What baby boomer client hasn’t experienced this in Las Vegas? After dinner and a show, you look for a quiet spot for a nightcap and conversation, but all you can find is a crowded nightclub with deafening, bump-and-grind electronic music and barely clad 20-somethings who make you feel like you’re on furlough from a nursing home.
Las Vegas does indeed have congenial spots for a quiet, late-night drink for those old enough to remember watching the moon landing on television. Here are a few of my top picks.
Four Seasons Las Vegas
It’s no surprise that two Four Seasons lounges made the list. The Verandah Bar and Lounge is cozy and elegant, with candlelit tables and opera on the sound system. The Charlie Palmer Steak Lounge has a Spanish hacienda feel, with graceful arches and dark mahogany paneling. The Charlie Palmer Steak Lounge is open daily until 12:30 a.m., while the Verandah Bar and Lounge is open daily until 10 p.m. 702-632-5000; www.fourseasons.com
Golden Steer Steak House
Classic and elegant, the bar here has everything you would expect in a mid-century steak house: leather wingback chairs, low lights and Frank Sinatra playing softly in the background. If you aren’t sure where to find it, look for the big, yellow cow statue just off the Strip. Open daily until 11 p.m.
702-384-4470; www.goldensteerlv.com
H20 Bar at The Tank at Golden Nugget
Settle into a comfy couch around the fire pit at this poolside lounge and watch sharks swim in its 200,000-gallon tank. If you dare, order the Shark Attack. It’s a generous vodka drink with Blue Curacao. Guests are given a shot of raspberry liqueur on the side and, when added, it ends up looking like something out of “Jaws.” The lounge is open daily from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m.
702-385-7111; www.goldennugget.com
Maggiano’s Little Italy
Strains of accordion music and members of The Rat Pack on the speakers lend an appropriately Italian feel to the bar area of this restaurant, located inside Fashion Show Mall. Try the signature wine, a Robert Mondavi private selection called Vinetta, a Bordeaux-inspired red blend of five varietals. Molto bene! Open daily until 11 p.m.
702-732-2550; www.maggianos.com
Panevino Ristorante & Gourmet Deli
This bar, located just south of McCarran International Airport, is the perfect spot for a drink before flying home. Panevino has slanted, wall-sized windows that frame the aircraft as they take off against the bright lights of the Strip. The decor blends desert-influenced reds and browns with contemporary metallic sculpture and lighting. Open Sunday through Thursday until 10 p.m. and Friday through Saturday until 11 p.m.
702-222-2400; www.panevinolasvegas.com
Peppermill Fireside Lounge
Clients who like to party all night and sleep all day will appreciate the 3 a.m. to 7 a.m. happy hour at this throwback to a 1970’s lounge. The lighting is an intense pink and blue; the ceiling is mirrored; and flames leap from a bubbling pool in the very romantic, sunken fire pit. The lounge is located on the Strip and is open 24 hours.
702-735-4177; www.peppermilllasvegas.com
The Bootlegger Italian Bistro
This 24-hour, old-style Italian eatery and nightclub on the South Strip is a favorite among locals. The tablecloths are red, the lights dim, and the red clam sauce is always hot and ready to serve.
702-736-4939; www.bootleggerlasvegas.com
Triple George Grill
Clients looking to escape the hullabaloo on Fremont Street can duck into this tastefully appointed bar and restaurant. High booths and old black-and-white photographs lend the bar a San Francisco feel. Open Sunday through Thursday until 10 p.m. and Friday through Saturday until 11 p.m. 702-384-2761; www.triplegeorgegrill.com
Read about Hard Rock Hotel & Casino’s new bar, The Joint
