SPOTLIGHT

The Venetian, 702.862.7800

Waxing Romantic

We know, we know, one of the reasons you always wanted to go to Vegas was to spot a celebrity, maybe dining at the table three spots over or mostly hidden in the VIP booth. Don’t worry; you can still spot those stars in Madame Tussauds Las Vegas. The attraction features multiple rooms with the renowned wax figures that Madame Tussauds is known for worldwide.

And there’s now a new feature that couples will definitely want to check out: Madame Tussauds now offers “wax wedding” packages, in which couples can be wed at the attraction’s “little white chapel” with their choice of wax figure as a “witness.” Can you imagine your friends’ reactions when they see you wed with Beyoncé or George Clooney standing by? In addition to some amazing memories, each betrothed couple gets a set of souvenir wax hands. Romantic? Yep? Only in Vegas? Definitely! –Ken Miller

You Can Have It All

Aria steakhouse has a wide selection

Perhaps the best meal in Las Vegas is one where you not only get the finest ingredients served in an upscale environment, the experience is energizing and refreshing to boot. Jean Georges Steakhouse strikes that balance, and despite what the name says, this is a restaurant where you can partake in a variety of unforgettable culinary experiences.

The classic starters you would expect are all here—iceberg wedge and Caesar salads, bacon-wrapped shrimp and chargrilled octopus— and they all shine. Sometimes the familiar is a great way to start a meal! But this is a steakhouse, and you might want to be more adventurous and try the Japanese wagyu carpaccio, so flavorful and served with black truffle fritters. It’s meant to be shared, but you may find yourself wanting it all.

If you want steak for your main course, all steaks are of the highest grade, and are all grilled on sustainable apricot wood and mesquite, finished with rendered beef fat, sea salt and cracked pepper. Whether you try an 8-ounce filet mignon, 8-ounce ribeye cap from Mishima Ranch, or 3-, 6- or 9-ounce A5 certified Kobe beef, you’ll be happy with your choice, especially when pairing it with king crab legs, diver scallops or bone marrow.

Elswhere, the crunchy organic chicken, served with spinach and hot sauce, is immensely satisfying, as is the steamed halibut with green olive dressing, spinach and shallot crackling. The sides here include grilled asparagus, sautéed corn, creamed spinach, mashed Yukon Gold potatoes and much more.

You’ll find plenty of decadent choices here for dessert, including New York-style cheesecake with a sour cherry sorbet, warm Valrhona chocolate cake with vanilla ice cream, and an assortment of market citrus, accompanied by yuzu cream, white chocolate and fruit. –Ken Miller

Aria, 877.230.2742

Puck’s Place

If you like sharing your food, splitting a plate or giving bites of your dish to your partner then Wolfgang Puck’s trendy steakhouse, Cut, is for you. Under the Large Format to Share section of the menu, you and your tablemate can split the 32-ounce USDA Prime porterhouse, 40-ounce bone-in USDA Prime tomahawk, the 50-ounce Japanese wagyu tomahawk or the 3-pound whole roasted Maine lobster.

Want to go smaller? The shining star on the menu is the 6-ounce Japanese wagyu, a 100% Tajima bloodline cut of Kobe beef from the Hyogo Prefecture. Additions include wild field mushrooms, shaved black winter truffles or a fried organic egg.

Pescatarians will enjoy champagne mignonette oysters, Maine diver scallops, charred octopus and the Korean-style big eye tuna. For vegetarians, there’s kung pao cauliflower, carrots with tahini yogurt, creamed spinach and winter greens, or opt for the heirloom apple salad or the scrumptious artisanal bread served with Vermont butter and chickpea hummus. –Kiko Miyasato

The Palazzo, 702.607.6300

Spooky Good Time

If this year so far has made you want to tap out, then it’s time to tap into the fifth dimension at The Twilight Zone by Monster Mini Golf. It’s a great place to have fun, unwind and remember what weird meant before it became all too normal. Not only does the 10,000-square-foot, glow-in-the-dark attraction offer a classic and maddeningly difficult putt-putt course, but it also has eerie props and artwork inspired by the television show, bowling lanes, an alternate dimension gift shop and arcade games. –Las Vegas Magazine Staff

Bally’s, 702.333.2121

Magic Suits Him

Magician Mac King instantly connects with his audiences through down-home humor and a self-effacing nature—no one is quicker to acknowledge that a joke didn’t work than King, which in itself is pretty hilarious. And King’s choice of garb—that checkered suit that seems just a bit too big for him—is now as iconic as his long-running show, The Mac King Comedy Magic Show. King is so endearing, in fact, that you momentarily forget you’re at his show to see some magic—you’d rather just have a conversation with the guy while sitting on a porch, drinking some sweet tea.

But when the magic does come, it’s very organic to King’s persona—there’s no pomp, no circumstance, no razzle, no dazzle. In fact, the illusions are oftentimes so subtle that you may not immediately realize you’ve just seen the most amazing thing. But don’t worry—it’ll hit you soon enough. –Ken Miller

Excalibur, 800.745.3000 Ticketmaster

Drink It In

Caesars Palace production hilariously pushes boundaries

It’s a question anyone who’s lived long enough in Las Vegas is eventually asked by their guests: “If you could only see one show while you’re in town, which one would it be?” For at least the last 10 years, that answer more often than not is probably Absinthe, a one-of-a-kind production in a one-of-a-kind venue that has been drawing rave reviews since it debuted on the Strip in 2011. It’s the kind of show you can’t wait to tell everyone about once you’ve seen it.

The venue itself makes you feel like you’re part of something special. The Spiegeltent is ornately decorated, its circular space featuring a bar, hundreds of seats, tables, and a smallish circular stage at the center. “That’s it?” you might be asking yourself. But you’ll forget you even thought it once the show begins. That space is used extremely effectively by a variety of acts, all connected by the extremely foul-mouthed (and extremely funny) Gazillionaire, a sleazy “producer” who brags about his money when he’s not insulting the audience and abusing his poor assistant, Wanda Widdles, who’s not above being a bit blue herself.

The acts themselves are all world-class, starting with one that may induce vertigo in some audience members—an acrobat slowly ascends to the top of a chair mountain he builds, balancing himself along the way and sometimes actually moving the chair mountain around. Once he reaches the top, down comes The Green Fairy, an iconic part of the show displaying great curves and great pipes as she serenades the crowd with “Come On-A My House.” It’s the perfect segue into the show’s raunchy—but fun—style.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy acrobats, jugglers, strongmen and a few naughty intermissions that will have you doubled over with laughter. Just like the drink itself, this show is intoxicating—and maybe just a little addictive. –Ken Miller

Caesars Palace, 18+, 800.745.3000 Ticketmaster

Comedy On the Move

Fans of Brad Garrett have no doubt by now heard about his self-titled venue at MGM Grand. Over the years, Brad Garrett’s Comedy Club has hosted some of the hottest (and up-and-coming) comedians in the country, and oftentimes features the man himself. And while many of you know Garrett from his work in movies and TV, trust us: His stand-up is really something to experience.

If you’re planning a return visit this week, just a heads up: Garrett’s club has moved. His new, 210-seat room is ideally located next to a lounge in The District—seriously, what better way to get ready for a night of comedy than with a cocktail and some live music from pianists and horn players?

And good news! This week, Brad Garrett himself will indeed headline, joined by Ryan Belleville and Matt McClowry from March 7-13. From March 14-20, enjoy comics Sam Fedele, James P. Connolly and Jimmy Burns.

“Though I will miss performing in the ‘basement’ and waking up guests who have fallen asleep on their way to self-parking, this is an opportunity I’m very grateful for and excited to embark on,” said Garrett in a release. –Ken Miller

MGM Grand, 21+, 800.929.1111

He’s Got Talent

Go ahead and let reality slide; you’ve got a date with a handsome magician. Xavier Mortimer, a French illusionist whom you may have seen on shows such as America’s Got Talent, or in his series of YouTube videos that garnered huge response, stars in Xavier Mortimer: The Dream Maker. And his illusions, from close-up magic to full-on appearances, will definitely have you doubting what you just saw with your own eyes. But there’s also a quiet elegance to Mortimer, one that elevates his show to something truly special. –Nina King

The STRAT, 702.380.7777

Sights and Delights

It’s been one of Las Vegas’ most popular dining destinations for years, and once you enter through the doors of Mon Ami Gabi, it’s obvious why: This French-themed restaurant has some of the best views in town, not just the people-watching on the Strip below, but the Bellagio fountains just across the street. The room itself is also impeccably appointed.

But it’s the food you’ll come away remembering most. From trout almondine and roast chicken to steak au poivre and cavatelli pasta with gulf shrimp, there’s something for every palate. And desserts are not to be missed here, especially the bananas foster crepe and gala apple tarte tatin. –Ken Miller

Paris, 702.944.4224

Fun for All

If you’ve packed up the kiddos and brought them to Las Vegas with you and need a place that combines fun and some education, head to the High Roller observation wheel, clocking in at 550 feet and offering 360-degree views of the city from 28 spacious pods. Once aboard, download the self-guided S.T.E.M. Family Field Trip Guide. This curriculum sheet is a 30- to 40-minute lesson plan that’ll get the entire family discussing architectural design, geography, science and math.

If it’s an adults-only group, think about getting tickets for the Happy Half Hour—a unique cocktail experience where groups can enjoy an all-you-candrink open bar for one full rotation of the wheel (about 30 minutes). One cabin can accommodate up to 25 of your nearest and dearest fellow drinkers.

The High Roller runs both day and night, but we’re privy to the nighttime experience—the pictures alone that you’ll capture of the neon city will give you social media bragging right for days! –Kiko Miyasato

The Linq Promenade, 855.234.7469

Small Plates, Big Flavors

It’s a sampling of Italian-focused flavors and a show when you dine at Lago by Julian Serrano. The dining room, with an open-air patio, overlooks one of the city’s most-famous attractions—the Fountains of Bellagio. (Ask about snagging a patio table when you make your reservation so you can get a front-row seat to the fountains.)

Here, it’s small plates loaded with big flavors. Antipasto and a raw bar get the meal started, followed by mains that focus on meat, fish, pastas and risotto. There are even plentiful vegetarian options; and larger plates like osso buco, whole lobster and baked whole branzino.

Lago is also a hot spot for brunch, Friday through Sunday. Enjoying a mimosa with lobster Benedict, banana Foster pancakes or even steak and eggs while watching the beautiful fountains perform is a Las Vegas experience to remember. –Kiko MIyasato

Bellagio, 702.693.8865

Desert Delight

Strap into a day of adventure with SunBuggy Fun Rentals. Choose from a fleet of ATVs, Polaris RZRs and dune buggies and go for an offroad tour or desert dunes chase. There’s family adventures with four-seated buggies perfect for parents with kids, or grab your rowdy group and go on the action-packed mini Baja night chase, where you’ll zoom through the desert in the dark with the neon lights of the Las Vegas Strip lighting up the way. –Kiko Miyasato

Sunbuggy.com or 702.644.2855

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Mandalay Bay 702.632.7401

Vintage Experience Mandalay Bay restaurant has lots of ‘wow!’ factor

Wine lovers will want to have their cameras ready for the spectacle that awaits them at Aureole. Its centerpiece is now world-famous, and deservedly so: A four-story, see-through, climate-controlled wine tower, stocked with thousands of bottles and manned by “wine angels” who descend by cables a la Tom Cruise in Mission: Impossible. It’s one thing to make your way through the truly mind-boggling array of vintages available on the menu; it’s another to see your particular choice hunted down and collected by your very own wine angel.

But that’s only the beginning of what makes Aureole special. This award-winning establishment has been serving up the highest-quality meals for decades now, and (needless to say) excels at its wine-tasting menu. If you’ve never had the delight of pairing your food with wine specially selected from the sommeliers here, you are truly missing out on something special.

The current tasting menu, curated by executive chef Anthony Taormina, features five courses: beets and burrata with prosciutto, pistachio and arugula; truffle fagottini with Parmigiano brodo; Alaskan halibut with Romanesco, chestnuts and soubise; wagyu ribcap with shishito peppers and black garlic; and coffee panna cotta.

If you choose to go a la carte, no worries— there’s plenty here to choose from. Appetizers to target include the tuna tartare, an excellent example of this raw fish dish with yuzu, avocado, wasabi and ponzu, and rougie foie gras, ready to spread on French toast along with fig and maple.

Main courses are uniformly excellent here in keeping with Aureole’s exacting standards. Meat lovers will want to try the Prime filet of beef, served with a pomme puree and cabernet sauce, or the free-range chicken breast served with gnocchi, mushrooms and vin jaune sauce. There’s also a terrific peppercorn tagliatelle with caponatina, ricotta and basil, as well as a magnificently prepared Maine lobster tail, served with kabocha, bok choy and miso. Make sure to pair any of these with sides like Taleggio mac and cheese and Cajun Brussels sprouts. –Ken Miller

Experience in Every Bite

When a steakhouse has a nearly 150-year legacy, you know you’re in for something special. The original Old Homestead Steakhouse in New York City dates back to 1868, and all that experience and knowledge is brought to bear at the Las Vegas outpost. You’re welcome!

Whether you opt for surf (Petrossian caviar with a blini accompaniment or yellowtail tartare with cucumber, chili and garlic oil) or turf (8-ounce American wagyu rib cap or 24-ounce bone-in “Gotham” ribeye), you’ll be doing so in ultimate comfort with an attentive waitstaff and a serene ambience.

Make sure to take advantage of the signature cocktail menu, highlighted by the Boulevardi-Eight (Octomore 11.1 Scotch, Carpano Antica and Amaro Montenegro) and Free the Diplomat (single vintage Diplomatico rum, Fernet Blanca, Liquor 43 and citrus zest from bitters).

For a meal to remember, order the Ultimate Dinner for Two, where sharing is the focus. It includes a succulent and juicy, 34-ounce bone-in porterhouse, chopped salad and your choice of sides and dessert (we recommend the Big Fat Chocolate Cake!). –Ken Miller

Caesars Palace 702.731.7560

Begin Your Adventure

Why not head outside and whip through the desert on a wickedly fun ATV? Vegas ATV Adventures puts you behind the controls of your very own Can-Am ATV or Polaris ATV. Book the Yellow Pine one-hour ATV tour, where you’ll go on an off-road adventure through the historic mining town of Goodsprings. Professional tour guides will be on every ride to assist all skill levels. All guests must wear closed-toe shoes. And a bonus: Enjoy cool weather on your adventure as Goodsprings, which is 30 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, tends to be 10 or more degrees cooler! –Kiko Miyasato

For reservations, call 702.254.0770

The Artist Lives On

Are you a Prince fan? No? I don’t believe you. Really? Well, attend just one performance of Purple Reign: The Prince Tribute Show, and you’re sure to be among the converted. Tribute artist Jason Tenner, a pair of dancers and an incredible band give an inspired show, with Tenner ably evoking Prince’s persona, wearing signature outfits and makeup and playing the guitar. (Tenner is bigger than Prince was, but somehow seems mostly the same size; it’s wild).

You’ll hear Prince’s biggest hits, of course, like “Raspberry Beret” and “Purple Rain,” but you’ll be surprised to learn there are some more obscure songs like risqué “Darling Nikki,” which is somehow as hot here as the artist himself intended it.

A Morris Day and the Time tribute act adds some comedic respite, so you’ll have a moment to catch your breath before the music takes it away again. –Nina King

Tropicana, ticketmaster.com

WITH SPECIAL GUEST COLIN CLOUD