August 28, 2008
Re-Viva Las Vegas
The Wynn, Vegas' newest Mega hotel, had a price tag of 2.7 billion dollars.
While the original Rat Pack may have ruled Vegas in the 50s and 60s, a new "Brat Pack" of young celebs descended on Sin City more recently. Of course, the old glory days when Frankie and Dean ruled the Vegas strip can still be found – provided you know where to look. So if your taste runs more towards classy celebs like George Clooney rather than those young scenesters grabbing all the headlines, make sure to stop by these elite venues during your next trip.
Rao's: Fashioned after the 110-year old East Harlem restaurant in New York, Rao's, opening in Ceasar's Palace on December 11, 2006, is the talk of the town. Known the world over for its authentic Neopolitan Italian cuisine and casual, speakeasy vibe, the 10-table restaurant has been attracting a celeb clientele like Billy Crystal, Danny Aiello and Woody Allen for years. Yet with such an illustrious group of guests always on standby, it's almost impossible to get a seat at the New York location. That's where Rao's Las Vegas comes in. Not only will the food and vibe attract all the same A-listers, the larger restaurant space means you won't have to wait a year to score a reservation.
Playboy Club: No one personifies the playful sexiness of Vegas better than the original playboy, Hugh Hefner. Since Playboy Clubs used to be all the rage in the 60s and 70s, it was only a matter of time until Hefner reopened a club in Vegas. Located at the top of The Palms new Fantasy Tower, the club features updated elements with oversized plasma TVs, artwork selected by Hefner himself, personal glass elevators and Playboy Bunnies clad in Robert Cavalli dresses. With stars like Tony Curtis, Robin Leach and David Blaine spotted at the opening, you can be sure to find some major Hollywood heavyweights cavorting here day and night.
Wynn Las Vegas: When it comes to selecting from the myriad of hotel options in Vegas, discerning celebs like Robert Downey Jr., Mel Brooks and even Oprah know to check in to the new Wynn Las Vegas. It's not at all uncommon to roll out of bed and find yourself sharing an elevator down to breakfast with someone famous. Newlyweds Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes were caught feeding each other at the new SW Steakhouse, and high-roller Jet Li has been spotted trying his luck at the tables. Of course, even if you don't see anyone famous, the Wynn's many luxe offerings such as the lavish spa and the exclusive Shadow Creek golf course (where Bill Clinton and Michael Jordan play) are sure to make you feel like a true VIP.
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