BILLY Joel + Sting | Bob the Drag Queen | Chef Nicole Brisson | Nacho Day
‘Magic Reinvented Nightly’ at The Linq Hotel Mat Franco
Cover Feature
Magician Mat Franco won “America’s Got Talent” Season 9 in 2014 and less than one year later started headlining at The Linq Hotel on the Las Vegas Strip. Franco, and his show at Mat Franco Theater, are better than ever.
Vegas Prime Magazine Editor-in-Chief Don Chareunsy’s top to-do picks while you’re in Las Vegas, baby.
Out + About
“Fantasy’s” 25th anniversary at The Luxor, “Atomic Saloon Show’s” fifth anniversary at The Venetian, “Colin Cloud: Mastermind’s” grand opening at Harrah’s, Ricardo Laguna and Murray SawChuck at Hofbrauhaus and Rick Springfield on Fremont Street in DTLV.
Sport + Activities
Las Vegas Raiders, Vegas Golden Knights and Dream Exotics, whose most recent rental clients include Fontainebleau Las Vegas headliner Keith Urban.
Celebrity Takeover
Texas Rhinestone Cowboy singer Chase Brown, who looks like he works out, is going all in with his weekly performances at Neonopolis in Downtown Las Vegas. Pro tip: His Sonny & Cher is uh-MAH-zing!
National Nacho Day is Nov. 6; here’s where to get chips piled high with all the best toppings.
Showtime
The list this two weeks includes Billy Joel and Sting at Allegiant Stadium, Lionel Richie at Wynn Las Vegas, Pitbull at Fontainebleau Las Vegas, 50 Cent at Planet Hollywood, The B-52’s and Nick Carter at The Venetian, Usher at T-Mobile Arena, Bob The Drag Queen at Virgin Hotels –and more!
Time to Dine
Bob Barnes interviews Chef Nicole Brisson, Imbibe in Style by Francesco Lafranconi features whiskey, and our second Vegas Prime Pros in the Know highlights Bryan Tamayo’s Appely Named at Lavo in The Palazzo.
The Last Word
Vegas Prime Whispers: Celebrity and Las Vegas gossip and sightings. Ssshhh!
FRIDAY NIGHT
NEW FRIDAY NIGHT SEAFOOD BUFFET
Indulge in our All-New Seafood Lover's Paradise every Friday Night! Feast on a variety of fresh, flavorful dishes that are sure to satisfy every craving.
SUNDAY CHAMPAGNE
8AM – 4PM 2PM – 8PM
Indulge in our exquisite Sunday Champagne Brunch for starting at $35, where endless bubbles and gourmet delights await. Savor a lavish spread of brunch favorites while you sip on champagne in style. Plus, your brunch includes free entry into our exciting Sunday Slot Tournament - making it the perfect way to start your Sunday!
JAMAL M. PARKER Publisher
DON CHAREUNSY Editor-in-Chief
ARTURO PERALTA Art Director
BRIANNA KOURETAS Senior Account Manager
ANAS BEN AMARA + JASMINE TRAN Social Media
NOE ALARCON, JEN AVISON SMITH, BOB BARNES, PATRANYA BHOOLSUWAN, CHRISTIANA CINN, ED CONDRAN, MARISA FINETTI, STACEY GUALANDI, EMMY KASTEN, RANDY SCHACHERL + TODD SCHACHERL Contributors
DARIN FEINSTEIN Founder/CEO
ditor's
Eletter
Autumn is my favorite season of the year – I love the food, fashion and weather, and it is a time of celebration and thankfulness. One reason to celebrate and be thankful is the myriad and diversity of entertainment in The Entertainment Capital of the World. In the last issue of Vegas Prime Magazine, we celebrated Spiegelworld’s three stellar Las Vegas productions: “DiscoShow,” “Atomic Saloon Show” and “Absinthe.”
In this issue, it’s all about “America’s Got Talent” Season 9 champion magician Mat Franco, whose “Mat Franco: Magic Reinvented Nightly” has been headlining in The Mat Franco Theater at The Linq Hotel on the Las Vegas Strip since 2015, the year after the Rhode Island native became “AGT’s” first magician victor. Franco is talented, engaging, very likable and has a smile at the ready; he’s the type of entertainer you root for and are happy for his success.
Also in this jam-packed issue of Vegas Prime Magazine: Out + About with “Fantasy,” “Atomic Saloon Show,” Colin Cloud (another root-worthy entertainer) and Rick Springfield; Celebrity Takeover guest columnist singer Chase Brown (another root-worthy entertainer); Prime Picks for National Nacho Day and six solid steakhouses; and Imbibe in Style with Francesco Lafranconi.
Additionally, it’s Showtime with Billy Joel and Sting, Usher, The B-52’s, Lionel Richie, Bob the Drag Queen, Nick Carter, Pitbull, George Lopez and 50 Cent; kitchen talk with Nicole Brisson; Las Vegas Raiders; Vegas Golden Knights; Prime Pros in the Know with Bryan Tamayo of Tao Group Hospitality at Lavo in The Palazzo; and more!
San Diego’s Better Buzz Coffee Roasters opened in Henderson on Oct. 17, with more locations to come in the Las Vegas Valley, and I recently ordered a pumpkin spice latte with oat milk from Better Buzz (life’s better buzzed). It tasted like the perfect pumpkin pie – divine. ’Tis the season!
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
DANIEL TOSH AT THE COSMOPOLITAN
CosmopolitanLasVegas.com + Ticketmaster.com
Popular and talented comedian, host, writer and producer Daniel Tosh performs his third of three shows at The Chelsea in The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas this year on Saturday, Nov. 16. Showtime is 8 p.m.
HELLDORADO DAYS RODEO AT PLAZA
PlazaHotelCasino.com
The Helldorado Days Rodeo returns to Core Arena at The Plaza Hotel & Casino on Nov. 8- 9 in Downtown Las Vegas, and as part of the event’s commitment to celebrating the history of Las Vegas and western culture, the Plaza is again sponsoring a children’s coloring contest.
SEMA LAS VEGAS
SEMAShow.com
This year’s Specialty Equipment Market Association Show is Nov. 5-8 at Las Vegas Convention Center, and one highlight is SEMA Fest on Nov. 8 featuring musical headliners Cage The Elephant, Sublime With Rome, Fitz and The Tantrums and Petey.
By Don Chareunsy Editor-in-Chief | Vegas Prime Magazine
“MJ LIVE”
Tix4.com, MJLiveShow.com + SaharaLasVegas.com
Catch “MJ Live” at Sahara before it moves to Harrah’s in November. “MJ Live” is an impressive and high-energy production, with Jalles Franca, who alternates the lead role of Michael Jackson with Santana Jackson, dancing and singing his face off alongside solid dancers, and the band is equally great. A “Thriller” show!
PUPPY YOGA(!) AT VIRGIN HOTELS
Hilton.com
Virgin Hotels Las Vegas has launched Puppy Yoga with Wagging Tails Rescue to organize the perfect mental wellness boost. Locals, tourists and guests are all invited to perfect their downward dog as adorable and up-foradoption puppies roam the studio. Next two dates: Sunday, Nov. 10, and Sunday, Dec. 8, at 10 a.m.
“PURPLE REIGN” AT PLANET HOLLYWOOD
Tix4.com, VTheater.com + PurpleReign.net
“Purple Reign,” the 75-minute Prince tribute starring Jason Tenner (who attended “Fantasy’s” 25 anniversary show at The Luxor on Oct. 16) at Planet Hollywood, has been entertaining audiences in Las Vegas for 27 years. Shows are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 8:30 p.m.
‘Fantasy’ at Luxor Toasts 25 Years, Receives Key to the Las Vegas Strip
The award-winning topless female revue “Fantasy: The Strip’s Sexiest Tease” celebrated a milestone accomplishment Oct. 17 of running for 25 years inside the Atrium Showroom at The Luxor.
The talented and beautiful cast members debuted new numbers in the show choreographed by celebrity talent including MandyMoore (“Dancing With the Stars,” “So You Think You Can Dance,” Taylor Swift’s “Eras Tour”) and former cast member Yesi Burgess.
During the preshow redcarpet, “Fantasy” was honored with a Key to the Las Vegas Strip presented by Clark County Commissioner Ross Miller’s office and the Board of Commissioners to Emmy-winning Anita Mann, creator, producer and director of “Fantasy.”
Guests were welcomed by Travis Lunn, President and
COO of Mandalay Bay and Luxor, who congratulated Mann and her team on their incredible accomplishment. Mann from the stage thanked her team and the cast, including past performers, many of whom were in attendance, for their dedication and commitment.
Mann also announced “Fantasy’s” charitable partner for 2025 will be ALS of Nevada, represented by Executive Director Dawn Newberg, and will receive a portion of each 25th Anniversary Commemorative Book sold, which was also unveiled and is now available for sale, priced at $25 in honor of the milestone.
Also on the red carpet alongside Mann, “Fantasy” cast members, Moore and Burgess: choreographer Criss Judd; “SYTYCD” producer Jeff Thacker; Glorya Kaufman, founder of the USC Glorya Kaufman School of Dance;
Kenny Ortega, Emmy Award-winning choreographer and director; John Marr of Aussie Heat; Tony Award winner B.K. Fulton; Owen Joyner, MTV Movie + TV Award-winning actor; and George Kosturos, awardwinning actor.
Additionally: cast members from Excalibur headliners Thunder From Down Under; comedian and magician Murray SawChuck; James Edward from “Potted Potter;” cast members from Virgin Hotels headliner “Lady Like,” Australian Bee Gees, “Purple Reign” and “Legends in Concert”; Blayke Harris from “Vegas! the Show”; Marcus Collins from The Texas Tenors; and Bill Medley and Bucky Heard from The Righteous Brothers.
“Fantasy” show times are at 10:30 p.m. daily inside the Atrium Showroom, with an additional 8 p.m. show on Sundays. All guests must be at least 18 years old.
Credit: Bryan Steffy
‘Atomic Saloon Show’ Marks Fifth Anniversary, The Cow Hide Bar Grand Opening out + about
Spiegelworld’s “Atomic Saloon Show,” the rip-roarin’ romp through the Wild, Wild – and sexy and raunchy – West celebrated five years of high-stakes debauchery with an over-thetop performance, a rowdy, invite-only afterparty and the grand opening of The Cow Hide, the newest watering hole in Spiegelworld’s lineup of speakeasies, on Oct. 12 at The Venetian.
Madam Boozy Skunkton and her crew pulled out all the stops, entertaining the audience with outlandish talents that have made the Atomic Saloon the most notorious venue west of the Mississippi. Postshow, guests were treated to a set by Blue Jackson Five, five of everyone’s favorite crooning cowboy Blue Jackson, singing a mashup of classics “Fat Bottomed Girls” and “Baby Got Back.”
The party didn’t end with the show. The crowd roamed Atomic Saloon’s winding corridors, discovering new
drinks at each of the three bars, including The Cow Hide, and enjoying barbecue from SoulBelly BBQ. Line dancing the night away to country hits, pop-up performances into the wee hours entertained – and even shocked – the crowd.
From a comedic – and dirty –cow and a sexy appearance from “Absinthe” favorite Yammel Rodriguez to a five-round, knockout battle of juggling between Noah Schmeissner and Joe Fisher, guests cheered loudly.
In a final surprise, three more cows took the stage to perform a
inside the labyrinth entrance of the Atomic Saloon, the hideaway cocktail bar is the only place you’ll find a cowboy and a nun chugging beers together while singing along to Zac Brown songs.
choreographed number to Nelly Furtado’s “Maneater” before joining guests on the dance floor.
Difficult to find but the best watering hole in town if you want a break from the herd, The Cow Hide was christened with a magnum of Veuve Clicquot and is now open to the public. Tucked away
Having turned Las Vegas cocktail culture on its head at Superfrico, Ski Lodge, Pier 17 Yacht Club and Diner Ross, Spiegelworld’s Executive Beverage Director Niko Novick has created a new program for The Cow Hide, with libations including the Serious Mootini, Dairy Godmother and Drunk Buttered Rum and mocktails such as the Disco Cowboy. The Cow Hide is open 5 p.m. to late Tuesdays through Saturdays inside the Atomic Saloon.
“Atomic Saloon Show” performs Tuesdays through Saturdays at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. inside The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian.
ColinCloud.com + Caesars.com
Colin Cloud Celebrates Grand Opening of ‘Mastermind’ at Harrah’s Las Vegas
Mentalist Colin Cloud, aka The Real-Life Sherlock Holmes of Las Vegas, celebrated the grand opening of his first Las Vegas Strip solo headliner show “Colin Cloud: Mastermind” at Harrah’s Las Vegas on Oct. 10.
Cloud, who shares the showroom with “X Country” and “Menopause The Musical,” opened “Mastermind” on July 2 for about one month, then performed in the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in his home country before returning to Las Vegas to officially premiere his show on the Strip.
Cloud shared the stage with Shin Lim at The Mirage before the casino resort closed on July 14 after 34 years. Cloud’s new show “Mastermind” is masterful; it showcases Cloud’s amazing mentalism skills and natural charisma, wit and comedy chops in a show that is refreshingly family-friendly and intelligent.
“I feel like I’m finally home (I resisted the temptation to say “Holmes”). I’ve never felt more prepared as a performer to deliver a world-class performance, and I truly cannot wait for people to come and experience something unlike anything they have witnessed before,” Cloud said in a Celebrity Takeover guest column for Vegas Prime Magazine in June.
“Obviously, it’s a relief and a delight to finally be officially open and headlining my own show on the Las Vegas Strip,” Cloud said post-grand opening show. “But to have so many friends and peers there truly meant the world. And with overwhelming response means that I can allow myself to feel proud of what I share on that stage.”
Cloud recently proposed to his girlfriend Jenna Jones – and she accepted – while the couple were in Scotland. “Colin Cloud: Mastermind” is at 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays, dark Sundays and Mondays, at Harrah’s.
Fremont Street Experience’s Downtown Rocks Concludes With Rick Springfield
The six-block Downtown Las Vegas entertainment district Fremont Street Experience concluded its free concert series Downtown Rocks for the season with one of the most anticipated performances of the series featuring rock icon Rick Springfield on Saturday, Oct. 5.
Fans gathered at the First Street Stage to listen to Springfield’s biggest hits, including “Jessie’s Girl,” “Don’t Talk to Strangers,” “Human Touch,” “Love Somebody” and many more.
Springfield’s return to Fremont Street Experience served as the final installment of the 2024 Downtown Rocks series, which featured performances by Seether, Hoobastank, Soul Asylum, Boys Like Girls, Chris Janson, Sebastian Bach, Common Kings, Joe Nichols and Sublime With Rome.
Springfield celebrated his 75th birthday at Palms Casino Resort in August and was back in town earlier this month for Sammy Hagar’s 77th birthday bash, also at Palms as well as at his Cabo Wabo Cantina at Planet Hollywood.
HofbrauhausLasVegas.com
Ricardo Laguna, Murray SawChuck Continue Oktoberfest Celebrations at Hofbräuhaus
Hofbräuhaus Las Vegas continued its 20th annual Oktoberfest celebration over the weekend with celebrity keg tappers on Friday, Oct. 11, and Saturday, Oct. 12.
Headliner magician Murray Sawchuck kicked off the festivities on Oct. 11 as the evening’s keg tapper. Ricardo Laguna kept the celebration going as the celebrity keg tapper on Oct. 12.
In what has become an annual tradition for the professional BMX dirt jumper and TV personality, Laguna entered the beer hall on his bike and performed tricks for the crowd while wearing lederhosen.
PREVIOUS KEG TAPPERS:
Friday, Oct. 18: Excalibur headliners The Australian Bee Gees
Saturday, Oct. 19: Excalibur headliner magician Mac King
Friday, Oct. 25: Mercedes Martinez from Mix 94.1 FM and KLAS-TV’s Las Vegas Now, whose keg tapping will serve as a benefit for the Las Vegas Metro Police Foundation’s K9 Section
Saturday, Oct. 26: Ladies from sexy Strip revues “X Burlesque,” “X Country” and “X Rocks”
Credit: Hofbrauhaus Las Vegas
Rhinestone Cowboy singer
Chase Brown
‘You gotta go all in!’
You never forget your first time … in Las Vegas. It was January 2011. I was 25 years old with 10 years of performing in South Texas under my belt. It was time for my first vacation, and Las Vegas had always called to me. The Elvis of it all, nightlife, The Entertainment Capital of the World, all the things – I was ready to explore.
I arrived at The Bellagio for my eight-day stay and immediately ran over to catch the Fountains dancing on the lake. As I stood there, taking in the magic of the city, I said out loud to myself, “I have to live here … I will live here!” To this day, every time I watch the Fountains, I’m taken back to that moment.
After settling in, I walked across the street to Planet Hollywood and saw a store with flashy clothes in the window. Don’t threaten me with a good time! As I was trying on jackets covered in stones and sequins, an employee named Marco walked over and asked, “Are you an entertainer? You look like an entertainer.”
I informed him I was in Texas, but today I was just a tourist. He invited me to join him at The Bootlegger Italian Bistro for Kelly Clinton’s Open Mic Cabaret: “I’ll talk to Kelly and
get you up to sing.” Mind you this was the first person I met in Las Vegas, and this was how it was going. I felt like I was in a movie. After scoring shirts and a jacket that would make Liberace blush, I was ready for my debut.
Watching Kelly and Clint Holmes entertain was a masterclass of Las Vegas showmanship. I nervously got up and sang “Tiny Dancer” to an audience full of Las Vegas performers. It felt so good to hear that applause. I was hooked.
I met Skye Dee Miles that night – she was so kind and invited me to see her perform in “Menopause the Musical” the following night. She took time after the show to meet with me and spill the tea on the in’s and out’s of being a Las Vegas entertainer. I’ll never forget her generosity.
I also met an entertainer named Nicholas Brooks who had headlined in Las Vegas and was and is one of the greatest Sammy Davis Jr. tribute artists in “The Rat Pack Is Back.” He was kind enough to offer me a room to rent if I ever decided to move and give Las Vegas a shot. Again, this was Day 1 of my vacation. One year later, I left Texas and took him up on his offer.
To have a dream and truly chase it is not for the faint of heart. Those first years were tough, hitting the pavement and begging for an opportunity. Tommy Rocker was one of the first to put me onstage and give me a platform to make new friends and fans that I still have and cherish to this day.
I’ve been so blessed to survive the struggle of being a starving artist. The generosity and love in this town are unmatched. To those who opened their hearts and their homes to me, I will forever be grateful.
All I ever wanted was to have my little cowboy hat be a small part of the Las Vegas entertainment landscape. I’m not there yet, but we are 140 weeks into my Las Vegas Country Residency at Notoriety Live! in Downtown Las Vegas.
That’s like 1 million weeks in Las Vegas years! I have the most amazing loyal following a guy could ask for and a manager who keeps me booked, blessed and busy all over the world. What more could a Rhinestone Cowboy from Victoria, Texas, ask for? Dreams do come true in Las Vegas, but you gotta go all in!
‘America’s Got Talent’ champion continues ‘Reinventing Magic Nightly’ at The Linq Hotel in Las Vegas
By Don Chareunsy
Rhode Island native Mat Franco won “America’s Got Talent” in 2014, the TV competition’s first magician champion. Poof! Entering his 10th year in The Mat Franco Theater at The Linq Hotel, the new father and father-to-be still reigns supreme as a Las Vegas Strip headliner with “Mat Franco: Magic Reinvented Nightly.”
Franco answered questions in his theater post-show on Oct. 1. Here are highlights from the conversation from the charming and incredibly likable Franco:
How does it feel to be a Las Vegas headliner after nearly a decade?
I still pinch myself on the way to work. It’s pretty unbelievable. Dreams come true, I guess.
How much has “Mat Franco: Magic Reinvented Nightly” changed over the years?
It’s had many lives over the past nine or so years. It has changed a lot. The most recent revamp was a complete overhaul from top to bottom – a full production makeover of new material that I’m really excited to be doing.
I always want to be doing the show that I want to see, and the show I want to see evolves as I do. That’s why I always like to keep it fresh, hence the name “Magic Reinvented.”
What do you like most about the revamp and revisions?
What do I like most about it? Gosh, I don’t know if there’s any one thing. For me, I do magic and perform for audiences because I love doing it. For me, magic is self-expression. Performance is self-expression.
I need to be authentic and in the now. In 2015 when I opened, I was doing what was authentic for me at the time. As we evolve, as an artist, it’s like a musician evolving with albums. It’s not one thing; it’s the whole thing. Does that make sense?
Is there anything you remember from your opening night or maybe your first year that still stands out nine years later?
I remember being very green and not knowing what I was doing (laughs). At that time, I was 25 or 26 years old. I had been doing magic for 20 years, but I still felt like, because of all the greats who came before me – and not just magic but all performers and entertainers – it really is an honor to be able to do this.
There is excitement in having such big shoes to fill. I also wake up now 36 years old still excited with that beginner’s mindset because I think it’s important.
Has there ever been a performance where some of your tricks have not worked?
Many, many, many times, oh my gosh, yes, absolutely! There are so many. We just celebrated 2,500 shows just at The Mat Franco Theater at The Linq, not including tours and other performances from age 10 onward, just this room. When you do that many shows, anything that can go wrong has gone wrong.
I’ve had someone pass out onstage. I caught her while she was falling. You never know what people are going to do and say when you bring them up onstage. It’s been so much fun over time. I’ve had things appear where they’re not supposed to be, like borrowed items. There have been many failed attempts (laughs).
You’ve lived in Las Vegas since 2015. What do you do for fun when you’re not working?
I had a baby in January of 2023, so that has been an exciting endeavor and occupies most of my time. My wife is also expecting, due in March. We have a baby boy and now a baby girl on the way, so family time has been a huge part of the last two years of my life, and it has been amazing.
We like to stay local. I come to the Strip when I’m working. When I’m not working, I like to go for walks outside. I like to go to local places like Downtown Summerlin and see what’s going on. Maybe see a movie during the day. Go to a nice, quaint restaurant. I like quiet things where I can bring the baby (laughs).
I believe your contract ends next year. Any plans to extend or leave?
I’m at a place where I can’t say anything concrete yet, but after an amazing 10 years together, I wouldn’t be shocked if we renewed our vows (laughs). Caesars Entertainment has truly been amazing partners. I always look forward to what the future holds.
What do you enjoy most about “Mat Franco: Magic Reinvited Nightly” after all these years?
Doing the show is my favorite part. I can now focus most of my attention on the part that I love, and I have an amazing team that now does all things I used to do as a one-man show. Just being able to share with the audience and get their reactions and see them enjoying themselves, that is the most fulfilling for me.
You’ve had a great career – winning “America’s Got Talent” and headlining on the Las Vegas Strip –
what’s another goal for you in life?
I tend to set broad goals. I never put on a dream board “Win America’s Got Talent” or even “go on America’s Got Talent” or “have a show in Las Vegas.” I tend to make more realistic goals that are a little broader like make magic full time.
Everything that came after that was the result of hard work. It’s all icing on the cake now. I just want to be able to share what I do and self-express for those who need it the most, to have output that resonates with people in a strong way. To be able to do that in a meaningful way is what it’s all about for me right now.
What would be one thing your family, friends or fans would be surprised to learn about you?
I think even my friends would be surprised to learn that I consider myself an introvert. They consider me a people person, and as much as I do love people and interacting, for true extroverts it charges their batteries. For me, I’m tired after a day of socializing (laughs). I’m an introvert with extroverted qualities.
Do you stay on top of your content? Are you trying new things? (The final questions are from guest Thomas Bassett.)
Yes! Look, I’ll show you (points at his cell phone). I put this down today: Work on new stuff (laughs). I’m always exploring new ideas. No ideas are really ever done. Magic is ever evolving.
Music and entertainment legend and four-time Grammy Award winner Lionel Richie will have fans “Dancing on the Ceiling” when he headlines Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas for six performances on Nov. 6, 8-9, 13 and 15-16. Richie also has announced 2025 dates: Jan. 15 and 18-19 and April 9 and 11-12.
With a storied career first with The Commodores, then as a mega-successful solo artist, Richie’s list of solo hits is memorable and long: “Endless Love” with Diana Ross, “Truly,” “All Night Long,” “Hello,” “Stuck on You,” “Say You, Say Me” from “White Nights,” “Dancing on the Ceiling” and “Ballerina Girl.”
Richie’s hits with The Commodores include “Easy,” “Sail On,” “Three Times a Lady” and “Still” before his departure. In 1980, he wrote and produced the No. 1 single “Lady” for Kenny Rogers.
Richie, 75, has sold more than 100 million records worldwide, making him one of the world’s bestselling artists of all time. His Grammy Awards include for Song of the Year for “We Are the World” and Album of the Year for “Can’t Slow Down.”
“Say You, Say Me” won the Academy Award and the Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song, and Richie was inducted into The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2022. Richie joined “American Idol” as a judge in 2018.
Are you ready for his ballads or dance pop hits? If Richie’s previous headliner residency at Planet Hollywood is any indication, you’ll be saying “Hello” to Richie once again at Encore Theater, as he’s still a crowd-pleaser and an entertainer at heart. Outrageous!
‘Pitbull: Vegas After Dark The Residency’ Debuts Nov. 8 at Fontainebleau Las Vegas
Grammy-winning global star Pitbull’s new residency “Pitbull: Vegas After Dark The Residency” is set for eight high-energy shows at BleauLive Theater in Fontainebleau Las Vegas, and the run kicks off Friday, Nov. 8.
“Fontainebleau’s legacy of top-tier entertainment stems from its Miami Beach roots,” says Fontainebleau Las Vegas Senior Vice President of Entertainment Fedor Banuchi. “We are honored to have Mr. 305 himself bring his Miami flair to BleauLive Theater for this iconic limited engagement.”
After touring 26 cities and performing to sold-out crowds, Pitbull’s return to Las Vegas brings a fresh blend of his signature style and upscale, sleek energy. The show will feature a collection of hits and fan favorites, including “Give Me Everything,” “Timber,” “Time of Our Lives,” “International Love,” “Feel This Moment,” “Fireball” and “Hey Baby (Drop It to the Floor).”
“Pitbull: Vegas After Dark” promises state-of-the-art visuals, pyrotechnics and Pitbull’s electrifying stage presence wrapped in a vibe that combines the charm and elegance of classic Las Vegas with his modern flair. Backed by his band The Agents and dancers The Most Bad Ones, the fusion of music, lights and special effects will create a sophisticated, high-energy party.
Pitbull opened a SLAM charter school in Nevada in 2016, expanding his commitment to education that began with the first SLAM school in Miami. SLAM Nevada currently serves students from kindergarten through 12th grade.
Of all the schools in Nevada, SLAM ranked #1 in academic growth last year, moving from a three- to a five-star rating. The school is a staple in the community, delivering quality education while supporting families and creating opportunities for students to build successful careers.
“Pitbull: Vegas After Dark The Residency” dates: Nov. 8-9 | Jan. 24-25 | March 7-8 and 14-15
50 Cent to Headline Six Shows at Planet Hollywood Over New Year’s Week
Rapper and entrepreneur 50 Cent is set to celebrate 2025 in Sin City with “50 Cent: In Da Club,” six exclusive shows for his first-ever Las Vegas residency at PH Live at Planet Hollywood, running from Friday, Dec. 27, through Saturday, Jan. 4, including a New Year’s Eve show presented by Sire Spirits.
Fans can expect an unforgettable experience at 50 Cent’s six shows on the Las Vegas Strip. “50 Cent: In Da Club” promises to bring the energy of his chart-topping hits featuring a mix of fan favorites including “In Da Club,” “Candy Shop,” “P.I.M.P.” and “21 Questions.”
Get ready to step into a dreamlike world with largerthan-life production, special surprises and a legendary New Year’s Eve celebration at Planet Hollywood. The shows will immerse 50 Cent fans in the ultimate party atmosphere as Curtis James Jackson III rings in 2025 in iconic style.
“I always bring the energy, and Las Vegas is the perfect spot to create an unforgettable experience for my fans,” 50 Cent said. “We’re talking big production, surprises and the ultimate New Year’s Eve party for my Vegas residency.”
Tickets went on sale Saturday, Oct. 19, at 10 a.m. PT at Ticketmaster.com/50Cent Vegas. Citi is the official card of “50 Cent: In Da Club,” and cardmembers had access to presale tickets beginning Wednesday, Oct. 16, at 10 a.m. PT until Friday, Oct. 18 at 10 p.m. PT. More: CitiEntertainment.com.
Artist fans had access to a presale Wednesday, Oct. 16, at 10 a.m. PT. Caesars Rewards members, Caesars Entertainment’s loyalty program, and SiriusXM, Live Nation and Ticketmaster customers had access to a presale Thursday, Oct. 17, at 10 a.m. PT. All presales will end Friday, Oct. 18, at 10 p.m. PT.
All performances are scheduled to begin at 9 p.m., except for the New Year’s Eve show, which is scheduled to begin at 10 p.m. The six dates going on sale: Dec. 27-28 and 30-31 | Jan. 3-4
Music Legends Billy Joel and Sting Headline Allegiant Stadium on Nov. 9
Billy Joel and Sting, two of the most respected and successful recording artists in music history, are performing for one night only at Allegiant Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 9, with the show beginning at 7 p.m. The iconic musicians will each perform their most beloved songs from throughout their illustrious careers.
The show promises to be an unforgettable evening of live music and will mark Joel’s first show in Las Vegas since performing at Allegiant Stadium in February 2022 and Sting’s return after his critically acclaimed “My Songs” residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace from October 2021-April 2023.
Joel, New York’s quintessential son, ranks as one of the most popular recording artists and respected entertainers in history. The singer-songwriter-composer is the sixth bestselling recording artist and the fourth bestselling solo artist with more than 160 million records sold worldwide. His 1985 compilation album “Greatest Hits Vol. 1 & 2” is one of the bestselling albums in the U.S.
His many hits – more than 30 Top 40 singles – include “Piano Man,” “It’s Still Rock and Roll to Me,” “Tell Her About It,” “We Didn’t Start the Fire,” “Uptown Girl,” “Just the Way You Are” and “The Longest Time.” Joel has won six Grammys amid 23 nominations and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame by his idol Ray Charles in 1999.
Composer, singer-songwriter, actor, author and activist Sting was born in Newcastle, England, before moving to London in 1977 to form The Police with Stewart Copeland and Andy Summers. The band released five studio albums, won six Grammys and was inducted into The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003.
One of the world’s most distinctive solo artists, Sting has received an additional 11 Grammys, a Golden Globe, an Emmy, four Oscar nominations, a Tony nomination and has sold 100 million albums. Sting has appeared in more than 15 films, a variety of TV shows and authored two books.
Last year, “Every Breath You Take” was added to Spotify’s “Billions Club,” having amassed more than 1 billion streams on the platform, with the correlating music video surpassing 1 billion streams on YouTube.
The B-52’s return to The Venetian on Nov. 13, 15 and 16
The B-52’s – Fred Schneider, Karen Pierson, Keith Strickland, Cindy Wilson and Ricky Wilson – have added three dates to their successful residency at The Venetian Theatre, and they are returning to The Venetian on Nov. 13 and 15-16, with shows beginning at 8:30 p.m.
Some 45 years together and more than 20 million albums into their career, The B-52’s ground-breaking songs include “Rock Lobster,” “Dance This Mess Around,” “Private Idaho,” “Roam,” “Deadbeat Club” and their chart-topping hit “Love Shack.”
Formed on an October night in 1976 after drinks at an Athens, Ga., Chinese restaurant, the band played their first gig at a friend’s house on Valentine’s Day in 1977. Naming themselves after Southern slang for exaggerated bouffant hairdos, The B-52s began weekend road trips to New York City for gigs at CBGB’s and other venues.
Before long, their thrift store aesthetic and genredefying songs were the talk of the post-punk underground. A record deal soon followed, and their selftitled debut disc, produced by Chris Blackwell, sold more than 500,000 copies on the strength of their first singles, the garage rock party classic “Rock Lobster” and “52 Girls.”
The album placed at #152 on Rolling Stone’s “500 Greatest Albums of All Time” and #99 on VH1’s “Greatest Albums of All Time.” The B-52’s began to attract fans far beyond the punk clubs of the Lower East Side, galvanizing the pop world with their stream-of-consciousness approach to songwriting and outrageous party shows.
Tickets for The B-52’s are available at VenetianLas Vegas.com, Ticketmaster.com, any box office at The Venetian Resort and by calling (702) 414-9000 and (866) 641-7469. Citi is the official card of The B-52s at The Venetian. More: CitiEntertainment.com.
Usher Headlines T-Mobile Arena on Nov. 15-16 in North American Tour Extension
Due to fan demand, multiplatinum, eight-time Grammy-winning global entertainment icon Usher has extended his 2024 North America tour “Usher: Past Present Future” to more cities and has added two shows in Las Vegas at T-Mobile Arena on Friday, Nov. 15 and Saturday, Nov. 16.
Performing at The Apple Music Halftime Show during the Super Bowl on Feb. 11 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Usher said, “I was not exaggerating when I shared with the world that my performance would be a celebration of the past 30 years of my career.
“I will never forget the energy from the cast and crew, the fans in the stadium, the guest performers and the adrenaline from this monumental milestone in my career. I’m so happy everyone enjoyed it. My goal always is to bring people together and feel good through my music and performance.”
Usher’s ninth studio album “Coming Home” was released on Feb. 9. The album hit #1 on Apple Music’s Top Albums chart, #1 on the R&B Top Album chart and #1 and #2 on the Top Music Videos R&B chart with “Ruin” and “Good Good,” respectively.
At iTunes, “Coming Home” went to #1 on the Albums chart as well as on the R&B Top Albums chart. At Amazon, “Coming Home” hit #1 on the New Releases and Best Sellers charts.
Tickets are on sale at AXS.com. The tour also offers VIP packages and experiences for fans to take their concert experience to the next level. Packages vary but include premium tickets, meet-and-greet and photo op with Usher, pre-show VIP Lounge, specially designed VIP gift item and more.
Credit: Bellamy Brewster
George Lopez Brings Laughs to Pearl
at the Palms on Nov. 15-16
Comedian George Lopez is coming to Pearl Concert Theater at Palms Casino Resort for two nights of standup on Friday, Nov. 15, and Saturday, Nov. 16, with performances beginning at 8 p.m. Tickets are available at Ticketmaster.com.
Lopez’s illustrious and multifaceted career encompasses television, film, standup and late-night television. Lopez has broken ground for Latino comics by embracing his ethnicity, confronting racial stereotypes and fighting for his community on and off the stage.
Lopez stars in his NBC comedy series “Lopez vs. Lopez” featuring his real-life daughter Mayan Lopez. The family sitcom, renewed for Season 2, follows George and Mayan in a fictionalized version of their relationship exploring dysfunction, reconnection and all the pain and joy in between.
Lopez can be seen in Snoop Dogg’s Amazon MGM sports comedy “The Underdoggs” and in the independent holiday comedy “How the Gringo Stole Christmas.” Lopez joined the DC Extended Universe last summer starring in the Warner Bros. Latin superhero film “Blue Beetle.”
Lopez released the third installment of his middle-school novel series “Chupacarter and the Screaming Sombrero” in March. He is currently performing standup in arenas across the country on his “ALLLRIIIIGHHTTT! Comedy Tour.”
On television, Lopez produced and starred in “Lopez,” a semi-autobiographical sitcom for two seasons on TV Land. The series explored his struggle between two worlds and crises often of his own making. In 2014, Lopez co-created and starred in the ensemble comedy “Saint George” for FX.
He hosted TBS’ inaugural late-night talk show “Lopez Tonight” for two seasons, marking Lopez’s return to series television after co-creating, writing, producing and starring in his groundbreaking hit sitcom “George Lopez,” which ran for six seasons on ABC. The show remains a hit on broadcast stations and Nick at Nite.
Beloved “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 8 champion and comedian Bob The Drag Queen is bringing her “This Is Wild” World Tour to The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas for a one-night-only performance on Friday, Nov. 15.
Intended for audiences ages 18+, the comedy show is an adventure into the heart of what makes Bob The Drag Queen a true icon in the entertainment world. Tickets are on sale at AXS.com.
The “This Is Wild” World Tour marks a significant milestone for “RPDR” winner Bob, who has since the victory been named the recipient of a Peabody Award and GLAAD Media Award and is a Television Academy Honors-winning artist for her contributions to HBO’s “We’re Here.”
Beyond her TV success, Bob has made waves as a musician with her debut EP “Gay Barz” and as an acclaimed podcaster alongside Monét X Change on “Sibling Rivalry.”
Aimed at adults, this 18+ performance will showcase Bob’s unparalleled ability to blend standup, crowd work and music, all while entertaining her audience with the charisma and flair for which she is renowned.
The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas offers VIP service including open bar packages, private expedited entry, dedicated hosts, merchandise delivery, custom swag and access to luxury suites and VIP lounges to its guests. To learn more about VIP service or to book, email TheTheaterVIP@ aegpresents.com.
Comedy fans and “RuPaul’s Drag Race” enthusiasts are in for a wild night with Bob The Drag Queen at The Theater. For more information on this show or news from The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, visit VirginHotelsLV.com. Virgin Hotels Las Vegas offers complimentary self-parking.
Nick Carter Brings His ‘Who I Am” World Tour to The Venetian on Nov. 16 and 17
Beloved pop icon and Backstreet Boys member Nick Carter is bringing his “Who I Am” World Tour to The Summit Showroom at The Venetian for two nights on Saturday, Nov. 16, and Sunday, Nov. 17, and the shows begin at 8:30 p.m.
The “Who I Am” World Tour, which has completed legs in the U.S., Canada and South America, marks Carter’s return to the stage as a solo artist after seven years. Carter also toured Asia and Europe, finishing up 2024 on a second leg in North America after his first successful run in 2023.
For the upcoming concert dates, the singer-songwriter is set to perform tracks from his solo catalog – including his latest single releases “Never Break My Heart (Not Again),” “Made for Us” and “Superman” – as well as Backstreet Boys favorites and other music hits with a personal significance to Carter.
Tickets are available for purchase at VenetianLasVegas. com, Ticketmaster.com and any box office at The Venetian and by calling (702) 414-9000 or (866) 641-7469.
Sparking his career at age 12, Carter became an international pop superstar as the youngest member of iconic boyband Backstreet Boys. Carter’s 30-year entertainment career has spanned beyond the stages of sold-out arenas, with projects in television and film, as well as a philanthropist and author.
To date, Backstreet Boys are the bestselling boyband in history and are one of the world’s bestselling music artists of all time. In 2002, Carter released his debut solo album “Now or Never,” which debuted at #17 on the Billboard 200 and was certified gold in the U.S., Japan and Canada.
Carter, who is a father of three and lives in Las Vegas, has remained a beloved figure in pop culture throughout the years, touring with Backstreet Boys for their “DNA World Tour” beginning in April 2022. Carter’s international “Who I Am” tour kicked off in the U.S. in October 2023. VenetianLasVegas.com
TRANSITIONS CAN BE A POSITIVE FOR THE
LAS VEGAS RAIDERS
It’s a time of transition for the Las Vegas Raiders, but that doesn’t have to be a negative. Last season, The Silver and Black fired coach Josh McDaniels and named Antonio Pierce the interim replacement. Pierce finished the season strong with the Raiders, who surprised by winning five of their last nine games to finish second in the AFC West.
The offensive game for the Raiders has changed considerably since the season started. The latest alteration is the departure of potential Hall of Fame
wide receiver Davante Adams, who demanded a trade and was dealt to the New York Jets for a conditional third-round pick.
The rest of the Raiders’ wide receiver room will have a chance to emerge. The wideouts, Alex Bachman, Tyreik McAllister, Jakobi Meyers and Tre Tucker, all have upsides, and each is in his 20s.
The Raiders have made the quarterback transition from Gardner Minshew to Aidan O’Connell, who is two years
younger than his predecessor. It’s about the future for the Raiders, who were a poor fit for the expensive Adams, who has reunited with his pal, Aaron Rodgers.
There were several positives for O’Connell, who started 10 games as a rookie in 2023, with his return as a starter against a tough Pittsburgh Steelers defense. However, a few mistakes by the team doomed the Raiders against the latest version of the Steel Curtain.
O’Connell suffered a fractured thumb Oct. 20 against the Rams and will be out 4-6 weeks. (The drama continues!) even with Adams’ departure and a new starting quarterback, it can likely only get better for a Raiders offense that has been in a tailspin since the season commenced. Through six games, the Raiders are 26th in the league in total offense with 293 yards per game and 31st in rushing offense with 79.5 yards per game and 27th in scoring offense with 18.2 points per contest.
The Raiders’ defense needs to transition from a team that fails to force turnovers into a squad that causes fumbles and picks off passes. Cornerback Jack Jones has been quite vocal about how the Raider defense needs to be the aggressor. After six games, the Raiders ranked 31st in the league in turnovers through six games with just two.
Another point in transition is that the Raiders are becoming Brock Bowers’ team. The highly touted rookie has lived up to the hype. Bowers was a surprise pick since the Raiders already have a quality tight end in Michael Mayer. However, Bowers is an elite player who could become the finest tight end in the NFL.
Pierce has much to accomplish, but it’s apparent who the coach will lean on, and the good news for The Silver and Black is that most of those pieces are young and capable of making a positive impact.
o'connell 293 yards per game
Gardner Minshew in the league
79.5 yards per game
in rushing offense in scoring offense 26 31 27 th st st
18.2 points per contest
THERE IS SO MUCH TALENT IN THE ROSTER
“Just win, baby!” would be a perfect phrase for the Vegas Golden Knights if it weren’t patented by late Raiders owner Al Davis. The iconic face of the Raiders would have loved the Golden Knights since the hockey club has been very successful since its inception in 2019-2020.
The Golden Knights are 88 games above .500 in their first five seasons, which is unprecedented and ridiculous. The Golden Knights also won a Stanley Cup in only its fourth season in the league. To put it in perspective, the Toronto Maple Leafs, one of the NHL’s original six, hasn’t hoisted Lord Stanley since 1967. Many of the Golden Knights’ parents were yet to be born.
The Golden Knights started its 2024-2025 campaign 3-0, and the season is promising. A huge highlight was battering archrival the Colorado Avalanche. The Golden Knights have considerable talent with Jack Eichel, who scored 31 goals in 63 games last season, Ivan Barbeshev and Tomas Hertl.
The latter, who was picked up in March with a trade with the San Jose Sharks, is a magician with the puck and should make up for the loss of Jonathan Marchessault.
Five of the six defensemen who were regulars for Las Vegas during The Stanley Cup championship run in 2023 are back. Alex Pietrangelo, Shea Theodore, Brayden McNabb, Zach Whitecloud and Nicolas Hague are solid.
Noah Hanifin was a big deadline acquisition and has bolstered an already strong group of blueliners. Adin Hill is back in goal with Ilya Samsonov backing him up. The core is strong, and expectations are high as usual in Golden Knights country in Las Vegas.
The wildcard for the Golden Knights is Alexander Holtz, who was surprisingly traded by the New Jersey Devils. The highly touted Holtz, who is just 22, was the No. 7 overall pick in the 2020 NHL draft.
The Devils for some reason never gave Holtz a chance to live up to expectations. The Golden Knights may have picked up a youngster who has the chance to score 30 goals a season. If Holtz is on a line with the sublime Hertl, expect some serious numbers.
By Ed Condran
The Western Conference is always filled with challenging teams. The Edmonton Oilers, who are led by arguably the best player in the game with Connor McDavid, are always tough, and the same goes for the Avalanche. However, there is so much talent throughout the Golden Knights roster. And then there is the culture, which screams, “Just win, baby!”
DREAM EXOTICS OFFERS THE CAR OF YOUR DREAMS FOR RENT
They’re fast and furious and exotic and luxurious: Dream Exotics Las Vegas Car Rentals (4301 S. Valley View Blvd., Suite #16) offers customers the car of their dreams – if only for a fleeting moment (depending on how long you rent).
The facility just west of the Las Vegas Strip has been newly minted with impressive, vast and colorful graffiti, and the Las Vegas family business – son Cameron Tyagi and daughter Aspen Tyagi are mainstays now – offers its services 24/7, so you can fulfill your need for speed and impress from dusk to dawn.
The top-notch dream car rental company in Las Vegas features a growing inventory of some of the finest vehicles money can buy. The wellknown Dream Exotics owns its entire inventory of sexy luxury cars, so they can ensure that reservations are perfect every time.
One recent celebrity client of Dream Exotics in a long list of athletes, actors and singers? New Fontainebleau Las Vegas headliner and country superstar Keith Urban.
The most popular rentals? Lamborghinis –by far – followed by Ferraris and Rolls-Royces. The luxury inventory also includes Aston Martins, Audis, Bentleys, Cadillacs, Corvettes, Hummers, Maseratis, McLarens and Mercedes-Benzes.
Vehicles on the website are on-site in Las Vegas and ready to rent with no security deposit. All a customer needs to rent a car is proof of full-coverage car insurance, a valid driver license showing that you are older than age 18 and a credit or debit card.
Dream Exotics is open 24 hours a day seven days a week, with deliveries, pick-ups and drop-offs available for customers. Dream Exotics can make your time in Las Vegas one you’ll never forget.
DreamExoticRentalCars.com
EXECUTIVE
NICOLE BRISSON OF BREZZA AND BAR ZAZU AT RESORTS
By Bob Barnes
Nicole Brisson is one of the most heralded Las Vegas chefs and perhaps has more honors than any other female chef, including a James Beard nomination, being the first female to become executive chef of an Eataly in the U.S. and competing on several popular reality-TV shows, including “Chopped” and “Beat Bobby Flay.”
Vegas Prime Magazine talked with the Johnson & Wales University graduate to find out what led her to pursue a career in the culinary arts, the path she took that led to her many accomplishments and more.
Please tell us about your background and early influences.
I grew up in upstate New York and started working in kitchens when I was 14 years old. My mom grew up in my grandfather's restaurant in Saratoga, N.Y., and it made a huge influence on how my sister and I ate.
My junior and senior year of high school, I did a vocational program for Culinary Arts, became president and started competing in fine dining room service, baking & pastry and extemporaneous speech. Through these competitions, I won $18,000 in scholarship money to Johnson & Wales University.
Tell us about your time in Italy. Fabio Picchi was the first chef I worked for at Cibreo in Florence. They eventually called me the spunga (sponge in English) because I just wanted to learn as much as I could and move to every station. From Florence I moved to Panzano to work for Dario Cecchini. I learned so much about butchery and old Tuscan recipes that were passed down through the generations.
Tell us about working in Las Vegas.
When I came back from Italy, I opened the Wynn and got to work with some truly amazing chefs I had admired for years: Paul Bartalotta, Mark Poidevin and Steven Kalt. From the Wynn, I moved to The Venetian/Palazzo to work for the Batali & Bastianich group, starting at B&B Ristorante. Shortly after, we opened Otto, and I became Chef de Cuisine.
Eventually, Carnevino had an opening, and I was promoted to Executive Chef and ran the dry aging program and later became Culinary Director of all four (Batali & Bastianich) Vegas restaurants. We would help with the Eataly openings across the U.S., and I became Executive Chef of the Vegas Eataly, where we had 500 employees and 30 health permits.
You have myriad accolades in your culinary career. What are some you are most proud of?
My James Beard nomination was such a bucket list accolade for me (unfortunately, with COVID-19, the James Beard judging never took place). First female executive of an Eataly in the U.S. and SNHD (Southern Nevada Health District) Director of Environmental Health were overlapping and very important to me. I wanted the SNHD to hear the perspective of a chef, and I was the first chef to hold the Director of Environmental Health seat in 30 years that wasn’t in charge of tire disposal or septic tanks.
Tell us a bit about Brezza and Bar Zazu, the two eateries you currently oversee at Resorts World?
Brezza is a 300-seat coastal Italian restaurant with seasonal menu changes. Bar Zazu opened months later and has 150 seats, serving European plates with live music nightly. Both are very different but still using seasonal produce, artisanal ingredients and thoughtful sourcing.
What types of ingredients do you use?
I use a lot of great specialty Italian ingredients but like to pull produce from as many small farms as I can, try to be as sustainable as possible and always have heritage breeds on the menu.
When you opened Locale Italian Kitchen, you were one of the first in a string of chefs leaving the Strip to open high-quality eateries in the burbs. Do you see that trend continuing? I had regular clientele travel all the way from the Strip to SW Blue Diamond Road to support me. In the end, we were awarded (National Restaurant Association’s) Best New Restaurant, my 40 Under 40 and my James Beard nomination.
I see the trend continuing. Brian Howard, Jamie Tran, James Trees and many others paved the way for chefs like me to make the leap. I can’t even keep up with all the great restaurants off the Strip today.
What do you think of the culinary scene in Las Vegas?
Twenty-one years ago until now, the culinary scene is night and day. I think it is the best it has ever been and continuing to get better and better. Now is the time for local chefs to push the envelope even further and let the world know we have some of the best culinary talent in the country.
Imbibe In Style time
Las Vegas Havens for Whisky Enthusiasts
by Francesco Lafranconi
The Las Vegas whisky scene is rife with hidden gems waiting to be uncovered. Whether you’re a seasoned whisky drinker or a curious newbie, these venues promise to be a haven for whisky enthusiasts.
Carversteak at Resorts World
Acclaimed for its fine dining and impeccable hospitality, Carversteak boasts a remarkable whisky offering of nearly 300 labels, highlighting an exquisite collection of Scotch and international whiskies as well as American bourbon and rye. The table-side whisky cart offering called Timeless Treasures adds an element of entertainment and refinement, making each pour a spectacle in its own right.
Guests are treated to a one-of-a-kind engagement, where they can savor some of the finest old and rare whiskies enhanced with an offering of Estuary, a Scottish water – an element that enhances the unique aroma and taste of these
distinguished whiskies. The entire affair is elevated with artisanal chocolates that serve to harmonize and complement each whisky sip.
As an added luxury, guests receive beautiful, sealed envelopes containing tasting notes of the brand they tasted. This addition ensures that the memory of the evening lingers long after the last drop is savored.
Cut at The Palazzo
Cut Steakhouse is the brainchild of celebrated Chef Wolfgang Puck. Led by Senior Beverage Manager Rebecca Huff, Cut boasts more than 300 labels of whisky, with a strong emphasis on multiple expressions and age
statements of coveted iconic single malts brands including Ardbeg, Springbank and The Macallan.
A very rare find is Michter’s Celebration bourbon, a pièce de résistance served at a staggering $1,475 for a 2 oz. pour. At Cut, every whisky pour is meticulously curated. Each pour is 2 oz., allowing guests to savor the rich flavors and aromas of distinguished labels such as the 1792 Collection, which features expressions from their own barrel, and the WhistlePig collection, highlighted by the exceptional 25-year-old rye.
Delmonico Steakhouse at The Venetian
Delmonico Steakhouse stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of fine whiskies and expert curation. Under the leadership of Erick Kluever, Delmonico has been recognized for its exceptional selection of whiskies and classic cocktail recipes.
The bar boasts more than 800 whiskies meticulously curated to offer a balanced selection of international and domestic labels. Delmonico's collection is marked by the distinctive 55-45 split between international and U.S. whiskies, showcasing a commitment to diversity and the celebration of global whisky craftsmanship.
Highlights include Russell‘s 13-year and 15-year straight bourbon, Willet 11-year rye and a distinctive Westward American Single Malt private barrel – each offering a unique perspective on the art of whisky.
Connoisseurs can indulge in an exceptional Signatory 25-year Macallan cask strength and Glendronach 29-year, adding a touch of sophistication to the bar’s unparalleled offerings. Delmonico sets the stage for an unparalleled whisky tasting journey in the heart of Las Vegas.
Ginza in The Arts District
The Arts District in Downtown Las Vegas has welcomed a new gem to its bar scene – Ginza, where the essence of Japanese culture is entwined with the art of whisky appreciation. Curated by the visionary duo of Joshua Monsivais and David Riccardi, Ginza draws inspiration from the rich traditions of “omotenashi,” or Japanese hospitality.
At Ginza, patrons are greeted with an exquisite collection that features more than 90 Japanese whiskies, along with a carefully curated selection of 70 bourbons, hand-picked Scotch and premium rye. The bar exclusively serves vermouth, gin and white spirits of Japanese origin. In a unique twist, Ginza focuses solely on whiskies and spirits, with no food served.
Showcasing a stunning array of 60 bottles on display, Ginza houses precious gems like Suntory whiskies dating back to the 1970s, the illustrious Hichiro single barrel and rare Nikka releases from the same era. For those in search of a tranquil yet sophisticated whisky experience, Ginza is a new and exceptional destination.
Double Helix Wine & Whiskey Lounge in Town Square
Opened in 2011, Double Helix stands with a collection that encompasses 500 whiskies, and the selection tilts prominently toward bourbon and rye, comprising 70% of the offerings. Meanwhile, a respectable 20% of the collection is devoted to Irish and Scotch and another 10% features the elegant nuances of Japanese whisky.
This array allows patrons to explore whisky through curated flights featuring half pours. Adding to its charm, Double Helix features an outdoor patio cigar lounge, a remarkable space where aficionados can enjoy their premium cigars while sipping on their favorite drams.
WHO: The well-suited Bryan Tamayo, 38, Senior Beverage Manager for Tao Group Hospitality Las Vegas. The Filipino American from Portland, Ore., made the ripe, floral and herbaceous cocktail Appley Made behind the bar at Lavo Italian Restaurant at The Palazzo.
THE COCKTAIL: “The cocktail is named Appley Named, a cheeky name riff on an Apple Martini. There’s a little bit of roasted apple, Absolut Elyx, elderflower liqueur and a little bit of lemon juice to balance it all out. It’s shaken and served up with a little bit of rosemary sea salt foam on top. We wanted to tap into the coastal vibe of the restaurant.”
BRYAN'S FAVORITE COCKTAIL: “I love tropical drinks, and I love tiki bars. A good Zombie in an immersive tiki bar, you can’t beat that. I love the vibes of all of it. Stray Pirate is incredible, their vibe is incredible, and they have a great Zombie. And Frankie’s, of course, is a legend in town.”
WHAT BRYAN LOVES ABOUT LAS VEGAS: “The food scene here is incredible. I grew up in Portland, and they also have an incredible food scene, but the mixing of culture here –Chinatown is incredible for authentic food, for modern food. The Strip does what it does best, including high-end. If you go to North Las Vegas, you can get authentic Mexican food. Las Vegas is a one-stop shop for excellent food.”
A LITTLE-KNOWN FACT ABOUT BRYAN: “Um, I’m a recovering ‘World of Warcraft’ addict. I mean yes, but no. I produce music at home. I have a small studio I’ve been building over time. It’s for fun – it scratches that creative itch in a different way.”
PRIME PRO TIP: The 16-ounce Meatball at Lavo is a signature menu item, and Lavo recently reopened after a renovation – the décor and ambiance are now Italian countryside.
IF YOU GO: Lavo Italian Restaurant at The Palazzo | TaoGroup.com
Absolut Elyx | St Germain Apple | Lemon | Rosemary Appley Made
Credit: Daniel Howard
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 very-much-missed colleague, mentor and friend.
Which Las Vegas Strip show has debuted five versions of a popular character?
Which Las Vegas singer is becoming increasingly unhinged in social media posts?
Which Las Vegas Strip duo’s split was acrimonious – at least on one side? Can you define acrimonious?
Which Las Vegas headliner was described as “a 50-year-old drag queen”?
Which PR exec has been in town so often, rumors are circulating that a move back to Las Vegas is in the works?
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.
Actor Jeremy Renner kicked off his “Heroes Fore Kids” Charity Weekend with a welcome celebration Oct. 19 at Juliet Cocktail Room in The Venetian attended by Chris Harrison, Richard Kind, Timothy Busfield, Richard Zander and Festus Ezeli. The event followed the Celebrity Poker Showdown. “I’ll always be a champion for a kid, knowing the blessings I had in my life that I know a lot of kids don’t have. When you contribute beyond yourself and give, you’re probably going to win at life,”
Renner said. Earlier in the weekend, Renner attended a Lenny Kravitz concert, calling the show “amazing.”
Reality-TV star Bethenny Frankel was spotted closing out the pool season at Tao Beach in The Venetian on Oct. 13. Later that night, she dined at Hakkasan Restaurant in MGM Grand before heading to Marquee Nightclub in The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.
The 25th anniversary celebration for “Fantasy” on Oct. 16 was a star-studded affair at The Luxor and included choreographer Criss Judd; Kenny Ortega, Emmy Award-winning choreographer and director; cast members from Excalibur headliners Thunder From Down Under; comedian and magician Murray SawChuck; cast members from Virgin Hotels headliner “Lady Like,” Australian Bee Gees, “Purple Reign” and “Legends in Concert”; and Bill Medley and Bucky Heard from The Righteous Brothers.
