I’m not one for boisterous bars, so my favorite places to imbibe (with one exception) are the lounge areas of restaurants. If you’re looking to dance or hook up, this isn’t the list for you ;).
Picasso (Bellagio). In addition to being one of the best restaurants in town, Picasso boasts one of the nicest places to have a drink. The bar itself only seats six, but there’s also a small adjoining seating area. The room is lovely and adorned with works by the artist. Note: Picasso doesn’t serve food at its bar, so if you’re peckish it’s not the place to perch. Bonus: Picasso has a private patio right on the lake.
CUT Bar (Palazzo). In addition to the 8 or 10 seats seats at the bar, CUT – the Las Vegas iteration of Wolfgang Puck’s Beverly Hills steakhouse – offers plentiful seating in its lounge. The bartenders are extremely knowledgable about bourbon and whiskey, of which the bar has an extensive selection. They’re equally facile with classic cocktails, and can also make custom concoctions for you. In addition to the “rough cuts” menu of bar snacks, the full menu is available at the bar.
Sky Bar (Walorf-Astoria, in City Center). This place is the exception, and it’s pretty heavenly. No walk-in traffic (most people don’t realize the Waldorf-Estoria exists, let alone know where it is or how to get there). Its floor-to-ceiling glass walls provide an astonishing view up and down the Strip. Tasteful drinks (and some nibbles) served in a refined environment. Best of all: you can actually reserve seats via OpenTable with no minimum or “bottle service” requirement.
Sage (Aria). A generous range of bourbons and whiskeys, with enthusiastic and knowledgable barmen. Express even a modicum of interest in the selection and they’ll likely put three or four of them down in front of you to taste before you decide. Or you could select from a thoughtful wine by the glass list.
Picasso (Bellagio). Since Chef Julian Serrano is in the kitchen full-time, this is one of only five AAA 5-Diamond restaurant in Las Vegas (the others are Guy Savoy, Joel Robuchon, Twist, and Le Cirque). What you’ll get is impeccable French food, wine and service in a gorgeous room. It’s our go-to special occasion place. Note: tasting menus only; they start at $125 per person. Call ahead if you want a vegetarian tasting menu; they’re happy to oblige with advance notice, and it’s sublime.
Charlie Palmer Steak (Four Seasons). Tucked away in a downstairs corner of the Four Seasons (another place most people don’t know exists – it’s part of the Mandalay Bay complex, with its own separate lobby and entrance) is this glorious steakhouse. No views to boast of; in fact, it has no windows whatsoever. What it DOES have is insanely good steak and seafood. Pro tip: ask for the Cut Of the Week menu. Three courses for $58, includes bottomless house wine, available every night. Cheers!
Spago (Bellagio). Wolfgang Puck’s flagship restaurant moved to brand new digs overlooking the Bellagio fountains in May 2018. Expect the usual high-quality service, food (including the famed smoked salmon pizza), and drink. It’s a big room, but reservations are recommended.
Waldorf-Astoria Tea Lounge. Serving a classic English tea service daily from 11:45am – 4:15pm. Relaxed, refined, beautiful to both the eyes and palate. Advanced reservations recommended.
Wynn Buffet. Not your grandparents’ buffet. Fifteen cooking stations, over 100 dishes, and a gelato carousel. Worth the wait (or wrangling a line pass), this one is our favorite in town.
