For the last ten years I have celebrated the fourth of July with friends in Las Vegas. I have always loved Las Vegas as this is the city that encouraged me to write a weekly column. I was in that market for over ten years. The morning we stepped off the plane the temperature was 112 degrees F. Outside it was dry, dusty and perfect stillness. We grabbed a car rental and drove to Sam’s Town Hotel and Gambling Hall.
I gave up staying on the Strip because of the congestion and the ridiculous prices in the restaurants. I love the western flavor of Sam’s as I have been a fan of the ole West ever since I was a kid enjoying the Saturday theatre matinees. The rooms are roomy, comfortable and furnished in classic East Coast style. Once you park you really have everything, movie theatres, keno, bingo, slots, gaming tables, and a buffet that has been voted “the best in Las Vegas” for many years. There is a western shop, beauty parlor, men’s clothing and restaurants. If you get bored, don’t drive, there is a free shuttle that will take you downtown or to the Strip.
There are so many new sections of the city with resorts, shops and very fine dining. The second day the temperature was 114 degrees. We drove South past the Airport to the Warm Springs Ranch. The beautiful homes, condos and apartments are stunning. In a very busy attractive mini mall we found Table 34. The Restaurant is like a glass cage with high ceilings with lots of mirrors, chrome, dark woods, and delightful bright colored paintings. It is “Modern Italian” and very appealing. Wes Kendrick is the Executive Chef. At lunch the menu consists of soups, salads, pizzas, sandwiches and entrees. For dinner there are starters, soups, salads, pastas, pizzas and entrees. Full bar service and a good wine list, not over priced. Located at 600 E. Warm Springs Road. Reservations are recommended. Tel: 702 263-0034.
The third day the temp. was 116 even though there was never a breeze we didn’t wish to spend all the time at Sam’s. So we go Downtown to Binion’s for brunch. At $4.95 it is a typical western breakfast. We have had at least one breakfast each trip at Binion’s as we love the waitress, Jessie.
That night we dined at Hugo’s Cellar in the basement of the Four Queens. Reminiscent of a European wine cellar you dine in a romantic atmosphere as tuxedoed waiters prepare table side dishes. This is the best salad cart anywhere. Reservations absolutely necessary.
The fourth day the temp. was 117 degrees. The radio announcers were telling you to wear hats or better yet to stay inside. I can tell you it was most uncomfortable. Blueberry Hill Family Restaurants are located in the Northwest and in Nevada. Here you will find home cooked comfort food reminiscent of your childhood. Full breakfast as low a $3.95 and you want to come back for more.
As we left Las Vegas, the Airport wasn’t too busy, so we were glad to get home and hopefully not so hot weather. Regardless of the weather there is something that pulls you back. I will always enjoy the upbeat rhythm of an exciting resort.
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