Vegas Player Magazine Summer/Fall 2012 by Onboard Media

S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 1 2

VEGAS

V E G A S P l ay e r

T H E L A S V E G A S L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E O F C A E S A R S E N T E R TA I N M E N T

T h e Las V egas L i f est y l e M aga z i n e o f c aesa r s E n te r ta i n me n t S U M M E R / F A LL 2 0 1 2

Robert De Niro Talks Food and Film

Far East Goes West Previewing Nobu Hotel Caesars Palace

+ Sushi,

Sake and Shiatsu

Upon arriving as a youngster in the U.S. with just a few dollars in his pocket, Thom Richard had just one dream: to fly aircraft. A seasoned pilot who has clocked up more than 9,000 flight hours, he now lives his passion to the full â&#x20AC;&#x201C; in particular by taking part in the famous Reno competitions at the controls of Precious Metal, the most legendary of all race planes. His next challenge is to set the world speed record and to win Reno. On his wrist is the Chronomat, an ultra-sturdy and ultra-reliable instrument powered by a high-performance "engine", a 100% Breitling movement. For Thom Richard, it is quite simply the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best chronograph. 5-YEAR BREITLING WARRANTY $9,240

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C CR R II T T II C CA A LL T T II M M EE SS C CR R II T T II C CA A LL EE Q QU U II PP M M EE N NT T TE STE D B E YO N D E N D U R AN C E

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TH E B R E M O NT M BI I

TH E B R E M O NT M BI I The Bremont MBII was designed and built with the aim of becoming the definitive aviation chronometer in the marketplace. Tested and designed in conjunction with the iconic British aviation company Martin-Baker, who are responsible for supplying 70% of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s air-forces with fighter ejection-seat technology, the watch had to withstand the same rigorous testing as the seats themselves. These tests include shock, vibration, temperature extremes, and sea-fog tests amongst others. Bremontâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique rubberised anti-vibration mount absorbs extreme shocks and the Faraday cage protects the movement against magnetic forces. This is the only watch ever to have been subjected to a live ejection testing program.

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MBII/OR

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Watch Brand of the Year

6/26/12 8:50 AM

contents

Jewelry: L.U.C. XP Urushi watch in 18-karat rose gold ($24,290); Chopard/Wynn Las Vegas. Clothing: Phoenix Feather silk jacquard jacket ($620); Shanghai Tang/The Forum Shops at Caesars. Beauty products: Diorshow waterproof liner in Slate ($20); Dior Beauty/ The Forum Shops at Caesars. Aqua Shadow eye-shadow pencil in Taupe Grey ($20), Eye Prime eyelid primer ($22); Make Up For Ever/ Sephora, The Forum Shops at Caesars.

FEATURES

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IN THE KNOW

SPLURGE

CELEBRITY PORTRAIT

68 Food for Thought Robert De Niro’s first foray in Las Vegas was as a hotel boss in Casino. Now, the two-time Academy Award®-winning actor is helping to bring a real hotel to a casino: Nobu Hotel Caesars Palace, opening this fall. Written by Shep Morgan

Meat Men Butcher Pat LaFrieda Jr. knows a thing or two about beef, and what makes a great steak. From grass to grill, we track how the prime cuts crisscross the country and arrive at Old Homestead Steakhouse. Written by Jen Karetnick

Style Watch Tea time; interviews with designers Christian Louboutin and Roberto Coin; and fortunate finds: from jewels and watches to shoes and swimwear. Compiled by Christie Moeller

COMPLIMENTS OF THE CHEF LAVISH ADORNMENTS

COCKTAIL CULTURE

Chopsticks Optional We scoured the city to locate five Asian dishes you must try. Written by Grace Bascos

East Meets West Eastern sophistication meets western chic in our fashion and jewelry centerfold. Photographed by Robert John Kley

Simply Sake Tips from a sake master. The lowdown on Japan’s famed rice-based beverage. Written by Adrienne N. Hester Photo by Robert John Kley

7/2/12 4:47 PM

Paul Weller and Miles Kane: New York, NY Photographed by Danny Clinch, 2012 T H E F O RU M S H O P S AT C A E S A R S , LV C O S TA M E S A

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SOHO

B OW E RY

LO S A N G E L E S

EAST HAMPTON

SAN FRANCISCO

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contents

Jewelry: Wildflowers Collection drop necklace in 18-karat white gold with 208 round brilliant diamonds totaling 2.11 carats ($22,000) and three-flower cluster clip earrings in 18-karat white gold with pavé and bezel-set diamonds totaling 2.93 carats ($20,000); De Beers/The Forum Shops at Caesars. Clothing: Orchid silk-crepe dress ($680); Shanghai Tang/The Forum Shops at Caesars. Beauty products: Rosy Glow Healthy Glow Awakening blush in Petal ($44), Diorshow New Look mascara in black ($28); Dior Beauty/ The Forum Shops at Caesars. Aqua Shadow eye-shadow pencil in Taupe Grey ($20); Make Up For Ever/Sephora, The Forum Shops at Caesars.

DEPARTMENTS 16 18 30

OPENING ACT

Glitzy superstar CeeLo Green is coming to Vegas, and promises to channel his inner “Loberace.”

PULSE OF VEGAS

Rod Stewart reveals all in his scandalous autobiography; Gordon Ramsay raises hell at his Vegas steakhouse; Penn Jillette gets trumped on Celebrity Apprentice; and Total Rewards gets a star-studded launch.

LIVE WELL

Learn how shiatsu can reenergize your body.

32 OUTTAKES Charlize Theron in 3-D. Find out what the Prometheus actress and others said at CinemaCon. 74 10

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Happenings

News & Notes: the odds and ends of Las Vegas.

Scene + Heard

Starcatcher: celebrity sightings from all across town.

SHOWBIZ

Good vibrations. Surf the Musical hangs ten at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.

Around Town

Your dining and entertainment guide to Las Vegas.

wild card

For 20 years, Wolfgang Puck’s Spago has been riding high.

best bets

Kick off football season with some wise plays at the sports book. Photo by Robert John Kley

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CONTRIBUTORS Who, What and Why

Jen Karetnick | Writer

“Meat Men”

No one ever wants to share a steak with Miami-based food writer Jen Karetnick, she says, because she likes it “moo-shi”—as in, so rare that it’s almost mooing on the plate. Jen, who wrote about cult butcher Pat LaFrieda Jr. and Old Homestead Steakhouse for this issue, is the author/editor of eight books, including the forthcoming cookbook, Romancing the Mango: Recipes for the Obsessed (University Press of Florida), as well as a collection of poetry, Landscaping for Wildlife (Big Wonderful Press). Check out Jen’s work at: jenkaretnick.com.

Robert John Kley | Photographer

“East Meets West” Jen Karetnick

Photographer Robert John Kley has had his eye on the fish tanks at Beijing Noodle No. 9 ever since the restaurant opened at Caesars Palace. “I always thought it would be the perfect setting for a fashion shoot,” he says. Robert’s vision came to fruition when he photographed our fashion spread, “East Meets West,” for this issue. “It can be challenging to shoot an entire layout in only one location with a single backdrop. But this exotic spot, combined with our amazing model Lulu, kept me inspired throughout the night.” See more of Robert’s work on his website: rjkphoto.com.

Robert John Kley

Christie Moeller | Stylist

“East Meets West”

Stylist Christie Moeller is excited by the trends coming from the eastern world this season: rich silk fabrics, cherry blossoms, clean lines and sophisticated looks. Styling our fashion spread at Beijing Noodle No. 9 in Caesars Palace allowed her to get her hands on a few of these looks. “For our fashion layout, I wanted to show how fashion from the East and West can combine with gorgeous jewelry to create something breathtaking.” Christie paired beautiful dresses from Shanghai Tang with jewelry and gems from luxury brands such as Tiffany & Co., De Beers and David Yurman. View Christie’s fashion blog at icanstyleu.com/blog.

Christie Moeller

Shep Morgan | Writer

“Food for Thought”

Shep Morgan

Robert De Niro has stepped behind the camera twice—for his directorial debut, A Bronx Tale; and for the CIA thriller, The Good Shepherd, with Matt Damon and Angelina Jolie. He also co-starred in both, and told entertainment writer Shep Morgan that his biggest challenge was directing himself. “I don’t like to look at the playback,” De Niro admitted to Shep. “I just ask people I trust on the set how I did and if I should do another take.” Shep writes for outlets including Gotham, Hamptons, The New York Times Syndicate, TV Guide online, E! online and Parade.com.

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Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City Harrah’s Lake Tahoe 609.441.5477 775.588.6611

Horseshoe Bossier City 318.741.4301

Caesars Exclusively Caesars Atlantic City 609.343.2438

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Summer/Fall 2012

VEGAS

v e g a s p l ay e r m a g a z i n e . c o m

T h e L a s V e g a s L i f e sty l e M a g a z i n e o f Ca e s a rs E n t e rta i n m e n t Created exclusively for the guests of Bally’s Las Vegas, Bill’s Gamblin’ Hall & Saloon, Caesars Palace, Flamingo Las Vegas, Harrah’s Las Vegas, Paris Las Vegas, Imperial Palace, Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino and Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino. Vegas Player is published by Onboard Media three times a year and is distributed in every room and suite. Caesars Entertainment Las Vegas

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Editorial Board Bonnie Gilmour Regional Vice President of Marketing Las Vegas Region Ed Murzyn Creative Director

Celena Haas Director of Public Relations

sarah beth reno president

Robin Rosenbaum-Andras SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT

Leslie Thuet Manager of Public Relations

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We’d love to hear from you! Send your letters to:

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©2012 onboard media. no claim to original works of Caesars Entertainment Corporation or advertisers. All rights reserved. The entire contents of this publication are protected by copyright. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission of the copyright owner. printed in the united states of america.

Publishing

Video/Film Production

Kate McClare Executive Editor

Todd Hedge Director

ryan slattery managing EDITOR

Shannon Chamberlain Production Manager

Linda Brockman Senior Editor

Kevin Maschke Senior Editor

Rebecca Wallwork Associate Editor

Juan Carlos Peña Senior Videographer

brigid cotter Media Coordinator

—

Gail Abrams publishing director beth wood PROJECT ART DIRECTOR Elizabeth Carlisle art director ruben Carballo Graphic Designer

On the Cover: S tr ai ght talk. Rober t De Niro dishes on his film career, food and the Nobu Hotel he’s helping to br ing to Caesar s Palace. Photograph by Brigitte Lacombe brigittelacombe.com

Dayana Ramirez Graphic Designer

contributing writers Grace Bascos, Melissa Broughton, Adrienne N. Hester, Jen Karetnick, Christie Moeller and Shep Morgan. Contributing Photographers Chris Andrade, Matthew Bailey, David Becker, Glenn Ducusin, Scott Harrison, Brenton Ho, Erik Kabik, Robert John Kley, Brigitte Lacombe, Mikey McNulty, Ryan Miller, Tomasz Pleskaczynski, Al Powers, Denise Truscello and John Ulmanis.

Juan iturriza production manager james perdomo production coordinator Robert Marenco Shipping and Logistics Manager

Advertising sales

Melissa Rodriguez Project Manager

ROD MUSUM Group Publisher and Executive Director of Sales rod@onboard.com

Violeta Manco-Rojas Ad Services coordinator

Cristy Viera Sales coordinator

Las Vegas Office 3355 Spring Mountain Road Suite 13 Las Vegas, NV 89102 Tel: 702.212.5690 Fax: 702.212.4960

See Vegas Player magazine come to life on television. Tune in to your in-room broadcast of Vegas Player Television for exclusive interviews and expansive coverage of the articles seen in this issue. Vegas Player Television takes you behind the scenes of our fashion and jewelry spreads, into the kitchens of the city’s best chefs and backstage with the Strip’s top entertainers—all from the comfort of your room. 14

South Beach Office 1691 Michigan Avenue Suite 600 Miami Beach, FL 33139 Tel: 305.673.0400 Fax: 305.674.9396

onboard.com

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THE FORUM SHOPS AT CAESARS 702 369 5885

NEW YORK

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PARIS

TOKYO

SHANGHAI

HONG KONG

LONDON

DUBAI

MILAN

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5/31/12 12:08 PM

Opening Act Our Celebrity Welcome

SURREAL AND SEXY

It ’s VEGAS, BABY!

SETTLE IN FOR A WILD RIDE WITH CEELO GREEN He’s sung with the Muppets, introduced the world to the flying piano, and filmed the video for “I Want You” at Caesars Palace surrounded by Bally’s Jubilee! showgirls. Now, CeeLo Green is bringing his imagination and creativity to Las Vegas with a 28-date residency at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. But what exactly does the singer and talent coach of NBC’s The Voice have in store for fans coming to see “CeeLo Green is LOBERACE” in Planet Hollywood’s 1,400-seat showroom? He’s promising twisted magic, an outlandish wardrobe and sexy showgirls. It’s a show that borders on the “supernatural, surreal and the extraordinary,” he says. Sounds perfect for Vegas. We asked CeeLo about the show and the city he keeps coming back to. Who is “Loberace”? Loberace is an experience. It’s a party. It’s a visual, audio and emotional journey into my head. You’re known for some over-the-top performances. What can fans expect? Over-the-top times TEN. With this show, I don’t have the constraints that I usually face when I do some of my other performances. You mention that the show will be a “ride through the decades of colorful music.” Can you explain? I say that to let people know the show isn’t just about my music or the music I’ve done over the last eighteen years of my career. It’s about music I grew up to; music that I’ve always loved, by artists that I admire. It’s not what people may expect. It’s not a concert, it’s a show. Do you have a favorite restaurant you visit or dish you have to have when you’re in Vegas? I love any place that does a great Chilean sea bass. What’s the first thing you do when you arrive in Las Vegas? Check out what suite my manager has booked me. It’s really cool to see all the different types of suites. Some of them are sick. VP

See “CeeLo Green is LOBERACE” at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino on these dates: Aug. 29–31; Sept. 1, 5–8, 12–15, 19–22, 26–29; Nov. 30; Dec. 1, 7–8, 14, 15, 28–29.

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190 YEARS AGO

A MAN BET ON HORSES AND CHANGED WATCHMAKING FOREVER .

In 1821, Nicolas Rieussec changed watchmaking forever with the invention of the first chronograph. Today, the Montblanc TimeWalker Chronograph Automatic is a tribute to 190 years of the chronograph’s technical evolution. 43 mm stainless steel case, skelleted horns and sapphire crystal back, black calfskin strap with white stitching. Crafted in the Montblanc Manufacture in Le Locle, Switzerland.

the forum shops at caesars • the shoppes at the palazzo •

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PULSE OF VEGAS News from the Center Strip

ESCAPE TO

Star-studded Celebration: Top Entertainers Tout Rewards Program Talk about star power. Caesars Entertainment enlisted a stellar lineup to usher in the expansion of its Total Rewards loyalty program. CeeLo Green, Mariah Carey, Maroon 5, Gavin DeGraw, P. Diddy, Mary J. Blige, Lil Wayne and Sara Bareilles performed simultaneous concerts in Los Angeles, Chicago, New Orleans and New York City to help the company announce changes to Total Rewards. “Our business has grown to encapsulate so much more than gaming,” explains Gary Loveman, CEO and President of Caesars Entertainment. “Every single one of our nearly forty resorts across the country provides a 360-degree entertainment experience. This next generation of the Total Rewards program seeks to expand the customer experience by providing additional ways for our members to earn points both on and off property. Total Rewards is no longer just a gaming loyalty program.” This page: CeeLo Green and Mariah Carey were among the performers who aided in a coast-to-coast launch of the brand-new Total Rewards program.

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A l l P h o t o s C o u r t e s y o f C a e s a r s E n t e r ta i n m e n t C o r p o r at i o n , u n l e s s s p e c i f i e d .

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“Total Rewards is no longer just a gaming loyalty program.” —Gary Loveman, CEO and President of Caesars Entertainment

Earning Power While members still earn credits when shopping, dining or booking accommodations at a Total Rewards resort, new program enhancements target a broader customer base allowing for members to redeem their credits online at Total Rewards Marketplace.

Retail Rewards: Earn credits shopping online. More than 800 retailers, including Best Buy, Target and Apple, are linked through Total Rewards Marketplace. Members accessing retailers through TRMarketplace.com earn credits when making purchases. In addition, Total Rewards members can redeem their Reward Credits for gift certificates at several hundred participating retailers on the marketplace. These gift certificates can be used for online purchases or printed and used at the retailer’s brick-and-mortar locations. The Social Networks: Check in or share experiences through Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Foursquare, and be rewarded. It’s simple. Just interact through social media with a Total Rewards Resort in Las Vegas such as Caesars Palace or Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino to earn credits. Business Travelers: Now business planners scheduling meetings or events at a Total Rewards resort earn one Reward Credit for every dollar spent. These can be redeemed personally or applied toward a future business booking.

Membership Privileges Members are still able to redeem credits for services and experiences, including dining, hotel rooms and free play, but now have additional benefits.

• Total Rewards members receive preferred pricing at restaurants network-wide. • Elite members can gift up to 5,000 Reward Credits to friends or family members, up to twice per year.

Top row: Maria Menounos, Mary J. Blige and Gavin DeGraw at the Total Rewards launch party in New Orleans; P. Diddy performing in Gotham Hall in New York City; Adam Levine of Maroon 5 performing at Union Station in Chicago. Second row: Lance Bass, Jimmy Kimmel and Penn Jillette in Los Angeles. Third row: Kourtney Kardashian and Ashlee Simpson at the L.A. concert. In Chicago, Michelle Rounds and Rosie O’Donnell; Bill and Giuliana Rancic. Bottom: Gavin DeGraw performing in Woldenberg Park in New Orleans.

• Every member receives at least a 10-percent discount at on-property retailers, but more frequent players now receive discounts of up to 25 percent on all retail purchases at Caesars Entertainment outlets. • Members have pre-sale access to show tickets for many top entertainers performing at Total Rewards resorts.

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7/3/12 2:49 PM

PULSE OF VEGAS The Suits Have the Floor

The Magic of Being Booted from Celebrity Apprentice Why did you choose Opportunity Village? Elvis, why else? Opportunity Village is a very powerful idea. They do charity in a very different way. They help people with intellectual disabilities be part of society.

Power of Penn Penn Jillette didn’t come out on top on this season’s Celebrity Apprentice; but in the end, the charity he was playing for—Opportunity Village—came out a winner. During his appearance on The Wendy Williams Show, the day after his “firing” by Donald Trump, Penn announced that his “real bosses,” through the Caesars Foundation, had donated $250,000 to Opportunity Village, a nonprofit organization serving Southern Nevada residents with intellectual disabilities. It was exactly what Penn’s charity would have been awarded had he won the show.

What is the Elvis connection? Opportunity Village made every single scarf that Elvis threw into the audience. Those scarfs that he kissed and threw into the audience: Every single one was kissed first by the person who made it at Opportunity Village. That idea makes me cry. Why did you decide to appear on Celebrity Apprentice? I had the opportunity to learn about unscripted television by actually doing it. How was it different collaborating with the celebrities on the show than it is with Teller? Teller is the best mind in magic alive. Teller is never late. Teller never raises his voice. Teller does not make mistakes, he does not screw up. He does not lose his temper. He does not gossip. He does not talk behind anyone’s back and he does not lie. So you tell me, how do they measure up against each other? Penn and Teller perform at Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino. p h o t o s C o u r t e s y o f ( P e n n J i l l e t t e ) M i t c h e l l Haa s e t h / N B C ; ( C e l e b r i t y A p p r e n t i c e ) D o u g l a s G o r e n s t e i n / N B C ; ( E l v i s P RESLEY s ca r f ) E d F e r n a n d e z .

Riggle Me This…

A Comic’s Take on Sin City’s Single Scene

Even though Rob Riggle wasn’t a member of the Wolf Pack in The Hangover—he played the cop (“In the face! In the face!”)—he thinks he has the Vegas party scene figured out. “If you’re single, every day is a bachelor party,” he shrugs, before diving into his explanation of why bachelorettes choose Sin City for a final fling. “I assume it’s so that the bride-to-be can spend some quiet, quality time with her closest friends and reflect on their friendships, and also discuss the joy of marriage, commitment and monogamy.” Well, maybe not. As for how he preps for a weekend in Vegas? “I forget everything I learned in Sunday school.” Comedian Rob Riggle recently returned to Las Vegas and performed in Napoleon’s Lounge at Paris Las Vegas. photo Courtesy of comedy central

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ty an a Ta By

bettiepageclothing.com

Miracle Mile Shops

at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino

The Forum Shops at Caesars

Retro style for the modern woman! Photo by Michael Malak Model: Mayra Veronica

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PULSE OF VEGAS That’s Entertainment!

The Show Brings the Past Alive Glory Days VEGAS! Before Céline, Elton and Shania, there were Louis Prima, Tom Jones, Elvis and The Rat Pack— performers who helped shape Las Vegas’ “Entertainment Capital of the World” image. Now, those early chapters come alive in VEGAS! The Show. Broadway veteran Eric Jordan Young heads a cast of more than 40 singers, dancers and showgirls, who perform with a live orchestra. Young plays the show’s lead character, Ernie, a storytelling caretaker. He takes the audience on a tour through the Neon Boneyard and, ultimately, on a journey filled with “memories and ghosts of Las Vegas past” as the show reminisces about those iconic early days of big-personality performers. “There is a little bit of everything,” Young says. “Anyone who loves Las Vegas entertainment history will eat this up.” VEGAS! THE SHOW can be seen in the Saxe Theater inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.

Rocker Rod Stewart’s Tell-All Autobiography

Romp ‘n’ Roll After more than five decades in the music business,

Rod Stewart is finally telling his story. Stewart’s long-time manager, Arnold Stiefel, reveals that the rocker, who has been approached by publishers for years, will finally disclose all in his memoir to be published this fall by Random House. “I learned long ago, he is the master of timing and that time is now,” Stiefel says. Stewart’s memoir will be called Never a Dull Moment, the same title as his iconic No. 1 album from 1972, and will feature a cover photo taken by his wife, Penny Lancaster-Stewart. As the title reveals, Stewart promises to take readers on “a candid and romping look” at his remarkable life both on and off the stage. “It is a funny old thing, telling my life story, but I truly intend to hold nothing back,” Stewart says. “Forget skeletons in the closet; this one’s going to be socks and knickers under the bed.” Stewart, who is midway through his two-year residency at Caesars Palace, was recently inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for the second time, as a member of the legendary band the Faces. He was inducted as a solo artist in 1994. p h o t o o f R o d S t e w a r t c o u r t e s y o f La r r y b u s aca / w i r e i m a g e . c o m / A EG L i v e

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The Jersey Four

Forty Years Later, the Music Lives on in Jersey Boys A quick flashback to 1962 shows us that Lawrence of Arabia won the Academy Award for Best Picture; pop artist Andy Warhol premiered his Campbell’s Soup Cans exhibit in Los Angeles; and the audio cassette was invented. But it was also the year that a group of guys from New Jersey finally settled on a name—The Four Seasons—and started producing chart-topping songs like “Sherry,”“Walk Like a Man” and “Rag Doll.” Now, forty years later, their songs are still hitting the mark in Jersey Boys at Paris Las Vegas. P h o t o o f J e r s e y B o y s c o u r t e s y o f E r i k Kab i k / RETN A / K i r v i n D o a k C o m m u n i cat i o n s

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PULSE OF VEGAS Sweet Treats

Treasure Trove

Serendipity’s Super Sundaes Sure, you could order a classic sundae with a mere two scoops of ice cream, drizzled in hot fudge—but why not really go all-in? Go ahead, take

The Modern Martini

the plunge, and order the Golden Opulence Sundae: a money’s-no-object sundae

Center Cut Ups The Cocktail Stakes

containing rich Tahitian vanilla

by Adrienne N. Hester

23-karat edible gold leaf and

ice cream and topped with

Grand PassionTM caviar—at a price tag of $1,000. Or, if that’s too extravagant, you could still splurge on the meant-tobe-shared $88 Treasure Chest Smartly designed in black and white, Center Cut Steakhouse at Flamingo

Sundae, which combines all

Las Vegas transports guests back to a time when men were dapper,

the gooey goodness of several

women played coy, and the martini was the drink of choice. So while

Serendipity 3 sundaes. The

those in the dining room feast on large succulent steaks—cuts of beef

chocolate treasure-chest box

sourced from Colorado’s Aspen Ridge Farms—a crowd sips specialty martinis in the lounge. Center Cut’s cocktail menu was developed

is filled with 12 scoops of ice

carefully “one drink at a time,” says

cream and overflows with

Dan Mykovich, the resort’s

cookies, berries and cakes.

Golden Opulence Sundae at Serendipity 3

director of food and beverage. “We are adding a contemporary twist to old-school cocktails,” he says of drinks like the pomegranate lemon martini or cucumber martini. One of

FROZEN FLAIR

by Adrienne N. Hester

bartender Carol Atkinson’s

Slush Bar at Bill’s Gamblin’ Hall & Saloon

favorites is The Cut Diablo, which

Ever since Tom Cruise tossed his first bottle in the 1988 hit movie Cocktail, fun drinks

combines tequila, orange juice, mint and a splash of soda, with an orange-stuffed jalapeño to garnish. “It is simply unusual,” she admits with a chuckle,

and lively bartending have become a staple in bars across America. Las Vegas is no exception, and now fun meets flair at Slush Bar inside Bill’s Gamblin’ Hall & Saloon. Here, rum or vodka get mixed into fruit-flavored “slush-ology” creations with names like Vegas Vice or All Night Long. Choose from more than 20 sinfully delicious concoctions— some include sweet trimmings like gummy worms, peach rings or red licorice.

“but people like it.” P h o t o s o f Ma r t i n i s C o u r t e s y o f Da n n y I n g l e w o o d

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Great Eats PULSE OF VEGAS

Gordon Ramsay Chunnels His Way to Your Plate His First Las Vegas Restaurant Serves a Bit of Britain It’s less than five hours before the opening-night service, and a group of journalists are waiting for Gordon Ramsay— and probably hoping for a taste of his famed beef Wellington or sticky toffee pudding, to sustain them as they write their reviews. Lucky for them, Ramsay is here conducting a cooking demonstration. It’s the grand opening of Gordon Ramsay Steak at Paris Las Vegas—the celebrated chef’s first restaurant in Las Vegas—and he’s pulling out all the stops.

Ramsay has filled the restaurant with touches of his homeland and invited journalists to get some of the first looks. Guests enter through a Chunnel— Ramsay’s whimsical take on the Paris-to-London tunnel—and dine at tables under a 65-foot-long Union Jack ceiling mural. The eclectic menu ranges from steaks dry-aged in Himalayan sea salt to Kurobuta pork chops and seafood dishes, including his signature fish and chips—the British staple. The restaurant also has iPads utilizing the SmartCellar application, allowing guests to peruse the vast wine and spirits collection with just the swipe of a finger. The journalists go home impressed—and well-fed—you’ll be glad to know.

Gordon Ramsay marked his grandopening celebration with a cooking demonstration that included his signature beef Wellington (left).

Shaking It Up

Burgers and Shakes Are the Perfect Pairing at KGB: Kerry’s Gourmet Burgers

Now here’s something to whet the burger lover’s appetite. How does a thinly sliced Philly cheesesteak burger paired with a strawberry-cheesecake milkshake sound? Or perhaps the Reuben burger on rye with a pumpkin-spice milkshake? These mouthwatering combos are part of the new monthly burger-and-shake specials Chef Kerry Simon has implemented at KGB: Kerry’s Gourmet Burgers at Harrah’s Las Vegas. “We like to use seasonal, fresh ingredients that fit with the time of year,” says Simon. “We make sure that the ingredients in the burger complement those in the shake.” Check out the pairings below for a taste of Simon’s matchmaking skills. August: Teriyaki Chicken Burger with Pink Lemonade Milkshake September: Philly Cheesesteak Burger with Strawberry Cheesecake Milkshake October: Chimichurri Burger with Neapolitan Milkshake November: Reuben Burger with Pumpkin Spice Milkshake

P HOTOS B Y MIKEY M c NULTY

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PULSE OF VEGAS Relax, Recharge, Rejuvenate

Stone Cold Beat the Heat with a Poolside Massage

Hot sun? Cold rocks. That’s the answer for keeping cool when the Las Vegas

at Caesars Palace. “It’s great to have cold stones incorporated into your

temperatures climb into the triple digits. Several resorts now offer poolside

massage, especially when it’s extremely hot out,” he explains. The cold stones,

massages, including Caesars Palace, where you can get a deep-tissue

when placed on pulse points, rapidly cool the body, returning it to its core

massage in a cabana at the Jupiter Pool. But it’s the chilled stones that do

temperature so you feel “more relaxed and can just enjoy the sun and

the trick, according to Shannon Stringert, spa director at Qua Baths & Spa

the atmosphere.”

Learn more about poolside massages by tuning in to Vegas Player Television.

Primp, Pamper and Pilates

Strengthen your core and increase flexibility. Qua Baths & Spa now offers Pilates at Caesars Palace. The 60-minute studio session in the fitness center is available by appointment only. Other special spa offerings: • Guests at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino can get everything from a Quick Fix 5-minute neck and shoulder massage to an 80-minute full-body massage out by the pool. • Uncover fresh, smooth skin with the “Lighten Up, Tighten Up” Facial at The Spa at Flamingo. This anti-aging treatment includes a Balancing Thermogel Mask that gets tighter as it dries, instantly firming and toning skin. • Look your best with a manicure/pedicure package from The Spa at Harrah’s, $85.

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P h o t o s B Y ( P OOLSIDE M A SS A GE ) MIKEY M c NULTY ; ( P IL A TES M A T ) S o l o v y o v a L y u d m y l a / SHUTTERSTO C K . C OM .

7/3/12 1:23 PM

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6/20/12 4:54 PM

PULSE OF VEGAS Introducing the Nobu Hotel

David Rockwell and Nobu Matsuhisa Go Next Level

Empire Builder

Star architect David Rockwell has designed Nobu restaurants all over the globe. He’s also the mastermind behind Bobby Flay Steak in Atlantic City and Gordon Ramsay’s Maze restaurant in London, as well as nightclub and hotel interiors all along the Las Vegas Strip. But the designer’s next project, Nobu Hotel Caesars Palace, to be unveiled in late 2012, will be the extension of a two-decades-long partnership with famed Chef Nobu Matsuhisa. From its large, yet intimate, restaurant to its stately rooms, Rockwell says, Nobu Hotel will be a “distinctly Japanese experience with a Western sense of luxury,” starting with a hot-tea welcome at check-in. The 181-room Nobu Hotel includes 18 suites, some of which have media rooms, pool tables or fireplaces. Rockwell says the room design, featuring wood, rice paper and grass cloth wall coverings, along with custom calligraphy and Japanese artwork, playfully blends Japanese and Asian traditions with Vegas flair. “With a prevalence of natural materials and textures, the rooms maintain a clean, comfortable simplicity,” he explains. Nobu restaurant at the base of the tower will feel less intimidating than its 12,775-square-foot footprint. “We wanted the atmosphere to be theatrical and loungelike,” Rockwell says. “To play with scale and retain intimacy, we designed many different private dining options for groups, such as the pods that resemble glowing lanterns. Undulating screen wraps around the dining room insulate the space and create a more intimate setting.” The guest rooms at Nobu Hotel use natural materials to retain a look that is “fun and energized, comfortable and handcrafted,” says architect David Rockwell (above).

But just in case you get too comfortable and can’t make it downstairs for dinner, the hotel offers an in-room dining menu featuring some of Nobu’s most popular dishes. The menu contains a selection of bento boxes and other items including green-tea waffles served with braised short rib, egg and aged maple; or the bagel and lox, which features salmon sashimi served on a bagel made of crispy rice. Says Nobu of his first-ever in-room dining options, “My passion and creativity are communicated into every dish.” VP

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Photo of David Rockwell courtesy of The Rockwell Group

7/5/12 11:45 AM

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6/12/12 3:51 PM

LIVE WELL

Relaxation Redefined

Touch Therapy Qua’s Signature Meditative Shiatsu Treatment Heals and Balances the Body by Melissa Broughton

This unique blend of two therapies—shiatsu and cranial-sacral— is an intensely healing, restorative combination. Having experienced both shiatsu and cranial-sacral separately, I was curious when I saw both treatments combined as one at Qua Baths & Spa at Caesars Palace. Shiatsu, which means “finger pressure” in Japanese, uses a technique based on applying pressure to points on the body, in contrast to the “sweeping” movements of a traditional massage. Much like acupuncture (without the needles), shiatsu utilizes what Chinese medicine refers to as the meridians of our bodies—points that connect to certain body parts and organs. When you’re healthy, energy, or “Qi,” flows freely through the meridians; but sometimes these pathways become blocked, creating imbalances resulting in pain and weakness, explains Shannon Stringert, Qua’s spa director. Shiatsu can correct these imbalances and reenergize the body. The treatment concludes with a cranial-sacral massage, which Stringert explains as “a series of light holds and compressions on the scalp.” Although the treatment is light, it can ease deep tension in the body and has been known to treat stress, neck and back pain, as well as migraines. Combining the relaxing touch of a cranial-sacral massage with the art of shiatsu is both healing and calming. “Most massage treatments promote relaxation or rejuvenation,” explains Stringert. “It’s not often that you can experience both together. The massage starts off as a traditional shiatsu treatment, relieving pain and easing tension within the body, and the last portion of the massage is dedicated to clearing and calming the mind.” VP Writer Melissa Broughton is a licensed aesthetician and the lead aesthetician instructor at Santa Barbara City College.

B e n e f i t s o f S h i at s u Healthy Skin By stimulating blood circulation, a shiatsu massage will help improve the look and glow of skin— and, better yet, prevent wrinkles. Soothes Muscle Pain Shiatsu helps to limber up muscles and improve circulation, reducing muscular pain. When applied to the hands and feet, it’s an effective treatment for arthritis sufferers. Migraine Relief Migraines are caused by a rapid widening and narrowing of the blood vessels in the brain or head. Shiatsu massage can relax the body and help to increase blood flow and circulation, providing migraine relief.

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6/1/12 10:54 AM

OUTTAKES Quotable Notables

CINEMACON 2012

They Said What? Comedic Quips from CinemaCon Stars “Maybe someday, I will get to relax in a hair and makeup chair again, and leave the maniacs at home with you.” Jennifer Garner

The actress, CinemaCon’s Female Star of the Year, pointing to husband Ben Affleck and talking about her hiatus from film in order to raise the couple’s three children

“She is not just being wicked for the sake of being wicked. Girls get mad when they’re rejected.” Jennifer Garner

Mila Kunis

The actress, explaining why her character transforms into the Wicked Witch of the West in the prequel, Oz: The Great and Powerful

“I know my parents are really grateful because they’re hoping I will take my Stony Award from High Times magazine— a working bong—down from the mantle.” Anna Faris

The excited actress, accepting her CinemaCon Comedy Star of the Year Award Anna Faris

Jon Chu

“I noticed in my reel there was a repetition of boner jokes. I apologize for that.” Judd Apatow

The director, who received the CinemaCon Award of Excellence in Filmmaking, reacting to film clips from Superbad, The 40-Year-Old Virgin and some of his other offbeat comedies

“Can I just say, if I knew that 3-D was going to be such a big deal, I would have gotten that boob job ten years ago.” Charlize Theron

The actress, who received CinemaCon’s Distinguished Decade of Achievement in Film Award, reacting to the increasing number of Hollywood movies filmed in 3-D

Judd Apatow

Dwayne Johnson

“[G.I. Joe] stars Dwayne Johnson, or as we call him, Franchise Viagra—because everything he’s in, he brings everyone’s game up.” Jon Chu

The G.I. Joe: Retaliation director, introducing actor Dwayne Johnson to receive the CinemaCon Action Star of the Year Award

Charlize Theron

“Franchise Viagra is here.” Dwayne Johnson

The actor, responding to director Jon Chu’s introduction

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P h o t o s C o u r t e s y o f © R y a n M i l l e r / C a p t u r e Im a g i n g / C INE M A C ON

6/29/12 4:04 PM

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6/18/12 10:16 AM

IN THE KNOW A Cut Above

Meat Men Grass to Grill, Old Homestead Beef Is Top Grade by Jen Karetnick

“Meat is like looking at anything else. You learn how to choose it: from good to great to amazing.” —Pat LaFrieda Jr.

From farm to table: Pat LaFrieda Jr. (top) hand-selects the beef that Chef Tim Henderson (above, right) cooks and serves at Old Homestead Steakhouse in Caesars Palace.

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Pat LaFrieda Jr. is a third-generation butcher whose family has been in the business for more than 90 years. He started working at Pat LaFrieda Meat Purveyor at age 10, and after taking the reins in adulthood, he turned the five-employee operation into a nationally renowned brand with more than 600 restaurants clamoring for the company’s hand-selected products. But his father never wanted him to take up the cleaver. And he doesn’t want his own son in the business of band saws and blood either. “I’d like him to be a lawyer maybe, or a doctor,” he says. His son could do worse than to stay with Pat Jr., who, with his Food Network reality show, Meat Men, is something of a slaughterhouse celebrity. Nicknamed “the Magician of Meat” by New York magazine, he oversees 20 butchers. They handle the beef that chefs from Manhattan to Miami—and now, Las Vegas—put on their tables. “Meat is like looking at anything else,” he observes. “You learn how to choose it: from good to great to amazing.” Pat Jr. deals with beef raised only on family farms where the animals are fed grass for the first 85 percent of their lives, then fattened up quickly with all-natural grain. Next, the beef is sent to Kansas for butchering at a plant endorsed by Temple Grandin, a leader in the fight for the ethical treatment of animals. “We have the same people cutting the meat every week,” Pat Jr. explains. “The consistency is important. It’s what makes for a high-standard cut.” For two West Coast locations that boast such a celebrated, quality product—Old Homestead Steakhouse at Caesars Palace and Gordon Ramsay Steak at Paris Las Vegas—Pat Jr. personally chooses the best-of-the-best to send. “It’s like looking at diamonds. I check for cut, color, quality. The most important thing is the marbling, the internal muscular fat. It should have a white, flaking effect. Internal fat in the muscle is what gives you the flavor.” But there’s more to it, points out Old Homestead executive chef Tim Henderson. “Pat has a secret method to his dry-aging, but I’ve been sworn to secrecy. I can say that he produces a flavor profile that is unmatched.” Guests agree, enthusiastically ordering the mammoth signature steaks, which include the 32-ounce “lollipop rib-eye on the dinosaur bone”; the 26-ounce, short-bone Gotham rib steak; or the USDA Prime porterhouse for two, three or four people. For smaller appetites, Henderson says, “the petit filet is the favorite.” VP

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7/2/12 3:17 PM

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6/1/12 4:51 PM

COMPLIMENTS OF THE CHEF Pleasing the Palate

Sushi Matsu

Chopsticks Optional

Asian Dishes: The Spice of Life by Grace Bascos

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P h o t o s C o u r t e s y o f ( S u s h i M at s u ) M i k e M c N u l t y; ( B l a c k C o d w i t h M i s o ) E i i c h i T a k a h a s h i / N o b u H o s p i t a l i t y; ( Z h a J i a n g M e i n ) C a e s a r s P a l a c e .

7/3/12 1:21 PM

Black Cod with Miso

With the high number of Asian visitors, as well as an increasing number of discerning guests developing tastes for authentic Asian fare, Las Vegas has always had a keen insight into the cuisine of the Far East. Each restaurant has its own niche and signature dishes that set it apart. Adventurous diners can find bites of everything, from classic Hong Kong-style dim sum to modern interpretations of Japanese sushi in the middle of the Las Vegas desert.

The Dish: Sushi Matsu

The Dish: SHUMAI DUMPLINGS

The Forum Shops at Caesars

Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino

With its stellar view of the Las Vegas Strip and its modern Asian aesthetic, Sushi Roku is considered one of the hottest spots to enjoy favorite bites of nigiri. Its signature platter, matsu, features eight distinct pieces of premium fish, including Scottish salmon, Japanese yellowtail and seared albacore tuna served in the classic nigiri style: over perfectly hand-formed mounds of sushi rice. But Sushi Roku takes it a step further and adorns the fish with luxurious accoutrements, including citrus soy, osetra golden caviar and shaved black truffles.

The Hong Kong specialty of dim sum is alive and well in the massive dining room at KJ’s. Carts filled with stacks of metal and bamboo steamers roam between the tables, their drivers offering bite-size delicacies traditionally meant to be enjoyed with tea. Shumai, one of the most traditional dumplings to be found on dim-sum carts, is usually a good gauge as to the quality of the rest of the food. KJ Dim Sum & Seafood’s shumai speaks volumes. Minced pork and shrimp are tucked into lightyellow wrappers, and the dumplings are shaped by hand to resemble small cups. Each dumpling is juicy and flavorful, and best when fresh and still warm from the steamer.

SUSHI ROKU

The Dish: Black Cod with Miso

Nobu Caesars Palace

Caesars Palace

Japanese pioneering chef Nobu Matsuhisa will bring his distinct style of Japanese cuisine to his newest venture, Nobu Hotel Caesars Palace, opening in late 2012. The 12,775-square-foot restaurant at the base of the tower will be his first restaurant on the Strip, as well as his first foray into teppanyaki dining, where master chefs will cook on a hot grill directly in front of guests. Nobu’s menu also promises to have his classic dishes, which reflect his background in both Japanese and Peruvian cuisine and techniques. Keep an eye out for his signature black cod with miso, as well as tuna tataki with red miso. Nobu Hotel also offers an in-room menu from which guests can order some of the restaurant’s signature dishes.

BEIJING STYLE ZHA JIANG MEIN

KJ DIM SUM & SEAFOOD

The Dish: CHILEAN SEA BASS

KOI LAS VEGAS

Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino Greeted by three rotund Buddhas over the entryway, as well as Tibetan prayer wheels, guests are welcomed into a beautifully contemporary space with Asian bamboo and latticework across the ceiling meant to represent fishing nets. This pan-Asian restaurant pays great attention to its seafood, and not just as traditional sushi. The Chilean sea bass is a perfect representation of Koi’s fusion of Japanese and California cuisines. The succulent fish is lightly poached and served in a ginger broth and dusted with shichimi, a seven-ingredient spice. Shiitake mushrooms add an earthy quality to the heady broth and savory fish.

The Dish: Beijing-style zha jiang Mein

beijing noodle no. 9

Caesars Palace

Though you’ll find Chinese-American classics such as Mongolian beef or General Tso’s chicken on the menu at Beijing Noodle No. 9, it’s the authentic, yet approachable, dishes that are the most interesting. At the front of the bright and contemporary dining room, guests can watch as expert noodle makers trained in China hand-pull the noodles for one of the restaurant’s signature dishes, Beijing-style zha jiang mein. The dense, chewy wheat noodles are sliced with a thin blade before being topped with stir-fried pork in a savory and earthy soy and black-bean sauce. VP Watch Vegas Player Television as we go into the kitchen to see how sushi is prepared.

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7/3/12 2:46 PM

Splurge Style Watch

A Feast of Pleasures P h o t o g r a p h e d o n l o c at i o n at b e i j i n g n o o d l e n o. 9 at C a e s a r s pa l a c e

It’s the Chinese Year of the Dragon, a time of good fortune and great power. Forget about the fire-breathing version: This creature is to be revered, not feared. We went on a quest and found a few things to bring out your inner dragon. photograph by Robert John Kley P h oto a s s i s ta n t: To d d Lu s s i e r Fa s h i o n D i r e c to r / S t y l i s t: C h r i s t i e M o e l l e r H a i r / M a k e u p: K r ys t l e R a n d a l l M a n i c u r i s t: Tricia Mesa, u s i n g M a n G l a z e “ M at t e I s M u r d e r ” M o d e l : LULU / E n v y M o d e l M a n ag e m e n t 38

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All Product Images Courtesy of respective brands unless otherwise noted

7/3/12 3:19 PM

A Beverage with Benefits

My Cup of Tea

by Christie Moeller

Tea drinkers have been hip to the benefits of their beverage since the Ming Dynasty. Researchers have found green and white teas to be rich in antioxidants, and helpful in reducing inflammation, building collagen and lessening cell damage from sun exposure. Cosmetics companies are drawn to such health benefits, and both tea varieties are among the most popular ingredients used in the beauty industry today.

Here are a few ways to take in the health benefits of green or white tea.

1 AmorePacific Treatment Oil

Renew your complexion and restore your skin to its youthful radiance with AmorePacific Green Tea Treatment Oil ($195); Sephora/Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino and Sephora/The Forum Shops at Caesars. 3 2 Boscia Blotting Linens

Absorb excess oil without disturbing makeup. These finely woven Boscia Green Tea Blotting Linens will soothe, protect and freshen your skin ($10); Sephora/ Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino and Sephora/The Forum Shops at Caesars. 3 Nobu’s The Green Tea

Sip a glass of Nobu’s The Green Tea in your room at Caesars Palace. A classic green tea with a roasted brown-rice flavor ($10); Nobu Hotel Caesars Palace.

4 Shu Uemura Polishing Milk

Shu Uemura Art of Hair’s Satin Design White Tea Polishing Milk conditions hair, giving it a smooth, polished look and silky touch ($38); shuuemuraartofhair.com.

ACCESSORIES TO BLESS YOUR LOOK: On Lulu: Animalier Collection dragon bangle ($45,000) and ring ($19,000) in 18-karat yellow and white gold with diamonds and enamel; Roberto Coin/robertocoin.com and Park Place Jewelers/Bally’s Las Vegas. On her chopsticks: Silver dragon key fob ($275); Alfred Dunhill/The Forum Shops at Caesars. On beef pancakes (front row, second from left): Naga Collection large dragon-head ring in sterling silver and 18-karat gold with ruby on eyes, milky quartz and diamond pavé ($2,750); John Hardy/johnhardy.com. On Char Siu Bao (middle, in silver dish): Year of the Dragon watch ($65); Swatch/ The Forum Shops at Caesars. On Baked BBQ Pork Pastry (front row, third from left): Silver Chinese-dragon cufflinks ($195); Thomas Pink/The Forum Shops at Caesars. Top right: Dragon wine stopper ($74); Olivia Riegel/Caesars Exclusively, Caesars Palace. CLOTHING: “Orchid” silk-crepe dress ($680); Shanghai Tang/The Forum Shops at Caesars. Brownleather messenger bag with dragon-embroidered detailing ($995); Bally/bally.com.

5 Bamboo Harmony by Kilian

From the “Asian Tales” collection comes Bamboo Harmony by Kilian, a perfume with notes of bergamot, citrus and neroli, and a heart consisting of white tea and mimosa ($225); Saks Fifth Avenue/Fashion Show.

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7/3/12 1:39 PM

Splurge One Step at a Time

“In France, twenty years defines a generation. This is a celebration of the first generation of this brand; an anniversary of its first young adventure.” —Christian Louboutin

Rouge Magnifique! The Evolution of a Designer:

Christian Louboutin by Christie Moeller Celebrates His 20th Anniversary The man who revolutionized the high heel—perfecting hidden platforms and vertiginous stilettos while introducing us to the red-lacquered sole—celebrates his label’s 20th anniversary with the release of the Capsule Collection, a classically styled footwear and accessories line compiled of his favorite pieces. It includes six one-of-a-kind handbags. The collection is a 20-year retrospective of Christian Louboutin’s work. From his lifelong fascination with the world of showgirls and cabarets (his first job was assisting entertainers at Folies Bergère in Paris) to his love of art, architecture and design, each style included in this special collection is rich with history and carries a unique story of creation and inspiration. The designer’s passion for exotic travel and admiration for craftsmanship are rooted in his Capsule Collection. One example, the Copte Flat sandal, is an intricate and delicate weaving inspired by a Coptic cross from a Valley of the Queens artisan in Egypt. Well-Heeled Who has the most Christian Louboutin shoes? It might be romance novelist Danielle Steel, who claims to own more than 6,000 pairs. If you’re trying to catch up, you can start with a trip to the Christian Louboutin boutique in The Forum Shops at Caesars.

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Feathers are also prominently featured. The Pluminette, a satin peep-toe pump with black fishnet overlay, has shaved feather details on the heel and toe, while Artemis Plumes, a hand-painted green python bag with gold chain contains multicolored hand-dyed goose and hen feathers on the shoulder. VP

A l l p h o t o s c o u r t e s y o f C h r i s t ia n L o u b o u t i n . P ORTR A I T BY S t e p h a n G l a d i e u .

7/3/12 1:39 PM

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6/12/12 9:19 AM

Splurge

Who was seen Where CELEBRITY-SPOTTING Las Vegas Star Tracker

The celebrity scene is alive and well in Las Vegas. Here are a few stars who were recently in town. Actor Nicolas Cage was seen having dinner at Martorano’s inside Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino. Singers Brandy and CeeLo Green also ate there on separate occasions. Pink took in the wildly hilarious show ABSINTHE at Caesars Palace, while Larry King, George Lopez, Johnny Depp and Nigel Lythgoe saw Elton John perform at Caesars Palace. Summer got a kick start with Ray J and Sophie Monk hosting a launch party for the Voo Pool at VooDoo Beach.

TREND REPORT

Back to Basics

Getting Raw with Unbranded Brand’s Dean of Denim, Brandon Svarc The biggest trend in denim right now is “selvedge,” but what exactly is it? Coveted by denim connoisseurs, it’s the only true vintage denim because it’s woven on old-school machines called shuttle looms. These looms were commonplace in American denim mills from the late 1800s to the 1950s, but with the birth of rock ‘n’ roll and the demand for denim skyrocketing, the mills abandoned these slow looms for faster ones that could massproduce fabric. The result was denim that was lighter and less durable. Then, when the premium-denim phase came about in the 1980s, some Japanese mills bought the old looms and even made reproductions of the vintage machines in order to produce higher-quality jeans.

Over at The Forum Shops at Caesars, former Chicago Bears running back Gale Sayers and his wife grabbed a bite at Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab, while Alice Cooper stopped by Spago. The Palm restaurant saw a slew of famous faces including actor Paul Walker, television personality Jerry Springer, ventriloquist Jeff Dunham and former big-league pitcher Greg Maddux.

Jeff Dunham was spotted dining at The Palm in The Forum Shops at Caesars.

Brandon Svarc

Photo of Jeff Dunham courtesy of Andrew S m a l l z & J a r e d R a s k i n d / p e r s o n a l p u b l i c i t y.

We spoke with Brandon Svarc, founder and designer of Naked & Famous Denim and Unbranded Brand, to talk premiumapparel jeans. What is selvedge denim? It’s the opposite of modern mass production. I believe that a real luxury item is something that is special, rare, difficult to make and all about quality. It’s woven on old-style shuttle looms. The shuttle carries the weft yarns back and forth continuously to create a ‘self-edge’ to the fabric [that won’t fray]. The fabric is made slowly and it’s very narrow. Each pair is a unique piece of art.

Chrome Hearts welcomed Rush Hour funnyman Chris Tucker, New York Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez, actress Eliza Dushku and Chase star Jesse Metcalfe. Sports legends Joe Montana and Mike Tyson were spotted separately at Field of Dreams, while tennis great Steffi Graf and Caesars Palace headliner Matt Goss were seen on different days at the John Varvatos boutique. Other celebrity sightings: Mel Gibson at Rod Stewart’s show at Caesars Palace; Tyrese Gibson at Qua Baths & Spa; Jada Pinkett Smith at Sephora; Jaime Pressly at P.J. Clarke’s Las Vegas; Dr. Dre at Trevi; Gordon Ramsay at Antiquities and Ted Baker London; and Andrew Zimmern at Vosges Haut-Chocolat. VP

by Christie Moeller

Why is Japanese selvedge denim so coveted? There are very few companies in the U.S. that still make selvedge denim. We prefer Japanese selvedge because they’re always on the forefront of quality and innovation. In Japan, there are small boutique mills that focus on making innovative fabrics that push the limits.

Unbranded Brand denim is available at Urban Outfitters inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino; or visit theunbrandedbrand.com.

How should you care for this type of premium denim? One of my favorite parts about raw selvedge denim is the dyeing methods in Japan, called rope-dyeing. This creates a yarn that fades beautifully with time and wear. I normally recommend waiting as long as possible before the first wash and then washing inside-out in cold water and hanging to dry. VP

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the world’s leading retailer in comfort footwear. We are the destination for ALL your comfort footwear needs featuring the largest assortment of comfort footwear in the world.

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Splurge Up Close and Personal

COLORFUL Creator

Roberto Coin is sitting in a suite in the Octavius Tower at Caesars Palace, telling stories between puffs of a cigarette. The Italian designer is proud of his work, yet humble about the talent that enables him to create his stunning jewelry pieces.

“Fashion should represent freedom: freedom for the person who wears jewelry, and freedom for the person who creates it." —Roberto Coin He’s also a bit of a jokester. Coin barely pauses when asked to name the one item every woman needs in her jewelry collection. “A rich husband,” he quips, and the room explodes in laughter. “A man who buys jewelry for a woman is a special person,” he continues. “Buying jewelry probably avoids a lot of divorces, so it’s a very good investment.” Coin then settles back deep in his seat and answers more seriously. “A beautiful, colorful cocktail ring. One as big as possible, because by showing the ring, you are making a huge statement. More than earrings or bracelets or anything else, I like a woman with a powerful ring.” Coin began his career as a hotelier. He managed a five-star hotel in Guernsey, in the Channel Islands off the coast of France, until age 32, when he left the business to pursue jewelry design in Vicenza, Italy. Coin built the company into a luxe jewelry empire, and operates it with his business partner, Peter Webster. Coin says he strives to “be different than anyone else.” He gets his unique design inspirations from his love of art, history and travel. This year alone, he says, the company produced more than a thousand one-of-a-kind items. “I like to do pieces that have class,” Coin says. “We want to create something so the woman feels perfectly dressed when she puts it on.” Coin hides a small ruby in each piece of jewelry, taking inspiration from the Egyptian folk belief that a ruby touching the skin promotes long life, health and happiness. The custom, which began in 1996, has become his signature. Coin will return to Caesars Palace on November 2 and 3 for an exclusive VIP showing of limited-edition jewels. He says he’ll bring his entire Animalier Collection, along with some never-beforeseen pieces and others unique to Vegas, including roulette rings that spin and a necklace meant to mimic a slot machine with gems shaped likes cherries and bananas. VP

Exclusive interview:

Premier Jewelry Designer Roberto Coin Shares His Vision Cocktail Rings, Haute Couture Collection

Siberian Tiger Bangle, Animalier Collection

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Dragon Bangle and Ring, Animalier Collection

Primavera Stretch Bracelets, Primavera Collection

7/3/12 1:39 PM

Jumpsuit provided by Stella McCartney. Jewelry provided by de Grisogono.

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Splurge Travel Items

Wise Choices Vegas Player cracked open a few fortune cookies, studied the message inside and consulted honored designers to bring you the season’s hottest trends.

Safeguard your skin with Snowberry Everyday SPF 15 Broad Spectrum Sun Protection ($36); dermstore.com.

Archipelago Botanicals Antigua soy candles have a tropical scent of pineapple, ginger and coconut ($29); shoparchipelago.com.

Pampered pets travel in a TUMI pet carrier made of ballistic nylon with leather trim ($495); TUMI/The Forum Shops at Caesars.

Fade to black and get some stylish shut-eye with the CH Carolina Herrera travel eye mask ($150); CH Carolina Herrera/The Forum Shops at Caesars. Make a statement with the Tiffany Atlas® luggage tag in sterling silver with black-leather strap (price upon request); Tiffany & Co./ The Forum Shops at Caesars.

John Varvatos wool Glen-plaid tote ($1,295); John Varvatos/The Forum Shops at Caesars. 46

Time is on your side when you’re wearing the Bulgari Daniel Roth Papillon Voyageur timepiece ($49,700); Bulgari/Crystals at CityCenter.

Pack smart with a Khirma Eliazov leather mash duffle ($1,395); khirmaeliazov.com.

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Window Shopping by Gondola Roving Entertainment Fine Dining

enjoy over 80 fine shoppes and world-class restaurants, including • taO asian Bistro and nightclub • Wolfgang Puck’s Postrio Bar & grill Canaletto Dooney & Bourke • Peter Lik gallery • Madame tussauds • Sephora • Kenneth Cole 24-Hour Shopping Line: 702.414.4500 • thegrandcanalshoppes.com

featuring BarneYS neW YOrK

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Splurge Fashion Statements

ALDO peep-toe Kanosh sandal with ankle-wrap strap ($120); ALDO/ Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.

GUESS suede and elastic cotton pump ($120); GUESS/Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Step out in a bebe Angelica snake-print plastic sandal ($129); bebe/Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.

Chinese Laundry Join Me platform leather wedge with ankle strap ($89.95); Chinese Laundry/Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.

Brighton Collectibles Welch open-toe heel in black leather with snakeskin print ($280); Brighton Collectibles/ Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.

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Tommy Bahama men’s Smarterpolo in Red Hot ($98) and Beach Runner short in Flight Blue ($98); Tommy Bahama/Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Dominate your training with Myogrid™ AIM compression wear with chafe-resistant shirts: short-sleeve ($64.95), long-sleeve ($69.95), sleeveless ($59.95) or underwear top ($49.95); Las Vegas Fight Shop/ Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.

Mimi Mango breathable, sweat-wicking Susan Short ($29) and Lili Tank ($38); Mimi Mango/Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Quiksilver Cypher Resin 19-inch boardshorts, ($62); Quiksilver/Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.

Add a little prep in your step with United Colors of Benetton men’s collection cardigan ($89), shirt ($59), trousers ($79), belt ($44) and shoes ($144); United Colors of Benetton/Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.

Original Penguin Torpengo grey sneaker with blue side stripe ($110); Original Penguin/Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. VEGAS Player

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Splurge Jewels and Gems Graziela Goshin necklace with carved jade Buddha and .76 carat of white sapphires set in 18-karat yellow gold ($2,400); grazielagems.com.

Fresh Sake Bath softens the skin ($80); Fresh/The Forum Shops at Caesars.

Be bold and look beautiful in Kate Spade’s Paisley Park bib necklace ($348); Kate Spade/The Forum Shops at Caesars. David Yurman romances the stone with this collection: an 18-karat gold, amethyst and diamond Albion ring ($7,750), 18-karat gold, rubellite and diamond Cerise ring ($24,000) and 18-karat gold, greenonyx and diamond Split Shank ring ($6,700); David Yurman/The Forum Shops at Caesars.

Chopard L.U.C XP Urushi watches, in 18-karat rose gold are designed by Japanese art master Kiichiro Masumura ($24,290); chopard.com.

Let the Sydney Evan fortune-cookie necklace, in 14-karat yellow gold with pave diamonds, be your lucky charm ($1,630); sydneyevan.com.

Tucked in a Chinese takeout box with a handtied bow, Vosges HautChocolat 4-piece truffle “Asian Take Out” is a unique party favor ($9.50); Vosges Haut-Chocolat/The Forum Shops at Caesars.

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Featuring Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, Macy’s, Dillard’s, Bloomingdale’s Home, Forever 21 and over 200 stores and eateries, including our newest arrivals Topshop Topman and Free People.

On The Strip across from The Palazzo, Wynn and TI | 702.369.8382 | thefashionshow.com

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Splurge Hit the Beach

BCBG Max Azria Vega studded Raffia sandal in cumin ($325); BCBG boutiques at The Forum Shops at Caesars and Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.

Yellow Dior Croisette 3/S sunglasses ($325); Dior/ The Forum Shops at Caesars. Sun Bum SPF 30 moisturizing lotion ($14.99); available at Caesars Palace, Flamingo, Rio and Paris hotel boutique shops.

Paul Smith rainbow animalprint halter bikini ($220); Paul Smith/ Crystals at CityCenter.

Tory Burch Dipped beach tote ($285); Tory Burch/The Forum Shops at Caesars. Arturo Chiang platform wedge sandal ($89.99); Dillards/Fashion Show.

Run the World (Girls) 5-piece mini lacquer set from Deborah Lippmann includes “I Kissed a Girl” in Poppin’ Pink; “It Girl” in Yellin’ Yellow; “Hollaback Girl” in Outrageous Orange; “Nasty Girl” in Flaming Fuchsia; and “Party Girl” in Sassy Salmon ($45); deborahlippmann.com and Neiman Marcus/Fashion Show. Lisa Blue cherry-blossom moulded-cup bodysuit ($259); swimwearaustralia.net.au.

Duepunti silicone rings ($98 each); duepuntiusa.com. 52

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ndeniaBle conFidence For those dedicated to Fashion. Fendi chloĂŠ BurBerry michael kors

barneys new york canali 7 For all mankind tory Burch Bottega Veneta christian louBoutin diane Von FurstenBerg salVatore Ferragamo

Jacket | shoes: chloĂŠ

on the strip in the Palazzo - 2nd Level located adjacent to the Venetian 702.414.4500 theshoppesatthepalazzo.com

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Splurge Clothing & Accessories

TAG Heuer menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Carrera Heritage watch with rose-gold bezel and bracelet ($4,600); TAG Heuer/Crystals at CityCenter.

Thomas Pink Britannia oval cufflinks ($195), Ocean Liner cufflinks ($105) and Anchor cufflinks ($195); Thomas Pink/ The Forum Shops at Caesars.

Tadashi Shoji ivory pintuck jersey boatneck cocktail dress ($308); Tadashi/ The Forum Shops at Caesars.

Marc by Marc Jacobs linear logo scarf ($178); Marc by Marc Jacobs/ The Forum Shops at Caesars.

DKNY French grained cross-body bag in orange leather ($175); DKNY/ The Forum Shops at Caesars.

Louis Vuitton Alma MM handbag in Carmine ($2,160); Louis Vuitton/ The Forum Shops at Caesars.

From the Burberry Prorsum collection: gray double-breasted suit ($2,495), white dress shirt ($295), polka-dot tie ($195) and hand-painted umbrella ($850); Burberry/The Forum Shops at Caesars. 54

Hester van Eeghen quarter bag ($375); hveus.com.

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LAVISH ADORNMENTS

Swimming in Style

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P h oto g r a p h e d o n lo c at i o n at B e i j i n g N o o d l e N o. 9 at C a e s a r s Pa l ac e

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East Meets West Jewelry: Tiffany 1837™ Collection wide ring ($650) and ultra-wide cuff ($7,500) in RUBEDO™ metal, and interlockingcircles necklace in RUBEDO™ metal and sterling silver ($8,000); all inscribed with founder Charles Lewis Tiffany’s signature and available only in 2012. Tiffany & Co./The Forum Shops at Caesars. Clothing: Lion Ikat printed silk cotton Qipao ($680); Shanghai Tang/The Forum Shops at Caesars. Beauty products: Aqua Shadow eye-shadow pencil in Taupe ($20); Make Up For Ever/Sephora, The Forum Shops at Caesars and Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Pacha lashes ($15); Lash Royalty/lashroyalty.com. Watch Vegas Player Television to see how this fashion and jewelry spread came together.

Photographs by Robert John Kley Fa s h i o n D i r e c to r / S t y l i s t: C h r i s t i e M o e l l e r H a i r / M a k e u p: K r ys t l e R a n d a l l M a n i c u r i s t: Tricia Mesa, using ManGlaze “ M at t e I s M u r d e r ” P h oto g r a p h y a s s i s ta n t: To d d Lu s s i e r Model: Lu lu / E n v y M o d e l s & Ta l e n t VEGAS Player

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LAVISH ADORNMENTS

Jewelry: Jade bird multi-strand necklace ($335), Lotus ring ($205) and bangle ($290) in silver-plated brass with green jade; Shanghai Tang/ The Forum Shops at Caesars. Clothing: Nature-printed silk georgette dress ($575); Shanghai Tang/ The Forum Shops at Caesars. Beauty products: Diorskin Nude Tan Nude Glow Sun powder in Cinnamon ($52), Diorshow waterproof liner in Navy ($20); Dior Beauty/The Forum Shops at Caesars. Rouge Artist Natural lip color in N2 ($19); Make Up For Ever/ Sephora, The Forum Shops at Caesars and Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. 58

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Watch: Crazy Carats watch ($6,300); Fendi/The Forum Shops at Caesars and Park Place Jewelers/Ballyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Las Vegas. Clothing: Nature-printed silk georgette dress ($575); Shanghai Tang/The Forum Shops at Caesars. Beauty products: Diorskin Nude Tan Nude Glow Sun powder in Cinnamon ($52), Diorshow waterproof liner in Navy ($20); Dior Beauty/The Forum Shops at Caesars. Rouge Artist Natural lip color in N2 ($19); Make Up For Ever/Sephora, The Forum Shops at Caesars and Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. VEGAS Player

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Lavish Adornments

Jewelry: Naga Collection large dragon-head drop-pendant chain necklace, set in sterling silver and 18-karat gold with ruby on eyes and hematite ($1,295), with dangling bracelet ($1,195) set in sterling silver and 18-karat gold; John Hardy/ johnhardy.com. Clothing: Orchid silk-crepe dress ($680) and cashmere shawl with feather print ($425); Shanghai Tang/ The Forum Shops at Caesars. Beauty products: Rouge Artist Natural lip color in N22 ($19); Make Up For Ever/Sephora, The Forum Shops at Caesars and Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.

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Jewelry: Naga Collection dragonhead pendant on chain necklace ($1,595) and large dragon-head ring ($2,750) set in sterling silver and 18-karat gold with ruby on eyes, milky quartz and diamond pavĂŠ; John Hardy/johnhardy.com. Clothing: Orchid silk-crepe dress ($680) and cashmere shawl with feather print ($425); Shanghai Tang/ The Forum Shops at Caesars. Beauty products: Rouge Artist Natural lip color in N22 ($19); Make Up For Ever/Sephora, The Forum Shops at Caesars and Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.

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LAVISH ADORNMENTS

Jewelry: Checkerboard ring ($1,839), black-onyx multifaceted necklace ($209) and gold-plated black-onyx elephant pendant ($98); Ultra Diamonds/Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Clothing: Orchid silk-crepe dress ($680); Shanghai Tang/The Forum Shops at Caesars. Beauty products: Diorskin Nude Tan Nude Glow Sun powder in Spicy ($52), Hydra Life BB CrĂ¨me with SPF 30 ($56); Dior Beauty/ The Forum Shops at Caesars. 62

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Jewelry: Wildflowers Collection drop necklace in 18-karat white gold with 208 round brilliant diamonds totaling 2.11 carats ($22,000), and three-flower cluster clip earrings in 18-karat white gold with pavĂŠ and bezel-set diamonds totaling 2.93 carats ($20,000); De Beers/The Forum Shops at Caesars. Clothing: Orchid silk-crepe dress ($680); Shanghai Tang/The Forum Shops at Caesars. Beauty products: Rosy Glow Healthy Glow Awakening blush in Petal ($44), Diorshow New Look mascara in black ($28); Dior Beauty/The Forum Shops at Caesars. Aqua Shadow eyeshadow pencil in Taupe Grey ($20); Make Up For Ever/Sephora, The Forum Shops at Caesars and Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. VEGAS Player

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LAVISH ADORNMENTS

Jewelry: Brocade Collection large heart pendant ($8,750), large square pendant on a long double cable chain ($7,990) and square ring ($1,990), all set in 18-karat yellow gold with bezel-set diamonds; Hearts On Fire/The Forum Shops at Caesars. Clothing: Phoenix Feather silk jacquard coat ($765) and three-quarter-sleeve cotton cashmere sweater with embroidery details ($750); Shanghai Tang/ The Forum Shops at Caesars. Beauty products: Aqua Cream eye shadow in Pastel Blue ($23), Rouge Artist Natural lip color in N3 ($19); Make Up For Ever/Sephora, The Forum Shops at Caesars and Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. 64

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Jewelry: Tapestry ring with champagne citrine and pavĂŠ diamonds ($80,000), long bead necklace in smoky quartz with amber and 18-karat-gold accents ($3,600), long bead necklace in smoky quartz with kyanite and 18-karat-gold accents ($3,400); David Yurman/The Forum Shops at Caesars. Clothing: Lion Ikat printed silk cotton Qipao ($680); Shanghai Tang/ The Forum Shops at Caesars. Beauty products: Garden Clutch makeup palette for eyes and lips in Granville Garden ($75); Dior Beauty/ The Forum Shops at Caesars. Pacha lashes ($15); Lash Royalty/ lashroyalty.com. VEGAS Player

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LAVISH ADORNMENTS

Jewelry: Diamond-cut carnelianquartz toggle necklace set in sterling silver ($245); Corinthia Peoples/ Caesars Exclusively, Caesars Palace. Clothing: Silk twill blouse with jade buttons ($335); Shanghai Tang/ The Forum Shops at Caesars.

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Jewelry: Diamond-cut carnelian-quartz and sterlingsilver necklace ($345) and bracelet ($300); Corinthia Peoples/Caesars Exclusively, Caesars Palace. Clothing: Phoenix Feather silk jacquard jacket ($620); Shanghai Tang/ The Forum Shops at Caesars. Beauty products: Hydra Life BB CrĂ¨me with SPF 30 ($56), Rosy Glow Healthy Glow Awakening blush in Petal ($44); Dior Beauty/The Forum Shops at Caesars. VP VEGAS Player

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CELEBRITY PORTRAIT

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FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Robert De Niro Muses on Food, Film and His Future

Robert De Niro with Chef Nobu Matsuhisa and Tom Jenkin, President of Western Division for Caesars Entertainment Corporation.

Robert De Niro keeps coming back to Las Vegas, and Vegas welcomes him every time. He first won over the city with his no-nonsense portrayal of hotel boss Sam “Ace” Rothstein in Casino, the 1995 film directed by his longtime pal, Martin Scorsese. He’s now getting ready to film a new movie, Last Vegas, about four friends in their sixties who descend on Sin City to throw a bachelor party for their aging friend. But of late, the two-time Academy Award®-winning actor has been working on another, much larger, project: helping to create the world’s first Nobu Hotel, and bringing it to Caesars Palace. It’s the next act in his long-standing partnership with Japanese super chef Nobu Matsuhisa, with whom he has opened a string of hugely popular restaurants around the world. “It’s like having chemistry with your co-star on a movie,” De Niro says of their teamwork. “The thing I’ve always respected most is his concern for quality. “We started over twenty years ago,” he remembers, “when I went to Matsuhisa, Nobu’s first restaurant in Los Angeles. It was a real hotspot and what he was doing in the kitchen was very special. I had never tasted Japanese food like it. I told Nobu having that kind of place in New York would be a no-brainer. And so we eventually got together.”

Photograph by Brigitte Lacombe • Written by Shep Morgan

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CELEBRITY PORTRAIT

The Newest Nobu Eventually, De Niro explains, it seemed time to go beyond the restaurant. “I kept seeing that people wanted Nobu to open restaurants in their hotels because it was a drawing card. So I asked, ‘Why are we not doing our own (hotel)?’ It just seemed like a logical next step.” And Vegas was the logical location. “It’s a place where things are always happening,” he observes. The Caesars Palace venue will be a “a hotel within a hotel” he says, adding, “It’s going to have an elegant Asian feel. It will include the first Nobu restaurant on the Strip, which you can order room service from. I think that really is going to set it apart.” Surprisingly, even while making his mark in Hollywood, De Niro was dreaming of hotels. “Actually, I used to think about building them in a variety of places where you could have distinct experiences, from the Tropics to a winter resort,” he says. “I’d have fantasies that if I had enough money I’d give it a shot and work to make them the perfect places to stay.” De Niro pauses to consider how much input he’s had in the creation of Nobu Hotel. “I designed every room,” he continues, before breaking into a chuckle. “I’m just kidding. My contribution includes not being afraid to say, ‘This is not going to work.’ When people start going, ‘This is going to cost too much,’ I say, ‘It’s worth the cost.’ You have to be ready to fight with the money people to create something and make it the best it can be, whether it’s a hotel or a movie. My motto is, ‘If you don’t go, you never know.’ Sometimes you’ve got to take a chance to move forward; otherwise, you won’t even get a chance to fail.” He’s confident of Nobu’s chances, however. “I don’t gamble,” he says. “I’ve taken other kinds of gambles in my life, but not at a casino.” R e e l D e a l : On F i l m m a k i n g De Niro has taken a lot of risks in his career, and they’ve he portrays—most notably the tortured Jake LaMotta in Raging Bull, the psychopathic Travis Bickle in Taxi Driver and the shrewd young Vito Corleone in The Godfather: Part II. He has been equally committed as a director and producer for “As you get older, you realize what’s important and what’s not,” he muses. “I used to be obsessive and that could be a tremendous drain. Now, I am more relaxed. I think that’s what happens when you get older and more experienced.”

Top: Struan McKenzie, Meir Teper, Gary Selesner, Robert De Niro, Trevor Horwell and David Rockwell at a press conference in New York City. Above: De Niro and Chef Nobu Matsuhisa in Las Vegas with Selesner, Regional President Caesars Palace.

Filmography

The Silver Linings Playbook (2012) • The Wedding (2012) • Freelancers (2012) • Being Flynn (2012) • Red Lights (2012) • New Year’s Eve (2011) • Killer Elite (2011) • Limitless (2011) The Good Shepherd (2006) • Arthur and the Invisibles (2006) (Voice) • Hide and Seek (2005) • The Bridge of San Luis Rey (2004) • Meet the Fockers (2004) • Shark Tale (2004) (Voice) The Adventures of Rocky & Bullwinkle (2000) • Flawless (1999) • Analyze This (1999) • Ronin (1998) • Great Expectations (1998) • Jackie Brown (1997) • Wag the Dog (1997) Mad Dog and Glory (1993) • Night and the City (1992) • Mistress (1992) • Cape Fear (1991) • Backdraft (1991) • Guilty by Suspicion (1991) • Awakenings (1990) • Goodfellas (1990) Falling in Love (1984) • Once Upon a Time in America (1984) • The King of Comedy (1983) • True Confessions (1981) • Raging Bull (1980) • The Deer Hunter (1978) The Gang That Couldn’t Shoot Straight (1971) • Born to Win (1971) • Jennifer on My Mind (1971) • Hi, Mom! (1970) • Bloody Mama (1970) • The Wedding Party (1969) 70

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P h o t o s C o u r t e s y o f ( N o b u p a r t n e r s i n N e w Y o r k C i t y ) L a r r y B u s a cc a / G e t t y I m a g e s / C a e s a r s P a l a c e ; ( D e N i r o i n L a s V e g a s ) E t h a n M i ll e r / G e t t y I m a g e s / C a e s a r s P a l a c e .

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De Niro won an Academy Award® for his portrayal of troubled prizefighter Jake LaMotta in Raging Bull (above), was nominated for an Oscar for his intense role in Taxi Driver (right) and went for laughs in Meet the Fockers (far right).

‘I’d actually like to review all of [my movies]. ...I just want to see where I’ve gone and where I can go off differently as an actor.’

While he loves making movies, De Niro also takes time to celebrate and support them. He was instrumental in creating the Tribeca Film Festival—launched the year after the September 11 attacks on the World Trade Center—to help boost the rebirth of lower Manhattan. Now in its tenth year, the festival has grown into a major event and De Niro is proud of the success. “The tough part for me is seeing all the movies that we want to include,” he says. “It’s a little overwhelming, but I try my best.” De Niro may soon be staging his own personal film festival. “Funny enough, I haven’t spent much time watching my movies unless I catch one by chance on television,” he says. “I’d actually like to review all of them. I’ve been thinking about that a lot lately. I just want to see where I’ve gone and where I can go off differently as an actor. It would be getting sort of a sense of the trajectory of my career.”

Laughing It Up It would be an eclectic festival indeed. After burning up the screen in intense dramatic roles, the actor turned his tough-guy image on its head with comedies like Meet the Fockers and Stardust (playing flamboyant pirate Captain Shakespeare in the latter). “I think what makes it more interesting and exciting is saying to yourself, ‘Let me take a chance. That’s something I haven’t done. Why not give it a try?’” De Niro reveals he’ll soon be going for laughs again in Last Vegas, which will be filmed on the Strip. “It’s going to be like The Hangover but with guys who are older than Bradley Cooper’s buddies,” he says. “Michael Douglas plays a bachelor who’s finally getting married in his retirement years. We’re taking him to Vegas for a little celebration before he walks down the aisle. It’s senior citizens in Sin City.” De Niro shrugs at the thought of retiring himself, after scoring six Academy Award nominations and winning two gold statues. “I suppose I could sit on the porch,” he reflects. “But have you ever sat on a porch in a comfy rocking chair? It’s a nice thing to do for a while but it wears a little thin. It’s not that I’m always looking for a challenge but things come along. I get involved and I want to see them through. And I have fun. I really do.” VP Center: De Niro, as Captain Shakespeare, with Charlie Cox, Claire Danes and director Matthew Vaughn on the set of Stardust. Above: De Niro in Casino.

The Ages of Love (2011) • Little Fockers (2010) • Stone (2010) • Machete (2010) • Everybody’s Fine (2009) • Righteous Kill (2008) • What Just Happened (2008) • Stardust (2007) Godsend (2004) • Analyze That (2002) • City by the Sea (2002) • Showtime (2002) • The Score (2001) • 15 Minutes (2001) • Meet the Parents (2000) • Men of Honor (2000) Cop Land (1997) • Marvin’s Room (1996) • Sleepers (1996) • The Fan (1996) • Heat (1995) • Casino (1995) • Frankenstein (1994) • A Bronx Tale (1993) • This Boy’s Life (1993) We’re No Angels (1989) • Jacknife (1989) • Stanley & Iris (1989) • Midnight Run (1988) • The Untouchables (1987) • Angel Heart (1987) • The Mission (1986) • Brazil (1985) New York, New York (1977) • The Last Tycoon (1976) • 1900 (1976) • Taxi Driver (1976) • The Godfather: Part II (1974) • Mean Streets (1973) • Bang the Drum Slowly (1973) Sam’s Song (1969) • Greetings (1968) P h o t o s C o u r t e s y o f ( R a g i n g B u l l a n d r a g i n g b u l l p o s t e r ) © 1 9 8 0 M G M ; ( T a x i d r i v e r ) © 1 9 7 6 C o l u m b i a / T r i S t a r ; ( S t a r d u st ) © 2 0 0 7 D a v i d J a m e s / P a r a m o u n t P i c t u r e s , A l l R i g h t s R e s e r v e d ; ( m e e t t h e f o c k e rs ) © 2 0 0 4 t r a c y b e n n e t t / U n i v e r s a l S t u d i o s a n d d r e a m w o r k s LL C , A l l r i g h t s r e s e r v e d ; (Casino and casino poster) ©1995 Phillip Caruso/Universal.

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COCKTAIL CULTURE Raise Your Glass

Solving the Mystery of Japan’s Signature Beverage by Adrienne N. Hester

Sake is a mystery to some diners, who still may shy away from ordering the complex Japanese alcoholic beverage. In reality, the rice-based brew is more familiar than they may think: It’s fermented and brewed like beer but has properties similar to wine. Sake’s four simple ingredients consist of water, rice, yeast and koji, a fungus used for fermentation. To obtain the purest form of sake, the rice is polished and refined several times until it becomes crystal clear. Like wine, sake can have many flavor profiles, from floral to fruity

Simply Sake Gary Min Sake Specialist to buttery or robust. And due to its high alcohol content—15 to 18 percent by volume—it’s a beverage made for sipping, preferably chilled, say experts. Uncertainties about sake are falling away, and the beverage’s popularity has grown exponentially in the last several years. Several restaurants in Las Vegas feature sake, and some mixologists are using it to create sophisticated cocktails with limitless possibilities.

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Sake Set Add a dash of Zen to the party with a Nobu sake set. Enjoy Nobu’s own premium sake with this white porcelain set—both in-room amenities at the Nobu Hotel at Caesars Palace. The delicate cups, also available for purchase, can be heated if serving sake warm. Order Nobu’s sake set (cups, $9 each; bottles, $23–$35) matsuhisa-japan.com

Nobu Sake Set

Serious Sippers

S a k e Co c k ta i l s Salary Man & The Violet Fizz

Sushi Roku has created several specialty cocktails containing sake. Beverage manager Gary Min explains: Salary Man uses a light and fragrant sake called Osakaya Chobei, which has fruity characteristics. Min says it blends well with the honey and toffee notes of Dewar’s 12-year-old blended scotch and a mash of simple syrup, raspberries and cilantro. “The Salary Man is a well-balanced cocktail with citrus notes and sweet tones. Sake is present in the cocktail, but it’s not overbearing.” The Violet Fizz contains Rock Sake, a nigori (unfiltered) sake, and Oxley gin mixed with agave nectar, the juice of one whole lemon and muddled blackberries. “The sake possesses a slightly sweeter flavor profile with light hints of melon and coconut, which complement the citrus and herbal spice notes of the Oxley gin.”

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Three to Try Sushi Roku, inside The Forum Shops at Caesars, carries about 30 bottles with several selections available by the glass. For premium-level sake, seek out bottles identified as Junmai, Ginjo and Daiginjo. “We have a diverse and approachable sake list for the connoisseur as well as the novice consumer, from blueberry sparkling sake to Junmai Daiginjo premium sake,” explains Gary Min, the restaurant’s beverage manager. Sushi Roku also makes the process of choosing sake easier by separating its list into four sections, with short flavor profiles and food pairing tips. For novices, Min recommends the sake sampler, featuring three different top-shelf sakes, or choosing sake that is lighter or fruitier on the palate. “Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to taste,” he explains. “The only way for someone to find out what taste profile they fit into is to try a variety of different types.” Beijing Noodle No. 9 at Caesars Palace offers the unique Moutai sake, made in the mountainous region of southwest China. Moutai has a lingering, mild soy-sauce flavor. The restaurant also features a Shao Hsing rice wine aged for 10 years. Meanwhile, KOI, inside Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, offers refreshing sake cocktails, including the Curiously Cucumber saketini made with Rock Sake Junmai Ginjo, muddled cucumber, wasabi and a splash of rock candy syrup. VP

Tune in now to Vegas Player Television for tips on selecting sake that’s right for you.

Sushi Roku’s Sake Menu Variety by the Bottle

P h o t o s o f ( p o u r i n g s a k e , G a ry M i n , s a k e b o t t l e s a n d S u s h i R o k u c o c k ta i l s ) b y M i k e y M c N u l t y. P h o t o s o f s a k e s e t c o u r t e s y o f N o b u H o s p i t a l i t y.

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BEST BETS Inside the Lines

Beyond the Quarterback Planning Your NFL Playbook

In the NFL, quality quarterbacks are a hot commodity, and this off-season proved it once again. Longtime Indianapolis Colt Peyton Manning signed with the Denver Broncos, creating a ripple effect that led to the trade of Tim Tebow to the New York Jets and the draft of Andrew Luck by the Colts at number one overall. The Washington Redskins also drafted a quarterback with their number two pick, selecting talented Robert Griffin III out of Baylor University. “It’s definitely a pass-happy, offensive league,” admits Todd Fuhrman, race and sports analyst for Caesars Entertainment. “But in football, it takes more than one player to get you over the hump. A quarterback may change jerseys, but the left tackle is probably as valuable as any position in football, along with a cover corner.” Fuhrman’s advice: Study the entire roster and look at each team’s schedule, especially if you’re planning to bet football futures.

Future Bets: Go Long The sports books create what they call future bets, setting lines in advance of the season on how many wins each team is expected to have and odds on the team’s chance to win a championship. People can then wager on whether a team’s win total will be over or under the projected number or bet a team to win a conference or championship title. A good rule of thumb when making these wagers, Fuhrman says, is to study a team’s schedule. “You want to find a team that has a great opportunity to make it into the play-offs. Once you get into that twelve-team tournament, everybody’s got a shot to win it.” Forget Last Week Having the memory of an elephant does not help when it comes to game-day wagering. “You’re always going to be left with a lasting impression of what you saw the week before,” explains Fuhrman. “But it’s important to keep in mind that a team is never as good, or as bad, as they just played. Don’t overreact to one week’s results. Try to look at a team for their full body of work.” Schedule Shake-Up This year, the NFL is adding a Thursday night game to the schedule and Fuhrman says, for some teams, having two games in five days could affect play. “It will be a little bit of a challenge. I think you’ll find opportunities to bet against teams that are traveling [during] that short week. Last year, road teams struggled in that role quite a bit.” VP

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HAPPENINGS The Center Strip

News &Notes

Anniversaries, pageants, concerts and more Vegas vignettes

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Jerry Springer guest-hosts The Price Is Right™ Live at Bally’s Las Vegas; Chef Wolfgang Puck toasts Spago’s 20-year anniversary at The Forum Shops at Caesars; rocker Sammy Hagar and Chef Kerry Simon celebrate the second anniversary of KGB: Kerry’s Gourmet Burgers at Harrah’s Las Vegas; country star LeAnn Rimes pampers herself at COLOR—A Salon by Michael Boychuck at Caesars Palace; Neil Patrick Harris at Absinthe at Caesars Palace with The Gazillionaire and Penny.

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P h o t o s C o u r t e s y o f ( J e r r y Sp r i n g e r ) C a e s a r s E n t e r t a i n m e n t C o r p. ; ( W o l f g a n g P u c k ) M i k e y M c N u l t y; ( S a m m y H a g a r a n d K e r r y S i m o n ) C a s h m a n P h o t o ; ( L e ANN R i m e s ) D e n i s e T r u s c e l l o / W i r e I m a g e . c o m / C a e s a r s E n t e r t a i n m e n t C o r p. ; ( N e i l P a t r i c k H a r r i s ) C a s h m a n P h o t o .

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The Flamingo’s “X” Burlesque girls celebrate the show’s 10-year run at PURE Nightclub in Caesars Palace; The Bachelor’s Jake Pavelka guest-hosts at the Chippendales® 10-year anniversary celebration at Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino; Brad Paisley and Rascal Flatts perform at a private concert for Total Rewards members, in the Theatre for the Performing Arts at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino; Alyssa Campanella commemorates her year as the reigning Miss USA, with an induction handprint ceremony at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino; Steve Martorano poses with Miss USA Florida Karina Brez and Miss USA Pennsylvania Sheena Monnin inside Martorano’s at Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino. P h o t o s C o u r t e s y o f ( “ X ” B u r l e s q u e g i r l s ) A l P o w e r s / P o w e r s I m a g e r y LL C ; ( J a k e P a v e l k a ) Sc o t t Ha r r i s o n ; ( B r a d P a i s l e y a n d Ra s ca l F l a t t s ) E t h a n M i l l e r / G e t t y I m a g e s / C a e s a r s E n t e r t a i n m e n t C o r p. ; ( M i s s US A A ly s s a C a m pa n e l l a ) J i m La u r i e / C a e s a r s E n t e r t a i n m e n t C o r p. ; ( M i s s US A c o n t e s t a n t s w i t h S t e v e Ma r t o r a n o ) E r i k Kab i k / RETN A / C a e s a r s E n t e r t a i n m e n t C o r p.

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SCENE & HEARD Culinary Celebration

Food & Wine Festival: Vegas Uncork’d 2012 Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appétit—one of the most prestigious food and wine festivals in the world— is a showcase of the country’s finest culinary talent. The sixth annual celebration was a smashing success, spotlighting more than 60 restaurants and 50 superstar chefs over the course of one incredible weekend.

Opening Ceremony With the chefs all gathered in front of Caesars Palace, Vegas Uncork’d started with a “pop” when Chef Wolfgang Puck sabered a bottle of champagne.

Grand Tasting at Caesars Palace Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis

Caesars Entertainment Chefs at the Grand Tasting Gordon Ramsay Steak

Chef Tim Henderson/ Old Homestead Steakhouse

Chefs Mathieu Chartron/Restaurant Guy Savoy and Gordon Ramsay/Gordon Ramsay Steak

Spago’s 20th Anniversary Luncheon Trailblazer Wolfgang Puck was the first big-name chef to open a restaurant in Las Vegas back in 1992. He celebrated with a VIP luncheon at his hotspot eatery in The Forum Shops at Caesars.

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Chef Wolfgang Puck

Chef Eric Klein, Chef Wolfgang Puck, Pamela Drucker Mann and Adam Rapoport

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Chef Bobby Flay/Mesa Grill

Nobu Caesars Palace Chef Nobu Matsuhisa gave a sneak peek of his new restaurant, Nobu Caesars Palace, during Vegas Uncork’d. The restaurant opens this winter. Chefs Adil Slassi and François Payard/ Payard Pâtisserie & Bistro

Caesars Palace Regional President Gary Selesner and Chef Nobu Matsuhisa

Chef Paul Del Favero/Mesa Grill

Chef Guy Savoy

Beijing Noodle No. 9

A Rare Moment

Chef Michel Richard/ Central Michel Richard

Chefs Gordon Ramsay, Nobu Matsuhisa and Guy Savoy

Frank Pellegrino, Mary Nolan, Frank Pellegrino Jr. and Ron Straci/Rao’s P h o t o s b y m i k e y m c n u lt y

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SCENE & HEARD Sizzling Nightlife

Chuy Bravo

PURE Nightclub @ Caesars Palace

Chris Rene Estelle

Partygoers at PURE Nightclub saw a number of stars at the club and caught live performances from Estelle, Wyclef Jean and The X Factorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Chris Rene.

Laura Prepon Ben Flajnik and Courtney Robertson DEV

Katrina Bowden

Wyclef Jean P h o t o s C o u r t e s y o f A n g e l Ma n a g e m e n t G r o u p : (Chuy Bravo) Brenton Ho/Powers I m a g e r y LL C ; ( C h r i s R e n e ; B e n F l a j n i k a n d C o u r t n e y R o b e r t s o n ; DEV ; Kat r i n a B o w d e n ; La u r a P r e p o n ; E s t e l l e ) E r i k Ka b i k / RETN A ; ( W y c l e f j e a n ) A l P o w e r s / P o w e r s I m a g e r y LL C .

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SCENE & HEARD Movie Moguls

Starcatcher:

CinemaCon

Hollywood’s biggest stars, producers and directors descended on Caesars Palace for CinemaCon 2012, where studio executives highlighted their upcoming slate of films to a gathering of theater owners and industry leaders.

Jeremy Renner

Martin Scorsese and Ang Lee

Tim Burton

Cameron Diaz John Travolta, Salma Hayek and Taylor Kitsch

Johnny Depp Jack Black Michelle Pfeiffer

Sacha Baron Cohen as The Dictator

Chloë Grace Moretz Chris Pine

Chris Rock Eugene Levy and Brooklyn Decker 82

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Sylvester Stallone

James Franco

P h o t o s C o u r t e s y o f © R y a n M i l l e r / C ap t u r e I m a g i n g / C i n e m a C o n

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Stars About Town SCENE & HEARD

Cliff Miller of MJ Christensen Diamonds and Glenn Rothman of Hearts On Fire at the grand opening of Hearts On Fire in The Forum Shops at Caesars

Penn and Teller with CeeLo Green at the filming of an episode of The Voice David Yurman at his boutique in The Forum Shops at Caesars

Rock photographer Mark Weiss at John Varvatos in The Forum Shops at Caesars

Lydia Hearst, Kristen Bell, Sir Phillip Green, Angel Porrino, Miss Nevada Jade Kelsall and Josh Strickland at the Topshop grand opening at Fashion Show

From star-studded grand-opening parties to television and in-store appearances, Vegas Player caught the designers, celebrities, rockers and chefs all across Las Vegas.

Celebrity Snapshots

Donald and Lisa Pliner at Donald J Pliner in The Forum Shops at Caesars

Chef Emeril Lagasse and Sammy Hagar at Cabo Wabo Cantina in Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino

P h o t o s C o u r t e s y o f ( H e a r t s o n F i r e ) T o m a s z P l e s k ac z y n s k i / C a s h m a n P r o f e s s i o n a l S e r v i c e s ; ( P e n n a n d T e l l e r w i t h C e e L o ) C a e s a r s E n t e r t a i n m e n t ; ( Da v i d Y u r m a n ; Ma r k W e i s s ) G l e n n D u c u s i n / C a s h m a n P r o f e s s i o n a l S e r v i c e s ; ( E m e r i l La g a s s e a n d Sa m m y Ha g a r ; T o p s h o p ) J o h n U l m a n i s / C a s h m a n P r o f e s s i o n a l S e r v i c e s ; ( D o n a l d a n d L i s a P l i n e r ) Ma t t h e w Ba i l e y / C a s h m a n P r o f e s s i o n a l S e r v i c e s .

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SCENE & HEARD Celebrity Scenesters

Joey Lawrence at Chateau Nightclub & Gardens

Holly Madison at Chateau Nightclub & Gardens

Kellan Lutz at Sugar Factory American Brasserie

Starcatcher:

A night on the town. Stars, including Kellan Lutz and Carmen Electra, hit the party scene at Paris Las Vegas.

Carmen Electra at Chateau Nightclub & Gardens

Sugar Factory American Brasserie and Chateau Nightclub & Gardens Aimee Teegarden at Sugar Factory American Brasserie

Audrina Patridge at Chateau Nightclub & Gardens

Brittney Palmer at Sugar Factory

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Angela Simmons at Sugar Factory American Brasserie

P h o t o s C o u r t e s y o f W i c k e d C r e a t i v e : ( K e l l a n L u t z ; H o l l y Ma d i s o n ; A n g e l a S i m m o n s ; A i m e e T e e g a r d e n ) D e n i s e T r u s c e l l o / w i r e I m a g e . c o m ; ( J o e y La w r e n c e ; C a r m e n E l e c t r a ; B r i t t n e y P a l m e r ; A u d r i n a P a t r i d g e ) Da v i d B e c k e r / w i r e i m a g e . c o m .

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Michael Pearson, Nick English and Matt Goss

SCENE & HEARD Party Rock

Brooks Ayers, Vicki Gunvalson, Matt Goss, Robin Rosenbaum-Andras, Rod Musum, Nick English and Robin Antin

JCK and Couture Kickoff Party Caesars Palace headliner Matt Goss performed for a group of VIP guests at the JCK and Couture kickoff party, sponsored by Vegas Player and Onboard Media.

Rod Musum, Robin Antin, Anya Fuchs, Tia Carrere and Matt Goss

Tia Carrere, Monica Giambatista and Matt Goss

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Photos Courtesy of Cashman Professional Services

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 5

Tickets on Sale Now

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SHOWBIZ Catch a Wave

SURF’S UP!

Musical to Songs by The Beach Boys Rides the Wave to Planet Hollywood Just as The Beach Boys celebrate their 50th anniversary with a world tour this summer, their songs are featured in an original musical staged exclusively at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Set in a 1960s Southern California beach community, Surf the Musical is “a story of two lovers finding their way back to each other,” explains director Kristin Hanggi. “All relationships change over time, and it’s the universal story of when you’re trying to bring the love back.” Fresh off her Broadway directorial debut, Rock of Ages, Hanggi—who grew up in Southern California listening to The Beach Boys—says Surf the Musical is a modern take on “fun and flirty” films like Beach Blanket Bingo. But the songs themselves were the real inspiration. “I went to the music and the lyrics, and dissected them and found the story that was already in the songs,” Hanggi says. Choreographer RJ Durell, who has worked with Katy Perry and Madonna, also took notice of the beach-party musicals in setting the dance numbers to songs such as “California Girls,” “I Get Around” and “Wouldn’t It Be Nice.” “This was a chance to bring new life and new energy to these amazing classic songs,” Durell says. “Nobody has ever taken the opportunity to make dance such a prominent part of The Beach Boys music. I hope people see this show and leave with those moving images in their head.” VP Surf the Musical performs nightly (except Thursdays) at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Showtimes are 7 p.m. (except Saturdays, at 5:30 p.m.), with additional performances on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 9:30 p.m.

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Surf the Musical celebrates the songs of The Beach Boys, who are No. 12 on Rolling Stone magazine’s list of the “100 Greatest Artists of All Time.”

P h o t o s C o u r t e s y o f R o b e r t S e k e t a ; L o o s e P u pp y P h o t o / M e d i a

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Jewelry: Brocade Collection large heart pendant ($8,750), large square pendant on a long double cable chain ($7,990) and square ring ($1,990), all set in 18-karat yellow gold with bezel-set diamonds; Hearts On Fire/ The Forum Shops at Caesars. Clothing: Phoenix Feather silk jacquard coat ($765) and threequarter-sleeve cotton cashmere sweater with embroidery details ($750); Shanghai Tang/The Forum Shops at Caesars. Beauty products: Aqua Cream eye shadow in Pastel Blue ($23), Rouge Artist Natural lip color in N3 ($19); Make Up For Ever/Sephora, The Forum Shops at Caesars and Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.

A n e x p lo r e r â&#x20AC;&#x2122; s g u i d e to t h e S t r i p

AROUND TOWN Photo by Robert John Kley

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AROUND TOWN An Explorer’s Guide to the Strip

RESTAURANTS American All-American Bar & Grille Enjoy “Rio Dry Aged” Angus steaks, plus salads, sandwiches and seafood in a contemporary atmosphere with fireplaces, waterfalls and a sports bar with plasma TVs. Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, (702) 777-7767. BETTY’S DINER Casual cyber café offers fee-based Internet access to go along with its value-priced specialty coffees, baked goods, sandwiches and soups. Also serves ice cream, shakes, malts and sundaes. Imperial Palace, (702) 731-3311. BURGER PALACE This fast-food find is home to the half-pound burger and other comfortfood delights. Imperial Palace, (702) 731-3311. CAFÉ AT HARRAH’S This casual café serves American comfort food during the day and features Italian Nights, offering pizza, pasta and other Italian favorites each evening. Harrah’s Las Vegas, (702) 369-5000.

Central Michel Richard James Beard award-winning Chef Michel Richard brings his popular Washington, D.C., restaurant to Las Vegas with a 24-hour café featuring American favorites with a French accent. The menu includes all his signature dishes, including short ribs, fried chicken and razor clam chowder. Caesars Palace, (702) 862-3530. DICK’S LAST RESORT Sassy servers run this rowdy restaurant and pub, which prides itself as being “The Shame O’ The Strip.” Excalibur Hotel Casino, (702) 597-7991. EARL OF SANDWICH Sink your teeth into “The World’s Greatest Hot Sandwich” at this upscale deli, started by descendants of the man who first put meat between two slices of bread in 1762. Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, (702) 785-5555.

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HASH HOUSE A GO GO Famous for its creative

Central Michel Richard at Caesars Palace

“twisted farm food” menu offerings and jumbo portions, this restaurant serves filling meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Imperial Palace, (702) 254-4646.

Ice Pan Ice-cream lovers can finally enjoy a healthy, all-natural ice cream with no chemicals, preservatives, or artificial flavors or colors. Everything is made from scratch right in front of the customer, putting a healthy spin on the classic dessert. Harrah’s Las Vegas, (702) 736-6684. KGB: KERRY’S GOURMET BURGERS Celebrated Chef Kerry Simon offers the ultimate in burger selections including his Iron Chef-winning sliders. The restaurant boasts an upbeat nightlife scene and an atmosphere designed as a James Bond-inspired send-up of Soviet-era Russia. Harrah’s Las Vegas, (702) 369-5065.

LE BURGER BRASSERIE A French interpretation of an American classic: a lively meatand-potatoes Sports Grille featuring gourmet burgers, from classic beef to chicken, salmon, lamb and veggie creations. Paris Las Vegas, (702) 946-4346. LE CAFE ÎLE ST. LOUIS Whether it’s a latenight snack or an early-morning grab you’re after, this 24-hour café is a convenient destination for specialty coffee drinks. Paris Las Vegas, (702) 946-4364.

Mesa Grill at Caesars Palace

MARGARITAVILLE Jimmy Buffett’s multilevel Caribbean-themed entertainment venue has two patios overlooking the Strip, a nautical-themed restaurant, five bars, live entertainment nightly and a retail store. Flamingo Las Vegas, (702) 733-3302. MESA GRILL Bold and innovative flavors of the Southwest can be found in all of Chef Bobby Flay’s dishes such as the New Mexican spicerubbed pork tenderloin with bourbon-ancho chili sauce. Caesars Palace, (702) 862-3530. MUNCHBAR This quick-bite eatery near the Caesars Palace Race & Sports Book serves jumbo-size burgers and unique eats such as tiny grilled-cheese sandwiches served with a tomato dipping sauce. Caesars Palace, (702) 731-7544.

A l l i m a g e s c o u r t e s y o f Ca e s a r s E n t e r t a i n m e n t C o r p o r a t i o n u n l e s s o t h e r w i s e n o t e d

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RESTAURANTS American NOSH This quick-bite eatery serves breakfast sandwiches and pastries as well as Nathan’s Famous hot dogs, salads and desserts. Bally’s Las Vegas, (702) 739-4111. PINK’S HOT DOGS For 70 years, these gourmet franks—many named after their celebrity creators—have been sating the appetites of stars at the City of Angels hot spot. Now, dozens of the legendary hot-dog combinations are available here. Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, (702) 405-4711.

STRIPBURGER An outdoor restaurant and bar serving 100-percent all-natural beef burgers, hand-cut fries and creamy milk shakes. Fashion Show, (702) 737-8747. SUGAR FACTORY AMERICAN BRASSERIE This restaurant, retail store and Chocolate Lounge is the sweetest spot on the Strip, serving up delicious cuisine 24 hours a day. Guests can devour delectable menu items, shop for scrumptious sweets and indulge in decadent chocolates from around the world. Paris Las Vegas, (702) 331-5100.

Texas-size portions and barbecue favorites served in a down-home atmosphere, where the walls are decorated with the country crooner’s memorabilia. Enjoy live music nightly. Harrah’s Las Vegas, (702) 693-6111.

PLANET DAILIES This 24-hour coffee shop

TROPICAL BREEZE CAFÉ Casual café that

and café offers eclectic cuisine. The unique and lengthy menu includes dishes inspired by destinations around the world, including Kobe beef sliders and Hawaiian rib eye, and also offers smoothies and a wine selection. Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, (702) 732-1222.

serves American fare for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Flamingo Las Vegas, (702) 733-3111.

SERENDIPITY 3 A New York favorite, Serendipity 3 has brought all its gooey goodness to the Strip. Enjoy savory and sweet items such as Rowen’s foot-long hot dogs and the famous Frrrozen Hot Chocolate, a blend of 20 different types of chocolate. Caesars Palace, (702) 731-7373. SIDEWALK CAFÉ A traditional café serving American favorites for breakfast and lunch. Bally’s Las Vegas, (702) 967-4111. SIN CITY BREWING COMPANY Sip an icecold craft beer at this hot spot overlooking the Flamingo’s Wildlife Habitat. Flamingo Las Vegas, (702) 733-3111.

P.J. Clarke’s Las Vegas at The Forum Shops at Caesars

want to miss any of the action don’t have to. Menu options range from bratwursts to burgers, from wood-fired pizza to homemade sandwiches. Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, (702) 777-7777.

P.J. Clarke’s Las Vegas A saloon with attitude. Deftly skilled shuckers ply their trade with the freshest clams and oysters at a marble-topped raw bar while family and friends dine on fine American cuisine including succulent seafood, jumbo-size steaks and big burgers. The Forum Shops at Caesars, (702) 434-7900.

SÃO PAULO CAFÉ This great breakfast and lunch spot offers classic breakfast items such as French toast, buttermilk pancakes and eggs Benedict. Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, (702) 777-7777.

SPORTS DELI Race and sports fans who don’t

TOBY KEITH’S I LOVE THIS BAR & GRILL

P h o t o C o u r t e s y o f P. J . C l a r k e ’ s La s v e g a s

Spago at The Forum Shops at Caesars

THE VICTORIAN CAFÉ Round-the-clock diner features a variety of breakfast, lunch and dinner specialties, including Chinese cuisine, prime-rib and graveyard specials. Bill’s Gamblin’ Hall & Saloon, (702) 737-2100. THE WINE CELLAR & TASTING ROOM Sin City’s most famous wine bar and retail shop offers more than 100 wines by the glass and showcases about 10,000 bottles, many of them highly collectible. Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, (702) 777-7962.

Whopper® Bar The first location on the West Coast, it offers guests the opportunity to build their own burger, with a choice of more than 30 different toppings, and the option to enjoy it with an ice-cold beer. Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, (702) 777-7777. WOLFGANG PUCK FINE DINING GROUP In Las Vegas, the group owns and operates Spago, Trattoria del Lupo, Postrio, CUT, Wolfgang Puck Pizzeria & Cucina, and Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill. Spago/The Forum Shops at Caesars, (702) 369-6300. wolfgangpuck.com

P h o t o C o u r t e s y o f WOLFG A NG PUC K FINE DINING GROUP

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P h o t o C o u r t e s y o f SUSHI RO K U

RESTAURANTS Asian BEIJING NOODLE NO. 9 Giant fish tanks mark the entrance of this casual noodle house. The menu is full of mouthwatering soups, dim-sum and noodle dishes. Caesars Palace, (702) 862-3530. Empress Court Dine on authentic Cantonese seafood delicacies such as abalone, Golden Santa Barbara spotted prawns or wok-fried black-pepper Dungeness crab. Caesars Palace, (702) 862-3530.

GINSENG 3 Food from the Far East is served at this 24-hour restaurant that specializes in Korean, Japanese and Chinese dishes. Imperial Palace, (702) 567-8282. HAMADA OF JAPAN Japanese teppanyakistyle tableside cooking, fresh sushi and an exotic Japanese menu make this restaurant a Vegas favorite. Flamingo Las Vegas, (702) 733-3455.

Ichiban Sushi Indulge in the wide assortment of sushi offered or order an authentic Japanese dish such as tempura or soba noodles. Bally’s Las Vegas, (702) 891-8626. KJ Dim Sum & Seafood Traditional Chinese cuisine with an extensive seafood menu containing shrimp, lobster and crab, KJ also offers diners a dim-sum experience that allows guests to select dishes from tableside carts. Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, (702) 777-7777. KOI LAS VEGAS A sensation from coast to coast, this celeb fave keeps its Vegas, L.A. and N.Y.C. locations in sync: Asian decor, cool Hollywood vibe and tantalizing Japaneseinspired menu. Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, (702) 454-4555.

MING’S TABLE This Asian restaurant offers a menu stocked with noodle dishes and Chinese and American-Chinese favorites. Harrah’s Las Vegas, (702) 369-5000.

Nobu Caesars Palace Tantalizing Japanese cuisine awaits. Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s whimsical restaurant, a 12,775-square-foot space designed by David Rockwell, offers the freshest fish dishes, a sushi bar and teppanyaki tables. Caesars Palace. Opening Winter 2012. P.F. CHANG’S Modern Chinese bistro has an extensive menu packed with family-style dishes. Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, (702) 836-0955. SEA: The Thai Experience Enjoy exotic Thai fusion cuisine in a sleek modern design that includes a serene pond centered in the restaurant. Specialty dishes include grilled lemongrass chicken, Tamarind whole fish and pineapple curry duck. Bally’s Las Vegas, (702) 967-3888. SUSHI ROKU Innovative Japanese cuisine. Highlights on the new 2.0 menu include salmon sashimi carpaccio with black truffles shaved tableside, Kobe meatballs in lettuce cups, and Albacore tacos. The Forum Shops at Caesars, (702) 733-7373.

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AROUND TOWN An Explorer’s Guide to the Strip Carnival World Buffet at Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino

RESTAURANTS Buffet CARNIVAL WORLD BUFFET Seven live stations, including a teppanyaki grill, serve more than 300 dishes prepared fresh daily, from pizza to omelettes to 70 varieties of homemade pies. Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, (702) 777-7757. EMPEROR’S BUFFET The affordable buffet has a breakfast bar with a live omelette cooking station and serves American and international cuisine. Imperial Palace, (702) 731-3311. FLAVORS, THE BUFFET From Brazilian barbecue to Italian casseroles to fire-roasted rotisserie chicken and fresh seafood, Flavors offers selections spanning the globe. Harrah’s Las Vegas, (702) 369-5000.

LE VILLAGE BUFFET This buffet features liveaction cooking stations themed after seven French provinces. Paris Las Vegas, (702) 946-4930. PARADISE GARDEN BUFFET This buffet offers prime rib, carved fresh turkey, steamed mussels and littleneck clams with saffron cream sauce, and much more. Flamingo Las Vegas, (702) 733-3111. SPICE MARKET BUFFET This sensory smorgasbord has tastes from around the globe. In addition to ethnic entrées, the usual suspects—salads, carving stations and desserts—have made this one of the best buffets in Vegas. Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, (702) 785-9005.

Grand Feast

STERLING BRUNCH A Sunday brunch like no other. Champagne, sturgeon caviar, beef tenderloin and lobster top the menu. Bally’s Las Vegas, (702) 967-7999. TODAI RESTAURANT Sushi and seafood buffet offers a wide selection of signature dishes including a seaweed salad, poached salmon, snow-crab legs and shrimp. Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, (702) 892-0021. THE VILLAGE SEAFOOD BUFFET Serves all-you-can-eat favorites of lobster, snowcrab legs, shrimp, oysters and sushi, as well as beef and chicken dishes. Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, (702) 777-7943.

This is one all-you-can-eat smorgasbord that’s worthy of the name.

The Buffet of Buffets is a 24-hour ticket to dine at six different participating buffets.

Participating Buffets Carnival World Buffet at Rio

Starting at $44.99 for Total Rewards members, it lets you eat your way around Las Vegas with unlimited in-and-out access to the buffets of your choice until your 24-hour window expires.

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So if you can’t decide between the misoglazed duck at Paradise Garden, the Brazilian barbecue at Flavors or the Alaskan king crab at Spice Market, why try to choose? Have it all!

Emperor’s Buffet at Imperial Palace Flavors, The Buffet at Harrah’s Le Village Buffet at Paris Las Vegas Paradise Garden Buffet at Flamingo Spice Market Buffet at Planet Hollywood Village Seafood Buffet at Rio (additional $15)

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Restaurant Guy Savoy at Caesars Palace

RESTAURANTS French CAFÉ BELLE MADELEINE From morning ’til night, this pâtisserie fulfills your cravings for something sweet. Start with a croissant, Danish or turnover, or try an éclair, tiramisu or peach tart. Salads, fresh fruit and non-fat frozen yogurt also are available. Paris Las Vegas, (702) 946-7000. CHATEAU BEER GARDEN Located on the Strip-side terrace at Chateau Nightclub & Gardens, Beer Garden accommodates both thirsts and appetites. Open daily at 10 a.m., the restaurant and bar offer a selection of 20 draft beers, with specialty cocktails and a French café menu serving an array of pizzas, salads, sandwiches and burgers. Paris Las Vegas, (702) 776-7770. EIFFEL TOWER RESTAURANT Dine on the classic French cuisine of world-renowned Chef Jean Joho at this romantic spot more than 100 feet above the Las Vegas Strip in the replica tower. Paris Las Vegas, (702) 948-6937. JJ’S BOULANGERIE Start the day with a croissant and a cup of coffee, or visit for a light lunch. This bakery produces perfect pastries, pizza, sandwiches, soups and salads. Paris Las Vegas, (702) 946-7000.

LA CRÊPERIE Reminiscent of the sidewalk cafés in Paris, this walk-up bistro serves a variety of crêpes, perfect for a light breakfast, lunch or dinner snack. Paris Las Vegas, (702) 946-7000.

PAYARD PÂTISSERIE & BISTRO Pastry shop and bistro from award-winning French Chef François Payard. It offers guests three distinct experiences, including a chocolate shop, pastry shop with made-to-order crêpes and sandwiches, and an intimate full-service dining room offering breakfast, lunch and dinner. Caesars Palace, (702) 862-3530. RESTAURANT GUY SAVOY Gourmet dining from French Master Chef Guy Savoy. His signature menu includes dishes like the silky artichoke and black truffle soup, and the decadent Colors of Caviar. The new Innovation and Inspiration menu showcases Savoy’s latest creations. Caesars Palace, (702) 862-3530.

I ta l i a n IL MULINO NEW YORK Owned by brothers Gino and Fernando Masci, the restaurant focuses on the hearty, rustic cuisine of the Abruzzo region—where the brothers were raised—and is known for its veal and shellfish. The Forum Shops at Caesars, (702) 492-6000. MARTORANO’S Diverse menu includes homemade Italian-American favorites such as the eggplant stack, fresh mozzarella and Steve Martorano’s world-famous meatballs. The restaurant offers a unique atmosphere that combines exceptional food with film and extraordinary music. Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, (702) 862-3530.

Mon Ami Gabi at Paris Las Vegas

PIZZA PALACE Restaurant serving a wide variety of value-priced pizza, pasta and other traditional Italian dishes. Imperial Palace, (702) 731-3311.

LE PROVENÇAL The walls are covered with murals of the French countryside, and the wait staff dresses in French peasant garb and performs songs as diners dig into the FrenchItalian cuisine. Paris Las Vegas, (702) 946-7000.

RAO’S Legendary East Harlem restaurant with 116 years of history brings its home-style Italian food and its famous lemon chicken to Las Vegas. Caesars Palace, (702) 862-3530.

MON AMI GABI Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner inside Paris Las Vegas, the restaurant serves classic bistro cuisine, including crêpes, quiches, French onion soup and its signature steak frites. Its hip, trendy scene comes with an amazing patio for dining alfresco. Paris Las Vegas, (702) 944-4224.

TREVI Gelato Master Hank Sbraccia’s Spaghetti Ice is a “pasta bowl” with vanilla gelato strands acting as the spaghetti, chocolate gelato scoops as the meatballs, strawberry sauce as the marinara and shaved white chocolate as the parmesan. The Forum Shops at Caesars, (702) 735-4663. P h o t o C o u r t e s y o f M o n A m i Ga b i

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RESTAURANTS

El Segundo Sol at Fashion Show

Mexican

Cabo Wabo Cantina Offering a blend of live music, coastal Mexican fare and premium tequila, Sammy Hagar’s Cabo Wabo Cantina serves up an all-day and all-night party in a 15,000-square-foot restaurant with Strip-side patio seating. Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, (702) 385-2226. Carlos’n Charlie’s Unwind with a margarita or some sangría at this laid-back Mexican restaurant with an outdoor patio overlooking the Flamingo pool and gardens. The menu offers a variety of authentic Mexican meals. Flamingo Las Vegas, (702) 862-3530. EL SEGUNDO SOL The menu at the Stripside Mexican taquería and margarita bar consists of signature tastes including a variety of tacos and guacamole made tableside. Try some specialty tequila, homemade sangría or margaritas. Fashion Show, (720) 737-8747.

Photo Courtesy of El Segundo Sol

Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab at The Forum Shops at Caesars

QUESADILLA Mexican comfort food consisting of south-of-the-border favorites such as tacos, burritos and enchiladas are served here, along with thirst-quenching margaritas, mojitos and sangría. Imperial Palace, (702) 731-3311. TEQUILA BAR & GRILL This Mexican cantina serves a variety of tequilas, margaritas and specialty drinks, along with a full menu featuring items including traditional Mexican fare and American favorites. Bally’s Las Vegas, (702) 967-4111. YOLÖS MEXICAN GRILL Get the fiesta started. Spicing up this eatery are more than 60 tequilas, a fresh-fruit margarita bar and guacamole prepared right on the spot. Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, (702) 785-5555.

Seafood BÚZIOS SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Gaze out over the Rio’s VooDoo Beach and sparkling swimming pools while dining on the freshest seafood. Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, (702) 862-3530. JOE’S SEAFOOD, PRIME STEAK & STONE CRAB The Joe’s tradition began in 1921 in Miami Beach. Crack some claws or dive into other fresh seafood dishes, such as the jumbo crab cakes and oysters Rockefeller. The Forum Shops at Caesars, (702) 792-9222.

OYSTER BAR Enjoy seafood favorites such as oysters, shrimp, lobster, crab, calamari or squid salad. Harrah’s Las Vegas, (702) 369-5000. P h o t o C o u r t e s y o f J o e ’ s S e a f o o d , P r i m e S t e ak & S t o n e C r a b

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Old Homestead Steakhouse at Caesars Palace

P h o t o C o u r t e s y o f O l d H o m e s t e a d S t e ak h o u s e

RESTAURANTS Steakhouse BALLY’S STEAKHOUSE Generous portions of favorites like slow-roasted, aged prime rib, bone-in sirloin steak and Chilean sea bass are served in the atmosphere of a classic steakhouse. Bally’s Las Vegas, (702) 862-3530. Center Cut Steakhouse Succulent steaks, Kobe burgers and rack of lamb rule the menu at this classic steakhouse. Plasma screens showcase photo montages of the city from the 1940s to today, creating a vintage Vegas vibe. Flamingo Las Vegas, (702) 784-8821. EMBERS Intimate steakhouse serves affordable, succulent steaks and chops, while offering tableside salad and dessert preparation. Imperial Palace, (702) 794-3311. Gordon Ramsay Steak Acclaimed Chef Gordon Ramsay, of Hell’s Kitchen, MasterChef and Kitchen Nightmares fame, serves seafood, mouthwatering cuts of beef and French-influenced side dishes at his bold and innovative 274-seat steakhouse. Paris Las Vegas, (702) 677-3200.

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Morton’s The Steakhouse Morton’s features an extensive wine collection, primeaged beef, seafood and signature dishes such as the braised beef short rib and jumbo sea scallop “surf and turf.” 400 East Flamingo Road, (702) 893-0703. Old Homestead Steakhouse One of New York City’s most historic restaurants comes to the Strip, serving many of its classic signatures such as colossal crab cake and 32-ounce Gotham rib-eye steak. There is also a wine program that boasts over 15,000 bottles. Caesars Palace, (702) 862-3530. Pampas Churrascaria Get skewered. This Brazilian steakhouse specializes in roasted meats—everything from sirloin to pork to chicken, cooked rotisserie-style, and delivered on skewers, then carved tableside. Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, (702) 737-4748.

STEAKHOUSE AT BILL’S Recipient of the AAA Three Diamond rating, this restaurant is a hidden gem offering intimate dining in a vintage Vegas setting of dark woods and deep reds. Bill’s specializes in tableside preparations and classic steaks, seafood and chops. Bill’s Gamblin’ Hall & Saloon, (702) 737-2100. STRIP HOUSE This steakhouse serves up savory fare in a sensuous David Rockwelldesigned environment. Order charred prime cuts of beef to accompany signature sides such as black-truffle creamed spinach and goose-fat potatoes. Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, (702) 737-5200. VOODOO STEAK You’ll be spellbound by the view from the 50th floor at this intimate steak house. Menu features Tomahawk rib-eye and fresh seafood selections with a FrenchCreole flair. Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, (702) 862-3530.

THE RANGE STEAKHOUSE In an intimate dining room overlooking views of the Las Vegas Strip, dine on succulent steaks, prime-rib, seafood and poultry entrées. Harrah’s Las Vegas, (702) 862-3530.

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Now That’s Entertainment!

Maverick Helicopters

How many shows and experiences can you pack into 48 hours? With the Caesars Entertainment All Stage Pass ($99 for Total Rewards members), it’s up to you. This ticket of all tickets offers access to more than 20 shows and experiences, from Absinthe and Chippendales to Mac King and Matt Goss. After purchasing an All Stage Pass, simply visit the box office at the resort where the show is playing and present your pass for one ticket.

Bally’s Las Vegas: Donn Arden’s Jubilee! Caesars Palace: Absinthe

Matt Goss Flamingo Las Vegas: Nathan Burton

Vinnie Favorito “X” Burlesque Harrah’s Las Vegas: Mac King

The Improv Legends in Concert Defending the Caveman Imperial Palace: Frank Marino’s Divas Las Vegas

Human Nature The Auto Collections Paris Las Vegas: Anthony Cools

The Eiffel Tower Experience Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino: Chippendales

Platters, Coasters & Marvelettes Comedy in the King’s Room “Show in the Sky” Float The Rat Pack Is Back

Photo Courtesy of maverick helicopters

Entertainment At t r a c t i o n s

G o l f Co u r s e s

Co m e dy

THE AUTO COLLECTIONS Get a peek at the more than 250 antique and historic automobiles at the world’s largest and finest classiccar showroom. Imperial Palace. Tickets: (702) 794-3174.

CASCATA Designed by renowned golf-course architect Rees Jones, Cascata is celebrated as one of the finest designs in the world and offers the ultimate in quality and service. One Cascata Drive, Boulder City, NV 89005. (702) 294-2005. golfcascata.com

ANTHONY COOLS In this adults-only show, comedic hypnotist Anthony Cools taps into the subconscious naughtiness of audience volunteers with hilarious results. Paris Las Vegas. Tickets: (877) 374-7469.

EIFFEL TOWER EXPERIENCE Take romance to new heights. The Eiffel Tower is a half-scale reproduction of the Paris landmark. The observation deck—460 feet above the Strip—has a breathtaking, panoramic view. Paris Las Vegas. Tickets: (702) 946-4350. MAVERICK HELICOPTER TOURS Ascend to the skies with the only VIP-level helicopter company in Las Vegas. First-class excursions above the Strip, Grand Canyon, Colorado River and more are enhanced by the narration of experienced pilots. Indulge in the plush interior of the ECO-Star helicopter’s larger cabin and stadium-style seating for better visibility. Tickets: (702) 261-0007 or (888) 261-4414.

RIO SECCO GOLF CLUB Located in the foothills of the Black Mountains, and home of the Butch Harmon School of Golf, this challenging Rees Jones-designed course features holes running through steep canyons with others on plateaus overlooking the city. Address: 2851 Grand Hills Dr., Henderson, NV 89052. Phone: (702) 777-2400. riosecco.net

Cascata Golf Course

GEORGE WALLACE Funnyman George Wallace started his comedy career as a writer for The Redd Foxx Show. Now he has audiences rolling in the aisles in The Flamingo Showroom with a stand-up routine that is different night after night. Flamingo Las Vegas. Tickets: (702) 733-3333. JERRY SEINFELD Best-selling author, standup legend and sitcom superstar Jerry Seinfeld brings his take on life to The Colosseum’s stage. Caesars Palace. Tickets: (800) 745-3000. The Improv Comedy Club Comics have been making audiences laugh at this Improv location since 1995. Harrah’s Las Vegas. Tickets: (702) 369-5223.

WILDLIFE HABITAT AT THE FLAMINGO Poolside paradise is home to Chilean flamingos, swans, ducks, koi and turtles. Flamingo Las Vegas, (702) 733-3111.

VINNIE FAVORITO Wise-guy Vinnie Favorito is famous for his off-the-cuff comments and unscripted humor. The comedian, who is known for “roasting” celebrities, will work the room to find his next hit. Flamingo Las Vegas. Tickets: (702) 733-3333.

Additionally, All Stage Pass holders receive preferred pricing of just $40 (plus tax) per ticket for premium shows including Donny & Marie and Penn & Teller. Tickets may not always be available to all shows.

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OVER 70 DELICIOUS DINING DESTINATIONS INCLUDING WOLFGANG PUCK’S POSTRIO BAR + GRILL MAGGIANO’S LITTLE ITALY THE CAPITAL GRILLE FIRST FOOD + BAR TAO ASIAN BISTRO & NIGHTCLUB TINTORETTO BAKERY CUT BY WOLFGANG PUCK PUBLIC HOUSE + GASTROPUB GRIMALDI’S PIZZERIA GRAND LUX CAFÉ EMERIL LAGASSE’S TABLE 10 SUSHISAMBA & SUGARCANE LOUNGE EMERIL LAGASSE’S DELMONICO STEAKHOUSE

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AROUND TOWN An Explorer’s Guide to the Strip Céline Dion at Caesars Palace

Rod Stewart at Caesars Palace

Elton John at Caesars Palace

Entertainment Headliners CÉLINE DION The singer’s show at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace features a full orchestra and band and is set to a visually stunning presentation designed exclusively for the 4,300-seat venue. Caesars Palace. Tickets: (877) 423-5463.

matt goss Backed by a nine-piece band, the British crooner— who has sold 17 million albums worldwide—is a throwback to old Vegas, singing original songs and popular covers such as Frank Sinatra’s “Luck Be a Lady.” Caesars Palace. Tickets: (800) 745-3000. Taylor Hicks “Soul Patrol” singer and American Idol winner Taylor Hicks brings his style of R&B, country and blues to the Bally’s stage. The Indigo at Bally’s Las Vegas. Tickets: (702) 777-7776.

Elton John World-renowned singer and songwriter, Elton John performs his well-known hits in his show, The Million Dollar Piano. Caesars Palace. Tickets: (800) 745-3000.

Magic

Rod Stewart Ready to rock? Rod Stewart certainly is. In Rod Stewart: The Hits, he performs the rock and R&B favorites that have defined his career, including “Maggie May,”“You Wear It Well” and “Some Guys Have All the Luck.” Caesars Palace. Tickets: (800) 745-3000.

Jeff Civillico Join world-champion juggler Jeff Civillico for an afternoon of fun. His all-ages comedy show blends physical humor, stunts and juggling with friendly audience banter. Imperial Palace. Tickets: (702) 794-3261.

Shania Twain International superstar and the world’s best-

Everyone loves the mad plaid magician. Mac King’s act combines quirky humor, visual gags and sleight-of-hand tricks. Harrah’s Las Vegas. Tickets: (702) 369-5111.

Shania Twain at Caesars Palace Matt Goss at Caesars Palace

The Mac King Comedy Magic Show selling female country artist of all time, Shania Twain starts her two-year residency at Caesars Palace with her new show, Shania: Still the One on December 1. Caesars Palace. Tickets: (800) 745-3000.

CEELO GREEN IS LOBERACE Get inside the mind of Grammy® Award-winning artist CeeLo Green as he guides you on a musical journey. Part dance party, part live concert, it’s an outrageous show in which CeeLo sings his original songs and covers some of his favorites. Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Tickets: (800) 745-3000. DONNY & MARIE The singing siblings perform a 90-minute show at Flamingo Las Vegas, where their greatest hits—“a little bit country and a little bit rock ‘n‘ roll”—unfold as a multimedia spectacle on a custom-designed stage. Flamingo Las Vegas. Tickets: (702) 733-3333.

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Photo Courtesy of cashman professional services

Michael Turco’s Magic & Mayhem Illusionist Michael Turco from NBC’s America’s Got Talent and choreographer Lacey Schwimmer of ABC’s Dancing with the Stars have created an all-ages afternoon show full of awe-inspiring illusions and high-energy dance numbers. Saxe Theater in Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Tickets: (866) 932-1818. NATHAN BURTON COMEDY MAGIC Nathan Burton, who shot to fame on America’s Got Talent and The Entertainer, combines comedy and magic in his hilarious, fast-paced afternoon show. Flamingo Las Vegas. Tickets: (702) 733-3333.

PENN & TELLER The “Bad Boys of Magic” put on an edgy act mixing comedy and magic that involves knives, guns, fire and more. Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino. Tickets: (702) 777-7776. Penn & Teller at Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino

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Chateau Nightclub at Paris Las Vegas

P h o t o C o u r t e s y o f W i c k e d C r e at i v e

Entertainment Nightlife CARNAVAL COURT This party spot is home of the world’s top flair bartenders and live daily entertainment. Open until 4 a.m. Harrah’s Las Vegas, (702) 693-6143. Chateau Nightclub & Gardens Stimulating club goers with three separate nightlife experiences: a high-energy nightclub, magnificent Strip-side Chateau Terrace and blossoming Chateau Gardens. The only nightclub located directly on the Strip. Paris Las Vegas, (702) 776-7777. chateaunightclublv.com

CLEOPATRA’S BARGE Originally opened in 1970, Cleopatra’s Barge was recently renovated and has a vintage Vegas feel. The venue transforms into The Gossy Room every Friday and Saturday night with entertainment by Matt Goss. Caesars Palace, (702) 791-7110. COYOTE UGLY Wild watering hole and saloon where female bartenders entertain by dancing on the bar tops. New York-New York Hotel & Casino, (702) 740-6336.

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CROWN THEATER AND NIGHTCLUB Hip nightspot featuring live concerts and events, including a nightly 7 p.m. performance by The Platters, Cornell Gunter’s Coasters & The Marvelettes. Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, (888) 727-6966. thecrownlasvegas.com

DEALERTAINERS The Dealertainers Pit puts impersonators of celebrities such as Alice Cooper, Britney Spears, Dolly Parton, Ricky Martin and Elvis on the casino floor to deal blackjack and perform daily from 11 a.m. to 4 a.m. Imperial Palace, (702) 731-3311. DRAI’S After-hours nightclub for those who don’t want the party to end. Open Thursday through Sunday at 1 a.m. Bill’s Gamblin’ Hall & Saloon, (702) 737-0555.

EXTRA LOUNGE At the Sin City headquarters of entertainment news program Extra, kick back with a cocktail and tons of eye candy as the TV show’s correspondents and crew get up-close and personal with Tinseltown’s hotshots. Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, (702) 785-5555.

FLIRT LOUNGE Flirt is a haven where women gather after seeing the Chippendales show, one of the steamiest male revues in Vegas. Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, (702) 777-7777. Gallery Nightclub A bit on the voyeuristic side, Gallery’s provocative design includes original photography hanging in oversized frames on the wall, while state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems pump up the crowd. Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, (702) 818-3700. HEART BAR The pulse of Planet Hollywood beats throughout the resort’s phenomenal three-acre casino. At the core is Heart, where thirst is quenched around the clock. Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, (702) 785-5555. I-BAR Ultralounge in the heart of the resort features interactive tabletops, DJs and gogo dancers. Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, (702) 777-7777. INDIGO LOUNGE Enjoy live music nightly in the elegant lounge just off the casino floor. Bally’s Las Vegas, (702) 967-4111.

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AROUND TOWN An Explorer’s Guide to the Strip PURE Nightclub at Caesars Palace

P h o t o C o u r t e s y o f A n g e l Ma n a g e m e n t G r o u p

Entertainment LAX Nightclub Catering to celebrities and the social jet set, LAX is a two-story nightclub. The upper level serves VIPs who scan the scene from luxury lofts above the dance floor. Luxor Las Vegas, (702) 262-4529. LE CABARET Charming lounge offers entertainment seven nights a week. Sip cocktails under trees strung with twinkling lights and enjoy the sounds of DJ Sally on weekdays and a variety of different bands on weekends. Paris Las Vegas, (702) 946-7000. NAPOLEON’S DUELING PIANO BAR Let the duel begin. Pianists square off nightly to play your requests. Full-service bar and a menu of carefully selected champagnes available. Paris Las Vegas, (702) 946-7000. The Piano Bar at Harrah’s Big Elvis performs as the King of Rock ’n’ Roll, singing Elvis Presley’s greatest hits. Daily from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Dark Wednesdays. Harrah’s Las Vegas.

PURE NIGHTCLUB Elevate yourself. Take the glass elevator or dramatic, twisting staircase to the enchanting 14,000-square-foot terrace that offers a party under the stars. Caesars Palace, (702) 731-7873. Pussycat Dolls Burlesque Saloon Unleash your inner Doll in the sultry 4,500-square-foot playground where lingerieclad bartenders pour the drinks and corsetwearing Dolls perform burlesque numbers. Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, (702) 818-3700.

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Pussycat Dolls Burlesque Saloon at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino

SEAHORSE LOUNGE Laid-back lounge features a 1,700-gallon aquarium as its focal point. Caesars Palace, (702) 731-7110. SHADOW BAR Flair bartenders spin bottles and whip up trendy cocktails as performers dance behind backlit screens. Caesars Palace, (702) 731-7110. Voodoo Rooftop Nightclub Flair bar-

THE PLAYING FIELD LOUNGE Planet Hollywood’s very own double-header. Its daytime Race and Sports Book transforms into a nocturnal lounge. The bar has more than 30 plasma-screen televisions and features live karaoke and DJs Fridays and Saturdays. Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, (702) 785-5555.

VooDoo Rooftop Nightclub at Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino

P h o t o C o u r t e s y o f W i c k e d C r e at i v e

tenders mix up wild concoctions such as the Witch Doctor. Sip a signature cocktail inside on the 51st floor or on the outdoor deck where you can take in the breathtaking view of the Las Vegas Strip. Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, (702) 777-7800.

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Absinthe at Caesars Palace

Entertainment Production Shows Absinthe Prepare to be wowed. This vaudeville show, hosted by the hilarious Gazillionaire, has sexy burlesque numbers, comedy bits that will have you gasping for breath, and astonishing acts of skill and strength that amaze. Caesars Palace. Tickets: (800) 745-3000. CHIPPENDALES Experience “The Ultimate Girls Night Out®” when you visit the fast-paced Chippendales® revue, which features 12 chiseled males performing provocative yet tasteful dance routines. Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino. Tickets: (702) 777-7776.

DONN ARDEN’S JUBILEE! Entertaining Las Vegas for more than 30 years, Donn Arden’s lavish stage production with its eye-catching, toe-tapping musical numbers and costumed showgirls continues to delight audiences. Bally’s Las Vegas. Tickets: (702) 967-4567. FRANK MARINO’S DIVAS LAS VEGAS You won’t believe your eyes—these gals really are guys. This 75-minute energetic show stars Frank Marino and his ever-changing comedic monologue and features a cast of superstar female impersonators. Imperial Palace. Tickets: (888) 777-7664.

Show in the Sky at Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino HUMAN NATURE Celebrate Motown with Human Nature. The Australian quartet has four multi-platinum albums back home and has toured with Céline Dion and Michael Jackson. Imperial Palace. Tickets: (888) 777-7664. Jersey Boys Tony Award®-winning musical tells the story of the rise to fame of boy-collar boys Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. Featuring hits such as “Sherry,”“Big Girls Don’t Cry” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” the high-energy show leaves fans wanting more. Paris Las Vegas. Tickets: (702) 777-7776. LEGENDS IN CONCERT Superstars of yesterday and today—including Elvis Presley, Madonna and Dolly Parton—are impersonated in this long-running celebrity tribute show. Harrah’s Las Vegas. Tickets: (702) 369-5111. PEEPSHOW Holly Madison headlines this sexy striptease-and-storytelling adult production featuring Broadway veteran Josh Strickland and an ensemble of sizzling PEEPSHOW girls dancers. Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Tickets: (702) 785-5555. THE PRICE IS RIGHT LIVE™ Come on down! America’s favorite television game show hits the Vegas stage with the same games— Plinko, Cliffhangers and Punch a Bunch— as contestants play for cash and prizes and battle in the Showcase Showdown. Bally’s Las Vegas. Tickets: (702) 967-4567.

SHOW IN THE SKY The best free show in Vegas, it’s Mardi Gras three nights a week in the Rio’s Masquerade Village. Beads fall from floats and singers perform sexy dance routines to today’s hottest hits. Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, (702) 777-7777.

Vegas! the Show The best of Las Vegas all in one show. From The Rat Pack to Elvis, it’s the story of the most dynamic entertainers to ever set foot on the Strip. Saxe Theater, Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Tickets: (702) 260-7200.

Surf The Musical Catch the wave. The sights and sounds of the Beach Boys come to life as fans are transported back to 1960s Southern California through the band’s memorable hits, including “California Girls,”“Help Me, Rhonda” and “I Get Around.” Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Tickets: (800) 745-3000.

“X” Burlesque An adult revue that combines

Tony N’ Tina’s Wedding This top dinner show is the second-longest-running production in off-Broadway history. An interactive satire of an Italian-American wedding has audiences in the middle of the action, attending the ceremony and wild reception. Bally’s Las Vegas. Tickets: (702) 777-7776.

imaginative choreography with outrageous props such as bungees, bathtubs and beds to excite the crowd and leave them eagerly wondering what’s next. Flamingo Las Vegas. Tickets: (702) 733-3111.

Frank Marino’s Divas Las Vegas at Imperial Palace

V The Ultimate Variety Show There is something for everyone, from aerial acrobats who soar out over the crowd to routines so difficult no other performers have been able to duplicate them. V Theater, Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Tickets: (702) 260-7200.

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STARRING

AND A CAST OF CELEBRITY FEMALE IMPERSONATORS

Tickets 702.794.3261 FrankMarinosDivas.com

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Featuring SONGS of

The Beach BOyS From the director of Rock of Ages and a dream team of Broadway’s top talent, Surf the Musical brings to life a story of love and fun in the California sun. This high-energy musical will take you on a nostalgic trip back to the magical ‘60s as told through the classic Songs of the Beach Boys.

1-800-745-3000 SurftheMusical.com • facebook.com/SurftheMusical

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a Fury

For Flavor Award-winning chef and fiery TV personality Gordon Ramsay has created a master ful menu in an upscale steakhouse exclusively at Paris.

NoW oPEN

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AROUND TOWN An Explorer’s Guide to the Strip

V I P S tatus

Sp e n d m o r e t i m e i n t h e c l u b , n o t i n t h e l i n e .

All Night Pa s s

Bypass the velvet ropes and party from sundown to sunup. The Caesars Entertainment exclusive All Night Pass—priced at $44.99 for Total Rewards members—provides one night of unlimited access to some of the Strip’s hottest clubs. The pass gives you the freedom to club hop while skipping the general admission line. This gives you more time to, say, sip a cocktail at Carnaval Court, catch a sexy show in the Pussycat Dolls Burlesque Saloon, grab a nightcap at PURE and wrap it up by gazing at the city’s lights from VooDoo’s rooftop. All in a single evening.

Participating Nightclubs

The All Night Pass is valid for unlimited entry to all of the following nightclubs, for one night during each venue’s regular business hours.

Carnaval Court (Harrah’s Las Vegas)

PURE Nightclub (Caesars Palace)

Chateau Nightclub & Gardens (Paris Las Vegas)

Pussycat Dolls Burlesque Saloon (Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino)

Gallery Nightclub (Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino)

VooDoo Rooftop Nightclub (Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino)

The Original Surf and Turf rOdiziO Our famOuS $5.95 STeak and egg BreakfaST full a la CarTe lunCh and dinner menuS BanQueT and PriVaTe rOOmS aVailaBle

The menu at Pampas Brazilian Grille is as diverse as the Brazilian culture. Skewers laden with a seemingly endless array of roasted meats arrive at your table and are carved to order.

Breakfast | 8:00 aM to 11:00 aM Lunch | 11:30 aM to 4:00 PM Dinner | 4:00 PM to 10:30 PM

702.737.4748 | www.PamPaSuSa.COm Steak & Seafood

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3663 Las Vegas Blvd. South, #610, Las Vegas, NV 89109 Located off of Harmon Ave. inside the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino

Voted “one of the Best steakhouses, Las Vegas” in united, Delta and american airlines Magazines 2008 Zagat Guide “Best of Las Vegas” 2009 Michelin travel Guide

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TICKETS STARTING FROM $65* *Price does not include taxes or fees. Subject to availability.

702-777-7776 â&#x20AC;˘ JerseyBoysVegas.com Original Cast Recording On

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COLOR, a Salon by Michael Boychuck at Caesars Palace

SPAS AND SALONS Planet Hollywood Spa by Mandara

Qua Baths & Spa at Caesars Palace

The Spa at Harrah’s

SPA AT BALLY’S

Hours: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., daily Appointments: (702) 369-5126

Hours: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., daily Appointments: (702) 967-4366

IM P ERI A L PA L A CE

Ca e s a r s PA L A CE

THE SPA AT IMPERIAL PALACE

COLOR, a Salon by Michael Boychuck at Caesars Palace

Hours: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., daily Appointments: (702) 794-3242

Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday through Thursday; 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday. Appointments: (866) 730-7791

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H A RR A H ’ S L A S V E G A S

B A LLY ’ S

PA RIS Paris Spa By Mandara Hours: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., daily Appointments: (702) 946-4366

P L A NET HOLLYWOOD

QUA BATHS & SPA

PLANET HOLLYWOOD SPA BY MANDARA

Hours: 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., daily Appointments: (866) 782-0655

Hours: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., daily Appointments: (702) 785-5772

FL A MIN G O

RIO

The Spa at Flamingo

RIO SPA & SALON

Hours: 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., daily Appointments: (702) 733-3535

Hours: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., daily Appointments: (702) 777-7779

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Sexy, topleSS revue. ShowS Nightly FeaturiNg the comedy oF NaNcy ryaN For ticketS, viSit the FlamiNgo Box oFFice or call 702.733.3333 xburlesque.com • FlamiNgo.com

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BUSINESS HOURS Lunch: 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. (Daily) Dinner: 5:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. (Sun-Th) 5:30 p.m. - 10 p.m. (Fri, Sat, Holidays) in MIRACLE MILE SHOPS at PLANET HOLLYWOOD RESORT & CASINO 3663 Las Vegas Blvd. South, #580 Las Vegas, NV 89109 Tel: (702) 892-0021 www.todai.com 126

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.COM OR CALL 1-800-745-3000

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WILD CARD A Culinary Classic Celebrates 20 Years Twenty years ago, Las Vegas was known as a dollar-shrimp-cocktail, all-you-can-eat-buffet kind of town. It wasn’t until star chef Wolfgang Puck rolled the dice and opened an outpost of his popular Spago restaurant in The Forum Shops at Caesars that the food revolution in Vegas began. And even he had his initial doubts. “I said, ‘This was the biggest mistake I ever made in my life,’” Puck recalls, thinking of the restaurant’s slow start following its opening in December 1992. Then his luck changed and business boomed. As Puck puts it, “All of a sudden, Spago was the place.” It still is. Executive Chef Eric Klein has been running the Spago kitchen since 2007. He says consistency has been the key to the restaurant’s longevity. “We’re doing something people like. It’s about the personal touch,” Klein says, after greeting a few lunchtime regulars. “What we do, we do with passion. People come back because they know what to expect. We all like to be treated like a movie star, and that’s how we treat people here.” VP

Spago’s special sauce? Consistency. “A happy belly is a happy mind,” says Executive Chef Eric Klein.

Spago Introduced Fine Dining to Las Vegas. Now, 20 Years Later, the Legendary Restaurant Continues To Impress

Simply Irresistible photograph by Robert John Kley

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