Vegas Uncork'd Party With Buddy V At The Palazzo - Molto Dolce!

Buddy & Lorena 

The Venetian and The Palazzo Las Vegas, along with Vegas Uncork'd by Bon Appétit, satisfied diners' sweet tooth as everyone's favorite baker, Buddy "Cake Boss" Valastro, as he hosted 'Sweet Escape: An Evening of Buddy, Beignets, Bonbons & Booze,' at The Aquatic Club at The Palazzo.

As guests walked into the poolside soiree, they were greeted with a visually stunning wall made of more than three-thousand donuts, that they were able to take home and enjoy. The evening also included a unique take on bonbons and beignets from Buddy V's Ristorante, Bouchon, Carnevino, Chica, Hong Kong Café, Lagasse's Stadium, LAVO, Mercato della Pescheria, SushiSamba, and TAO restaurants at The Venetian and The Palazzo.

Valastro took to the stage and welcomed the crowd, "I always love any opportunity to come to The Venetian and The Palazzo with Buddy V's and Carlo's Bakery here it feels like a little home away from home for me."

Chef Lorena Garcia, featured chef of the new Chica restaurant opening May 14, also made a special appearance. "I am so excited to be part of Vegas Uncork'd with The Venetian, and debut our new restaurant Chica, that is opening on May 14.

Live music played throughout the night as guests mixed and mingled.

The evening then continued at The Dorsey, a visually stunning cocktail bar at The Venetian for the "The Ultimate Big Cake and Craft Cocktail After-Party with Buddy V." The Cake Boss rolled out a big cake for guests to enjoy and couldn't have been happier, "Being here for Vegas Uncork'd by Bon Appétit and hosting "Sweet Escape" as well as "The Ultimate Big Cake and Craft Cocktail After-Party" was an incredible chance to enjoy this beautiful property, share some excellent treats with great foodies and fans. So much talent was here this year and I look forward to many more events with The Venetian and The Palazzo famiglia."

Located in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, The Venetian Las Vegas features all-suite accommodations, exquisite restaurants and world-class entertainment and shopping. The luxury resort offers elegant suites, including standard suites that are nearly double the size of the average Las Vegas hotel room. The Venetian is home to restaurants from celebrated chefs including Wolfgang Puck, Mario Batali, Thomas Keller, Emeril Lagasse, Lorena Garcia and Buddy "Cake Boss" Valastro. The resort also features Canyon Ranch SpaClub; a five-acre pool and garden deck; TAO nightclub; the Grand Canal Shoppes retail and dining mecca; a 120,000-square-foot casino and poker room.

Conveniently connected to The Venetian, The Palazzo Las Vegas offers an alluring and elegant resort experience for those seeking a luxurious escape in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip.  Guests enjoy chic all-suite accommodations, world-class shopping, including a flagship Barneys New York, and lavish dining experiences from renowned chefs Mario Batali, Emeril Lagasse and Wolfgang Puck.   Soaring lobbies and atriums open to exclusive resort amenities, including The Aquatic Club, Grand Canal Shoppes and the famed Canyon Ranch SpaClub.

The resort features more than 2.25 million square feet of meeting and convention space, including the Venetian and Palazzo Congress Center and the famed Sands Expo Convention Center.

For more information, visit venetian.com or palazzo.com.

The Palazzo
3325 Las Vegas Blvd S,
Las Vegas, Nevada, NV 89109
(702) 607-7777

The Venetian
3355 Las Vegas Blvd South
Las Vegas, Nevada, NV 89109
(702) 414-1000

Photos courtesy of The Venetian Las Vegas

Musicians Strunz & Farah Coming To Aliante Casino & Hotel

Acoustic guitarists Strunz & Farah will come to Access Showroom at Aliante Casino Hotel and Spa on Saturday, May 20.

Born in Costa Rica, Jorge Strunz has been playing the guitar since age six, and learned flamenco and classical styles throughout his childhood. His interests led him to play electric guitar in several rock bands, and later led him to jazz and jazz fusion music. Strunz was recognized in 1994 and 1998 by the government of Costa Rica with two Presidential Awards in honor of his cultural contributions.

Ardeshir Farah hails from Tehran, Iran. Having moved to England for his teenage years, he picked up the guitar in with focus on popular music and improvisation. He has performed with many Persian musician expatriates in the United States.

The guitarists met for the first time in 1979 and have been performing together ever since with their unique hybrid of Latin American and Middle Eastern influences.  In 1980, they released their first album, “Mosaico.” It received heavy play on Los Angeles jazz media, and helped get them signed to major jazz record label Milestone in the early 1980’s. They have been nominated for a Grammy Award as well as held the top spot of Billboard’s World Music chart.

Showtime is 8 p.m. Tickets start at $20.50 plus tax and fees, and luxury booths are also available. Guests 21 or older may purchase tickets by calling 702.692.7777 or visiting ticketing.aliantegaming.com.

Treat Mom To A Relaxing Spa Specials At South Point's Costa del Sur

South Point Hotel's Costa del Sur Spa and Salon uses the sweet aromas of Spring to gift guests with a moment of relaxation. As Nevada's flowering plants bloom, May's specials are designed to reflect this time of colorful brightness and reveal skin's inner glow. Specials offered to guests every day in May include:

·         25-Minute Pomegranate Plumeria Body Exfoliation
For noticeably softer and firmer skin, Costa del Sur Spa and Salon offers a masterful blend of soothing pomegranate and sweet smelling plumeria into a rich, exfoliating scrub. After the scrub is massaged into the skin, a smoother, more even toned complexion over the entire body will be revealed. The 25-Minute Pomegranate Plumeria Body Exfoliation is available for $65 and is not valid with additional specials or discounts.

·         Almond Blossom Manicure and Pedicure
To begin the manicure and pedicure, an almond blossom infused exfoliating scrub is applied to soften and improve elasticity of the skin on the hands and feet. Guests are then treated to a deep tissue hand and foot massage with an ultra moisturizing almond blossom lotion, finished with the nails on the hands and feet perfectly polished. The Almond Blossom Manicure and Pedicure is available for $110 and is not valid with additional specials or discounts.

·         50-Minute Pomegranate Plumeria Relaxation Massage
The 50-Minute Pomegranate Plumeria Relaxation Massage pairs techniques to relieve tension hidden deep in the muscles and the natural, anti-aging properties of pomegranate to provide guests with a relaxing getaway. Guests will leave the treatment with hydrated skin, relaxed muscles and a renewed connection between mind and body. The 50-Minute Pomegranate Plumeria Relaxation Massage is available for $115 and is not valid with additional specials or discounts.

·         50-Minute Hibiscus Ultra Lifting Facial
Costa del Sur Spa and Salon provides a chance for guests to spoil themselves with an ultra hydrating, instant lifting facial treatment. The rich and masterful blend of hibiscus and botanical peptides will leave guests with a noticeably dramatic lift to the face and neck. Paired with an organic, hyaluronic acid, this treatment will lift, tone and moisturize the skin of the face all in one treatment. In addition, service comes with a take home collagen mask. The 50-Minute Hibiscus Ultra Lifting Facial is available for $165 and is not valid with additional specials or discounts.

Boot Camp Classes
South Point Hotel will kick that body into shape with $5 Boot Camp classes every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 7 a.m. The group exercise class combines calisthenics and body weight exercises with cardio and strength training. The class will encourage the participants to push themselves harder than ever before and challenging them to their limits. Boot Camp classes are offered exclusively to South Point Hotel and Grandview guests.

Spa Dining Menu
Costa del Sur Spa and Salon offers guests a healthy dining menu to keep the body energized during their spa day. The custom spa dining menu features a variety of breakfast options including Breakfast Parfait ($7.95), Egg White Burrito ($9.95), Egg White Omelet ($9.95), Oatmeal ($6.95) and more.

Guests looking for a light lunch can select from an assortment of gourmet salads such as the Avocado and Tuna Salad ($11.95), Chicken Caesar Salad ($14.95), Asian Chicken Salad ($14.95) or Costa Del Sur Platter ($12.95). Additional menu options include a Guilt Free Burger ($11.95), Slim & Trim Sandwich ($12.95), Turkey and Brie ($12.95), Grilled Portobello and Vegetable Wrap ($13.95) and more.

Adding to the experience, guests have a wide selection of beverages including champagne, bloody marys, mimosas, screwdrivers, coffee, tea and bottled water. Spa and salon guests may enjoy the new dining menu throughout the day during the spa visit. Local sales tax and 18 percent gratuity will be added to all food and beverage orders, plus an additional $2 delivery fee.

Las Vegas Locals Receive Special Spa Discounts
Costa del Sur Spa and Salon offers Nevada locals a 20 percent daily discount on all spa and salon services. Spa services are offered daily until 8 p.m. Locals must show a valid Nevada ID to be eligible. This offer is not valid with other discounts or specials.

For more information or for room reservations, call (702) 796-7111 or visit the South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa - southpointcasino.com/. Connect with South Point on Facebook - www.facebook.com/southpointlv, Twitter,- twitter.com/southpointlv YouTube, Instagram and foursquare.

9777 Las Vegas Blvd S

Las Vegas, Nevada, NV 89183

(702) 796-7111

Kentucky Derby Time! Watch The Race At Umami Burger, Beer Garden & Sports Book

On Saturday, May 6, SLS Las Vegas invites guests to experience the excitement of the Kentucky Derby at Umami Burger, Beer Garden & Sports Book with mint juleps, a limited edition William Hill souvenir glass and all the racing action on more than 50 high-definition televisions.

Wagers of $20 or more on the most exciting two minutes in sports will be rewarded with a complimentary Kentucky Derby souvenir glass courtesy of William Hill, limited to one per guest while supplies last. Additionally, Umami Burger, Beer Garden & Sports Book, Center Bar and Northside Café & Chinese Kitchen will offer $6 mint juleps throughout Derby weekend, Friday May 5 through Sunday, May 7.

The Kentucky Derby offer is valid for hotel guests and visitors with an SLS Las Vegas Rewards card. Registration for the rewards card is complimentary and available at the SLS Las Vegas Rewards desk from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays and from 10 a.m. to midnight on weekends.

SLS Las Vegas visitors will receive free covered parking and valet services. For more information, visit www.slslasvegas.com.

For more information about SLS Las Vegas®, please visit slslasvegas.com and stay connected on Facebook - www.facebook.com/SLSLasVegas, Twitter - twitter.com/SLSLasVegas and Instagram.

Hip Hop Chart Toppers Migos In Vegas For Drai's LIVE

On Saturday (April 29, 2017), chart-topping hip-hop trio, Migos made their long-awaited return to the Drai’s LIVE stage at Drai’s Nightclub atop The Cromwell in Las Vegas. The “Bad and Boujee” rappers were met with roaring cheers from the sold-out crowd as they took the stage for an explosive full-concert performance featuring some of their biggest hits, like “T-Shirt,” “Handsome and Wealthy,” and many more. After the show, the group continued to enjoy the rooftop hotspot while taking in the sounds of resident artist DJ Franzen from their stageside VIP booth.

A one-of-a-kind experience, Drai’s LIVE is at the forefront of the ever-changing nightlife scene, offering live, full-length concerts by celebrated artists. For tickets and more information, visit DraisLV.com.

Courtesy of Woody Hugh/Tony Tran Photography

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo At Nacho Daddy & Support Three Square

Whether it’s celebrating Cinco de Mayo or its ongoing commitment to the community, Nacho Daddy knows how to party!  This Cinco de Mayo on Friday, May 5; Nacho Daddy on West Sahara enlists the community to celebrate the holiday while giving back.  From 11 a.m. – 8 p.m., Nacho Daddy holds a spicy Cinco de Mayo party while encouraging donations to their charitable partner, Three Square.  During this event, guests can bring monetary donations or items from the non-profit’s “wish list” while enjoying Nacho Daddy fare.  Nacho Daddy’s outdoor party features $2 street tacos and Mexican street corn, $4 beer, $6 margaritas and, of course, plenty of their signature scorpion shots.  Party-goers can also try their luck with a raffle for exclusive Nacho Daddy gear and other prizes; enjoy fun games like cornhole and extreme Jenga; see Nacho Daddy’s celeb fans; and rock out to live music from 5 – 8 p.m.

As part of Nacho Daddy’s commitment to the Las Vegas community, the group will also present a check at noon to local organization, Three Square, for another 140,000 meals to help Las Vegans who are food insecure, bringing the total to more than 250,000 meals donated in just over one year.  In 2016, Nacho Daddy started the “Buy a Meal, Give a Meal” program at all three restaurants, which provides assistance to those in need in Southern Nevada.

During the celebration, guests are encouraged to bring donations to Three Square.  Every person donating will receive a free beer or margarita (one per customer).   In addition to monetary donations, Three Square is in need of a variety of items including meat/high protein – canned meats, fish, spam and stew, mac & cheese, soups, rice, beans; dairy – canned and powdered milk; breads/cereals – baking mixes, cereals, oatmeal, flour, sugar; and allergy friendly products – soy, almond and rice milk, gluten free boxed baking mixes, soups and pastas, alternative nut butters.  A full list of acceptable donation items is available online at www.threesquare.org.

Whether in Summerlin or Downtown Las Vegas, Nacho Daddy has three convenient locations to serve locals and tourists alike; Nacho Daddy at Miracle Mile Shops 3663 S. Las Vegas Blvd., 9560 W. Sahara and 113 N. 4th St. in Downtown. For additional information, including hours of operations, reservations and online menus, visit www.nachodaddy.com. Connect with Nacho Daddy on social media by liking on Facebook - www.facebook.com/NachoDaddyLV/ or by following on Twitter - twitter.com/nachodaddylv and @NachoDaddyRestaurant on Instagram.

Nacho Daddy is Vegas’ Cinco de Mayo party headquarters with three locations including W. Sahara, The Strip and Downtown Las Vegas.  The official Cinco de Mayo and Three Square celebration will be held at the W. Sahara location only.

WOW Recap From Vegas Uncork’d! Celeb Chefs Galore!

Chef Michael Mina

Foodies rejoiced inside Yardbird at The Venetian during a potbelly brunch fit for a carnivorous king with Chef John Kunkel. Featuring a spread of inventive Southern comfort dishes such as a fried green tomato BLT, Yardbird Benedict and Lewellyn’s fine fried chicken ‘27-hour recipe,’ the brunch concluded with candied bacon beignets and raspberry coulis. Throughout brunch, guests experienced feasted on all things bacon and pork belly and sipped on Yardbird’s classic Bloody Mary made with bacon-infused vodka, pork belly, pickled okra and pickled green bean topped with lime and bleu cheese olives.

·         Over at Caesars Palace, foodies were taken on a culinary journey around the world with “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous” host Robin Leach and Caesars Palace President Gary Selesner at Bacchanal Buffet – named the No. 1 buffet in Las Vegas. During the social soiree, attendees were treated to cuisine from different countries alongside premier global wines and an array of sweets provided by Bacchanal Buffet.

·         Internationally acclaimed culinary pioneer and innovator, Chef José Andrés allowed guests to lunch like a Spaniard during an unforgettable “dish-and-tell” session inside Jaleo at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. The interactive presentation gave foodies an inside look into the chef’s favorite stories about how his famed menu items came to fruition while he prepared widely recognized menu items over the restaurant’s renowned live fire pit.

·         Acknowledged as the spark that ignited the city’s culinary phenomenon, Spago by Wolfgang Puck opened its doors to Vegas Uncork’d goers to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the iconic eatery. Guests enjoyed an interactive lunch that featured the restaurant’s globally acclaimed cuisine including tuna with sea beans and succulents, carrot with miso and fermented garlic, Sonoma duck breast with ancient grains, brown butter, blueberry and burnt citrus, as well as white chocolate, rhubarb, citrus cake and fennel for dessert. Additionally, guests enjoyed Spago’s classic artisanal bread collection paired with exquisite wines selected just for the occasion.

·         Located inside the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, Border Grill was home to the afternoon’s most Instagram-worthy event as celebrity chef duo Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger got up close and personal with guests during a live cooking demonstration inspired by #FoodPorn. With cameras in hand, guests laughed and sipped as the "Too Hot Tamales" prepared a feast for the eyes including crab passion fruit aguachile, three potato causa, sabana salad, guacamole with seeded chips and coconut flan. The signature bites were accompanies by specialty cocktails including the Border Sparkler made with Mezcal, St. Germain, aperol and passion fruit and a Mango Cilantro Margarita made with Tequila Blanco, mango, cilantro and a tajin rim.

Chef Gordon Ramsay

Grand Tasting 

·         The luxurious Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis at Caesars Palace hosted the ultimate culinary event, The Grand Tasting. Food enthusiasts gathered for an epicurean experience of a lifetime with a staggering variety of signature dishes, as well as free-flowing wines and spirits while mingling with more than 50 award-winning chefs including Bobby Flay, Buddy “Cake Boss” Valastro, Charlie Palmer, Chris Santos, Giada De Laurentiis, Gordon Ramsay, Guy Savoy, Lorena Garcia, Michael Mina, Nobu Matsuhisa, Rick Moonen and more.

Watch The Run For The Roses At Virgil's Real BBQ W/A Triple Crown Drink

At Virgil’s Real Barbecue in The LINQ Promenade, fans can cheer on their favorite horses during the Kentucky Derby on Friday, May 5 and Saturday, May 6 as the barbecue joint serves up authentic fare and features Derby Day drink specials. Guests can sip on the Triple Crown made with Old Forester Bourbon, Branca Menta and fresh lemon or order up a $6 Buck Shot made with Templeton Rye and Branca Menta and $5 Old Forester Bourbon Shot. For more information or reservations please call 702 – 389 – 7400.

3545 S. Las Vegas Blvd
Las Vegas, Nevada, NV 89109
(702) 389-7400
www.virgilsbbq.com

Actress/Singer Pia Zadora Donates $5K To Project F.O.C.U.S.

Pia Zadora is celebrating her victory in Westgate Las Vegas’ March Madness “Hoops Central Celebrity Bracket Challenge” by donating the $5,000 grand prize to Project F.O.C.U.S. at UNLV. With the help of her son Jordan, an avid basketball fan, Zadora beat out more than a dozen other celebrities in the challenge.

 Project F.O.C.U.S. (Forming Occupational and Community Understanding for Success) is a two to four year post-secondary education program for young adults with intellectual/developmental disability including Autism. F.O.C.U.S. uses the principles of the Universal Design for Learning and Person Centered planning to provide a 100% inclusive program to help college students achieve current and future academic, independent living, and employment goals.

In just three short years, Project F.O.C.U.S. already has over 35+ young adults with intellectual disability and autism on the waiting list wanting to attend UNLV while many others have expressed interest. From now through May 7, Project F.O.C.U.S. is accepting donations to help support the program and make a college education accessible for everyone. To make a donation, or for more information, visit rebelraiser.unlv.edu/project/5992.

Golden Globe winner, GRAMMY Award® nominee, ShoWest winner, accomplished singer, film and Broadway star all describe Pia Zadora. Performing since the age of six, for those who have seen her in concert, what comes to mind first and describes this multi-talented performer is simply this: Pia Zadora is the complete entertainer. For more information, visit piazadora.com or follow her on Twitter - twitter.com/OfficialPiaZ

Magician Mat Franco Being Honored With Linq Theater Being Renamed

 After logging nearly 600 performances of his first-ever Las Vegas residency, MAT FRANCO – MAGIC REINVENTED NIGHTLY at The LINQ Hotel & Casino, the dazzling LINQ Theater is being renamed in honor of celebrated magician Mat Franco. Going into effect for performances starting July 10, which go on sale through the end of the year on Monday, May 1, at 10 a.m., fans can continue to experience the young magician’s mystifying talent and breezy humor in the newly renamed space. For tickets and more information, visit MatFranco.com.

"The show’s success is really a testament to my fans and supporters that have catapulted my little hobby into a phenomenon,” said Franco. “A huge thank you also goes out to my partners at BASE Entertainment, Caesars Entertainment and Red Light Management.  Their efforts have been integral parts in making this dream a reality!”

Throughout a nearly decade-long career as a professional magician, Franco continues to pioneer new frontiers in the magic and entertainment worlds with one clear objective in mind: bringing happiness to his audiences. Since long before taking the stage in his first-ever resident production, the 28-year-old magician has worked tirelessly to cultivate his talents and personal brand in hopes of, one day, achieving every entertainer’s dream of having a theater named in recognition of their career.

“Mat Franco is a one-of-a-kind performer and his show, MAGIC REINVENTED NIGHTLY, has been a wonderful addition to The LINQ Hotel & Casino,” said Eileen Moore, regional president of The LINQ Hotel & Casino. “We are thrilled to introduce The Mat Franco Theater in honor of his continuing success in Las Vegas.”

Named “Best Magic Show” by Las Vegas Review-Journal and “Best Strip Show” by Las Vegas Weekly, MAT FRANCO – MAGIC REINVENTED NIGHTLY continues to receive rave reviews from fans and critics alike since opening in August 2015.

“BASE Entertainment is thrilled to celebrate this milestone with Mat and our partners at Caesars Entertainment and Red Light Management,” shared Brian Becker, BASE Entertainment CEO. “This attests to Mat’s incredible talent, work ethic and vision, and we are incredibly excited to be a part of Mat’s bright future in Las Vegas.”

MAGIC REINVENTED NIGHTLY continues to amaze and inspire audiences at The LINQ Hotel & Casino Thursday through Tuesday at 7 p.m., with a 4 p.m. matinee performance on Saturday. Ticket prices start at $59 and are available by phone at 800.745.3000, in person at The Mat Franco Theater box office, or online at MatFranco.com and Ticketmaster.com. A VIP experience is available with a $50 upgrade on any section + all applicable fees, per person. The VIP experience includes a personal meet & greet and photo with Mat Franco directly following the performance, a VIP laminate, a signed keepsake souvenir and a complimentary beverage. For tickets and more information, visit MatFranco.com, and connect with the show on Facebook - www.facebook.com/MagicReinvented/, Twitter - twitter.com/magicreinvented and Instagram - @MagicReinvented. For groups of 10 or more, please call (866) 633-0195 or email Sales@BASEentertainment.com.

Courtesy: MAT FRANCO – MAGIC REINVENTED NIGHTLY

Super Band JOURNEY Is Coming To The Hard Rock! In Person On May 3

In anticipation of the band’s second, nine-show residency at The Joint, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino will welcome Rock and Roll Hall of Famers – JOURNEY – back to the property with a proclamation declaring Wednesday, May 3 as JOURNEY Las Vegas Day; and a memorabilia property takeover including an updated band case with items from Steve Smith outside of The Joint, Neal Schon’s personal case in front of the resort’s main registration desk and Steve Smith’s drum kit at the entrance of the HRH All-Suite Tower on May 3 at 1 p.m. The displays are complete with personal items from each member as well as pieces from the band’s history.
                             
Journey band members:
·         Neal Schon, founder, lead guitar and backing vocals
·         Ross Valory, co-founder, bass and backing vocals
·         Jonathan Cain, keyboards and backing vocals
·         Steve Smith,drums
·         Arnel Pineda, lead vocals
Chas Smith, vice president of entertainment at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Bobby Reynolds, senior vice president of entertainment at AEG Presents Las Vegas

1:20 p.m. Clark County proclamation presentation at JOURNEY’s memorabilia case – open to the public
In The Joint hallway across from the Peacock High-Limit Gaming Lounge
1:25 p.m. Journey memorabilia case unveiling – open to the public
In The Joint hallway across from the Peacock High-Limit Gaming Lounge
1:35p.m. Neal Schon case unveiling – open to the public
In front of the main registration desk
1:40 p.m. Steve Smith drum kit unveiling – open to the public -  In main entrance of the HRH All-Suite Tower

After a wildly successful, sold-out run in 2015, legendary rock band JOURNEY will return to The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas for a second, nine-show residency, Journey Las Vegas, on May 3, May 5, May 6, May 10, May 12, May 13, May 17, May 19 and May 20. For the first time in the United States, JOURNEY will perform its seventh studio album, Escape, and the band’s eighth studio album, Frontiers, in their entirety on May 3, May 10 and May 17.

For VIP ticket packages including premium seating options, please contact jointvip@hrhvegas.com. For groups of 12 or more, please call 702.693.4017 or contact darnson@hrhvegas.com. For Journey VIP packages including premier seats, exclusive gifts, pre-show receptions and more, please visit www.vipnation.com.

Follow The Joint on Facebook - www.facebook.com/thejoint, Twitter - twitter.com/thejointlv and Instagram for the latest news and updates.

11th Annual Vegas Uncork'd Event Is In Full Foodie Mode! Tix Still Available!

The 11th annual Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appétit, presented by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, Chase Sapphire® and Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits of Nevada, started with a splash as acclaimed chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger ceremoniously sabered a bottle of Perrier-Jouët champagne at The Vortex at The LINQ Hotel & Casino. A part of the epicurean extravaganza for the past 11 years, the “Too Hot Tamales” are the first female chefs to lead the saber off and, to recognize their support, they were given personal sabers to do the honors during the inaugural event.

More than 15 iconic chefs including Frank Pellegrino Jr., Greg Sherry, Guy Savoy, Lorena Garcia, Rick Moonen, Scott Conant and Shawn McClain joined in the festivities to kick off the weekend of fine wine, refreshing cocktails and exquisite meals at Caesars Palace, The Cromwell, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, MGM Resorts International’s The Park, The Venetian and The Palazzo Las Vegas. And along with Pamela Drucker Mann, Chief Marketing Officer of Condé Nast, Craig Kostelic, Chief Business Officer of Food Innovation Group, Valarie Segarra, Executive Director of Strategic Initiatives at Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, and Michael Severino, Senior Director of Marketing and Special Events at Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits of Nevada, Adam Rapoport, Editor in Chief of Bon Appétit, raised a toast, welcoming the crowd and thanking the chefs for their continued support of Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appétit.

Recognized as one of the country’s top food, wine and spirits festivals, the four-day event features some of the world’s greatest culinary talent including returning favorites Alain Ducasse, Bobby Flay, Buddy “Cake Boss” Valastro, Giada De Laurentiis, Gordon Ramsay, José Andrés, Julian Serrano, Michael Mina, Nobu Matsuhisa, Tom Colicchio, Charlie Palmer and Wolfgang Puck to name a few. New this year, guests can enjoy a Picnic in The Park at MGM Resorts International’s newest outdoor dining and entertainment district, and go on a mixology journey with Mariena Mercer at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. To sample a bit of everything, guests can still purchase tickets to perennial favorite The Grand Tasting at Caesars Palace and indulge in Sweet Escape: An Evening of Buddy, Beignets, Bonbons & Booze on The Palazzo Pool Deck.

Additionally, Chase Sapphire returned for the fifth consecutive year as a presenting sponsor of Vegas Uncork'd by Bon Appétit. Chase Sapphire Preferred® and Sapphire ReserveSM cardmembers will enjoy unique access to select experiences and interaction with celebrity chefs throughout the four-day festival.

Events with limited tickets still available include:

-          #FoodPorn Cooking Demo & Luncheon with the Too Hot Tamales (Forum Shops at Caesars Palace), Friday, April 28: Bring your camera phone and appetite, as you get up close and personal at a fun-filled live cooking demonstration featuring chef duo, Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger. Prepare to laugh, taste and sip as the Too Hot Tamales fix a feast for the eyes and shake up creative cocktails. Guests will not only learn the dynamic duo’s innovative recipes and cooking techniques but also get the lowdown on how to shoot epic food porn photos with expert tips and tricks from Bon Appétit magazine’s social media gurus. Meet the chefs, enjoy a multi-course lunch with specialty cocktails, a takeaway recipe booklet and a chance to purchase personalized cookbooks following the event.

-          Lunch like a Spaniard with José Andrés at Jaleo (The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas), Friday, April 28: Experience a taste of Spain with internationally acclaimed culinary pioneer and innovator, Chef José Andrés. Join José as he prepares lágrima paella over their renowned live fire pit in a dish-and-tell session, and shares his favorite stories behind the unique restaurant’s menu items, like José’s Taco, a slice of jamón ibérico de bellota topped with osetra caviar and gold flakes; Coca con Erizas del Mar, crusty Spanish cristal bread topped with sea urchin, ibérico bacon and butter; their renowned Gin and Tonic program, and more.

-          Picnic in The Park with Alain Ducasse, Charlie Palmer, Michael Mina, Julian Serrano, Tom Colicchio, Shawn McClain, Rick Moonen, Roy Ellamar, Akira Back, Bryce Shuman, David Werly & More (The Park, located between Monte Carlo and New York-New York), Saturday, April 29: Enjoy a Picnic in The Park Vegas style! Featuring live music and some of MGM Resorts’ most notable chefs including Alain Ducasse, Charlie Palmer, Michael Mina, Julian Serrano, Tom Colicchio, Shawn McClain, Rick Moonen, Roy Ellamar, Akira Back, Bryce Shuman and David Werly, Picnic in The Park will offer creative twists on classic picnic dishes, Edible Gardens and champagne provided by Veuve Clicquot. We encourage you to embrace your inner-child with a variety of social games including giant Jenga, cornhole and croquet. And don't forget to take a selfie in front of Bliss Dance, a 40-foot-tall sculpture by artist Marco Cochrane and a focal point of The Park experience, or swing by the vintage VW Bus, which has been transformed into a photo booth for the occasion. Located on the Las Vegas Strip between Monte Carlo and New York-New York, this new outdoor dining, and entertainment district will provide an ideal backdrop for you to enjoy a fun, interactive afternoon picnicking with celebrated chefs.

EARLY ACCESS: Gain early admission to the event with an Early Access ticket. A limited number of tickets are available to deliver the undivided attention of experts on site, an exclusive signature cocktail available only to early access guests, and an opportunity to interact with the chefs in a more intimate setting.

-          Sweet Escape: An Evening of Buddy, Beignets, Bonbons & Booze (The Palazzo), Saturday, April 29: Everyone's favorite baker and TV personality Buddy “Cake Boss” Valastro will host a decadent evening to surrender to the sweet side of life, featuring a number of world-renowned chefs of The Venetian and The Palazzo, each preparing a unique take on beignets or bonbons. The poolside reception will include specialty cocktails, a live performance from the electrifying trio Simply Three, and a special appearance by Chef Lorena Garcia of Chica, set to open on Mother’s Day, May 14, 2017 in Restaurant Row at The Venetian.

-          The Ultimate Big Cake & Craft Cocktail After-Party with Buddy Valastro (The Venetian), Saturday, April 29: Celebrate the evening with an official after-party at the latest Las Vegas hotspot, The Dorsey, with a colossal cake baked by the Cake Boss himself, Buddy Valastro. The Dorsey is a high design, memorable spot for the worldly, curious and engaged featuring a hand crafted cocktail menu.

Purchase tickets at vegasuncorked.com

Photo credit - photography by Tom Donoghue
Tom@DonoghuePhotography.com

Backstreet Boys Celebrate Grand Opening At Sugar Factory In Las Vegas

Fans gathered to continue the grand opening celebration of Sugar Factory's newest location in Las Vegas at Fashion Show with vocal group Backstreet Boys, who are celebrating their 24th anniversary.

Upon arrival, the boys were welcomed by over a thousand screaming fans as they stopped to take selfies and posed for pictures on the red carpet holding Sugar Factory's signature couture pops.

The guys then entered the confectionery shop and were so excited by the vast selection of sweets and goodies, they were like kids in a candy store! A couple members of the group sampled Key lime and Butterfinger gelato, while others grabbed their favorite treats from a selection of over 500 types of candy and Sugar Factory novelty items. Some of the sweets the boys picked up included gummy bears, M&M's, Butterfingers, Apple Jacks, and more.

Afterward, the boys entered the fan-filled restaurant where they greeted everyone and posed for pictures with guests. For dinner, they had some of the restaurant's signature items including candy-themed goblets, insane milkshakes, monster burgers, and a colorful selection of rainbow sliders. To satisfy their sweet tooth, they enjoyed the world-renowned King Kong Sundae, containing 24 scoops of ice cream with various toppings and sparklers for dessert.

To end the evening, the group went upstairs to Sugar Factory's Chocolate Lounge where they sipped decadent chocolate cocktails including the Mudslide martini, frozen chocolate bacon s'mores cocktail, chocolate black & white espresso martini, and frozen white chocolate rock candy grasshopper. Before leaving, the guys were dazzled by the whimsical "candyland" garden where they stopped to take one last photo in front of the 14-seat horse-drawn carousel surrounded by colorful lit up tulips and oversized lollipops, cupcakes, and animal sculptures.

3200 Las Vegas Blvd S
Las Vegas, Nevada, NV 89109
(702) 685-0403

Essence Las Vegas Is Hiring! At All Three Locations

Essence Vegas, Las Vegas’ premiere marijuana dispensary and resource center, with three locations across the Las Vegas valley, including Essence – West at 5765 W. Tropicana Ave., Essence – The Strip at 2307 S. Las Vegas Blvd. and Essence – Henderson at 4300 E. Sunset Rd. Suite A3.

More than 50 positions are available at one of three Essence Vegas dispensary locations throughout Las Vegas and Henderson, as well as Desert Grown Farms’ 54,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art cultivation facility. Those who have a passion for the cannabis industry and wish to apply must bring their resume to the job fair on Tuesday, May 2.

Qualified candidates will receive onsite interviews. Interested applicants should have their state issued ID or Driver’s License with them at time of interview.

Positions are available in the following areas:

Cultivation Tech
Shift Manager
Patient Consultant
Receptionist
Maintenance
Inventory Control

For more information and a list of all available positions, please visit www.essencevegas.com

Tuesday May 2, 2017
9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Wild Horse Golf Club
2100 W Warm Springs Rd
Henderson, NV 89014

Give Mom The Sweet Gift Of Pure Natural Honey For Mother's Day

The celebrated Carmel Honey Company, created by 14-year-old Carmel entrepreneur and bee expert Jake Reisdorf, is now offering specially wrapped gift boxes of honey, just in time for Mother's Day.

Mother's Day is fast approaching and what better way to tell your Mom you're sweet on her than a gift box of pure, natural honey from the Carmel Honey Company?

Carmel Honey Company has a wide variety of honey and honey gift boxes available for order online. And for Mother's Day, Sunday, May 14, each gift box ordered will be wrapped in a yellow ribbon and bow.

Gift boxes, which can be customized to your (or your Mom's) favorites, can include Meadowfoam Honey, Orange Blossom Honey, Sage Honey, Wildflower Honey, Honey Stix, and pure raw honeycomb.

One of the most popular, for example, the large gift box, contains one 12-oz. Meadowfoam Honey, one 3-oz. Orange Blossom Honey, one 3-oz. Sage Honey and one Wildflower Honey Stix pack.

To order online, go to www.CarmelHoneyCompany.com.