Archive for December, 2012
Happy Holidays from Your Friends at Classic Exhibits Inc.
December 20th, 2012
COMMENTS
EXHIBITOR 2013 — What Else to Do in Vegas (from a Las Vegas local)
December 18th, 2012
2 COMMENTS
Lesson #126: – Attractions Smactions
You Dirty Rat!
Do you recall when you couldn’t visit Rome, Paris, New York, New Orleans, Venice, and Medieval England all in one day? If so, then you’ve attended EXHIBITOR for more years than you probably want to admit. EXHIBITOR is celebrating its 25th year.
While there aren’t many certainties in life, one thing is certain. Vegas reinvents itself more often than Madonna.
- EXHIBITOR 2013 — Other Places to Eat (from a Las Vegas local)
- EXHIBITOR2013 — Show Me the Best Shows, Baby (from a Las Vegas local)
As a Vegas local, I’m constantly asked about what to do here, so here’s the inside scoop of what’s new!
What to Do
2012 marked a return to Vegas’ roots with the opening of some exciting new venues. If you’re staying at Mandalay Bay or the Luxor, grab a cab or limo to share and head Downtown (yes, DT).
The Mob Museum (http://themobmuseum.org) is housed in the historic former federal building in Downtown Las Vegas. The Museum features some of the most iconic artifacts in mob history including the wall from the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre in Chicago. And to ‘cap off’ the night, the Mob Bar (http://mobbarlv.com) is located a short walk away. With a 1920’s speakeasy feel and classic cocktails, it’s “an offer you can’t refuse.”
Next up is the Neon Museum (http://www.neonmuseum.org), also located in downtown. The Neon Boneyard is home to over 150 donated and rescued signs from the 1930’s to present day. The unrestored collection represents signs from business, motels, and iconic casino resorts located originally throughout the Las Vegas Valley. How many of these memorable signs will you recall?
Whenever I’m driving home past the Gold and Silver Pawn Shop, it never ceases to amaze me how long the line is to get into that place! And with the popularity of Pawn Stars growing, the line will continue to be a constant fixture. But leave it to someone in Vegas to work a deal with a pawnshop. The Pawn Stars Insider Tour offers you VIP access to the Pawn Stars universe (http://www.alllasvegastours.com/body.asp?tour=5293PAWN&page=TourDetails). Not only do you get to ‘skip’ the line, but the experience also includes other shops from the hit show: The Toy Shack, Rick’s Restorations (Home of American Restorations), and ATM – the aquarium store from TV’s “Tanked.” The tour picks up and drops off from Bally’s daily, except Sunday. After a 4-hour tour your thirst may be overwhelming! You will want to head across the street to The Cosmopolitan.
The Cosmopolitan is probably my favorite newer resort on the Strip. There are a couple of reasons for this. First, there are floor to ceiling windows that allow sunlight (yes, you read correctly) onto the casino floor. You are actually able to tell the difference between day and night! The second reason I love the ‘Cosmo’ is the Chandelier bar (http://www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com/experience/lounges-and-bars/chandelier.aspx). This multi-story bar is surrounded by luminous beaded curtains of light, which give you the feeling that you are sitting in the middle of a chandelier. As exhibit producers, I challenge you not to try to figure out how they do it or how they clean it. Just enjoy the magic!
Back in the good old days, EXHIBITOR was held around Valentine’s Day. Which might have been just a little problematic to be away from your spouse or significant other on one of Hallmark’s most important holidays. Now, there’s a good chance that EXHIBITOR will fall on or near St. Patty’s Day. A wise move as it is a holiday that can definitely be enjoyed in Vegas sans spouse. This year, St. Patty’s Day is the day before EXHIBITOR 2013 opens. So for those who may be in town, I included some great Irish places to pay homage to the “Mother Country.”
McMullan’s Irish Pub (http://www.mcmullansirishpub.com) is just off the strip, but well worth the cab ride. This is where lively locals go to kick back some pints, while enjoying great local Irish bands and food. Inspired by a group of nine famous men who fought for Irish independence in 1848, Nine Fine Irishman at the New York, New York (http://www.ninefineirishmen.com) gives a the Vegas strip version of the Irish pub. The Victorian-style bar, along with delicious Irish food, combines to create an authentic Irish atmosphere. Ri Ra (http://www.rira.com/las-vegas/) is located in Mandalay Place but has to be included! Ri Ra, consistently voted one of the top three Irish bars in Vegas, caters to both the locals and visitors with their Guinness Shop.
If you’ve attended EXHIBITOR for a few years, it’s easy to forget about the attractions close by — but you shouldn’t. Mandalay Bay, Luxor, and Tropicana have some great attractions. I know you’re there for work, but all work and no play makes . . . . Well I think you get the picture by now.
- Mandalay Bay – Shark Reef (http://www.sharkreef.com)
- Luxor – Bodies. The Exhibition, Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition, and the newest, Score! Interactive Sports Exhibit (http://luxor.com/entertainment/)
- Tropicana – Continues the mob theme with The Mob Attraction (http://www.troplv.com/entertainment/mob-attraction-las-vegas)
Feel free to add your ideas or favorites to either list! And if you’re thinking that I’ve intentionally left out Vegas shows, think again! Part 3 will include some of my Vegas show recommendations and ways to get tickets without breaking the bank. And no, it doesn’t involve a meeting with the Mafia Don.
Feel free to add your ideas or favorites to either list!
In the meantime, registration for EXHIBITOR 2013 is now OPEN! Click HERE for FREE Access to the show hall courtesy of Classic Exhibits. Enter Promo Code 4044 for the FREE Pass (waiving the credit card fee).
Jen LaBruzza, Western Regional Manager
Classic Exhibits/ClassicMODUL
jen@classicexhibits.com
*********************************
Based in Portland, Oregon, Classic Exhibits Inc. designs and manufacturers portable, modular, and custom-hybrid exhibit solutions and engineered aluminum extrusions (ClassicMODUL). Classic Exhibits products are represented by an extensive distributor network in North America and in select International markets. For more information, contact us at 866-652-2100.
[subscribe2]
Lesson #126: – Attractions Smactions
You Dirty Rat!
Do you recall when you couldn’t visit Rome, Paris, New York, New Orleans, Venice, and Medieval England all in one day? If so, then you’ve attended EXHIBITOR for more years than you probably want to admit. EXHIBITOR is celebrating its 25th year.
While there aren’t many certainties in life, one thing is certain. Vegas reinvents itself more often than Madonna.
- EXHIBITOR 2013 — Other Places to Eat (from a Las Vegas local)
- EXHIBITOR2013 — Show Me the Best Shows, Baby (from a Las Vegas local)
As a Vegas local, I’m constantly asked about what to do here, so here’s the inside scoop of what’s new!
What to Do
2012 marked a return to Vegas’ roots with the opening of some exciting new venues. If you’re staying at Mandalay Bay or the Luxor, grab a cab or limo to share and head Downtown (yes, DT).
The Mob Museum (http://themobmuseum.org) is housed in the historic former federal building in Downtown Las Vegas. The Museum features some of the most iconic artifacts in mob history including the wall from the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre in Chicago. And to ‘cap off’ the night, the Mob Bar (http://mobbarlv.com) is located a short walk away. With a 1920’s speakeasy feel and classic cocktails, it’s “an offer you can’t refuse.”
Next up is the Neon Museum (http://www.neonmuseum.org), also located in downtown. The Neon Boneyard is home to over 150 donated and rescued signs from the 1930’s to present day. The unrestored collection represents signs from business, motels, and iconic casino resorts located originally throughout the Las Vegas Valley. How many of these memorable signs will you recall?
Whenever I’m driving home past the Gold and Silver Pawn Shop, it never ceases to amaze me how long the line is to get into that place! And with the popularity of Pawn Stars growing, the line will continue to be a constant fixture. But leave it to someone in Vegas to work a deal with a pawnshop. The Pawn Stars Insider Tour offers you VIP access to the Pawn Stars universe (http://www.alllasvegastours.com/body.asp?tour=5293PAWN&page=TourDetails). Not only do you get to ‘skip’ the line, but the experience also includes other shops from the hit show: The Toy Shack, Rick’s Restorations (Home of American Restorations), and ATM – the aquarium store from TV’s “Tanked.” The tour picks up and drops off from Bally’s daily, except Sunday. After a 4-hour tour your thirst may be overwhelming! You will want to head across the street to The Cosmopolitan.
The Cosmopolitan is probably my favorite newer resort on the Strip. There are a couple of reasons for this. First, there are floor to ceiling windows that allow sunlight (yes, you read correctly) onto the casino floor. You are actually able to tell the difference between day and night! The second reason I love the ‘Cosmo’ is the Chandelier bar (http://www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com/experience/lounges-and-bars/chandelier.aspx). This multi-story bar is surrounded by luminous beaded curtains of light, which give you the feeling that you are sitting in the middle of a chandelier. As exhibit producers, I challenge you not to try to figure out how they do it or how they clean it. Just enjoy the magic!
Back in the good old days, EXHIBITOR was held around Valentine’s Day. Which might have been just a little problematic to be away from your spouse or significant other on one of Hallmark’s most important holidays. Now, there’s a good chance that EXHIBITOR will fall on or near St. Patty’s Day. A wise move as it is a holiday that can definitely be enjoyed in Vegas sans spouse. This year, St. Patty’s Day is the day before EXHIBITOR 2013 opens. So for those who may be in town, I included some great Irish places to pay homage to the “Mother Country.”
McMullan’s Irish Pub (http://www.mcmullansirishpub.com) is just off the strip, but well worth the cab ride. This is where lively locals go to kick back some pints, while enjoying great local Irish bands and food. Inspired by a group of nine famous men who fought for Irish independence in 1848, Nine Fine Irishman at the New York, New York (http://www.ninefineirishmen.com) gives a the Vegas strip version of the Irish pub. The Victorian-style bar, along with delicious Irish food, combines to create an authentic Irish atmosphere. Ri Ra (http://www.rira.com/las-vegas/) is located in Mandalay Place but has to be included! Ri Ra, consistently voted one of the top three Irish bars in Vegas, caters to both the locals and visitors with their Guinness Shop.
If you’ve attended EXHIBITOR for a few years, it’s easy to forget about the attractions close by — but you shouldn’t. Mandalay Bay, Luxor, and Tropicana have some great attractions. I know you’re there for work, but all work and no play makes . . . . Well I think you get the picture by now.
- Mandalay Bay – Shark Reef (http://www.sharkreef.com)
- Luxor – Bodies. The Exhibition, Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition, and the newest, Score! Interactive Sports Exhibit (http://luxor.com/entertainment/)
- Tropicana – Continues the mob theme with The Mob Attraction (http://www.troplv.com/entertainment/mob-attraction-las-vegas)
Feel free to add your ideas or favorites to either list! And if you’re thinking that I’ve intentionally left out Vegas shows, think again! Part 3 will include some of my Vegas show recommendations and ways to get tickets without breaking the bank. And no, it doesn’t involve a meeting with the Mafia Don.
Feel free to add your ideas or favorites to either list!
In the meantime, registration for EXHIBITOR 2013 is now OPEN! Click HERE for FREE Access to the show hall courtesy of Classic Exhibits. Enter Promo Code 4044 for the FREE Pass (waiving the credit card fee).
Jen LaBruzza, Western Regional Manager
Classic Exhibits/ClassicMODUL
jen@classicexhibits.com
*********************************
Based in Portland, Oregon, Classic Exhibits Inc. designs and manufacturers portable, modular, and custom-hybrid exhibit solutions and engineered aluminum extrusions (ClassicMODUL). Classic Exhibits products are represented by an extensive distributor network in North America and in select International markets. For more information, contact us at 866-652-2100.
[subscribe2]
What’s in a Name?: Word on the Street — Dec. 10th thru Dec. 14th
December 16th, 2012
COMMENTS
Word on the Street by Kevin Carty
Over the past couple of years, one of my favorite things is when people outside of the Pacific Northwest tell me how much they love Sacagawea Portable Hybrid Displays.
Not only does it generate a sense of pride in our company, but it also just makes me laugh to be frank. Why you ask? Because you cannot imagine how many different pronunciations I have heard. Everything from Saka-weegee to Sock-kog-oh-wah. LOL!
But the important thing is, we all know what they are referring to. Regardless of the pronunciation! The name sticks in people’s minds, and its different from other lines at Classic like Magellan and Perfect 10. There are distinctions not only in the products, but also in the names! In case you are wondering why we named the line “Sacagawea,” here’s a brief explanation from the FAQ section in Exhibit Design Search. To hear the pronunciation, click here.
“Sacagawea was a Lemi Shoshone woman who accompanied Lewis and Clark on their expedition between 1804 and 1806. She was the only woman.
Sacagawea served as a guide and an interpreter for the expedition, but her greatest value to the mission may have been simply her presence during the arduous journey, which showed their peaceful intent.
The Sacagawea Portable Hybrid System, named in honor or this remarkable woman, is a lightweight, adaptable display system which packs in one or two portable cases. It’s durable, attractive, and makes a big impression at any show or event.”
Recently, Seth Godin went out on a limb and took on “naming” by one of the most famous brands EVER. One that is a favorite of mine, but I totally agree with the message. Here is what he wrote (short and sweet):
Design like Apple, but name like P&G
Apple’s naming approach is inconsistent, it begs for lawsuits (offensive and defensive) and it shouldn’t be the model for your organization. iPhone is a phone, iPad is a pad, iPod is a … (and owning a letter of the alphabet is i-mpossible).
Procter and Gamble, on the other hand, has been doing it beautifully for a hundred years. Crisco, Tide, Pringles, Bounty, Duracell–these are fanciful names that turn the generic product (and the story we believe about it) into something distinct.
If you can invent an entire category, fabulous, that’s an achievement. For the rest of us, resist the temptation to be boring or to be too aggressive. It’s your name and you need to live with it.
As Seth says, if you can invent an entire category, then kudos to you. But in lieu of being able to do that, create names/brands that stick . . . and that are memorable. And don’t forget to back that up with quality manufacturing and service . . . Lest you be the company that makes a great product but the company that no one wants to work with. I suspect we know a few companies like that. 😉
Have a great and restful weekend.
Kevin Carty
http://twitter.com/kevin_carty
http://www.linkedin.com/pub/kevin-carty/3/800/32a
[subscribe2]
Word on the Street by Kevin Carty
Over the past couple of years, one of my favorite things is when people outside of the Pacific Northwest tell me how much they love Sacagawea Portable Hybrid Displays.
Not only does it generate a sense of pride in our company, but it also just makes me laugh to be frank. Why you ask? Because you cannot imagine how many different pronunciations I have heard. Everything from Saka-weegee to Sock-kog-oh-wah. LOL!
But the important thing is, we all know what they are referring to. Regardless of the pronunciation! The name sticks in people’s minds, and its different from other lines at Classic like Magellan and Perfect 10. There are distinctions not only in the products, but also in the names! In case you are wondering why we named the line “Sacagawea,” here’s a brief explanation from the FAQ section in Exhibit Design Search. To hear the pronunciation, click here.
“Sacagawea was a Lemi Shoshone woman who accompanied Lewis and Clark on their expedition between 1804 and 1806. She was the only woman.
Sacagawea served as a guide and an interpreter for the expedition, but her greatest value to the mission may have been simply her presence during the arduous journey, which showed their peaceful intent.
The Sacagawea Portable Hybrid System, named in honor or this remarkable woman, is a lightweight, adaptable display system which packs in one or two portable cases. It’s durable, attractive, and makes a big impression at any show or event.”
Recently, Seth Godin went out on a limb and took on “naming” by one of the most famous brands EVER. One that is a favorite of mine, but I totally agree with the message. Here is what he wrote (short and sweet):
Design like Apple, but name like P&G
Apple’s naming approach is inconsistent, it begs for lawsuits (offensive and defensive) and it shouldn’t be the model for your organization. iPhone is a phone, iPad is a pad, iPod is a … (and owning a letter of the alphabet is i-mpossible).
Procter and Gamble, on the other hand, has been doing it beautifully for a hundred years. Crisco, Tide, Pringles, Bounty, Duracell–these are fanciful names that turn the generic product (and the story we believe about it) into something distinct.
If you can invent an entire category, fabulous, that’s an achievement. For the rest of us, resist the temptation to be boring or to be too aggressive. It’s your name and you need to live with it.
As Seth says, if you can invent an entire category, then kudos to you. But in lieu of being able to do that, create names/brands that stick . . . and that are memorable. And don’t forget to back that up with quality manufacturing and service . . . Lest you be the company that makes a great product but the company that no one wants to work with. I suspect we know a few companies like that. 😉
Have a great and restful weekend.
Kevin Carty
http://twitter.com/kevin_carty
http://www.linkedin.com/pub/kevin-carty/3/800/32a
[subscribe2]
Innovative iPad Solutions for Trade Shows, Events, and Retail Environments
December 14th, 2012
1 COMMENT
You hit the jackpot! The iPad Kiosks shown below are cost-effective and well-designed iPad stands designed specifically for trade shows, events, and retail environments. They are lightweight, assemble fast, and include lockable security features. Most units have a clamshell frame that rotates effortlessly from portrait to landscape. There’s even a roll-able case. All ship from the USA.
Click on the images below for the downloadable PDF document or click here for complete design details and images.
Click here for the downloadable PDF document. Click here for the Unbranded PDF document.
–Mel White
http://www.linkedin.com/in/melmwhite
mel@classicexhibits.com
*********************************
Based in Portland, Oregon, Classic Exhibits Inc. designs and manufacturers portable, modular, and custom-hybrid exhibit solutions and engineered aluminum extrusions (ClassicMODUL). Classic Exhibits products are represented by an extensive distributor network in North America and in select International markets. For more information, contact us at 866-652-2100.
[subscribe2]
You hit the jackpot! The iPad Kiosks shown below are cost-effective and well-designed iPad stands designed specifically for trade shows, events, and retail environments. They are lightweight, assemble fast, and include lockable security features. Most units have a clamshell frame that rotates effortlessly from portrait to landscape. There’s even a roll-able case. All ship from the USA.
Click on the images below for the downloadable PDF document or click here for complete design details and images.Click here for the downloadable PDF document. Click here for the Unbranded PDF document.
–Mel White
http://www.linkedin.com/in/melmwhite
mel@classicexhibits.com
*********************************
Based in Portland, Oregon, Classic Exhibits Inc. designs and manufacturers portable, modular, and custom-hybrid exhibit solutions and engineered aluminum extrusions (ClassicMODUL). Classic Exhibits products are represented by an extensive distributor network in North America and in select International markets. For more information, contact us at 866-652-2100.
[subscribe2]
EXHIBITOR 2013 — Other Places to Eat (from a Las Vegas local)
December 12th, 2012
1 COMMENT
Lesson #125: Other Places to Eat
You Only Live Once. Live It Up!
You gotta eat. You can eat cheap, which your stomach will regret later, or you can eat expensive, which your wallet will regret for weeks. It doesn’t have to be that way. Instead, why not truly dine, i.e. To eat a good dinner in good company and eat it slow
You may not be thinking about EXHIBITOR 2013 yet, but I am. I live in Las Vegas. Soon I’ll be getting questions from Classic Exhibits Distributors about Las Vegas, such as places to go, shows to see, where to stay, etc. I was a travel agent in a former life so I welcome these questions.
But the one question I wish more folks would ask is, “I don’t want to eat at Mandalay Bay or Luxor AGAIN. Where should I go with customers that is close, memorable, and won’t break the bank (once you add in the price of a taxi)?” Glad you asked.
- EXHIBITOR 2013 — What Else to Do in Vegas (from a Las Vegas local)
- EXHIBITOR2013 — Show Me the Best Shows, Baby (from a Las Vegas local)
Today, we’ll review places to eat outside of the Hacienda Triangle (Mandalay Bay, THEhotel, and Luxor).
Panevino
By day, it’s a gourmet deli, but after dark, this unique off the Strip spot offers a breathtaking, unobstructed, panoramic view of the Strip. Panevino (www.panevinolasvegas.com) is a short taxi ride from Mandalay Bay on East Sunset Road, across from McCarran Airport. Don’t let that fool you though. The “runway activity” won’t even register once you experience the view. Get reservations and kindly insist on a table next to the window. The excellent Italian food (they serve some mean steaks and chops too) is enhanced by the wonderful service and the view (Did I mention the ‘View’?) And if you’re a martini lover, make sure you imbibe one made with their hand-stuffed, bleu cheese olives.
Bacio
Another Italian restaurant sure to please is Bacio at the Tropicana Hotel (www.troplv.com/dining/bacio). Former Rao’s chef (New York & Caesars Palace) and Top Chef Carla Pellegrino lends her heart, soul, and expertise to this authentic Italian menu. A more casual atmosphere that is sure to please. To heck with the taxi, you could even walk to this one. But use the crosswalks!
Marrakech
If you are in the mood for dinner and a show, and don’t mind a little hip sway with your couscous, Marrakech is for you. Marrakech (www.marrakechvegas.com) is located just off the Strip, on Paradise Road and East Flamingo, which means a short taxi ride. You’ll be invited into a traditional Moroccan tent setting with teak inlaid tables, encircled by low couches. Go prepared to eat with your fingers! And no this isn’t like ‘Tournament of Kings.” The six course Moroccan feast is prix fixe with vegetarian substitutions available. The belly dancers create a lively atmosphere whether you choose to participate or just sit back and enjoy the show. You will want to make sure you get a reservation.
The Wicked Spoon
Finally, what would any trip to Vegas be without a visit to a buffet? The buffet has been a Vegas institution since the 40’s. The Wicked Spoon (www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com/taste/restaurant-collection/wicked-spoon.aspx ) at The Cosmopolitan is not just any buffet (really). For a mere $37 per person you are encouraged to try, try, try. Calling to mind the classic line from ‘A Christmas Story’, “Show us how the piggy eats Randy!” This “food hall” prides itself on serving innovative dishes along a row of 6+ stations, presented in unique and eye-catching ways. The seemingly endless list of dishes boggles the mind. There’s hardly a food trend that’s not covered here.
I’ve got a few more suggestions up my sleeve. Depending on your culinary mood, you might want to give these a try:
- Mexican – Taqueria Canonita , Venetian (www.canonita.net),
- Brazilian Steakhouse (Churrascaria) – Fogo de Chao (www.fogodechao.com),
- American – Yard House, Town Square (www.yardhouse.com/NV/las-vegas-restaurant-town-square/),
- Spanish Tapas (not to be confused with ‘topless’) – Firefly on Paradise (www.fireflylv.com).
I’m sure that you’ve noticed my affinity for Italian places in Vegas. And no, it’s not just because my last name is LaBruzza. Think about how Vegas got started . . . (Hint: The Mob), and you’ll know that you can’t run away from that kind of influence!
In Part 2 we’ll pick up this theme as old and new Vegas collide.
In the meantime, registration for EXHIBITOR 2013 is now OPEN! Click HERE for FREE Access to the show hall courtesy of Classic Exhibits. Enter Promo Code 4044 for the FREE Pass (waiving the credit card fee).
Feel free to let me know what you think of my suggestions. I have a reputation to uphold. Right now I’m 8 for 8.
Jen LaBruzza, Western Regional Manager
jen@classicexhibits.com
*********************************
Based in Portland, Oregon, Classic Exhibits Inc. designs and manufacturers portable, modular, and custom-hybrid exhibit solutions and engineered aluminum extrusions (ClassicMODUL). Classic Exhibits products are represented by an extensive distributor network in North America and in select International markets. For more information, contact us at 866-652-2100.
[subscribe2]
Lesson #125: Other Places to Eat
You Only Live Once. Live It Up!
You gotta eat. You can eat cheap, which your stomach will regret later, or you can eat expensive, which your wallet will regret for weeks. It doesn’t have to be that way. Instead, why not truly dine, i.e. To eat a good dinner in good company and eat it slow
You may not be thinking about EXHIBITOR 2013 yet, but I am. I live in Las Vegas. Soon I’ll be getting questions from Classic Exhibits Distributors about Las Vegas, such as places to go, shows to see, where to stay, etc. I was a travel agent in a former life so I welcome these questions.
But the one question I wish more folks would ask is, “I don’t want to eat at Mandalay Bay or Luxor AGAIN. Where should I go with customers that is close, memorable, and won’t break the bank (once you add in the price of a taxi)?” Glad you asked.
- EXHIBITOR 2013 — What Else to Do in Vegas (from a Las Vegas local)
- EXHIBITOR2013 — Show Me the Best Shows, Baby (from a Las Vegas local)
Today, we’ll review places to eat outside of the Hacienda Triangle (Mandalay Bay, THEhotel, and Luxor).
Panevino
By day, it’s a gourmet deli, but after dark, this unique off the Strip spot offers a breathtaking, unobstructed, panoramic view of the Strip. Panevino (www.panevinolasvegas.com) is a short taxi ride from Mandalay Bay on East Sunset Road, across from McCarran Airport. Don’t let that fool you though. The “runway activity” won’t even register once you experience the view. Get reservations and kindly insist on a table next to the window. The excellent Italian food (they serve some mean steaks and chops too) is enhanced by the wonderful service and the view (Did I mention the ‘View’?) And if you’re a martini lover, make sure you imbibe one made with their hand-stuffed, bleu cheese olives.
Bacio
Another Italian restaurant sure to please is Bacio at the Tropicana Hotel (www.troplv.com/dining/bacio). Former Rao’s chef (New York & Caesars Palace) and Top Chef Carla Pellegrino lends her heart, soul, and expertise to this authentic Italian menu. A more casual atmosphere that is sure to please. To heck with the taxi, you could even walk to this one. But use the crosswalks!
Marrakech
If you are in the mood for dinner and a show, and don’t mind a little hip sway with your couscous, Marrakech is for you. Marrakech (www.marrakechvegas.com) is located just off the Strip, on Paradise Road and East Flamingo, which means a short taxi ride. You’ll be invited into a traditional Moroccan tent setting with teak inlaid tables, encircled by low couches. Go prepared to eat with your fingers! And no this isn’t like ‘Tournament of Kings.” The six course Moroccan feast is prix fixe with vegetarian substitutions available. The belly dancers create a lively atmosphere whether you choose to participate or just sit back and enjoy the show. You will want to make sure you get a reservation.
The Wicked Spoon
Finally, what would any trip to Vegas be without a visit to a buffet? The buffet has been a Vegas institution since the 40’s. The Wicked Spoon (www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com/taste/restaurant-collection/wicked-spoon.aspx ) at The Cosmopolitan is not just any buffet (really). For a mere $37 per person you are encouraged to try, try, try. Calling to mind the classic line from ‘A Christmas Story’, “Show us how the piggy eats Randy!” This “food hall” prides itself on serving innovative dishes along a row of 6+ stations, presented in unique and eye-catching ways. The seemingly endless list of dishes boggles the mind. There’s hardly a food trend that’s not covered here.
I’ve got a few more suggestions up my sleeve. Depending on your culinary mood, you might want to give these a try:
- Mexican – Taqueria Canonita , Venetian (www.canonita.net),
- Brazilian Steakhouse (Churrascaria) – Fogo de Chao (www.fogodechao.com),
- American – Yard House, Town Square (www.yardhouse.com/NV/las-vegas-restaurant-town-square/),
- Spanish Tapas (not to be confused with ‘topless’) – Firefly on Paradise (www.fireflylv.com).
I’m sure that you’ve noticed my affinity for Italian places in Vegas. And no, it’s not just because my last name is LaBruzza. Think about how Vegas got started . . . (Hint: The Mob), and you’ll know that you can’t run away from that kind of influence!
In Part 2 we’ll pick up this theme as old and new Vegas collide.
In the meantime, registration for EXHIBITOR 2013 is now OPEN! Click HERE for FREE Access to the show hall courtesy of Classic Exhibits. Enter Promo Code 4044 for the FREE Pass (waiving the credit card fee).
Feel free to let me know what you think of my suggestions. I have a reputation to uphold. Right now I’m 8 for 8.
Jen LaBruzza, Western Regional Manager
jen@classicexhibits.com
*********************************
Based in Portland, Oregon, Classic Exhibits Inc. designs and manufacturers portable, modular, and custom-hybrid exhibit solutions and engineered aluminum extrusions (ClassicMODUL). Classic Exhibits products are represented by an extensive distributor network in North America and in select International markets. For more information, contact us at 866-652-2100.
[subscribe2]