Las Vegas' Best Martini

Redefined Mediterranean cuisine, trendy crowds and beautiful views makes this restaurant one of the top tables in town.

Reviews:

• “Not that impressive.”
• “Keep trying, still just OK”
• “foodie’s delight”
• “Beautiful Food in a Beautiful Setting”
• “One of the BEST lunches in LV”

Tips: Be sure to reserve a table by the opulent windows for great views of the dancing fountain show—or be one of the lucky few to sit on the outside terrace for an even closer seat.

Olives at Bellagio or email Olives at Bellagio

Bottle-spinning barkeeps mix strong cocktails at this funky, psychedelic lounge 51 floors atop the Rio.

Reviews:

• “Again great view, but not wroth it!”
• “Great view but not worth it”
• “30th Bday Hooplah”
• “greedy ripoff”
• “Pretty View of the strip”

Tips: Go early—there’s no cover charge if you get to the lounge before 8pm.

Voodoo Lounge at Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino

The vodka locker at this Russian-themed restaurant and lounge overwhelms even the most practiced cocktailer.

Reviews:

• “Russian? Are you sure?”
• “Just a very cool bar…….”
• “Butthole Waiter – dark hair, goatee, and glasses”
• “amazing food”
• “Slightly depressing ambience and food was okay”

Tips: You’ll want to make a reservation for dinner and be prepared to push your way to the bar.

Red Square at Mandalay Bay or email Red Square at Mandalay Bay

Late-night bistro off the Strip features Spanish tapas and live entertainment.

Reviews:

• “Best tapas in town!”
• “SMALL portions at FULL price”
• “Great Food and the Place I Take My Out of Town Guests "
• “Fun!”
• “Best Mojitos and tapas in Vegas!”

Tips: Self-parking is available in the crowded shopping-center lot.

Firefly* on Paradise, Tapas Kitchen and Bar or email Firefly* on Paradise, Tapas Kitchen and Bar

This artsy dive features psychedelic murals, a varied clientele and inventive drinks, such as the bacon martini.

Reviews:

• “Keeping the Faith – Old Skool Punk Rock”
• “Awesome atmosphere!”
• “Don’t Miss the Blues Night”
• “Punk Haven”

Tips: Some bar rules to note: “You puke, you clean” and the obscure “If you’re wearing a cowboy hat, you won’t be served bourbon at the bar” policy.

Double Down Saloon

Chef Charlie Palmer’s progressive American cuisine is on display at this strikingly modern restaurant.

Reviews:

• “Sit in the bar and try to go during the week”
• “Not worth the money”
• “Aureole: Whatever you are thinking about this place, just don’t do it. Trust me.”
• “Loved it!”
• “Better choices elsewhere”

Tips: The technologically advanced wine list is impressive, all wine selections are stored on an electronic notebook computer. With a choice of 9,500 bottles from all over the world, ask the house sommelier for suggestions.

Aureole at Mandalay Bay or email Aureole at Mandalay Bay

Perched atop THEhotel, this sleek, sophisticated hot spot offers one of the best views of the city.

Reviews:

• “Best View!”
• “Unbelievable View”
• “Even the Bathroom stalls have great views!!!”
• “Ambience and service matches the great view!”
• “One of the best views in Vegas and happening club on Saturdays”

Tips: The adjoining restaurant, Mix, serves French-inspired world cuisine, with the last seating at 11:30pm.

Mix Lounge at THEhotel

This inviting casino-side lounge blends the easygoing mood of a neighborhood hangout with martini-bar sophistication.

Reviews:

• “Trendy doesn’t cut it”
• “swanky lounge with good drinks”
• “Sleek”
• “Good place”
• “Stylish & Cozy!”

Tips: There’s usually a daily drink special. Every Tuesday, ladies enjoy two-for-one cocktails.

Caramel Bar & Lounge at the Bellagio

This ’70s lounge is a timeless pleasure dome for cozy couples.

Reviews:

• “great place!”
• “Been going since 1990! Always a fave w/anyone I take there”
• “great Breakfast”
• “Great atmosphere, great food”
• “Best of old vegas still on strip”

Tips: The Fireside Lounge is in the back of the Peppermill Restaurant. There’s a pricey menu available in the restaurant if you require pre- or post-cocktail noshing.

Peppermill’s Fireside Lounge

A hip oasis of New York chic just outside a Vegas casino.

Reviews:

• “Great spot to chill, drink and enjoy the DJ.”
• “Decent”
• “good for people watching….not much else”
• “Fabulous bar/lounge”
• “Beautiful Bar”

Tips: Wine prices are high, with the least expensive bottles running $225.

V Bar at the Venetian