currently, .Paak is in production on his feature film directorial debut “K-Pops,” a dramatic comedy that takes inspiration from his life, bridging family lineages and cultures
FontainebleauLasVegas.com
REO Speedwagon’s ‘An Evening of Hi Infidelity … and More’ Returns to The Venetian in October
Multiplatinum-selling rock band REO Speedwagon has returned to The Venetian Theatre at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas for a run of six performances. The first three shows of “An Evening of Hi Infidelity … and More” were in May, and the final three dates are Oct. 2 and 4-5.
“An Evening of Hi Infidelity … and More” features the band’s landmark 1981 diamond award-certified, chart-topping album “Hi Infidelity” from cover to cover, along with a historical journey to the beginning of REO Speedwagon, a trip to the 1980s, an acoustic set, plus a concluding set of hits and fan favorites.
So, yes, you should have the opportunity to sing along to “Can’t Fight This Feeling,” “Take It on the Run,” “Keep on Loving You” and more. Shows are scheduled to begin at 8:30 p.m.
Is it odd that “Can’t Fight This Feeling” conjures images of the late Cory Monteith as Finn Hudson singing the ballad in the shower on “Glee”?
Tickets are available for purchase at Ticketmaster.com, any box office at The Venetian and by calling (866) 641-7469.
Located
Sammy Hagar to Celebrate 77th Birthday With Bashes in Las Vegas and Cabo San Lucas
Sammy Hagar’s 34th Annual Birthday Bash is expanding to Las Vegas in 2024, as the Cabo San Lucas celebration adds a new destination at Pearl Concert Theater at Palms Casino Resort on Oct. 4 and 5 before heading to Cabo on Oct. 11 and 13 to ring in Hagar’s 77th birthday.
The lineup for the four “Sammy Hagar & Friends” concerts includes bassist Michael Anthony, guitarist Vic Johnson and drummer Kenny Aronoff. Each year, the birthday bashes are an open invitation to all of Hagar’s friends, so there are always surprises to the lineup – announced and unannounced.
Hagar said, “Every year we try to do something a little different with the birthday bash shows to accommodate the tens of thousands of requests. So this year, this should help a few thousand more people be a part of the birthday shows and the island at the Palms closing for the winter.
“It’s a double celebration in Las Vegas. I hope everyone is happy with this year’s concept. I can’t wait. What a way to close the year out and flip another number – 77. Wow, sounds like a lucky one to me!”
Tickets for Sammy’s Las Vegas Birthday Bash on Oct. 4 and 5 are on sale at Ticketmaster.com. Due to overwhelming demand, tickets for Sammy’s Cabo Birthday Bash are done each year via lottery.
This summer, Hagar and Palms Casino Resort introduced Sammy’s Island, a tropical pool getaway inspired by the music and Baja beach vibe of the Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, lifestyle trendsetter and spirits trailblazer. Featuring a vibrant blend of food, cocktails made with Hagar’s spirits and live music performances, Sammy’s Island make poolside days and nights come alive.
Sammy’s Birthday Bash concerts follow on the heels of his highly anticipated launch of his “The Best of All Worlds 2024 Tour.” Hagar will be joined by rock heavyweights and longtime bandmates Anthony (bass, backing vocals), Jason Bonham (drums) and guitar virtuoso Joe Satriani.
Fans can expect a setlist of rock anthems including “Finish What Ya Started,” “5150,” “Your Love Is Driving Me Crazy,” “Best of Both Worlds,” “Sexy Little Thing,” “One Way to Rock,” “Right Now” and more.
Hagar’s annual Cabo San Lucas event has drawn some of the biggest names in entertainment, including Van Halen, Kenny Chesney, Iggy Pop, Stevie Wonder, David Crosby, Bono, Bob Weir, Tommy Lee, James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Dave Grohl, Slash, John Mayer, Stephen Stills, Joan Jett, Jerry Cantrell, Hagar’s Santo Spirits business partner and friend Guy Fieri and more. Palms.com
Credit: Leah Steiger
10 Dates of ‘High in Vegas’ at Fontainebleau on Oct. 4
Country music superstar Keith Urban’s “Keith Urban’s High in Vegas” is set for 10 performances at BleauLive Theater in Fontainebleau Las Vegas, and the four-time Grammy Award winner kicks off the residency on Friday, Oct. 4.
“Keith Urban’s High in Vegas” will feature new music from his forthcoming album, slated for release this fall, with songs not yet played live, including his new single “Messed Up As Me,” as well as “Straight Line” and “Go Home W U” with Lainey Wilson.
The all-new show will also include many of his top hits, including “Days Go By,” “Making Memories of Us,” “You’ll Think of Me,” “Somewhere In My Car,” “Somebody Like You,” “Stupid Boy,” “Tonight I Wanna Cry,” “Blue Ain’t Your Color” and “Wasted Time.”
From the first notes to the last, Urban’s shows are concert events not to be missed. He has been hailed as one of the best live performers of any musical genre – previous Las Vegas dates at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and Planet Hollywood prove this – and his fast-paced, immersive concert experience clearly shows why he is also considered one of the best guitarists of this generation.
Members of The ’Ville, Keith Urban’s official fan club, had access to a presale beginning May 7. VIP packages are available that include meet-and-greets, special pit access, exclusive merchandise and more.
The 10 dates for “Keith Urban’s High in Vegas”: October 4-5, 9 and 11-12 February 14-15, 19 and 21-22
Shows begin at 8:30 p.m. For more information and to purchase tickets, go to Ticketmaster.com/KeithUrbanVegas.
Vibee is the official Concert & Hotel Experience Package partner for “Keith Urban’s High in Vegas.” Packages include premium concert seats at BleauLive Theater, a two-night stay at Fontainebleau, a limited-edition “Keith Urban's High in Vegas” JBL GO 3 speaker and on-property experience perks. Vibee hotel packages are available at KeithUrban.Vibee.com.
FontainebleauLasVegas.com + Ticketmaster.com
TIME TO DINEtime to dine
Get Hooked
for National Lobster Day at These Five Places to Shell-ebrate
National Lobster Day is Wednesday, Sept. 25, and these five restaurants are offering claw-some dishes that will make a splash. Whether you’re in the mood to dive into a buttery lobster roll or crack open a lobster tail, these items will have customers hooked. And don’t be shellfish: Bring friends and family for a meal that’s bound to be off the hook!
Mijo Modern Mexican Restaurant
Mexico’s vibrant flavors shine at Mijo at Durango Casino & Resort. Named Best New Mexican Restaurant in Modern Luxury Vegas’s 2024 Best of the City awards, Mijo offers lobster-centric dishes that are creative and indulgent. The lobster and corn tostada is lobster, avocado, chipotle mayo and cilantro on a crispy tostada ($22). The lobster enchilada is butter-poached lobster in a guajillo and lobster cream sauce ($38). The butter poached lobster tacos is Maine lobster, chipotle aioli, cabbage, onion, avocado and tomatillo salsa ($29). The 2-pound Puerto Nuevo grilled lobster is butter-poached, grilled and served with chili lobster cream sauce and lemon ($85).
Tailgate Social
Enjoy the lobster roll at Tailgate Social, Palace Station’s sports bar and grill, featuring fresh-poached lobster tossed in housemade lemon aioli and served in a toasted brioche bun ($21). Pair it with one of the hard-to-find brews or domestic favorites for a winning combo.
Bel-Aire Backyard
Bel-Aire Backyard is CliQue Hospitality’s hidden oasis tucked amid the palms behind Durango. Kick back and relax poolside while treating yourself to the buttery lobster roll made with Maine lobster and herb aioli served on a butter-griddled brioche roll with a squeeze of lemon ($29).
Top of the World
+ McCall’s Heartland
Grill
Dive into lobster dishes at Top of the World and McCall’s Heartland Grill at The Strat Hotel, Casino & SkyPod. Top of the World’s lobster selections include the Fire and Ice seafood tower with oysters, king crab, shrimp, Australian lobster, clams, mussels, garlic butter, sauces and grilled bread ($145); lobster tacos with caramelized pineapple salsa and crispy wonton ($26); lobster bisque with fresh lobster and chives ($21); linguini and meatballs with lobster meatballs, roasted tomato, lobster sauce and linguini ($52); a 16-ounce roasted Australian lobster tail with lemon-garlic drawn butter ($110); and lobster mac and cheese with shell pasta, lobster meat, truffled lobster bechamel and fontina cheese ($38).
McCall’s offers a lobster and shrimp dip with Monterey jack cheese and grilled garlic bread ($19). Enjoy your lobstah dishes!
Silverton to Host Second Cider Fest
Featuring Taps and Fall Festival Foods
Silverton Casino invites guests to welcome autumn in style at the second-annual Cider Fest from Oct. 3 to Nov. 3 at Shady Grove Lounge. The event runs Thursday through Sunday, admission is free, and food and beverages will be available for purchase.
Cider fans can enjoy local and national favorites. The selections offer classic apple notes and flavor combinations. Ciders available on tap include:
CIDERS ON TAP
ANGRY ORCHARD CRISP APPLE CIDER:
a crisp and refreshing cider with balanced sweetness.
CRANBERRY CINNAMON CIDER:
a semi-sweet cider blending tart cranberry with a hint of warming spice.
APPLE HEIST CIDER:
a vibrant, bubbly cider with bright apple flavors and a wine-like finish.
TROPICAL PUNCH CIDER:
a tropical treat packed with juicy fruit flavors.
Visitors can sample all of them with a Cider Flight, offering a taste of each cider in two-ounce pours.
CIDER COCKTAILS
Cider Fest features cider-based cocktails crafted to highlight the flavors of the season:
BEE STING:
made with honey wine and warm apple cider.
PEAR CIDER BELLINI:
made with Christian Brothers brandy, sparkling wine and pear cider.
AUTUMN SANGRIA:
a fall twist on sangria with Christian Brothers Brandy, sparkling rosé, orange juice and apple cider.
CARAMEL APPLE CIDER MARTINI: made with caramel vodka, butterscotch schnapps, apple pucker and apple cider.
BOURBON AND APPLE CIDER: made with Knob Creek bourbon mixed with ginger beer and apple cider.
FALL-THEMED BITES
No fall festival would be complete without comfort food. Guests can enjoy seasonal dishes that pair perfectly with the ciders:
PUMPKIN HUMMUS:
served with housemade pita chips, parsley oil, toasted pumpkin seeds and pomegranate.
BEER-BRAISED ONION DIP: served with housemade white cheddar kettle chips.
Spaetzle “mac” and cheese balls: topped with savory bacon jam.
EVERYTHING BAGEL
PRETZEL CHARCUTERIE: with cured meats, cheeses, dips and pickled veggies served with a house-made pretzel.
CANNOLI DIP: served with candied graham crackers for dipping.
A SEASONAL EXPERIENCE
Cider Fest is more than just a celebration of ciders – it’s an immersive autumn experience. Shady Grove Lounge will be transformed into a cozy fall haven with warm lighting, rustic decor and festive touches, including pumpkins and fall leaves, creating the perfect place to sip, savor and celebrate autumn.
The Silver Stamp has established itself as one of the most frequented craft beer bars in Las Vegas and stands out for its high quality of beer and uniqueness.
Situated on Imperial a few blocks east of Main on the fringe of The Downtown Arts District, the decor is unquestionably vintage with a canned beer wall sourced from owners Rose Signor and Andrew Smith’s personal collection, old-time beer memorabilia and signs, logoed neon lights, Christmas lights and a 1970s-era television.
As for the beer, you’ll find brews from around the world (especially Belgium), with an emphasis on excellence and uniqueness. In addition to the 21 taps, there are more than 120 in cans and bottles of stellar quality and always a handful of local beers.
Another aspect that separates The Silver Stamp apart from the rest is its distinctive lineup of beers including some you won’t find anywhere else in the city, like the rare Belgian Cantillon Zwanze 2024, an interesting 2-year-old lambic blended with sea lettuce, that was poured this year. The Silver Stamp is also the only bar in Nevada pouring Duvel on tap.
Another reason this relaxed and inviting hangout for beer lovers is frequented is due to special events like the recent Belgian Beer Week and periodic tap takeovers. Others are taking notice of its success: The Silver Stamp was recently voted the #1 Mom and Pop Business in America by Entrepreneur Media and Yelp.
222 E. Imperial Ave., Las Vegas. (702) 970-6457; SilverStampLV.com
Downtown Brew Festival
The 12th Annual Downtown Brew Festival, one of the larger fests in the state drawing thousands of craft beer fans, returns to the Clark County Amphitheater on Oct. 19 from 5-9 p.m. (4 p.m. for VIP and early entry). You can expect more than 200 beers from 60+ breweries, including most of our local brewing establishments. There will also be live music and several food options.
In this recurring feature, we spotlight establishments that appreciate our local breweries enough to serve only beer made in Nevada. Fine Company, a Lev Group restaurant in Downtown Summerlin, is committed to supporting local and devotes all its beer list to those brewed by Las Vegas breweries, including Beer Zombies Duck Hunter IPA, Big Dog’s Las Vegas Craft Lager and Las Vegas Brewing Electric Blonde.
Kester Masias, Vice President of Beverage for Lev Group, explains why they chose to support local: “We see ourselves first and foremost as a place where we can gather with our neighbors and celebrate the best our amazing community offers.
“The brewers featured on our menu are the best in the valley and perfectly reflect the city’s ‘come as you are, but enjoy the best while you’re here’ vibe that we endeavor to capture for all of our guests at Fine Company.”
To go with your beer, check out the “fine” dishes on the eclectic menu, such as tempura salt and pepper shrimp, pastrami melt and harissa chimichurri ribeye.
FineCompanyLV.com
Festival founder Brian Chapin describes the fest as “bringing the Las Vegas community together to celebrate craft beer and great company, which has been its goal since the first event in 2011.
“The Clark County Amphitheater provides an ideal setting, with ample room for our dozens of vendors to share their creations with festivalgoers along with our interactive activities, like crowd-favorite silent disco, that keep the fun times flowing.”
For the list of beer being poured, food vendors, performing artists, ticket prices and to purchase tickets, visit DowntownBrewFestival.com.
I’m Noe Alarcon, and I’ve lived in Las Vegas since 1981. I know Las Vegas, I love Las Vegas, and I hope, through Noe Knows Vegas, to share interesting anecdotes about The Entertainment Capital of the World, my home for more than four decades now.
NOE KNOWS VEGAS
In Conversation With Esteemed + Longtime Chef Rick Moonen
Yours truly and Vegas Prime Magazine Editor-in-Chief Don Chareunsy sat down with award-winning and longtime Chef Rick Moonen and his wife Roni Fields-Moonen ahead of the second-annual Aaron Y Amigos by Pepsi fundraiser by Aaron Sanchez, which Moonen is participating in alongside John Baez, Sam Choy, Ronnie Rainwater and Michael Schwartz on Saturday, Sept. 28, at SpeedVegas.
Fun fact: Moonen cooked for former President Richard Nixon, who enjoyed Dover sole for lunch. Here are highlights of our lively and nostalgic conversation during lunch at El Dorado Cantina in Tivoli Village in August:
You career goes way back to Sirio Maccioni.
I’ve been doing this for 48 years now, since I was 20. I’ve seen a few things, and I know a few people and have been a few places (laughs). My career has been blessed from the start.
When I first interviewed for Le Cirque in New York, they didn’t give me the time of day. But when they found out I worked for the competitor The Jockey Club, Sirio stole me. I got a call at my parents’ house, and they offered me the job. I started working, it was around Thanksgiving because they were giving out turkeys to the employees. So that’s how far back I go.
You’re from New York. Born and raised?
Yes, I’m from New York. I was born in Rochester, Minn., but I grew up in Flushing.
Where did you and Roni meet? In New York?
No, in Oaxaca, Mexico (laughs). That’s where people meet. Its cuisine, it’s everything, its Mezcal, mole, it’s the best everything, the best chiles.
RONI: I moved to Southwest Florida from St. Louis in my early 20s. I was in production, fashion and magazines. I was hired to work on a pilot TV show in Oaxaca, Mexico. I went there on spec and hoping it would become a show. I went there and had no idea who Rick Moonen was. I knew who Julia Child and Emeril Lagasse were. I loved cooking, but I had a limited knowledge of chefs. Rick was the guest on the show.
RICK: I’m invited by the host of the show; she’s going to be on-air, as well. She was the international correspondent for Bon Appetit magazine. All these chef competitions were airing at the time. She was sick of them and wanted to show the artistry of the chefs and their culture and palate of flavors. It was 2011. … It was a mix of Anthony Bourdain and “Chopped.”
[Five minutes later]
RONI: We’re forgetting the main point of the story of how we met.
RICK: We have a million stories – we could hang out for a month and not tell them all! Roni’s in charge of all this, and I come along. You can already tell I’m kinda hyper and nuts. She has the inside story, but they keep me in the dark. I’m just a knucklehead trying to look good.
We ended up becoming friends because I wasn’t trying to hit on her, and she wasn’t trying to hit on me. We were both married when we met and both later divorced. We ended up falling in love, getting married and living a life that’s insane. That’s how we met – that’s how it all happened.
Tell us about your upcoming fundraiser Aaron Y Amigos with Chef Aaron Sanchez.
Aaron has become a good friend of mine. We knew each other lightly in New York. He wanted to work for me, but he was afraid to interview with me. I must’ve had a bastard of a reputation.
My friend Emeril Lagasse has a great charity out of New Orleans. It’s a class act, they’re good people, and I love the results for the children who benefit from the campus that he’s created for giving back to the community. It’s fantastic.
Aaron Sanchez’s charity is a no-brainer, too. It’s new, it’s for Latino youth, it’s more personal. It’s a real mentorship for Latinos. It’s really new; we’re building a new charity.
This is his second year doing it; the first year was in Phoenix, and Chicago is the third year. It’s a big deal. We want people to have a good time and talk about it and build it. I’m helping out a buddy here because I love the guy.
Do you miss RM Seafood at Mandalay Bay?
It was an immediate yes when I was asked while in New York to open a seafood restaurant in Mandalay Bay. I flew out to Las Vegas, and it was still a big yes. They gave me a great deal, and I couldn’t refuse. I opened there in 2005. It was exciting and all new to me.
I miss the family. My life hasn’t always been easy, and I didn’t make it easy. I needed a hideout, and that hideout was the business. That was my place, my comfort zone, where I got to touch tables and meet people and interact with them.
But all the stress – you never had a minute when it wasn’t on you. I don’t miss that, but the family I created are still family. There hardly isn’t a place in Las Vegas serving great food where at least two of my former employees aren’t working there, and that’s a great feeling for me.
We were creating cultures back then. You don’t see that anymore. People were loyal to each other. People cared about each other. We were a bunch of misfits.
Always love what you do and do what you love, and you’ll be fine. Right now, I’m living the dream I always dreamt I could live. I get to enjoy my wife. I get to enjoy my life. It’s a better life. I’m living a great life.
Signing off until next time,
LAST WORD The
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 Strip performer is now showing off his moves and body in two headliner shows?
Which two top-level athletes ate lunch in the VIP lounge after winning gold together?
Which editor had a physical meltdown (sweat!) after eating two doughnuts at a grand opening?
Which content creator took a break from alcohol while recovering from illness?
And let’s end by saying the grand opening of Spiegelworld’s “Disco Show” at The Linq Hotel on Sept. 7 was jam-packed, high-energy, sexy and dare we say salacious and scandalous? Disco!
These are whispers, so no answers will be provided; you’ll just have to use your imagination. Email your Vegas Prime Whispers to editorial@vegasprime.com.
CELEBRITY SIGHTINGS
The cast of “Love Island USA” celebrated Labor Day Weekend Las Vegas-style at Drai’s Beachclub & Nightclub atop The Cromwell on Aug. 30 and 31. The group included Alana Morrison (Season 1), Caleb Corprew (Season 2), Carrington Rodriguez (Season 2), Cashay Proudfoot (Season 3), Imani Ayan (Season 5), Johnny Middlebrooks (Season 2), Justine Joy Ndiba (Season 2), Kierstan Saulter (Season 2), Kyra Green (Season 1), Kyra Lizama (Season 3), Laurel Goldman (Season 2), Mackenzie Dipman (Season 2), Ray Gantt (Season 1), Tre Forte (Season 2) and Zeta Morrison (Season 4).
The weekend included the reunion of Season 2 winners Ndiba and Corprew, the first time seeing each other since 2020, and the reunion of Season 2’s Rodriguez and reality-TV show exes Saulter and Goldman. The group kicked off the weekend at Drai’s Nightclub enjoying a performance by Wiz Khalifa. The next day was Drai’s Beachclub, where Season 2 was filmed in 2020, again with Khalifa. That evening, they dined at Chéri Rooftop at Paris Las Vegas, where they enjoyed French-inspired cuisine and cocktails within the Eiffel Tower. The night ended back at Drai’s Nightclub for a performance by MoneyBagg Yo.
