Just as I was getting ahead. I fell way, way behind. Seriously, this month flew. I blinked and it was gone. As with any hiatus, I have much to share.
My brother had been living with us since January, he moved out at the beginning of the month into his own apartment near the Palms. He teases, "never did I imagine there would be a Las Vegas Casino in my front yard." But it's true. He's traveled some bumpy roads over the years, I'm very happy and proud that he's found solid ground and is getting settled.
We took a trip to San Francisco to see the sights and see the Bears get crushed by the 49ers. My mom came along, it was her first visit and her first Bears game. I caught some nasty germies and they've left me weak and weary. I've been sick a week, I'm feeling better, but not well.
We've also tried a number of new restaurants. So add those to the list of details to come.
November 28, 2012
November 6, 2012
Bacchanal Buffet
Like me, you've probably heard nothing but praises for Caesars new buffet. Renovations have been figured at 17 million for Bacchanal's 25,000 square foot space. That alone is pretty impressive, but it also claims to offer more than 500 individual menu items with seafood, meat, Italian, Asian and Mexican stations, as well as an array of desserts.
Friends were visiting from out of town and it was a must eat for them. It seemed like an opportune time to give it a try so I joined them. We met for brunch, I arrived at 10:45 and we were seated by 11 o'clock. Weekend brunch is $39.99 with a Total Rewards card. I believe it is $3 more without it.
We were seated in the back. Once settled, we scattered in search of tasty eats rather than waiting for our server to tend to our drink order.
We began at the Asian station, which offered your typical stir-frys, springrolls and a variety of dumplings. There was space for a live action station, but no one was manning it. There was no signage to indicate what was available either.
From there, offerings include fromage and charcuterie. The selection isn't high quality, but it was better than what you'd find at most grocer delis. The rolls topped with cheese and carmelized onions were tasty. I got seconds on those.
There were a lot of breakfast items, made to order omelets, croque-monsieur/madame, steak and eggs, pancakes, french toast, sausage, bacon and potatoes.
The next section offered comfort foods like sliders, waffle fries, tater tots and potato skins. Plus, a selection of carved meats. Those individual dishes are cute, but not so practical. It's hard to juggle because they take so much space, the cast iron dishes are warm to the touch. Some with heat sensitivity might have a real problem.
The last stop before dessert was seafood and freshly squeezed juices. This is actually the first section seen from the entrance. There were mussels, oysters, crab legs and prawns.
Moving over to desserts: there was a crepe station, cookie jars, plated treats, pastries, candy and a gelato bar.
The dining room has a few large tables for big groups.
They must have already scaled back staff, drink service was terrible. We sat down with our first plate and we were completely ignored or server checked on all the tables around us but never stopped by. My friend left the table to flag her down. She brought over mimosas. She had a gentlemen assisting and he kept our first few glasses full. I had asked for a water, but never received it. Plates took a while to be cleared. I expected far more attention.
I sampled a bit of everything, nothing was bad, but only a few things were memorable. 17 million spent, and what did I enjoy most? The tater tots. The gelatos were really delicious too. I tried the vanilla fleur de sel and the fig and balsamic. The watermelon sorbet was nice and refreshing too.
Buffets used to have value. These days, I'd rather spend $45 on a nice plate of food prepared just for me. If I compare the buffets I've dined semi-recently I'd say Bacchanal is far better than the Rio, but comparable to M Resort.
Friends were visiting from out of town and it was a must eat for them. It seemed like an opportune time to give it a try so I joined them. We met for brunch, I arrived at 10:45 and we were seated by 11 o'clock. Weekend brunch is $39.99 with a Total Rewards card. I believe it is $3 more without it.
We were seated in the back. Once settled, we scattered in search of tasty eats rather than waiting for our server to tend to our drink order.
We began at the Asian station, which offered your typical stir-frys, springrolls and a variety of dumplings. There was space for a live action station, but no one was manning it. There was no signage to indicate what was available either.
From there, offerings include fromage and charcuterie. The selection isn't high quality, but it was better than what you'd find at most grocer delis. The rolls topped with cheese and carmelized onions were tasty. I got seconds on those.
There were a lot of breakfast items, made to order omelets, croque-monsieur/madame, steak and eggs, pancakes, french toast, sausage, bacon and potatoes.
The next section offered comfort foods like sliders, waffle fries, tater tots and potato skins. Plus, a selection of carved meats. Those individual dishes are cute, but not so practical. It's hard to juggle because they take so much space, the cast iron dishes are warm to the touch. Some with heat sensitivity might have a real problem.
The last stop before dessert was seafood and freshly squeezed juices. This is actually the first section seen from the entrance. There were mussels, oysters, crab legs and prawns.
Moving over to desserts: there was a crepe station, cookie jars, plated treats, pastries, candy and a gelato bar.
The dining room has a few large tables for big groups.
They must have already scaled back staff, drink service was terrible. We sat down with our first plate and we were completely ignored or server checked on all the tables around us but never stopped by. My friend left the table to flag her down. She brought over mimosas. She had a gentlemen assisting and he kept our first few glasses full. I had asked for a water, but never received it. Plates took a while to be cleared. I expected far more attention.
I sampled a bit of everything, nothing was bad, but only a few things were memorable. 17 million spent, and what did I enjoy most? The tater tots. The gelatos were really delicious too. I tried the vanilla fleur de sel and the fig and balsamic. The watermelon sorbet was nice and refreshing too.
Buffets used to have value. These days, I'd rather spend $45 on a nice plate of food prepared just for me. If I compare the buffets I've dined semi-recently I'd say Bacchanal is far better than the Rio, but comparable to M Resort.
November 5, 2012
Las Papusas
I have completely forgotten to write this review before now. Las Pupusas has become a favorite lunch spot. You can't beat $1.75 Pupusas and tacos. My brother enjoys the tacos, but I prefer those delicous pancake like treats filled with queso. Made even better with fresh slaw and tomato sauce. Calling in orders often means mystery items, rarely is the order accurate, but nothing has ever been bad. Dining in has avoided any problems. Service is quick and friendly. It's one of the best cheap and tasty eats around.
November 1, 2012
Photo a Day: Week 43
October 21, 2012 ~ Meet Miss Oktoberbreast.
October 22, 2012 ~ New found addiction, peppadew peppers.
October 23, 2012 ~ Grilled PB & J? I'll stick to cheese.
October 24, 2012 ~ Just because.
October 25, 2012 ~ Playing with matches.
October 26, 2012 ~ There is no better place to waste time.
October 27, 2012 ~ Shopping list for a special meal.
October 30, 2012
The Rio
For the first time in ages, ok, well, more like a year, time has been on my side. So, I've been working on getting caught up... on everything, including blogging.
Before I left for Chicago in September, Frank was a sweetheart and surprised me with a night's stay at the Rio. He scored an amazing deal and booked us a suite in the Masquarade tower. We've stayed in these suites before and loved the jacuzzi tub that overlooks the strip and the floor to ceiling windows that offer stunning 180 degree views. There is also a dining room, wet bar, 1/2 bath in addition to the master, and the suites are incredibly spacious.
Rio's rooms might be outdated, but those views never get old. It is wonderful to unwind and simply relax. Thank you, Frank! You are the greatest.
Before I left for Chicago in September, Frank was a sweetheart and surprised me with a night's stay at the Rio. He scored an amazing deal and booked us a suite in the Masquarade tower. We've stayed in these suites before and loved the jacuzzi tub that overlooks the strip and the floor to ceiling windows that offer stunning 180 degree views. There is also a dining room, wet bar, 1/2 bath in addition to the master, and the suites are incredibly spacious.
Rio's rooms might be outdated, but those views never get old. It is wonderful to unwind and simply relax. Thank you, Frank! You are the greatest.
October 29, 2012
Osteria del Circo
It's been three years since we first discovered the Tuscan treasure that is Osteria del Circo. We had several stellar meals there before we ever stepped foot in Tuscany and a few more since traveling to Italy. There is no doubt Circo is a real gem and our first choice when it comes to a celebratory dinner or a night out with our foodie friends. We often reserve a table after 7 o'clock so we can take in the stunning views of the Fountains of Bellagio where the water dances every fifteen minutes, but the real star is the well prepared food.
From the moment you dig into the bread basket filled with Olive bread, Crusty Italian and Rosemary Foccacia and dip into into the gently fruity extra-virgin olive oil you know you are in for something special.
The difficulty is narrowing down the wonderful options, with your choice of freshly made pastas, slow roasted meats and freshly caught seafood it is hard to choose. That's likely why we return again and again. Because they are all delicious.
The Colorado Rack of Lamb is superb; it is served perfectly tender and well crusted with pecorino cheese and thyme.
But if I could only choose one dish it would be Mama Egi's Ravioli. These are pillows filled with a blend of sheep’s milk ricotta cheese, spinach, swiss chard in a butter sage sauce.
As far as I am concerned there is only one choice for dessert, the Tiramisu. I love my husband dearly and I know he adores me, but this is one dessert we will never share.
The best part? You can sample a few of Circo's finest dishes as part of their Pre-Theatre Menu, only $49 and available daily until 6:00 p.m.
Buon Appetito!
From the moment you dig into the bread basket filled with Olive bread, Crusty Italian and Rosemary Foccacia and dip into into the gently fruity extra-virgin olive oil you know you are in for something special.
The difficulty is narrowing down the wonderful options, with your choice of freshly made pastas, slow roasted meats and freshly caught seafood it is hard to choose. That's likely why we return again and again. Because they are all delicious.
The Colorado Rack of Lamb is superb; it is served perfectly tender and well crusted with pecorino cheese and thyme.
But if I could only choose one dish it would be Mama Egi's Ravioli. These are pillows filled with a blend of sheep’s milk ricotta cheese, spinach, swiss chard in a butter sage sauce.
As far as I am concerned there is only one choice for dessert, the Tiramisu. I love my husband dearly and I know he adores me, but this is one dessert we will never share.
The best part? You can sample a few of Circo's finest dishes as part of their Pre-Theatre Menu, only $49 and available daily until 6:00 p.m.
Buon Appetito!
October 26, 2012
Chronic Tacos
We first saw Chronic Tacos in LA, but never got the chance to eat there. So, when I heard there was one in Vegas, my brother and I sought it out. The only way to get there from my side on town - the SW - is to risk your life via several roundabouts. I'm a skilled driver, but I despise those things. We made it in one piece without incident, phew.
Now give me food to calm myself.
Not able to decide on what I wanted, I ordered three tacos: fish, carnitas and carne asada. My brother tried the chicken and carne asada. We were the only people in the restaurant and the staff seemed highly annoyed by our presence.
I grabbed a diet coke from the soda machine and it tasted terrible, flat yet it tasted only like seltzer. I couldn't drink it. I don't do regular soda so I was out of luck.
I dug into the tacos. The fish taco wasn't the worst I've had, but I wouldn't call it good. Edible. The Carnitas were the best of three. The carne asada was so salty. I about died. It was inedible. My brother agreed on the carne and thought the chicken was decent.
I couldn't believe I risked my life on the roundabout deathtraps for this! Leaving, I was forced to gamble again. A few close calls, but we made it home safely. Thank goodness, I would not want Chronic Tacos for a last meal.
October 25, 2012
Where to Watch the Game?
With Football on Sunday, Monday and Thursday and in the midst of the World Series. It seems like there is always a game. We've been getting out quite a bit to root for our favorite teams.
Born and Raised has become a fast favorite. It's a great place to watch the games. Comfy seating. Wall of TVs. Friendly servers. Food and drink specials during all NCAA, NFL and World Series games. $5 appetizers: Everything is made from scratch. This is bar food kicked up a notch. They have great wings, nachos, mac n cheese bites, and zucchini. And we still have more items to try. Plus, ESPNradio has giveaways during MNF.
Last year, Yard House offered Happy Hour during MNF and they've continued that perk this year. Discounted pints and 1/2 price appetizers from kickoff until the last play of the game. Good times.
A couple weekends back I watched the Sunday games at Planet Hollywood. It's a good crowd. Sure, seating is limited and cocktail service is slow, but it's high energy, plenty of TVs and the bar has Pacifico on tap. Which is a big win for me. Earl of Sandwich is right nearby for a quick bite. If you're looking to indulge try a Ghiradelli brownie ice cream sandwich. Positively sinful.
We've also been to local bars such as Off the Strip and Scooter's Pub. Both are fine neighborhood choices with darts and shuffleboard to occupy your time between big plays.
There are still two other places I want to check out: Firkin on Paradise and Wahoo's on Sunset near Rainbow. I will have to scope those out next.
BabyStacks
I've been meaning to try BabyStacks for sometime, and now there's a second location much closer to home at Buffalo/Flamingo. We finally got over there to give it a whirl on Saturday afternoon. We were seated at the counter since the tables were full. We didn't mind it.
We looked over the menu; Frank chose the Mexican Skillet ($9.95) with Red Velvet pancakes ($1.50). I went with a short order of Banana Cream Pie pancakes ($5.75).
Everything was really delicious. The skillet was the perfect blend of savory flavors, the red velvet pancakes followed like dessert and the banana cream pie pancakes weren't overly sweet - thankfully, I was nervous. It was a nice treat; and it'll be great for when I'm craving something out of the ordinary. Our server was new and still learning the ropes, but very friendly and attentive. We'll be back.
We looked over the menu; Frank chose the Mexican Skillet ($9.95) with Red Velvet pancakes ($1.50). I went with a short order of Banana Cream Pie pancakes ($5.75).
Everything was really delicious. The skillet was the perfect blend of savory flavors, the red velvet pancakes followed like dessert and the banana cream pie pancakes weren't overly sweet - thankfully, I was nervous. It was a nice treat; and it'll be great for when I'm craving something out of the ordinary. Our server was new and still learning the ropes, but very friendly and attentive. We'll be back.
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