Vegas Question

I was planning on being in Vegas for the month of March but my plans have changed and will be going around Feb 17 and returning March 1st or 2nd.

I have signed up for the M-life card but was wondering if I should talk to a host before booking. I will be averaging 3-5 hours of blackjack per day with my minimum wager $50-$100 and I would say about 1/3 of the hands I play $200-$500. I don't play slots, but could play some video poker. I will probrably sit for hodem games every other day for a few hours. I will bet some ponys probrably averaging $200-$450 per race and will be betting sports for $500-$2500 per wager. I would love to catch a couple of shows and dine at some very nice restaurants for dinner. Buffets or smaller cafe's are fine for breakfast and lunch. I guess that leaves me a little time to sleep.

Anyone have any idea if and if so what kind of comps this should get me? Should I contact a host prior to going? What couple of shows or experiences are a must? What dining choices are a must? Are there certain sportsbooks that are just much better than the others for atmosphere? I am thinging MGM Grand for the stay because of the choice of well known chefs restaurants.

Not interested in hookers, married 22 years a happily as I think it can be. Not interested in drugs, but if the time and opportunity presents itself having a few drinks works just fine.

Any info or guidance would be greatly appreciated. Also if there are some covers members that would be interested in hooking up to do some gambling or dining that would be cool.

Thanks in advance.

Hi Gopher.....Let me start to answer some of your questions...feel free to question back...

First: The combination of table play, poker, and race/sports betting is best at The Bellagio....still the best hotel/resort/spa on the Strip...imho.

This is the best place for poker, you will have the same lines as MGM Grand, and the restaurants are, once again..imho....the best under one roof...

There is no comping for sports; but they do comp for horse bets....obviously also for table games. As for that, once they see your level and length of play on the tables, they will approach you. They are very aggressive about their Mlife program (you now receive credits for dining, shows, other expenses..and not just gambling)...and credits are transferable at any MGM Resorts hotel/casino.

Based upon your level of play as a reflection of your standards and tastes.....The Bellagio would be my absolute choice. I am happy to give you my firsthand thoughts on the restaurants/shows based upon what interests you and your wife.

PS...as to your other question....future bets are easily redeemed by mail....2-3 weeks after receipt, you'll get a check. The writers will provide you with an envelope to mail back your tickets.

LVG

Thanks as a;ways. I am going to research the Bellagio and make my reservations by Wed.

Do you think it is better to book the rooms directly or get a package for air and hotel via an on-line travel site?

And actually I will be coming alone this trip.

Can't help you on the "package issue"....based upon your play, you should be able to get your room comped, not too educated on how that affects a travel package.

As to restaurants.....give me an idea as to what kind of foods are your favorites and I (and others here)....nc1 will send you to Vic's for the chops ......will be happy to help.

Surf & Turf  great steak with a lobster

Italian

Sushi

Anything interesting but not too disgusting

All in this order.

Sorry, let's put seafood in the 2nd spot.

Clams on the half shell, baked clams, shrimp cooked anyway, sea scallops, king crab, dungennes crab, crab cakes, lobster stuffed or grilled, mussels, and most fish.

Seafood in the middle of the desert can be a difficult item.....the best and freshest can be of little value, meaning too expensive for what you are getting.....that includes, especially, great sushi.

I would suggest Joe's Stone Crab at Caesars.....not as good as Joe's in Florida; but very solid and not too overpriced...

Steak?  Prime at The Bellagio is the best in Vegas...Reason?....at most steakhouses, you eat. At Prime, you dine. Relaxing, tables far apart, great wine list, sides, service, etc. Have the bone-in ribeye, a couple of sides, a great bottle and enjoy looking at the fountains out front.

Italian?....The best Osso Buco in the U.S. is at Ferraro's...now located on Paradise off of Flamingo (3 minute cab ride).....The Pasta Carbonera is to kill for....the wine list is a book....some of these wines you will see no where else in Vegas.

Buffet?   The Bellagio is still a 3-star buffet...use your race bets for a comp (and ask for a line pass also...to avoid the crowds)....

The #1 restaurant in Vegas is Picasso at The Bellagio. Have the tasting menu accompanied by wine for each course. Julian Serrano has created a masterpiece for a tasting menu....and stop to enjoy alll the artwork from the master as you walk in.

Value and fun?....Mon Ami Gabi across the Strip at The Paris. Facing the fountains....a great bistro. Superb country pate and crusty french bread, hangar steak with pomme frites, and exceptional wine by the glass....

More to come...........

OK...I have been sitting here with a glass...all right 2 glasses...of wine and giving thought to your desire for sushi.

Once again, based upon your level of play, maturity ( a guess here) and a need for absolute excellence.....please look at Shaboo and BarMasa at Aria....BarMasa is superb, Shaboo brings you to another realm altogether....they are the Japanese equivalent to what Picasso can offer.....

Many years ago, I would come to this town to eat....I can gamble anywhere.....and would set aside large sums of money for the experience of multi-faceted dining. It has only gotten better in this town.

VG

you are the best

Quote Originally Posted by nc1capper:

agreed

+1