Category: Plaza Hotel & Casino

Beer Garden Concert Series

Posted on | by Plaza Staff
Among all of the places to grab a drink or a bite to eat in downtown Las Vegas, you can’t beat the ambiance of our indoor/outdoor Beer Garden space. With live music and a laid-back vibe, you’ll want to make sure to keep your evenings free this October. Visit the Plaza’s Beer Garden to gain access to incredible bands, DJs, food, and refreshments. Here’s a preview of what you can expect: plaza-beer-garden-concert-series  

October 1

HIDDEN LEVELS – Named after the concealed paths to success in video games, this band blends a simple structure with a bassist, guitarist/singer, and drummer, but they prove quality means more than quantity. Special-K – This Vegas-based, indie-rock band is a fearsome trio led by singer/guitarist Aldridge Basiga. Bass player Jacob Lasky and drummer Justin Ptak have helped elevate the band from desert show openers to local hero status. Indigo Kidd – Billing themselves as a post-punk/rock band, songs like First Light and Mr. Lepard will have you grooving in no time. DJ Fish – The upcoming show on October 1st will artfully showcase DJ Fish’s smooth DJ punk/new wave/indie sounds.  

October 8

The Acid Sisters – Members Elayna, Nick, Lizzie, Dusty, and Jacob deliver a unique blend of psychedelic garage rock that will get you feeling loose in no time. Serpentfoot – All the way from the front range of Colorado comes this trippy trio and their unique brand of psychedelic grunge rock. The Astaires – This local Las Vegas mod rock band is led by singer/guitarist Crom Fallon and is a perennial favorite at intimate venues in the area. DJ Jacob Savage – Spinning seriously infectious grooves, DJ Jacob Savage delivers a distinct sound that’ll get your pulse up when kicking back in the Beer Garden.  

October 15

Same Sex Mary – Hailing from Boulder City, Nevada, Same Sex Mary is an independent rock band that is well known on the Vegas indie music scene. Glass Pools – Electronic dance rock is the music of choice for local group Glass Pools. Join the fan club this October! DJ Fish – Returning for a second showcase, you can catch DJ Fish if you missed him the first time around or simply come back for more of his eclectic tunes.  

October 22

Adult Books – Alternative rockers with the provocative name return for a night of fun led by members Nick, Daniel, and M.M. No Tides – This East Las Vegas, NV band is back with their unique take on garage, surf, rock, and urban tunes. Kurumpaw – Psychedelic surf rock is the best way to describe this band. Though they are known for their adaptive style that can change from the beginning of the set to the end. DJ Cromm Astaire – A killer combination of soul and 60s-era mod is what you can expect from this popular Las Vegas Valley DJ.  

About Beer Garden

German Cuisine with Vegas Style

Everything is bigger and better in Vegas and the food at Beer Garden is certainly no exception. Run by Michael Vakneen, chef at Pop Up Pizza, Beer Garden’s menu offers mouthwatering German favorites with a unique twist. The beer snacks are perfect pairings with your beer. Choose from extra giant German pretzels, crispy onion strings, and plenty of sauces to mix and match. But the real highlight of Beer Garden is its signature bratwursts. Their bratwurst sandwiches are creatively named after old Las Vegas hotels such as The Western, The Hacienda, and The Stardust. You can even create your own bratwurst sandwich from their wide array of sausages (includes a vegan option), toppings, and buns.

Endless Selection of Draft Beers

Of course, you can’t stop by Beer Garden without having a beer (or two). Guests can order from over 20 different kinds of craft beers on tap and various microbrews. Beer Garden’s menu offers an impressive collection of American and European lagers, IPAs, Irish stout, Belgian Golden, and fruit beers. Beer options range from classics like Stella Artois and Guinness to local brews like Big Dog’s Dirty Dog IPA. Whatever you choose to drink, you definitely won’t leave Beer Garden thirsty.

A Backyard Space with a Downtown Vibe

Overlooking the scenic Fremont Street, Beer Garden creates an urban backyard in downtown Las Vegas. The unique venue features nearly 3,000 sq. ft. of real grass, authentic picnic tables from a 1980’s Munich Oktoberfest, and specially designed wooden trellises and greenery. The standout piece of Beer Garden, however, is its 400 sq. ft. vertical garden with more than 900 plants growing on the side of the Plaza Hotel & Casino. It is the only living wall in downtown Las Vegas, making it a one-of-a-kind, must-see attraction at Beer Garden. With so much greenery in one place, you’ll quickly forget that you’re in downtown Las Vegas!

The Beginners’ Guide to Pickleball

Posted on | by Plaza Staff
What exactly is Pickleball? Why is it called Pickleball? Does it have anything to do with pickles at all? The list of questions could go on and on for this oddly named sport. Don’t worry if you’ve never played or heard of Pickleball before. That’s why we’ve put together this helpful guide to explain this interesting game. Here are the basics you need to know about Pickleball.

What Is Pickleball?

Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis. The game is played on a badminton-sized court (20 x 44 feet) with the net lowered to 36 inches at the ends. Equipment includes wood or composite paddles and a plastic, perforated ball. Just like other paddle sports, Pickleball can be played in singles or doubles.

Where Did Pickleball Originate?

Pickleball originally started as two friends’ attempt to resolve their families’ summer boredom. During the summer of 1965, Joel Pritchard and Bill Bell wanted to set up a badminton game since Pritchard’s home had an old court. However, they couldn’t find a complete set of badminton rackets. Using some creativity, they improvised with ping-pong paddles and a perforated ball instead. At first, they played the game with the net set at badminton height of 60 inches. After finding out that the ball bounced well on the asphalt surface, they lowered the net to 36 inches. With their friend Barney McCallum, they established rules for the game and created Pickleball.

How Did Pickleball Get Its Name?

According to Pritchard’s family members, the unique name came from the family’s maritime pursuits. Joan Pritchard, Joel Pritchard’s wife, was a competitive rower on Bainbridge Island, WA. She told her husband that the game reminded her of the pickle boat in rowing. A pickle boat consists of oarsmen chosen from the leftovers of other boats. This is similar to how Pickleball includes many borrowed characteristics from other paddle sports. Over the years, many news stories reported that Pritchard named the game after his dog, Pickles. The most common story was Pickles would chase after the balls and then hide in the bushes. As a result, he would refer to “Pickles’ ball,” which was later shortened to Pickleball. The Pritchard family disproved this story since they didn’t get Pickles until years after the creation of Pickleball.

How Do You Play Pickleball?

The game starts with the right-hand court serving the ball diagonally to the opponent’s court. The server must serve the ball under two criteria: underhand with their paddle below the waist and both feet behind the baseline. The serve needs to clear the net and the non-volley zone. This non-volley zone is 7-feet behind both sides of the net and prohibits players from hitting the ball before it’s bounced (or volleying). Players on each side must make at least one groundstroke before volleys are allowed. After the double bounce rule, players can either volley the ball or play it off the bounce. Players can volley the ball so long as they’re not within the non-volley zone. Points are scored by the serving side only and occur when the opponent faults. A fault includes failure to clear the net, hitting the ball out of bounds, and volleying from the non-volley zone or before the double bounce. The server continues to serve and alternate service courts until they fault. The first side scoring 11 points and leading with at least a 2-point margin wins the game. Interested in learning more about Pickleball? Head over to Plaza Hotel & Casino to play the game on its newly added Pickleball courts. The Plaza is the only hotel and casino in Las Vegas with dedicated courts for Pickleball. Just recently, the Plaza hosted a Pickleball exhibition with players from the USA Pickleball Association (USAPA). According to Jonathan Jossel, CEO of the Plaza, about 1,000 players have already signed up to play in upcoming Pickleball tournaments at the Plaza. The Pickleball courts will be open to the public later this summer. Be sure to stop by the Plaza and try out this fast growing sport for yourself!

GET STARTED – RESERVE A PICKLEBALL COURT AT PLAZA!

 

Everything You Need to Know about Our New Rooftop Pool

Posted on | by Plaza Hotel

With its “retro Palm Springs meets classic downtown Las Vegas” vibe, the Pool at the Plaza brings a whole new rooftop pool experience to the downtown scene and is one of the best downtown Las Vegas pools.

A Downtown Pool with a View

rooftop-pool-at-the-plaza

The renovated pool deck provides guests with OVER 70,000 sq. ft. of ultimate relaxation and entertainment, making it one of the largest pool decks in downtown Las Vegas. Guests can enjoy a variety of newly added features including a refurbished wet deck, recreation facilities, and even an onsite bar. Here’s everything you need to know about the new Pool at the Plaza.

Lounging in Style and Comfort

It always feels like a battle to find seats by the pool, but guests don’t have to worry about that at the Pool at the Plaza. The renovated wet deck features plenty of chaise lounge chairs and lily pad daybeds for guests.

For those who are looking to get the full lounge experience, there are also six brand new cabanas available for rental. These cabanas provide guests with a private poolside retreat that is close enough to all the activities. Each cabana is complete with its very own TV, fan, refrigerator, and safe for guests’ belongings. They also include a complimentary fruit plate OR a cheese and cracker tray.

Poolside Paradise

When you’re at the pool, there’s nothing more satisfying than having a drink (or two) in your hand. Guests can enjoy a refreshing cocktail or cold beer poolside by accessing the bar on the rooftop pool deck.

Endless Activities & Amenities

If you don’t feel like taking a dip in the pool, the Pool at the Plaza has you covered with a bunch of other exciting activities. The impressive rooftop space includes recreation courts for Pickleball – a combination of tennis, table tennis and badminton (the Plaza even hosted a Pickleball exhibition with players from the USA Pickleball Association (USAPA) earlier this month).

There are also tables for mini-craps and blackjack as well as other games (foosball, table tennis, and cornhole). If you’re looking to relax and unwind, the 12-person hot tub is the perfect activity for you.

Upcoming Events & Entertainment

On April 19th, The Pool at the Plaza will host Detox to Retox, an event that offers a 60-minute all levels Vinyasa Flow yoga class and ends with a drink after yoga. There will be live music during the event and free bites from Vegenation.

Detox to Retox downtown vegas pool

The First Annual Pickleball Festival will be held April 26th – April 28th. The festival will be filled with pickleball, food, drinks, and entertainment. Tickets are $169.99 for the weekend.

The Pickleball Festival Downtown Vegas Pool

If you love pizza, you won’t want to miss the downtown Las Vegas pool party at The Plaza for National Pizza Party Day. There will be pizza to eat, pizza floaties for the pool, and drinks to wash down your pizza! This party takes place on May 17th.

National Pizza Party Day Downtown Vegas Pool

Must-See Spring Shows in Downtown Las Vegas

Posted on | by Plaza Hotel
Downtown Las Vegas delivers exciting shows this spring, ranging from art exhibitions to comedic performances. There are so many options when it comes to entertainment in downtown Vegas that it can be difficult to decide which show you’d like to see. From comedy to classical music, there’s a little bit of everything from which you can choose. Check out our picks for the best spring entertainment options in downtown Las Vegas.

The Scintas

When: April 8, 9, 15 & 16 / May 6, 7, 13 & 14 / June 3, 4, 24, 25 / July 8, 9, 15, 16 / August 19, 20, 26, 27 / September 16, 17, 23, 24 / October 7, 8, 14, 15 / November 4, 5, 11, 12 Where: The Plaza You don’t have to travel far to enjoy world-class entertainment — because it’s right here at the Plaza! The Scintas are a four-person comedy troupe that offers variety show style entertainment that varies at every show. The Scintas truly offers something for everyone. At any given time during a show, you have the opportunity to see Mick Jagger, Dean Martin, Bruno Mars, exciting music from a full horn section, opera numbers, and more. The show is an emotional roller coaster that will have you laughing, crying, and hoping it never ends! Scintas-Home-Page-Slider-1600x500 If you’ve seen this act before, don’t worry — you’re guaranteed to see new material from this talented foursome. The Plaza is also currently running The Scintas and a Steak $99 special where guests can enjoy a delicious dinner at Oscar’s Steakhouse before heading down to the iconic showroom for The Scintas.

My Mother’s Italian, My Father’s Jewish, and I’m Still in Therapy…

Where: The Smith Center When: Throughout April Get ready to laugh! Steve Solomon will take you on a journey through his hilarious and often brow-raising family life in this show that centers around his eclectic family. If you like stand-up comedy, you’re sure to appreciate this comedic offering.

Exhibitions at The Arts Factory

Where: The Arts Factory, 107 E. Charleston Blvd. When: Throughout April Thanks to First Friday and an impressive array of art galleries, downtown Vegas has earned a reputation as an art hot spot. Many galleries – like The Arts Factory, hold regular exhibitions. Every month, The Arts Factory showcase changes and is not announced until First Friday. Although, if you want to get an early peek, attend Preview Thursday. Regardless of what kind of art is on display, The Arts Factory is sure to delight art lovers from all walks of life.

Disney’s Beauty and The Beast

Where: The Smith Center When: Throughout April If you’re in the mood for some Disney magic, you won’t want to miss Beauty and The Beast at the Smith Center. This classic tale is the story of Belle, a headstrong yet kind young woman, who awakens true love in the heart of the Beast and changes his life forever. Check show times and buy your tickets for this heartwarming romance at The Smith Center’s website.

Mozart, Poulenc, & Beethoven

Where: The Smith Center When: April 26 at 7:30 p.m. Enjoy a night of beautiful classical music at The Smith Center. Masterpieces by Mozart, Poulenc, and Beethoven will be performed by talented musicians on piano and wind instruments. Get your tickets at the Smith Center website. Downtown Las Vegas has it all — arts, entertainment, and so much more. In addition to the shows listed above, there’s always the Omaha Lounge at the Plaza. Every night, guests are treated to a rotating variety of entertaining performances.

About the Plaza’s Newest Resident Act: The Scintas

Posted on | by Plaza Hotel
Few Vegas shows have the wherewithal to survive the constant evolution of the city and still come out on top. The Scintas have done just that. With injections of fresh material, an energetic dynamic between group members, and a new residency at the Plaza, The Scintas are on track to give downtown visitors an exciting show they are not soon to forget.

The Beginning

Frankie Scinta began performing at the age of 9 and instantly knew he wanted to spend his life on the stage. “Once I heard that applause that was it, I knew that’s what I was going to do for the rest of my life,” said Frankie. The Scintas formed and began performing in their hometown of Buffalo, New York before relocating to Las Vegas in 2000. the-scintas-live-at-the-plaza The group started at the Hilton where their show was much different than what you see today. “It was my brother, my sister, myself, and our drummer,” said Frankie, “we had no band, no horn section, no rhythm section, we were the band!”

Vegas Then & Now

While performing at the Hilton, The Scintas quickly gained recognition because their show was perfectly suited for Vegas. “It was an incredible time in Vegas because there were other shows,” said Frankie, “there were other resident headliners here that you could see who were performers — not just comedians, but entertainers.” And, as Frankie explained, those entertainers had a strong relationship with the hotel they were performing at, something The Scintas are looking to replicate during their time at the Plaza. “This, at the Plaza, it’s a marriage between the Plaza and The Scintas,” said Frankie, “and so far, it’s working out very well!” The relationship between The Scintas and the Plaza also aims to bring back aspects of what Frankie refers to as vintage Vegas. “What I really miss about vintage Vegas is that every hotel had a headliner,” said Frankie, “you could go to the MGM, and you would know Tom Jones was going to be there, and people made a night of it.”

To encourage the idea of a full night out on the town, visitors can indulge in a fine meal at Oscar’s Steakhouse before heading down to the plush showroom to enjoy The Scintas.

During the show, every member of the audience is then invited back up to Oscar’s Steakhouse for a cocktail and the chance to meet and chat with the performers. This is another nod to keeping the vibe of vintage Vegas alive at the Plaza. “That’s what entertainers did in the old days,” said Frankie. Although it may seem like much of the show’s emphasis is on returning to old Vegas, the show truly offers something for everyone.

“Our show offers those who are between 30 and 70 somewhere to go where they can have an emotional connection to a show and can leave with a feeling,” said Frankie. After all, where else can you see Michael Jackson, Dean Martin, Bruno Mars, and Mick Jagger in one place?

About the Show

Although The Scintas have performed at a variety of venues in Vegas, while watching the show, it’s easy to see the entire cast feels like they are at home at the Plaza. “We have an incredible showroom manager here, he’s taken us in like family,” said Frankie, “we are like one big family and I really think this is one of the few showrooms in Vegas that’s happening.” Before signing with the Plaza, The Scintas had other offers, but knew it had to be the Plaza after seeing the showroom. “We are in an iconic showroom, they don’t even make them like this anymore,” said Frankie, “this is where the icons performed!” The dynamic between the members of the Scintas creates a remarkable balance that guides you through the show. The performer of the group is, of course, Frankie, who feeds on the energy of the audience and banter with drummer and “honorary Scinta” Peter O’Donnell. The comedic relief and relaxed vibe come from Frankie’s brother, Joe, whose spot on impressions are so over the top you can’t help but laugh. The newest member of the group, Janien Valentine, does a classical opera number that is sure to have every member of the audience on their feet. the-scintas-janien-valentine-live-at-the-plaza “Nothing is contrived and every night is different because every audience is different,” said Frankie, “we perform to everybody sitting there because if they came to see a show, we’re going to give them everything in our hearts.” The show also features a moving tribute to veterans, something Frankie considers very important to the group. “We walk the streets today free in America like no other country, because of every veteran,” said Frankie, “whether they lost everything or nothing.” If you are looking to see comedy, or impressions, or want to enjoy some of the best live music complete with an incredible horn section that will wow you; The Scintas has it all. The show has something for everyone–something Frankie says he’s very proud of. “I don’t like to do this, I don’t love to do it, I live to do it,” said Frankie, “it’s never been a job for me.” The Scintas perform at the legendary Plaza showroom two weekends per month and hope to start eventually playing every weekend. More Info about The Scintas

Best Romantic Activities in Downtown Las Vegas

Posted on | by Plaza Hotel
Las Vegas is one of the most romantic cities in the world — not just on Valentine’s Day, but all year long! If you’re going to be in Vegas with your sweetheart and want an unforgettable experience filled with romance, look no further than the downtown area. Check out these ideas for couple-friendly activities that are sure to fill your heart with love.

Dinner at Oscar’s

A delicious meal in an elegant setting is always an excellent choice when it comes to turning up the romance. Look no further than Oscar’s at the Plaza when you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner. This iconic restaurant serves up mouthwatering steaks grilled to order and tempting sides made lovingly from scratch. Whether you’re in the mood for steak, seafood, or both, Oscar’s extensive menu is sure to satisfy. Before the main course, linger over an appetizer like bruschetta or a fresh shellfish platter. A photo posted by Oscar’s Beef, Booze, & Broads (@oscarssteakhouselv) on If you’re in the mood for a few drinks, hit the restaurant’s adjacent cocktail lounge for a tempting array of libations. Love is sweet — and so are the desserts at Oscar’s! Tiramisu, chocolate mousse, and New York style cheesecake are just a few of the available dessert options.

Stroll through the Neon Graveyard

Dating back to 1996, the Neon Graveyard — also known as the Neon Museum — is a collection of 150 retired neon signs. The one-hour tour through this museum is a perfect way to bond with that special someone while marveling at some of Las Vegas’ iconic neon.

Get Cozy with Cocktails

If you and your sweetheart are in the mood for a low-key date that’s intimate and cozy, cuddle up with cocktails at the Plaza. In addition to the cocktail lounge at Oscar’s, the Plaza also has other cocktail hotspots including the Omaha Bar and the Beer Garden. If you and your special someone are looking for something a little different, head over to the Downtown Cocktail Room. This local favorite features a wonderfully intimate space and delicious handcrafted cocktails with exotic and unexpected ingredients.

Take a Gamble

There’s nothing like the excitement of the Plaza’s casino games, which can certainly bring you and your sweetie closer together and give you both an evening to remember. With slot machines, card games, roulette, and more, the Plaza casino floor has everything you need to treat your date to hours of gaming fun.

See a Show

Catch The Scintas, where you can enjoy a prix fixe meal along with your show for only $99. Also, the Omaha Lounge features a regularly changing array of incredible performers every night. Glamorous Downtown Las Vegas is always a winning choice when it comes to romantic activities to enjoy. And, you don’t even have to leave your hotel! When you choose the Plaza for your Downtown Las Vegas accommodations, you’re right where you need to be for incredible dining, exciting gaming, and dazzling entertainment both you and your loved one are sure to enjoy!

2 Exciting New Exhibits Opening at The Plaza

Posted on | by Plaza Hotel
Last year, the Plaza opened a special gallery full of some of the most iconic sports memorabilia. The Las Vegas Club Gallery at the Plaza was filled with hundreds of sports-related items available for purchase by the public. The exhibit was a huge success, with many of the items quickly bought by eager sports enthusiasts and collectors. In response to the overwhelming success of the Plaza’s sports memorabilia exhibit, the Plaza is doing it again. This time, with two exciting new exhibits that pay homage to the hotel’s old Vegas roots. These exhibits are an excellent way to showcase the history of not only Downtown Las Vegas, but also the unique role the Plaza Hotel & Casino has played in shaping the area into what it is today. Whether you are a local or visitor, the Plaza’s new displays are sure to give you a distinct perspective on the rich and interesting history and culture of Downtown Las Vegas.

Jerry Misko

In a style true to the artistic and creative vibe that flows through downtown, the Plaza’s first new exhibit will be one from famed local artist, Jerry Misko. The exhibit, which opened on Jan. 15, features a collection of Misko’s edition prints accompanied by one-of-a-kind paintings of classic Vegas neon signs. Misko, a Las Vegas native, has collaborated on projects with some of the most recognizable names in the city, including the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, the Neon Museum, First Friday, and even the city of Las Vegas. These collaborations, combined with 12 years of experience as a practicing artist in Las Vegas have given Misko’s art a distinctly Vegas personality perfect for the Las Vegas Club Gallery. Those looking to take a piece of Vegas nostalgia home with them will be able to purchase Misko’s retro-meets-modern interpretations at the exhibit.

Union Plaza Then and Now

The second exhibit, which opens Feb. 4, is an exciting look at the evolution of the Plaza throughout the past five decades. The free exhibit, “Union Plaza Then and Now,” offers guests a rare look into the history of the Plaza through artifacts, photos, and videos. The exhibit is one of many from the Museum of Gaming History, a non-profit educational project of The Casino Chip & Gaming Token Collectors Club, Inc. that aims to preserve gaming history. Since it opened in 1971, the Plaza has cemented itself as a cultural icon, not only in Vegas but throughout the world. The exhibit aims to explore this rich and iconic history by showcasing the evolution of the Plaza. “Union Plaza Then and Now” will feature over 150 artifacts including chips, dice, ashtrays, postcards and even a unique lightbox display of a rare shot glass collection. Museum-of-gaming-history-plaza-hotel Guests will also have the opportunity to explore the history of the Plaza through a series of photographs that chronicles the progress made by the hotel from its groundbreaking to present day. For an even broader perspective of the transformation of both the Plaza and Downtown Las Vegas, guests will be treated to a 30-minute video about the hotel’s place in the historical development of downtown. A special grand opening of both exhibits will be held on Thursday, Feb. 4 at 11 a.m. The museum will be open to the public from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Whether you are a seasoned Las Vegas native with a broad understanding of the history of the city, or someone looking for a fun and unique activity downtown, you are sure to love the one-of-a-kind insights garnered from both exhibits.

What to Expect When Dining at Oscar’s

Posted on | by Plaza Hotel
Oscar's Steakhouse Las Vegas

Source: Vegasmagazine.com

Come on In

It isn’t a trip to Vegas unless you’ve dined at Oscar’s. Flirt with all the showgirls you want, but you haven’t done Sin City without the signature steaks and cocktails that await you at the only dining establishment that’s earned the name of the Happiest Mayor on Earth. And while you’re here, you may even get to meet the legendary mob-boss-turned-mayor, Oscar Goodman himself. Located in the iconic glass dome of the the jewel of Downtown – the Plaza Hotel and Casino – it’s a true Vegas experience worthy of any appetite.

Take in the View  – Inside & Out

The all-glass dome of the Plaza used to be home of this Downtown classic’s pool. This was a scene where you wanted to be seen…and not much has changed to this day. From your table, you’ll be treated to views of the iconic Fremont Street Experience. Inside, enjoy the glitz and glam of old-school Vegas with mood lighting and classic jazz. While you’re here, take in some of Oscar’s rare photographs of vintage Vegas, along with memorabilia from Mr. Goodman’s 12-year tenure as mayor.

Did We Mention the Broads?

Can you beat beauty and brains? No way. The Broads of Oscar’s are beautiful dinner hostesses and companions who can regale you with tales of Vegas history, recommend must-do Vegas attractions (although you’d be experiencing one during your conversation), talk sports, debate politics – anything you want. They were inspired by Oscar Goodman’s “booze and broads” trial back when he was a mob attorney, and the Bacchanal Room at the old Caesars Palace where guests were invited to party with the Goddesses. Oscar’s Broads are there to enliven your experience…after all, nothing complements a great dinner like sparkling conversation with a beautiful companion. As the man himself says, “I’d take one Betty over 100 showgirls any day.”

Eat and Drink Like You Own This Town

Oscars Steakhouse Steak The crowning jewel of Oscar’s is the amazingly varied food menu and classic drink offerings. As a fine dining steakhouse, Oscar’s offers a variety of perfectly aged cuts which are then seared over a 600 degree grill to ensure they are flavorful, juicy and tender. Adding to the unmistakably Las Vegas glam feel, Oscar’s offers jumbo shrimp, crab legs and lobster tail to complement any of the already delicious entrees. All of the side dishes at Oscar’s are made from scratch with only the highest quality ingredients. Featuring staples such as smashed potatoes and steamed asparagus to less-expected offerings such as roasted corn brulee and onion strings, you are sure to find something you love. With a full bar, you can opt for a classic cocktail or one of the many signature and hand-crafted Las Vegas inspired drinks at the restaurant. Don’t forget to try Mr. Goodman’s signature Bombay Sapphire martini while you’re here. Oscar would insist on it.

So When Are You Coming?

Hopefully your appetite is whetted for the quintessential Vegas dining experience, courtesy of beloved Mayor and famed mob attorney Oscar Goodman. Just remember, if you haven’t been here, you haven’t really been to Vegas. Cheers!

The Best Spots in Downtown Las Vegas to Have a Nightcap with “Old Vegas” Nostalgia

Posted on | by Plaza Hotel
Atomic Liquors Las Vegas Travel back in time to the days of Elvis, Frank Sinatra, mobsters and showgirls. Here  nightcaps are in style and cocktails are elaborate concoctions unique to every bar, lounge or speakeasy on the streets of Vegas. Flash forward to present day: The magic of Old Vegas is alive and well downtown. Many of the vintage bars and cocktail lounges have become a part of the downtown renaissance — destinations that are reminiscent of days long passed but with a decidedly modern twist. Here are some of the best spots to have a nightcap with Old Vegas nostalgia.

Atomic Liquors

The oldest freestanding bar in Vegas, Atomic Liquors has been around since 1952.  The name comes from what used to be the main attraction — watching nuclear blasts at the nearby atomic test site from the roof of the bar. This downtown gem has quite a history in show business and was frequented by the Rat Pack, the Smothers Brothers and Barbara Streisand. Today, it boasts a well-stocked bar, a fabulous drink menu, late night hours and special events just about every day. Step into the Atomic and head right back to the 1950s.

Downtown Cocktail Room

Located in the Fremont East Entertainment district, the Downtown Cocktail Room is an upscale cocktail lounge and speakeasy that serves up luscious libations in a Bohemian-Chic atmosphere. The handcrafted cocktails are one-of-a-kind creations that have acquired a huge following among locals and visitors alike. Be a part of the downtown scene that escapes the spectacle of the Strip — and embrace the glamour of Vegass’ past, present and future.

Oscar’s Steakhouse

Locatedin the iconicx dome at the Plaza Hotel and Casino, Oscar’s has been attracting discriminating visitors to its restaurant and bar since 2011. Oscar’s famous bar, adjacent to the steakhouse, serves up world-famous martinis in a glamorous, old-school Vegas atmosphere. Overlooking the Fremont Street Experience, Oscar’s also has the best view in town.

The Commonwealth

This swanky, 6,000-square-foot cocktail lounge was inspired by pre-prohibition era design. Serving a huge array of cocktails, craft beers and other libations, Commonwealth boasts over-the-top chandeliers, bow-tied bartenders, a dance floor and a rooftop patio. What more could you want in a classic, downtown bar? When you are ready to reminisce, there is no place like downtown to find that Old Vegas style. With such a unique array of nightlife opportunities, these are truly hidden gems, tucked away from the circus of the Strip. If you have been neglecting the downtown area, now is the time to visit these popular watering holes to see what you’ve been missing.

Food Diary: Eating Our Way Through the Day

Posted on | by Plaza Hotel
Plaza breakfast 7:00 a.m. The alarm clock went off and there was no hitting snooze. We had a lot to get to at the Plaza Hotel in Las Vegas, but before we could do anything, whether work or play, we needed to eat a solid breakfast. The best way to start the day is with breakfast at Hash House A Go Go. One of our favorite dishes there is the classic Boston Hash – crispy potatoes, mixed onions and fresh tomatoes crowned with blue crab cake drizzled with horseradish cream and served with eggs and fresh fruit. After a breakfast of that magnitude we were almost ready to begin the day. We just needed to stop by Cafelatte for a Lavazza coffee first. 12:32 p.m. Before we knew it, it was already time for lunch. We were still a little full from breakfast and were busy making the most of the day so we opted for something quick and easy at Pop Up Pizza. We indulged in a slice of cheese, but also had a salad. Mom always said eat your veggies! 5:00 p.m. Five o’clock rolled around. It was a busy and productive day, but now it was time to relax and enjoy the evening. It was a beautiful fall day in Vegas. Today’s sky was a mix of pink, orange and red as the sun set. We headed to the Bier Garten for a craft beer and to enjoy the sights and sounds of Downtown Las Vegas from the outdoor area. In addition to our beers, we ordered a giant pretzel and wurst to share as a snack before dinner. Bier Garten food and drinks 6:52 p.m. We had a reservation at Oscar’s for 7 p.m. so we headed upstairs to the restaurant. The decor of Oscar’s is glamorous. It incorporates memorabilia from Oscar Goodman’s 12-year tenure as mayor as well as classic photographs of Las Vegas from over the years. It makes you feel like a star. We started with some calamari and chose the pork chop for the entrée. The calamari was nice and crispy on the outside and the pork chop had been perfectly seared. Not a bad way to wrap up another fun day at the Plaza. Oscar's calamari Oscar's pork chop