The Ultimate Las Vegas Guide
“What happens here, only happens here,” is officially the new slogan of Las Vegas — the still dazzling, go-big-or-go-home, neon-lit locale known for its legendary gambling casinos, luxe hotels with epic pool parties, splashy entertainment headliners, world-class shopping, raucous nightlife, and naturally, top-tier cocktails and restaurants. Below, we’re sharing our favorite Sin City bars, nightclubs, eateries and hotels – including a jaunt off the Strip, and naturally, a few spots to sip Komos. Because this is one hot desert spot that shows no signs of cooling off.
WHERE TO EAT
Spago patio at sunset
Set in front of the Bellagio Fountains, an outpost of chef Wolfgang Puck’s Cali-institution Spago, is known for its vibey brunch scene, all-star al fresco lineup (think seafood towers, steak frites) and stellar views of the famed water show.
Enchiladas at Javiar
For lunch, slip into Javier's Cantina, an elevated Mexican cantina inside the Aria – we suggest pairing your Steak Picado with Komos Extra Anejo on the rocks (trust us on this one). Meanwhile, Chica at the Venetian features chef Lorena Garcia (the first Latina on the Strip) South and Central American-influenced dishes. For Asian fusion fare and creative cocktails, Fuhu at Resort World, is a buzzy spot with DJ booths and ample terrace seating.
Delilah, inside the Wynn
Inspired by the showrooms of the ‘50s – Delilah, a glam supper club inside the Wynn Las Vegas, serves chef Joshua Smith’s beef wellington (sliced tableside) and beloved chicken tenders (also found at the eatery’s LA location). We suggest treating yourself to Komos bottle service and settling in for live music, rotating DJs and Sunday Night Jazz.
COCKTAIL BARS, NIGHTLIFE AND BEYOND
Inside the Encore, XS Nightclub, an opulent, gold-accented dance club also serves up a poolside patio with bottle service and some big name in-residence DJs (the Chainsmokers, Alesso and Skrillex to name a few). Or - jaunt over to Resort World where Zouk’s bi-level dance floor awaits, a dazzling venue with a high-octane sound system, high-end cocktails and epic DJ sessions.
Hakkasan at MGM
Meanwhile, the Tao Group’s swanky, always-crowded, always-thirsty Hakkasan, situated in the MGM Grand never disappoints, and just in time for the 2024 Chinese New Year (of the Dragon) with its speciality menu of Cantonese-inspired fare, dim sum and cocktails.
Ghost Donkey at the Cosmpolitan
Just one of the Cosmopolitan Hotel’s many speakeasies, the pink-hued Ghost Donkey (it’s small, so we advise arriving early) doubles as a tequila and mezcal bar with a wicked margarita program. Komos flights are best enjoyed in between bites of truffle nachos with cheddar sauce and chives.
The Barbershop – also located inside the Cosmopolitan – serves as a grooming venue for haircuts and straight razor shaves (helmed by legit barbers). And just beyond the janitor door – sneak into a prohibition parlor filled with plush couches, seven-days-a-week live music and a monster whiskey and craft beer program.
A DAY OFF THE STRIP
Beyond the glitzy confines of the Strip, consider venturing to downtown’s Art District (about a 10-minute drive). Nab a patio seat at Makers & Finders – a choice breakfast or lunch spot for cafe con leche and empanadas. Nearby, the converted Arts Factory warehouse is filled with boutiques and galleries with local artists.
Beautiful plating at Partage
Spread over a 2-mile stretch of West Spring Mountain Road, head to Partage in Chinatown, where you’ll discover chef Yuri Szarzewski (who worked in several Michelin-starred French spots) contemporary twists on French classics – seared foie gras with pineapple carpaccio – in a handsome, wood-paneled room. Afterwards, head to LA-based Korean dessert spot Sul & Beans for bingsoo – aka flavored shaved ice sundaes– and with fresh mango and injeolmi (roasted soybean) toppings.
WHERE TO STAY
Pool at the Aria
Set in a sleek glass building, The Aria Resort & Casino, is a contemporary hotel with an equally impressive modern art collection (download the guide here). Rooms are decked in dark woods, chrome finishes and floor-to-ceiling windows with great views. The Sky Suites – accessed by their own elevator – have a private lounge for afternoon wine and snacks. Lounge at one of three pools – with a refreshing Komos cocktail in hand. Of course, people-watching is free.
Pool at the Venetian
The completely-frescoed, vaulted-ceiling of The Venetian Resort recalls Venice’s beloved Ponte di Rialto Bridge and Campanile – without the plane ticket. Renovated suites are done up in cream-colored walls with jewel-toned accents. Slip outside in a private cabana by the pool and order something cold. Or hit the casino for a game of blackjack. At night, slip into soft, pillow-top custom mattresses before you wake up and start all over again.