Dine Drink Vegas

The Drink of the Day is the Trinidad Sour, which is John's way of telling Bill to get lost. Nickel and dime fees are almost as much BS as are Las Vegas tourism statistics, and we learn never to lie about winning a lot of money when you are in hock to your bookie. Come travel with us! #cocktails #lasvegas #dinedrinkvegas #dinedrinktravel

The Drink of the Day is the Golden Hour, and Bill doesn't hate it. John does hate that his Golden Knights just lost in the NHL Finals, and we discuss Downtown out-earning the Strip. How much trouble will Bill get into in Biloxi? Come travel with us! #lasvegas #cocktails #dinedrinkvegas #dinedrinktravel

The Drink of the Day is the Corpse Reviver #2, and in Las Vegas news there is an emerging Battle of the Billionaires on the Strip. It is OK, though, because in our Vegas WTF segment the police described a suspect as "belligerent and uncooperative." Come travel with us! #cocktails #lasvegas #dinedrinktravel #dinedrinkvegas

The Drink of the Day is 90 proof bourbon in honor of Episode 90, and John and Bill have found an AYCE tacos deal that needs to happen. The main story is the coming merger between Golden Nugget and Caesar's, and our Vegas WTF segment is truly beyond the pale. Come travel with us! #cocktails #lasvegas #dinedrinkvegas @dinedrinktravel

The Drink of the Day is Terrible College Cocktails. John and Bill talk about what they drank in college in Texas back in the day, and special guest star Edwin says what they are drink at University College Dublin in Ireland today. There is bad news for buffet lovers, and the Vegas WTF segment seems uniquely Las Vegas. Come travel with us! #cocktails #lasvegas #dinedrinkvegas #dinedrinktravel

In Episode 88, we take a deep dive into tipping culture in Las Vegas. How much should you tip where? The Drink of the Day is tequila, and Bill and John have an amount best described as "all of it." We even have a Vegas WTF two-fer. Come travel with us! #lasvegas #cocktails #dinedrinkvegas #dinedrinktravel

The Drink of the Day is The Evening Edition, which somehow makes Bill like John even less. There is a new dive burger joint which both of us somehow want to dry, and the Hard Rock Las Vegas is making progress. Come travel with us! #cocktails #lasvegas #dinedrinkvegas #dinedrinktravel

The Drink of the Day is 3 different takes on the mojito, and Bill may have had... several. Spirit Airlines magically found a way to provide even less service, there is a bidding war for Caesar's, and Fernando Mendoza will be directly under center with the Raiders. Come travel with us! #lasvegas #cocktails #dinedrinktravel #dinedrinkvegas

The Drink of the Day is a lemon drop, more sports teams in Las Vegas, and Formula 1 shows how environmentally sensitive they are. Should you tip when you win a jackpot? Turns out John is a nicer person than Bill. Come travel with us! #lasvegas #cocktails #dinedrinkvegas #dinedrinktravel

The Drink of the Day is Old Fashioneds without whiskey, and John and Bill take different approaches. In our main story, some Las Vegas all inclusive deals are better than others. Come travel with us! #lasvegas #cocktails #dinedrinkvegas #dinedrinktravel

Thanks to our amazing listener @ChaplainObvious, the Drink of the Day is Picon Punch. John punches Bill in the gut with restaurant news, and Heidi Fleiss gets a whole different kind of noise complaint. Come travel with us! #cocktails #lasvegas #dinedrinkvegas #dinedrinktravel

The Drink of the Day is a Gin Gimlet, and the Las Vegas Raiders signed Kirk Cousins. Ray Wiley Hubbard is coming to town, and in Episode 83 we will feature a drink suggested by a top listener. As always, we have all of the Las Vegas news. Come travel with us! #lasvegas #cocktails #dinedrinkvegas #dinedrinktravel

The Drink of the Day is Old Fitzgerald 7 year old bottled in bond, which Bill very much needs after playing golf sober. We have all of the sports news in Las Vegas, and the next big concert is Weezer for the Geezers. The main story is the great comps at TI. Come travel with us! #cocktails #lasvegas #podcast #dinedrinkvegas #dinedrinktravel

The Drink of the Day is the Gin of the Month from Costigan's in Cork, Ireland. More people are into a Luke Combs concert than major boxing matches, and our Vegas WTF segment features a house of ill repute which we promise we don't know personally. Come travel with us! #lasvegas #cocktails #dinedrinkvegas #dinedrinktravel

The Drink of the Day is Teeling Single Malt, and Bill gets "That's a good dad" vibes when he goes drinking with his sons in Ireland. John may or may not be allowed back in AmeriCAN bar after they move, and 35 seems like a lot of times to be arrested. Come travel with us! #cocktails #lasvegas #dinedrinkvegas #dinedrinktravel

Episode 78 feature John going solo, because Bill is drinking in Ireland. The Drink of the Day is a Laphroig Old Fashioned, where John uses an inappropriately large amount of bitters. Things are heating up between Caesar’s and Tilman Fertitta, and John fails to appreciate Shipley’s Donuts. He does, however, use the first “that’s what she said” joke in show history. Come travel with us! #lasvegas #cocktails #dinedrinkvegas #dinedrinktravel

For the Drink of the Day, Bill uses AI to make Scotch almost acceptable, and John says what he is tasting is all in his head. There is big news out of @plazalasvegas, we share the scoops from Scott @vitalvegas and everyone else, and donuts are what makes Floyd Mayweather decide he needs to quit spending money for an evening. Come travel with us! #lasvegas #cocktails #podcast #dinedrinkvegas #dinedrinktravel

The Drink of the Day is The Red Grasshopper. Bobby Flay apparently doesn't have enough restaurants in Las Vegas, and for our main story we talk about Southwest and their legion of flights into Vegas. Come travel with us! #lasvegas #cocktails #dinedrinkvegas

The Drink of the Day is the Bees Knees. In Vegas news, Caesar's says there is no news in the tourism slump, and the As are trying to assemble a better baseball team. Vegas WTF news is truly WTF. Come travel with us! #cocktails #lasvegas #dinedrinkvegas #dinedrinktravel

The Drink of the Day is the Rum Fire Planter's Punch, where John makes Bill reconsider his life choices. We have all of the #lasvegas news while asking the question: Would you chug wine with the guys? Come travel with us! #podcast #cocktails #dinedrinkvegas

The Drink of the Day is the Little Italy, and we have MAJOR Baller on a Budget news from the Plaza. Bally's has disappointing news about their collaboration with the A's, the Raiders might finally have a coach, and much more. Come travel with us! #podcast #lasvegas #cocktails #dinedrinkvegas

The Drink of the Day is the Amaroni. In #lasvegas news, there is a great deal for visitors from #Canada, the Raiders have some decisions to make, and the relationship between Bally's and the A's is complicated. Bonus content at the end- John goes drinking with Bill in #Alabama. Come travel with us! #dinedrinkvegas #cocktails

In Episode 71, the Drink of the Day is the Gin and Tonic- and we try to figure out how to make the horrible swill they serve you on the casino floor taste good. We dream about attending the CFP National Championship in Vegas next year, and as always we bring you the latest news. Come travel with us! #cocktails #lasvegas #dinedrinkvegas #dinedrinktravel

In Episode 70, the Drink of the Day is a blind tasting where Bill sends John Irish whiskey in some tasteful containers. We use Bill's comp offers to talk about where low stakes gamblers get the best rewards, and as always we have all of the latest Las Vegas news. Come travel with us! #lasvegas #cocktails #dinedrinkvegas

The Drink of the Day is the Rat Pack Manhattan, and the Baller on a Budget rolls in luxury at Cosmo. In Vegas news, the Raiders fired yet another head coach. Come travel with us! #cocktails #lasvegas #dinedrinktravel #dinedrinkvegas

In Episode 68, Bill takes a swing at making eggnog... and he misses. We talk about our best and worst Las Vegas experiences of 2025. Come travel with us! #cocktails #lasvegas #dinedrinkvegas

In Episode 67, the Drink of the Day is the Cosmo to celebrate John's trip next week. We think the baseball stadium in Las Vegas is getting built, and Vegas WTF news is, as always, WTF. Come travel with us! #lasvegas #cocktails #dinedrinkvegas

We talk about all the best restaurants in Las Vegas and where you should go. The drink of the day features rye and apple brandy, and in Vegas WTF news... you should probably have a reservation for dinner. Come travel with us! #lasvegas #cocktails #dinedrinkvegas #dinedrinktravel

A service charge, a tip, and a gratuity on the same check seems a little much. The drink of the day is a delicious cranberry orange martini. Christmas dinner is apparently a thing in Las Vegas, and John makes Bill cry because the Aggies lost. Come travel with us! #lasvegas #cocktails #podcast

In Episode 64, we discover that horse herpes is a thing. Bill *still* doesn't have any faith in his Aggies. The drink of the day is the Jack Rose, and yes, yes this podcast is about Las Vegas. Come travel with us! #cocktails #lasvegas #podcast

Can you get kicked out for losing? We are starting to suspect Resorts World isn't very good at stuff. The Drink of the Day means Leaving Manhattan Behind, and as always we bring you all the Las Vegas news. Come travel with us! #cocktails #lasvegas #podcast

John makes Bill do a blind whiskey tasting, and Bill mostly knows what he is talking about. There are some great deal in Vegas, some terrible deals in Vegas, and in college football news Bill suffers from Battered Aggie Syndrome. Come travel with us! #lasvegas #drinkoftheday #podcast #dinedrinkvegas #dinedrinktravel

Southwest is the largest airline flying in to Las Vegas, and what they did to John is hilarious. The drink of the day is, somehow, a match for both college students and the leader in the luxury lounge, and we talk about college football playoff bets. Come travel with us! #lasvegas #podcast #drinkoftheday #dinedrinktravel #dinedrinkvegas

The Drink of the Day is an apple brandy Old Fashioned, where John uses too many ingredients and Bill demands to simply pour liquor in a glass. Oddly, however, they have shockingly similar opinions about the most important meal of the day. Our audio software does weird stuff to John's voice, but it's okay because our last news item is totally WTF. Come travel with us! #drinkoftheday #lasvegas #dinedrinkvegas #dinedrinktravel

For the drink of the day, we continue our goal of depleting the world's supply of Amaro Nonino. Speaking of, that drink is waaayyyyy too classy to be found in the Oyo. As always, we bring you the latest news. Come travel with us! #lasvegas #drinkoftheday #podcast #dinedrinkvegas

John makes a drink of the day which makes Bill question his life choices, and Conde Nast thinks they have something to say about balling on a budget in Las Vegas. As always, we bring you the latest news. Come travel with us! #lasvegas #podcast #drinkoftheday #dinedrinkvegas

The drink of the day is the Fall Flight, where the Paper Airplane meets apple brandy. We weren't kicked out of a bar, but were instead politely asked to leave, and we probably aren't winning the ghost hunting contest at El Cortez. Come travel with us! #lasvegas #drinkoftheday #podcast #dinedrinkvegas

In Episode 56, the Drink of the Day is the Billionaire. Speaking of billionaires, we disagree with Scott @VitalVegas and think that the A's stadium gets built... somehow. As always, we bring you all the latest Las Vegas news. Come travel with us! #lasvegas #podcast #dinedrinkvegas   Episode 56: Billionaires And Baseball   Drink of the Day– The Billionaire Cocktail  2 oz Bourbon (original recipe called for Bakers 107 proof) 1 oz Fresh Lemon Juice 1/2 oz Simple Syrup 1/2 oz Grenadine Syrup 1/4 oz Absinthe Shake and strain into a martini glass or other “up”  glass. Lemon Wheel for garnish Main Topic–    The Review Journal reported on Bally’s grand plan for the complex around the A’s ballpark on the Tropicana site- from the story: “Bally’s Las Vegas will be built in phases and eventually feature 3,000 hotel rooms, a 2,500-seat, state-of-the-art theater and 500,000 square feet of retail, dining and entertainment space, according to Bally’s.   The complex will be built above street level, with the main area of activity — dubbed the podium — accessible from the ground level via escalators, stairs and elevators, and via walkways from Excalibur and MGM Grand, according to Bally’s. The area will feature a 9-acre plaza that will lead fans to the main entrances of the ballpark in the northwest-facing portion of the stadium. Buildings will be built on top of portions of the plaza.” Bill- let’s talk about our thoughts on this plan for a moment… But Scott from Vital Vegas is trying to rain on this parade:   So… on a scale of 1-10, with 0 being no chance in hell, and 10 being a sure thing, how do we rate the odds of the stadium project happening? News: Scott at Vital Vegas reported rumors that Excalibur lid off some financial staff last Friday, a sign on ongoing issues with MGM Resorts Scott also shared the Morimotos at MGM will be closed through the month of October into November for a refresh Multiple sources shared that national treasure Dolly Parton has canceled her Vegas residency due to health issue Eater Vegas noted the opening of Cymbiotiki Wellness Bar, a casual health food spot, has opened at Fountainblue, begging the question, who goes to Vegas for health food?   We reported previously on the closure of Carlos n‘ Charlie’s at The Flamingo. On September 30, Fox 5 Las Vegas reported that they had filed notice with the Nevada Department of Employment that they would be laying off all 79 employees, reminding us that the changes in Las Vegas come with a real human cost.

In Episode 55, we try whiskey as it was intended to be served... neat. John walks Bill through a proper whiskey tasting, and then Bill finishes talking about the W without complaining. Along the way, we give you all the Vegas news. #lasvegas #podcast #dinedrinkvegas   Episode 55– Let’s Talk Turkey   Drink of the Day– Spirit Tasting Notes: Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon   Neat: Nose- Taste-  Finish    Rocks notes:   Do you recommend?    What cocktails would it work best in?   Main Topic– What we liked about the W   News Scott at Vital Vegas reports that the Hard Rock has removed the statues of the sirens from the Mirage auction and will, instead, display them at the Hard Rock as nostalgia pieces   Scott and other X users had a thread observing that Emmitt’s was dark over the weekend and reservations are no longer being taken online . It looks like our value pick for steak on the Strip may be a goner And today, Scott noted that tonight’s show at the Strat  by ventriloquist Terry Fator will be the end of his 18 year run on the Strip, dating back to winning Season 2 of America’s Got Talent Las Vegas Weekly shared details about the new Taco Escobar which just opened in Fremont East, including details of their fair prices ($4-6 per taco) and the fact that they share ownership with Evel Pie (located just across the street) and China Town hotspot Golden Tiki   @thematkwrst on X reported that Excalibur now offers $5 black jack 24/7 In an X post on September 19, Las Vegas Locally said that Caesars properties on the Strip are offering 25% off food and beverage at 100+ restaurants as well as free parking to Las Vegas locals. The deal runs through October 30.   Do you remember the 2023 cyber attack that cost MGM $100 million where someone messed them up? Turns out it was a teenager.

If you hurt in the morning, well, that's what you get for waking up in Vegas. John and Bill talk about the best ways to deal with that at breakfast. The Drink of the Day is the Aperol Margarita, we bring you the latest news, and our Vegas WTF section is truly WTF. Come travel with us! #lasvegas #podcast #dinedrinkvegas   Episode 54: The Most Important Meal Of The Day Drink of the Day:  The Aperol Margarita (compiled from a BUNCH of recipes) Ingredients 2 oz tequila blanco (sub mezcal for smoky notes) 1 oz Aperol 1 oz lime juice 2 oz orange juice (some recipes sub grapefruit) OPTIONAL- .5oz of simple for those with a sweet tooth Ice Shake all the ingredients and service on the rocks. Garnish with a wedge of orange Rim may be just salted, or salted with dried orange and lime zest mixed in, or salted with Tajin   Main Story:  Saturday RiRa review    Sunday Border Grill Review   News Items Scott at Vital Vegas reported that the  Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) has added some branding and signage and a photo op to “reimagine” the ride share pick up area at Harry Reid International Airport. They didn’t fix the long waits or crowded space, sp I guess it will be a slightly nicer cluster And Scott says that Wynn has gotten rid of OOO roulett. He also announced a new GM at the Palms, and on X, he broke news of yet another management shakeup at troubled Hilton asset Resorts World Las Vegas Locally broke news that MGM Resorts will dump some 800 mid-management positions, reportedly with directors, executive directors, and VPs competing for jobs. Brock Radke at Las Vegas Weekly reports that Penn Entertainment’s recent announcement that the new hotel tower at M Resort will open in December also includes the addition of Emeril Lagasse’s restaurant Meril, which will expand from New Orleans with this location in Henderson. It’s Lagasse’s first off-Strip project in the Las Vegas area. What Now las Vegas has coverage of the Mob Museum’s plan to open the Starlight Lounge in October- an open air cocktail venue with live music just east of the Museum According to KSNV, the Wizard of Oz at the Sphere has sold $65,000,000 worth of tickets to 500,000 pe free dc ople. That works out to an average of $130 per ticket. Tickets went on sale June 10, and the show started August 28.   In Vegas WTF news, @lasvegaslocally reported that A top Las Vegas stripper has filed a motion to dismiss a lawsuit from an Arkansas businessman who claims she defrauded him out of more than $2.1 million over a 10-year relationship.The man is suing her for $38.5 million in compensatory and punitive damages.

John and Bill put on their swim trunks, and to the best of our knowledge that didn't frighten anyone at the Mandalay Bay pool. The Drink of the Day is the Busted Pipe, and as always we bring you the latest Las Vegas news. Come travel with us! #lasvegas #podcast #dinedrinkvegas   Episode 53: Mandalay Pool Day Drink of the Day: The Busted Pipe Ingredients 1.5 oz  Amaro Nonino 1.5 oz  Bourbon Garnish 1  Luxardo Cherry 1  Lemon Twist Directions Combine the bourbon and Amaro Nonino into a mixing glass. Add ice. Stir for 30 seconds. Strain over a large ice cube in a rocks glass. Express lemon peel oils over the cocktail.  Garnish with the cherry and lemon twist. Main Story:  Bill and John dive into pool day   News Items Scott at Vital Vegas reported that the Foundation Room at Mandalay Bay is temporarily closed for a remodel. No opening date available but rumors say as long as 11 months is possible    He also shared that Caesars Resorts was delisted on the S&P500   And on X, Scott and others have been sharing some new deals being offered by Vegas venues  to combat declining numbers, including $2 ice cream treats at the MGM Grand Pool, $20 buckets of beer at Westgate, $6 beers at Carnival Court, and an $18 taco plate at boujee Mexican joint Amaya at Cosmo- follow the deals with #MakeVegasAValueAgain   According to the Las Vegas Review Journal, starting September 19 all drinks at Center Bar at Golden Gate will be free from 6-7 p.m. every night. This comes immediately on the heels of that property removing all physical table games.   LET BILL TAKE THIS STORY Fox News reported on September 9 that Las Vegas buffets are a “dying breed”  in favor of food halls. Several other outlets ran with the same story, but that just doesn’t track with what I saw at Palms.   According to KLAS News 8, a tourist won a jackpot of almost a million dollars– $937,040, specifically– at The Linq. John/Bill, what do you do if you win that kind of money and you are on a trip like the one we took last week?   According to sfgate.com, Lake Mead water levels will hit their lowest levels ever over the next two years, and over the same time frame Lake Powell water levels may drop so low as to impact electricity generation.   We have reported previously on The Eagles extending their residency at The Sphere. According to the New York Post, they have now added 4 dates in 2026.   In other Sphere news, KLAS 8 News reports that The Wizard of Oz is admitting 4000-5000 people 2-3 times a day and is taking in up to $2 million dollars per day.

Apparently, the word "guarantee" doesn't mean much to MGM Rewards. It's OK, though, because the Drink of the Day is delicious and we have all of the latest Las Vegas news. Come travel with us! #lasvegas #podcast #dinedrinkvegas   Episode 52: Customer Service? Part 3: The Good, The Bad, and the W Drink of the Day: The Left Hand: This is a riff on the Negroni by NYC bartended Sam Ross (same guy who did the Paper Airplane)  Ingredients: 1 1/2 ounces bourbon 3/4 ounces Campari 3/4 ounces sweet vermouth 3 dashes chocolate bitters (such as Bittermen’s) Brandied cherry, for garnish   Stir everything but the cherry in a mixing glass with ice, then strain into a highball glass over one single ice cube and garnish (or just be lazy and build it in your class)  Main Story:  Bill and John have thoughts about our W experience: John QUICKLY recaps Bill’s previous drama and yield the floor for the update   Bill explains what happened on arrival o Thursday and how the W tried to rectify it    John talks gift card complaints   The boys debate- was the VIP Lounge Experience worth it this trip?    News Items Scott at Vital Vegas reported that the Flamingo is saying adios to long-time margarita bar Carlos and Charlies because there is, apparently, a master plan for the Flamingo He also mentions (without mentioning the name) that former Cosmo breakfast joint Egg Slut has found a new home at the Rio And the last story we’ve stolen from VV is that Project BBQ in front of Circa is getting a glow-up with a fresh look, draft beer, and a revised menu. The location is outdoors on the FSE next to the Main Stage According to the LVRJ, the Athletics got a building permit from Clark County for the next $87 million chunk of concrete work. That tracks with what we saw with our own eyes. Also according to the LVRJ, Resorts World revenue is up from the first quarter of this year but down from the second quarter of last year. Gaming revenue is up 8% from the first quarter but down 18% from the second quarter of last year, and occupancy was up from 78% in the first quarter to 80% in the second quarter. That’s down from 90% in the second quarter last year. CBS News presented a complicated picture of Las Vegas visitors and revenue. In a story on August 30, they said that visitors were down for the sixth straight month even though gambling revenue is up. Traffic from Canada is down 18%, but visits from Mexico, the UK, and Australia are increasing.

John makes Bill drink beer. Bill complains that it doesn't taste like whiskey. We talk about the highlights of the trip this weekend and our college football bets. We talk about all the news, including why we are pretty sure the A's actually make it to Vegas. Come travel with us! #lasvegas #podcast #dinedrinkvegas    Episode 51 Guys Trip Preview Drink of the Day Beer picks for College Football  Bill’s  John’s You want something lighter, because you have a full day of football to get through. You also want it to be actual beer. So: Modelo Especial Any of the other Mexican beers with a similar profile. Something like a Pacifico Clara or an Estrella. Almost nothing European, although a Stella Artois or maybe a Harp lager will do. Cahaba Blond And, when my Aggies start losing, just mainline vodka.  For football games, you want beers that you can enjoy more than ne of- and since it stays hot in Texas for the first half of the season, that generally means lighter beers for me- I’ll save Guiness abd even full-bodied lagers like Sam Adams for when temps cool down closer to november Mexican Lagers (I prefer Tecate) Micalob Ultra (if temps are over 95)   Main Story: Trip Preview   The PLACE: THE W   THE PLAN: Thursday (no John) -  Bill gets there first. Step one– tell the lounge we would ideally like rooms on the same floor. Step 2, go to the liquor store for in room drinks. Lunch. I am a fat kid, and I will need to eat. Is Libertine Social even open for lunch? Hmmmm…. It is not. PROTIP– There is a shopping center across S. Las Vegas Blvd with a highly rated Indian restaurant and a highly rated Mexican restaurant. I live in Alabama, I miss spicy, and that’s honestly what I probably do. Liquor Outlet is between those two places, and there is also a gas station and convenience store nearby. Dinner at Eiffel Tower. I paid for the good table. We will eventually lose Zero at a craps table. I assume he sleeps on the tables. Friday-  Friday morning I am going to need to log in and work for an hour or two. I am saving Ri Ra for Saturday, but hell, I may go twice This might be an option to go to TI or downtown to gamble, but I am inclined to wait for you to do that. If not, this may be when I work in a buffet. Maybe Palms. Atomic Golf and the Peppermill I am going to want a cigar bar. Fortunately, there is a great option in 8 Cigar Lounge across the street from Peppermill. Saturday- Pool Day w/ Cabana, Happy Hour @ Bourbon Steak, football and gambling Sunday- Brunch at Border Grill. Trip downtown. Sports Betting Predictions Sure To Go Wrong (ESPN Odds) Bill’s Pigskin Prognostication: Never bet on a team you are rooting for. It is about winning money. Remember that the spread isn’t a prediction. It is how many points the casino has to give to get an equal amount of money bet on both teams. Friday– Auburn minus 2.5 at Baylor. Aranda at Baylor is a great defensive mind from his LSU days, but he didn’t have an amazing defense last year against good teams. Auburn’s defense last year wasn’t terrible, and I think they have enough of an offensive spark to cover the spread. Saturday early– Miss State -13.5 at Southern Miss. I just don’t see Southern Mississippi keeping this one that close. Saturday early– Tennessee -13.5 at Syracuse. Same story, but I feel more strongly about it. I also take Notre Dame -2.5 at Miami.  Any side bets? Bill- I bet that our buddy Zero will have a large amount of Fireball. I further bet that something at the pool will be overpriced.   John-   News Items Scott at Vital Vegas reported that Iron Chef Mike Simon’s Mabel’s BBQ will be closing soon. Since that story broke, it looks like two more restaurants, included much-lauded Vetri Cucina are also closing, so a dining portfolio makeover seems in progress at The Palms    Scott also posted pictures of the casino expansion at Ellis Island, which look similar much classier and more modern than the “truck stop game room” vibe we joked about last episode    Twitter user Chris Holmes @seventensuited shared great photos of the progress Hard Rock has made thus far building their guitar tower- and this tower is going to be huge   Travel Zork and many others have shared updates on the Mirage item  auction, including the 10K opening bid on the mermaid statue from the lobby. The auction begins on Sept 20.   Proper Eats Food Hall announced a $24 all the draft beer you can drink offer available over this Labor Day Weekend    TravelZork reports that there will be a first-ever Oktoberfest in Fremont East from September 19-21 complete with an open-air beer hall taking over East Fremont Street from Las Vegas Blvd to 7th Street (basically next to El Cortez and Container Park)   In a story which we didn’t lift from Scott, which feels weird to both of us, the Las Vegas Review Journal reported on August 21 that John Fisher has financing in place for the new stadium. Team president Marc Badain acknowledged that costs are likely to rise an additional 250,000,000 to 2 billion, but said the financing is in place. Interestingly, the article did not say what the financing actually is.   In related news, Mick Akers at the LVRJ reported August 26 that the A’s will visit Las Vegas for select home games next year. There will be a total of six games, against the Brewers from June 8 to 10 and against the Rockies from June 12 to 14. The games will be at Las Vegas Ballpark.   Following up on a previous story reminding you that Las Vegas is a real place where regular people actually live, the Summerlin South Little League team won the U.S. championship before falling to Taiwan in the world championship game.

In Episode 50, we celebrate the podcast making it this far with John and Bill each making dueling old fashioneds. We do a role reversal where Bill talks about saving money and John talks about living the high life in Las Vegas. Come travel with us! #lasvegas #podcast #dinedrinkvegas   Drink of the Day   Dueling Old Fashioneds  Bill’s  John’s Maker’s Mark Private Label Select Orange Bitters Angostura Bitters Collins Candied Orange Peel Amarena cherries Brown sugar cubes Appleton Estates 12 Rare Cask Rum Angostura Bitters (be liberal with it) Bar spoon of Maraschino Liquor as a sweetener  Garnish with a lime wedge (maybe give it a squeeze)    Main Story Role reversal    Bill’s Budget Tips: Pizza is your friend Do your gambling downtown or at Treasure Island Go to ABC or CVS. Do not go where you limo or cab driver wants to take you. Go during the middle of the week Buy access to the VIP lounge. The net cost is less than you think.   John’s Luxury List: Get a pool cabana - it’s worth every penny  Try a pre-fixe French menu at least once in your life  Order at least one high-end spirit or cocktail per day  Pay for the room with a view Buy access to the VIP lounge   News Items Scott at Vital Vegas reported that Ceasar’s is rolling out a 280-1 bet on hitting green twice in a row on roulett, presenting it as roulett’s best bet,” even though anyone who passed 7th grade math can clearly see how foolish anyone would have to be to bet on it He also shared that Ellis Island is launching Boomers Sports Book, named after yjhe owner’s beloved dog, not the generation who posts too much politics on Facebook He also reported that Dinner Ross at Linq is now Dinner Ross Steakhouse, ruining the pun And finally he shared about the new AI-driven robot that sells show tickets at Fashion Show Mall (Holy Uncanny Valley, Batman!) According to Fox 5 Vegas, Vegas visitor volume was down 11.3% in June. However, that still left 3,000,000 people visiting that month. Interestingly, the Strip seems to have been hit harder than downtown and outlying areas.

In Episode 49, John and Bill- shocker!- have different opinions on the Golden Gate's decision to eliminate table games while keeping the Poop and Pour. We also read the news about As baseball a little bit differently than Scorr at Vital Vegas. The Drink of the Day is the Paper Airplane, which crosses the Luxury Lounge/Baller on a Budget Barrier. Come travel with us! #lasvegas #podcast #dinedrinkvegas #dinedrinktravel   Drink of the Day The Paper Airplane, invented in 2008 by famed New York bartended Sam Ross as a variation on The Last Word, a classic cocktail we haven’t gotten around to yet Ingredients: 3/4 ounce bourbon 3/4 ounce Aperol 3/4 ounce Amaro Nonino Quintessentia 3/4 ounce lemon juice, freshly squeezed Shaken and served up, garnished with a lemon peel Main Story According to Scott at Vital Vegas, the Golden Gate on Fremont Street is removing all of their live table games in favor of electronic table games. Dealers are being offered table game roles at Circa or D, and also have the option of other roles at Golden Gate. We have thoughts (John explains why he is for this)   News Items According to the Las Vegas Review Journal and other sources, they have started to pour actual concrete at the As construction site. It is tied to foundation work on the project. In seemingly related news, Scott at Vital Vegas tweeted a photo Saturday morning of the unfinished stadium in Sacramento where they poured concrete in 1989.   According to KSNV, Lake Mead water levels are going back down after a better stretch the last couple of years. They are 7 feet lower than 2023 and 2024, and it is presently projected to reach its lowest level ever recorded in 2027.   In a reminder that Las Vegas and its suburbs is a place where real people actually live when they aren’t on vacation, Fox 5 reports that Summerlin South Little League defeated Lone Peak Little League from Alpine, Utah 6-3 to advance to the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. It is the third year in a row that a team from Las Vegas made it that far.   According to the New York Post, tipping is down drastically in Las Vegas. Some servers are saying it is down by half, blaming various causes. One cocktail waitress said she used to average 80 cents a drink and now averages 10. A supervisor at Pinxbox donuts said he used to get $200 a week in credit card tips and now gets between 100-150.

Bill goes on an epic rant about MGM Rewards customer service, and John makes a Drink of the Day- The Iron Ranger- with way too many ingredients. Along the way we talk about all of the Vegas news, and for once we get serious right at the end. #lasvegas #podcast #dinedrinkvegas #dinedrinktravel   Episode 48: Customer Service? Part 2   Drink of the Day- Iron Ranger This bourbon-based modern tiki drink comes from Raised by Wolves in San Diego  Ingredients: 2 oz. bourbon (Original recipe uses Maker's Mark Cask Strength) ¾ oz. fresh lemon juice 1 oz. pineapple juice ½ oz. falernum ½ oz. simple syrup (1:1) 2 dashes Angostura bitters   This drink should be shaken, then strained into a tall glass, such as a hurricane glass, a tiki mug, or just a pint glass, that is full of crushed or pebble ice. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.  Feature Story:   Mini feature? We follow up on the main story from last week by talking about how the eventually responded. We News Scott at Vital Vegas reports that beloved taco joint Pinche’s Tacos has closed at Container Park, blaming increased operating costs and decreased foot traffic. The other Vegas location remains open, but in a location not suited for tourists    Scott also says Eater is cutting 15 staff members, likely including some city-specific writers. We hope this doesn’t impact Eater Vegas Eater Vegas has dropped a listicle and map of what they say are the hot new brunches in Vegas Casino.org reports that the A’s have their first investor in Aramark Sports+Entertainment, a philadelphia subsidiary of the company better known for running hospital and college cafeterias, is investing a total of $175 million into the franchise, including 75M of capital expenditures. They also will run concessions in the new stadium, as they did for the ‘s in Oakland. The same outlet shares that Tillman Fertitta has “officially suspended” his plans to build on the Strip, which has been unofficially suspended for a long time, so nobody is really surprised  ,    According to KSNV and other sources, two-Michelin-star Gymkhana will be coming to the Aria this Fall. The original location is in London.   According to NBC and most of the internet, Kelly Clarkson has postponed her remaining August residency date so she could  be “fully present” for her children as her ex-husband battles illness. He passed away on August 7th   According to the Associated Press, the Venetian has just signed a contract with the Culinary Workers Union. That means all major casinos on the Strip are now unionized. What makes Las Vegas defy the national trends on unionization?

Several episodes ago, we asked whether M Life cutbacks would impact customer service. In Episode 47, Bill goes on an epic tant to sat they did. Later, John goes on a rant to complain about Paris Las Vegas charging someone 50 bucks to plug in their laptop. Along the way, the Drink of the Way is the Corn n' Oil and we share all the latest Vegas news. Come travel with us! #lasvegas #podcast #dinedrinkvegas #dinedrinktravel   Episode 47: Customer service?   Drink of the Day- Corn ‘n’ Oil Ingredients: 2 ounces blackstrap rum (or aged Barbados rum) 1/2 ounce falernum 1/2 ounce lime juice, freshly squeezed 3 dashes Angostura bitters (Bill interjects about the John definition of “3 dashes”) Garnish: lime wedge   This drink is built in the glass. Fill a rocks glass with ice, then add the lime juice, falernum, and bitters, and stot (yes, normally, you shake when lime justice is involved- just go with it) Then float your dark rum gently on top and garnish with a lime peel  Feature Story: We previously covered MGM properties laying off concierges and bell hops, shiting many responsibilities to other staff. This made us wonder if stretching the staff thin would have any negative impacts on the quality of customer care and the overall guest experience. Bill now has a story he’d like to tell, we we will discuss:   For our upcoming Labor Day trip to the W, my buddy Mike and I have connecting rooms. I decided to price out what a two bedroom suite would be, and that meant cancelling my original room for I could see the MLife discount. The two bedroom suite cost more with less space, so I decided to go back to my original room. Unfortunately, the original deal was gone and I was going to have to pay another 2-300 bucks. That’s not a legal or an ethics problem. That’s just poor customer service. A customer should be able to price out what an alternative room type would be without losing the deal they already have.   At this point in the story I am still in a reasonably good mood, so I spent an hour a day over four days in mid-June trying to book the new deal. I could see the price, but the MLife website wouldn’t let me book it. That meant I had to call in. It shouldn’t be so hard to give MLife my money. Unfortunately, you and our other friends are at this hotel, so its not like I could easily change hotels.   Here is where the customer service failing became a real problem. I called in and was quoted the same price I could see on the website. I agreed to it. The agent took my payment and charged me for the first room. Then, AFTER SHE AGREED TO A PRICE AND HAD ALREADY TAKEN THE PAYMENT ON ONE OF THE ROOMS, she said the second room was no longer available and that I would have to pay roughly an additional $800.   I physically mailed MLife customer service on June 20, and they received the letter at 5:24 a.m. on June 24. They never responded.   I emailed them on Sunday at 3:53 p.m. I got an auto-response, but as of Wednesday have no real response. News Scott at Vital Vegas is reporting what he labels a “rumor” that the Downtown Grand has stopped paying their vendors. He states that he has talked to some of the vendors. And Scott broke news at TI is now partnering with Accor, a world-wide hotel operator that partners with a number of brands that, to be delicate, is underwhelming- including names no longer gracing Vegas properties such as SLS and Delano. Scott also broke news of a GREAT financial quarter at Red Rock, showing that locals casinos are doing just fine while the Strip continues to lose ground And one more stolen from Scott, chef-driven smash burger NADC Burger (Not A Damn Chance) is open as a pop-up in the old Suns Out Buns Out location at Resorts World. EaterVegas’ Jannet Karel reports that NaughtyPatty, the Smashburger joint at Cosmo’s Block 16 Food Hall opened on July 28, giving the property a replacement for the shuttered Holsteins, which has moved to the Arts District She also shared that Dave’s Hot Chicken is now open at Terminal D at the Airport. No word if airlines are upgrading airplane lavatories on departing flights to prepare for regrettable spicy chicken decisions by hungover tourists leaving Las Vegas According to Travel and Leisure, MGM Grand is amidst a 300M renovation to their rooms and suites. The first of those rooms are available to book now, and the rest will be available by year’s end.(Travel Ruby already has a video showing off one of the new Grand King rooms along with a few other new facilities on the property)    According to CNBC, The Las Vegas Sphere will soon screen 1939′s “The Wizard of Oz” in a new immersive film experience. The project places viewers inside the world of Oz using the Sphere’s 160,000-square-foot wraparound screen. The film will play in 16K resolution with full spatial audio using 167,000 speakers and haptic seating, according to a June press release. On a related note, Twitter user Chris Holmes reported that the Love sign at Venetian/Palazzo, reportedly to make way for a Wizard of Oz add   According to Newsweek, Las Vegas hotel occupancy is down 17% in early July to a total of 66.7%.   VEGAS WTF View From the Wing is reporting that a visitor at the Paris Las Vegas was charged $50 for unplugging a cord from the wall so she could plug in her laptop. The Paris responded that the charge was legitimate, because there was a sign telling her not to do this. That sign was on the minibar tray, which was not located near the plug. There was not another convenient place to plug in.

In #podcast Episode 46, John and Bill have a full and frank exchange of views on the wisdom of certain craps bets while talking about their favorite #lasvegas Youtubers. The Drink of the Day is the Brown Derby, and as always we bring you the latest Las Vegas news. Come travel with us! #dinedrinkvegas #dinedrinktravels   Episode 46- Late July Odds and Ends   Drink of the Day- The Brown Derby This 1930s classic has Hollywood roots, named after the famed L.A. dinner, and once popular among the early West Coast celebs who brought a bit of glam to early Vegas 1 1/2 ounces bourbon 1 ounce grapefruit juice, freshly squeezed 1/2 ounce honey syrup   No Main Story- Just News (YouTuber talk built into news- you had suggested that so let’s do it in news context)    News The Houston Chronicle is throwing shade on Golden Nugget own and big Wynn stakeholder Tilman Fertitta for NOT moving forward with his planned Post Oak resort on Las Vegas Blvd and Harmon Ave, instead leaving a parking lot where Texas-themed luxury was once promised. Like they say, everything is bigger in Texas, including talking smack at our billionaires YouTuber Lydia, friend of Norma, recently profiled the Prime Time Wine and Dine menu at Scotch 80 Prime Steakhouse at The Palms- it may not be new, but we didn't know about it Let’s talk YouTubers besides Dine Drink Vegas for a minute- Bill’s Recomendations- Norma Geli, Turn it Up World, I am starting to do more of a “Best Of” series on the channel John’s Recommendations- Jacob’s Life In Vegas, Color Up, and Travel Ruby - honorable mention to Pennys For Vegas, who looks my me brother from another mother Multiple outlets report that much-lauded breakfast joint Suns Out Buns Out is down and out at Resorts World  Scott at Vital Vegas warns against the “Hard All Day” craps bet that’s been popping up in casinos everywhere without the help of little blue pills.At least one host of this podcast doesn’t chase long-shot craps bets AND ONE OF US WINS BIG! Scott at Vital Vegas shares that Taco Escobar has opened in the former Smashed Pig location in Fremont East- following up on a story he broke previously Casino.org is reporting that investor sentiment is souring on casino chains, even though their stock prices are up 9% over the last month.

Las Vegas has not always been the shiny corporate metropolis that it is today. On Episode 45, we watch the 1998 Documentary Mob Law (free on YouTube) https://youtu.be/j03S9Rif0uM?si=GX3vYEt-HqB9tYvR and take you back to Old Vegas and look at the legal career of Oscar Goodman and the clients he defended. The Drink of the Day gets Bill kicked out of the luxury lounge, and in Vegas WTF News at least one establishment is now charging tips on tips. Come travel with us! #dinedrinkvegas #podcast #lasvegas   Episode 45: Mob Law   Drink of the Day- The Water Bottle Challenge In Vegas, drinks can be expensive, but the ABC Store, Walgreens, CVS, and Target have affordable mini bottles and water bottles- so this is our guide to making a tasty, cheap drink with a little help from the corner store 1 bottle of cold water 1 powdered drink mix packet 1 or 2 mini-bottles Main Story- Vegas Legend Oscar Goodman 1998 Documentary Mob Law (free on YouTube) https://youtu.be/j03S9Rif0uM?si=GX3vYEt-HqB9tYvR   Let’s talk about: Oscar’s steps into becoming a mob lawyer  His ethical code while dealing with the underworld  His conflict with the FBI The importance of criminal defense in our Republic News According to Eli Segall with the Las Vegas Review Journal, Las Vegas has the second highest unemployment in the country amongst metro areas with at least 1 million people. Vegas unemployment is 5.5% against a national average of 4%.   Jacob’s Life In Vegas reported that a new law “banning” fake THC shops- they can still opperarew but must clearly disclose that their products are just CBD   Scott at Vital Vegas says the Rolling Stone plan to buy the Downtown Grand is officially dead, this as low occupancy drives rumors of layoffs    He also reports that Grand Bazaar Shops karaoke bar Bourbon Parade has been rebranded as the Smelly Cat, a timely pop culture reference if tomorrow is going to be January 1, 1999    And following up on Scott’s original story, Eater Vegas shared details about Carbon Rivera, which will, and we quote, “Carbone Riviera marks a new chapter for the brand, one with a sharper focus on seafood. Developed in partnership between Major Food Group and MGM Resorts International, the restaurant will feature a centerpiece display showcasing Dungeness and king crab, oysters, langoustines, ricci di mare sea urchins, and razor clams sprawled over ice. Daily flown-in seafood will support whole-fish preparations like salt-baked branzino and grilled Dover sole. Signature Carbone dishes — including spicy lobster meatballs and spicy rigatoni vodka — will also appear on the menu, along with a decadent two-pound lobster pasta.”   Eater Vegas also announced that Spiegelworld has just brought a circus-themed dinner show called The Party to Cosmo.The intimate 50-seat dinner theater will pair an Italian pre-fixe menu with circus acts. The two-hour experience will run $150 for dinner and a show, plus tax, tip, and booze    According to Yahoo Finance, there is a record 7 billion dollars worth of homes on the market in Las Vegas. The median home price is $480,000 against an all time high of $485,000 and a national median of $441,000. Las Vegas appears to no longer be the haven of affordability that it once was   In Vegas WTF news, Scott @ Vital Cegas shared a recipe from Ole Red that has us seeing red.

Vegas involves choices. In Episode 44, John and Bill talk about how to deal with the morning after making too many typical Las Vegas choices. The Drink of the Day is the Italian Gentlemen, the YouTube channels have a million views, and as always we bring you the latest Las Vegas news! #lasvegas #podcast #dinedrinkvegas  Episode 44: Dealing With The Morning After Drink of the Day- The Italian Gentleman   Ingredients 1 1/2 ounces Campari 1 1/2 ounces bourbon 3/4 ounce lemon juice 1/4 ounce simple syrup Dash of orange bitters (optional)   Shake with ice and strain into a coupe glass. Garnish with a lemon wheel.  Main Story- What To Do When You Over Vegas Bill’s morning cure: Ri Ra or 7th and Carson Steam room at the spa In. Room. Coffee. Pork products and a Bloody Mary. John’s Survival Strategies: Pregame with electrolytes and vitamin B Hydrate before, during, and after Don’t go hard the night before departure Shower, coffee, bacon- repeat if necessary    News Bill- The Guardian, in a July 2 story debating whether the As stadium ever gets actually built, notes that construction costs are increasing daily and that John Fisher has seen costs rise from 1.5B to 1.75B– an increase of $250,000,000 for a project that already has strained financing.   John- Scott @ Vital Vegas is reporting “substantial layoffs” at Treasure Island amongst room attendants, cooks, servers, and bartenders.   Bill- Chelsea Leite, writing for SBNation.com, says the dynasty era for the Las Vegas Aces may be over. After winning the championship in 2022 and 2023 and making a strong run in 2024, they are as of July 5 sitting at 8-9 on the season. They are 10th in points per game, 12th in field goal percentage, and 11th in assists per game. What do you think about catching major sports in Las Vegas?   John- According the the New York Post and multiple other sources, Kelly Clarkson cancelled the Independence Day debut of her new residency at Caesars, blaming tired vocal chords in preparing for the show and wanting it to be perfect. The cancellation happened hours before the show. What would fair be to the fans if you have travelled to Vegas just to see this show? What would happen to your refund if you bought the ticket on the secondary market?   Bill- Fox 5 and other sources are reporting that there was a fire in a storage room in the parking structure at the Cromwell. Sprinklers contained the fire, and the Las Vegas Fire Department responded to the scene. Pictures show smoke billowing out of the parking garage.   John- According to Mike Florio of NBC Sports, the 2028 Final Four will be held in Allegiant Stadium. Do you remember when major sports were still hesitant to go to Vegas?   Bill- According to the Las Vegas Review Journal, Carbone– which already has an outpost at Aria-i will be moving into the space in Bellagio previously occupied by Picasso. (We shared Scott at VV’s post predicting this in Episode 42)   John- Neon Feast and Neon News (Al Mancini, Gemini Stevens, and crew) have shared their list restaurants with a view, compiled by Vegas Food and Beverage Industry insiders they interviewed   Bill- Our YouTube channels have collectively passed the 1,000,000 view mark.