bebop bonnie
Nov 20, 07, 4:42 pm
Any new info on the new Palazzo, scheduled to open Dec 20? We have reservations at the Wynn (resort side) but the Palazzo (concierge level at the same price) is tempting!
Las Vegas - The Consolidated "Palazzo" thread
View Full Version : The Consolidated "Palazzo" thread
MikeE
Nov 20, 07, 5:13 pm
Considering that only about six floors of rooms actually have carpeting right now, I'd stick with Wynn. December 20th is an extremely soft opening with the "grand" opening date set about a month later (and it still won't be ready by then). Adelson will do anything not to miss the CES and New Year revenues.
The Venetian was an absolute mess when it opened. Everyone at Venetian Macau was comped a weekend night because they were so poorly staffed. It's evident Adelson's track record doesn't exactly shine with new resort opening.
Give it six months, at least.
The Venetian was an absolute mess when it opened. Everyone at Venetian Macau was comped a weekend night because they were so poorly staffed. It's evident Adelson's track record doesn't exactly shine with new resort opening.
Give it six months, at least.
kingalien
Nov 21, 07, 12:27 am
They're not even guaranteeing comped rooms at Palazzo yet.
Amanjunkie
Nov 21, 07, 3:43 am
The Venetian Macao is quite good; we stayed in one of the Rialto Suites recently, and it was an excellent room for Macau. Having said that, I heard the opening was a disaster, with 3 hour lines for check-in and just chaos everywhere. Sadly, the hotel's reputation has suffered tremendously and if you read the reviews on Tripadvisor.com, they are devastating.
Like MikeE said, I would probably wait a few months before staying at the Palazzo, but I'll be glad to check out the property when I am in Vegas next month, just not as a overnight guest.
Like MikeE said, I would probably wait a few months before staying at the Palazzo, but I'll be glad to check out the property when I am in Vegas next month, just not as a overnight guest.
bebop bonnie
Nov 21, 07, 10:59 am
Thanks for all your valubable advise. Think we'll stay put at the Wynn for this trip!
kingalien
Nov 21, 07, 3:54 pm
The Venetian Macao is quite good; we stayed in one of the Rialto Suites recently, and it was an excellent room for Macau. Having said that, I heard the opening was a disaster, with 3 hour lines for check-in and just chaos everywhere. Sadly, the hotel's reputation has suffered tremendously and if you read the reviews on Tripadvisor.com, they are devastating.
Like MikeE said, I would probably wait a few months before staying at the Palazzo, but I'll be glad to check out the property when I am in Vegas next month, just not as a overnight guest.
I'm actually going to Macau next year and was considering staying at Venetian. However, someone posted pics and the rooms do not look any different than the ones in Vegas so I'm not sure I want to stay there the whole time, likely try out other properties.
Like MikeE said, I would probably wait a few months before staying at the Palazzo, but I'll be glad to check out the property when I am in Vegas next month, just not as a overnight guest.
I'm actually going to Macau next year and was considering staying at Venetian. However, someone posted pics and the rooms do not look any different than the ones in Vegas so I'm not sure I want to stay there the whole time, likely try out other properties.
Amanjunkie
Nov 21, 07, 5:10 pm
I'm actually going to Macau next year and was considering staying at Venetian. However, someone posted pics and the rooms do not look any different than the ones in Vegas so I'm not sure I want to stay there the whole time, likely try out other properties.
Yes, the Royale and Bella Suites are identical to the ones in Vegas, but I believe the layout of the Rialto Suites is unique to Macau. They are about 1,830 square feet, which is much larger than the Rialto Suites in Vegas (1,100 square feet). In fact, I believe the largest Venetian suite you can book in Vegas is the Prima Suite and that is 1,500 square feet.
Personally, I thought it was a great room (which by the way, looks nothing like the photo on the official website). Nice foyer when you walk in from the double doors, a substantial living room beyond it with a flat-screen TV and also a four seat dining table a few feet behind the sofa. There's also a nice pantry/bar on the side by the wall with a coffee maker and hot water heater, which was handy since we were traveling with our baby and nanny.
The bedroom itself is entirely separate from the living room, also with double doors, and is well-appointed. The marble bathroom is quite large, and there is a decent-sized closet in between, though not necessarily what I would call a "walk-in".
Overall, it was a very decent room, and one that was much larger than what I expected at a Venetian. The rate was about USD$600 during the weekend, but during weekdays you can get it for about USD$270, which I think is a steal.
If you want to check out some other Macau properties, there is of course the Wynn, which isn't on the Cotai Strip, but closer to the traditional casino area of Macau, right across the street from the Lisboa. The MGM is also opening next month, so that might be worth it to check out.
Some of our friends were staying at the Crown, and that turned out to be a decent property. The location is less than ideal, since there really isn't anything around that neighborhood other than the Crown itself, but the standard rooms were very well-appointed, a bit like junior suites with a small living area, and quite large bathrooms. The decor is very minimalist, with a glass wall between the bathroom and bedroom, and it has a very big modern bathtub. Very much like a boutique hotel with a small lobby and less foot traffic than the larger hotels. Our friends loved it, so the Crown may be worth checking out.
Yes, the Royale and Bella Suites are identical to the ones in Vegas, but I believe the layout of the Rialto Suites is unique to Macau. They are about 1,830 square feet, which is much larger than the Rialto Suites in Vegas (1,100 square feet). In fact, I believe the largest Venetian suite you can book in Vegas is the Prima Suite and that is 1,500 square feet.
Personally, I thought it was a great room (which by the way, looks nothing like the photo on the official website). Nice foyer when you walk in from the double doors, a substantial living room beyond it with a flat-screen TV and also a four seat dining table a few feet behind the sofa. There's also a nice pantry/bar on the side by the wall with a coffee maker and hot water heater, which was handy since we were traveling with our baby and nanny.
The bedroom itself is entirely separate from the living room, also with double doors, and is well-appointed. The marble bathroom is quite large, and there is a decent-sized closet in between, though not necessarily what I would call a "walk-in".
Overall, it was a very decent room, and one that was much larger than what I expected at a Venetian. The rate was about USD$600 during the weekend, but during weekdays you can get it for about USD$270, which I think is a steal.
If you want to check out some other Macau properties, there is of course the Wynn, which isn't on the Cotai Strip, but closer to the traditional casino area of Macau, right across the street from the Lisboa. The MGM is also opening next month, so that might be worth it to check out.
Some of our friends were staying at the Crown, and that turned out to be a decent property. The location is less than ideal, since there really isn't anything around that neighborhood other than the Crown itself, but the standard rooms were very well-appointed, a bit like junior suites with a small living area, and quite large bathrooms. The decor is very minimalist, with a glass wall between the bathroom and bedroom, and it has a very big modern bathtub. Very much like a boutique hotel with a small lobby and less foot traffic than the larger hotels. Our friends loved it, so the Crown may be worth checking out.
kingalien
Nov 21, 07, 7:16 pm
Thanks a bunch Amanjunkie, good info ^.
Kagehitokiri
Nov 21, 07, 10:30 pm
# rooms wise, Venezia is more comparable to Wynn Tower, and Palazzo is more comparable to Wynn Resort.
ijgordon
Nov 25, 07, 12:33 am
I'll be at Palazzo for NYE -- very good rates. My inside source at LVS claims that it will be the "place to be". I don't think he'd send me into a disaster zone...wouldn't be prudent...
Of course I'm not expecting it to be fully operational (I know the mall won't be open and I doubt all the restaurants will be), but as long as we're not dodging forklifts, I think we'll be fine.
Of course I'm not expecting it to be fully operational (I know the mall won't be open and I doubt all the restaurants will be), but as long as we're not dodging forklifts, I think we'll be fine.
mikeef
Nov 28, 07, 7:32 pm
Didn't know whether to put this here or in LV forum, but since this is a gripe about what bills itself as a luxury hotel, I thought I'd drop it in here.
My wife and I booked Dec 20-22 at the new Palazzo Suites in Las Vegas about a week ago. Tonight, we got a call from a rep named David who said that due to "unforeseen construction delays" they would not be opening on time. But they would be happy to offer me a room at the same rate ($199) at the main Venetian hotel and that I should feel okay because all the rooms were redone there. Since David hadn't bothered to apologize (In fact, he made it seem like it would be my privilege to stay at the Venetian instead.), I really didn't feel okay.
I pressed him a little more on the delay and questioned why they didn't know about the delay until three weeks before the opening. He responded by saying that, to make up for the inconvenience, he would give me a guaranteed upgrade, which is a room with a view. I pointed out to him that the Venetian was offering rooms at $189, $10 less than he was going to charge me. Yes, he said, but those rooms don't come with a guaranteed view. Oh, to make up for the inconvenience, they would also throw in priority check-in and a welcome amenity.
By now, I'm getting annoyed since it appears that he has a list of things to give away to keep people happy but that he would only do so as far as I pushed. Maybe a sound bottom-line decision but not a particularly good customer service experience. So I told him that it was ridiculous that they called me three weeks before the opening, canceled my reservation than tried to charge me more at an older hotel. He put me on hold and came back and said he could now drop the unconfirmed view rate to $169. Sorry David.
So Palazzo, congratulations. I understand that construction delays happened, but in an effort to save a few bucks, you annoyed a customer. On the plus side, maybe you'll get a thank you note from my Virtuoso agent, who now has an email waiting for him.
Mike
My wife and I booked Dec 20-22 at the new Palazzo Suites in Las Vegas about a week ago. Tonight, we got a call from a rep named David who said that due to "unforeseen construction delays" they would not be opening on time. But they would be happy to offer me a room at the same rate ($199) at the main Venetian hotel and that I should feel okay because all the rooms were redone there. Since David hadn't bothered to apologize (In fact, he made it seem like it would be my privilege to stay at the Venetian instead.), I really didn't feel okay.
I pressed him a little more on the delay and questioned why they didn't know about the delay until three weeks before the opening. He responded by saying that, to make up for the inconvenience, he would give me a guaranteed upgrade, which is a room with a view. I pointed out to him that the Venetian was offering rooms at $189, $10 less than he was going to charge me. Yes, he said, but those rooms don't come with a guaranteed view. Oh, to make up for the inconvenience, they would also throw in priority check-in and a welcome amenity.
By now, I'm getting annoyed since it appears that he has a list of things to give away to keep people happy but that he would only do so as far as I pushed. Maybe a sound bottom-line decision but not a particularly good customer service experience. So I told him that it was ridiculous that they called me three weeks before the opening, canceled my reservation than tried to charge me more at an older hotel. He put me on hold and came back and said he could now drop the unconfirmed view rate to $169. Sorry David.
So Palazzo, congratulations. I understand that construction delays happened, but in an effort to save a few bucks, you annoyed a customer. On the plus side, maybe you'll get a thank you note from my Virtuoso agent, who now has an email waiting for him.
Mike
Amanjunkie
Nov 28, 07, 8:49 pm
Yes, I would agree to not classify the Venetian as a "luxury hotel". While I've enjoyed the properties in Vegas and Macau, and I know some may argue that it's now a AAA 5 Diamond property, to me it's still too big, too crowded and too impersonal to be really classified as "luxury".
It's a shame that the Palazzo opening has been delayed. I was looking forward to visiting it on my trip next month, not as a hotel guest, but simply for a look-around.
It's a shame that the Palazzo opening has been delayed. I was looking forward to visiting it on my trip next month, not as a hotel guest, but simply for a look-around.
tom911
Nov 28, 07, 8:54 pm
I walked by there yesterday and took some photos. They're linked below in the Travel USA gallery if you want to take a look.
skywalkerLAX
Nov 28, 07, 9:53 pm
The whole Venetian area is a mess with construction right now !
They have big construction sides like a horseshoe around. Let me dig for some photos that I took monday, but Tom posted some too I see.
Also the Wynn is building a second monster... The shops might be world class but I cant judge about the rooms.
I maybe stay there in DEC for a weekend !
They have big construction sides like a horseshoe around. Let me dig for some photos that I took monday, but Tom posted some too I see.
Also the Wynn is building a second monster... The shops might be world class but I cant judge about the rooms.
I maybe stay there in DEC for a weekend !
obscure2k
Nov 28, 07, 10:44 pm
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Luxury Hotels
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Luxury Hotels
Kagehitokiri
Nov 28, 07, 10:59 pm
theres no tower at palazzo is there? and its 3500 rooms? so why go with it instead of venezia which is about 1000 rooms? just curious..
kingalien
Nov 28, 07, 11:20 pm
I tried booking comped rooms at Palazzo about 2 weeks ago for weekend before Christmas. When they said they had nothing available I was suspicious about whether they were going to open in time.
Just checked their website, now has first date of accepting reservations as 12/28/07.
Just checked their website, now has first date of accepting reservations as 12/28/07.
ebayj
Nov 28, 07, 11:23 pm
They just called me tonight. Similar Venetian offer. No thanks - among other things I can't take the perfume stench all over the Venetian. I'll be over at the Bellagio enjoying the fountains instead. Too bad they couldn't make the planned opening at Palazzo - not great PR for them.
kingalien
Nov 28, 07, 11:32 pm
theres no tower at palazzo is there? and its 3500 rooms? so why go with it instead of venezia which is about 1000 rooms? just curious..
The Venezia tower is less popular as it is quite a bit of a hike to get to the casino. However, it has its own reception area and it is quieter on the Venezia side as compared to the Venetian tower notwithstanding any drunkards yelling and slamming doors in the early morning.
The Palazzo will have its own casino area.
The Venezia tower is less popular as it is quite a bit of a hike to get to the casino. However, it has its own reception area and it is quieter on the Venezia side as compared to the Venetian tower notwithstanding any drunkards yelling and slamming doors in the early morning.
The Palazzo will have its own casino area.
kingalien
Nov 28, 07, 11:33 pm
...among other things I can't take the perfume stench all over the Venetian.
You can smell perfume? I smell nothing but smoke before I hit the first double doors. :td:
You can smell perfume? I smell nothing but smoke before I hit the first double doors. :td:
KosraeTV
Nov 29, 07, 3:16 pm
I don't know folks, I got a message from my host a while ago that the "soft opening" would be Dec 26, and the Grand Opening would be Jan 20th. I have rooms reserved for the supposedly official Grand Opening in Jan but was not dumb enough to book anything during their soft opening. Cuz when Venetian opened up originally it was a mess with half the items not even working yet and didn't want to go through that again.
Not sure how things are advertised or promoted to you folks but to me it was all a maybe and soft opening etc... and for that it's buyer be ware if trying to book anything during a "soft opening".
My host is moving to the new Palazzo in a very high position and he's to contact me tomorrow with other details as I will be flying in from Asia for this and he wants to get the dates right and such. So if I hear anything new I'll post it. But I'll tell you what, after seeing the new hotel in Macau... Palazzo won't impress me I bet.
Did they ever figure out the play rules in the casino's, last I heard (a long time ago) they were still trying to figure out the rules about your ratings and such with the different casino's and such.
Anyway's, I'll be there for the supposedly grand opening in Jan 20th if anyone wants to hook up.
Not sure how things are advertised or promoted to you folks but to me it was all a maybe and soft opening etc... and for that it's buyer be ware if trying to book anything during a "soft opening".
My host is moving to the new Palazzo in a very high position and he's to contact me tomorrow with other details as I will be flying in from Asia for this and he wants to get the dates right and such. So if I hear anything new I'll post it. But I'll tell you what, after seeing the new hotel in Macau... Palazzo won't impress me I bet.
Did they ever figure out the play rules in the casino's, last I heard (a long time ago) they were still trying to figure out the rules about your ratings and such with the different casino's and such.
Anyway's, I'll be there for the supposedly grand opening in Jan 20th if anyone wants to hook up.
KosraeTV
Nov 29, 07, 3:27 pm
You can smell perfume? I smell nothing but smoke before I hit the first double doors. :td:
This will be my first trip back since stopping smoking :(:( I am really wondering how it will be.
This will be my first trip back since stopping smoking :(:( I am really wondering how it will be.
Doppy
Nov 29, 07, 4:04 pm
Seems like pretty lousy treatment of the OP. When you're inconveniencing a customer, you should always offer an apology and some kind of compensation at the start, not only if people complain.
No apology and a downgrade = unacceptable.
No apology and a downgrade = unacceptable.
busy
Nov 29, 07, 5:09 pm
I hear very reliably that opening festivities will be the weekend of Jan. 17, (the mall and everything else).
kingalien
Nov 29, 07, 5:39 pm
Anyway's, I'll be there for the supposedly grand opening in Jan 20th if anyone wants to hook up.
Good to hear from you KosraeTV, have a great time. Too bad you couldn't make it to CO DO III.
Good to hear from you KosraeTV, have a great time. Too bad you couldn't make it to CO DO III.
KosraeTV
Nov 29, 07, 6:40 pm
Good to hear from you KosraeTV, have a great time. Too bad you couldn't make it to CO DO III.
Yeah I was stuck in Bangkok during it, not sure if I should :( or :D about missing the DO III as I was having a good time in Bangkok. But I did miss seeing the folks there.
Was hoping you'd be swinging out to LV during the opening too, sounds like you can't make it. I'll be flying in from Thailand for it. You should take a trip to the Macau properties, talk about putting LV to shame... Holy S***, I love that place. But talk about aggressive gamblers, they are just crazy.
I hear very reliably that opening festivities will be the weekend of Jan. 17, (the mall and everything else).
You could be right, as I said my old host, the director of all the hosts, is now some big wig over at the new hotel and he will call me tomorrow with an update as I am flying in from half way around the world he wants to clarify a few items before we confirm the dates. And since it is their dime I'm assuming they'll get it right with my reservations. I'll post what I hear if it is anything unusual. But our last talk a few days ago had the opening ceremony's set at the 20th which is a Sunday if I'm not mistaken.
The 17th is a Thur and I can see how everything will be open, but I have a hard time picturing the ribbon's being cut and dedications done on Thur. Currently they have me arriving on Friday with the dedication on Sunday. Maybe that is the soft opening on the 17th or the goal for everything to be ready by. I dunno, I'm usually wrong on many things and I've spent my last 3/4 of the year in Macau and Manila without going back to Vegas.
EDIT: Just reread your post, and yeah you are hearing what I am hearing too, the opening will be the 20th, which is the weekend of the 17th which I assume is what you mean. Everything should be up and running by the 17th with the ribbon cutting and dedication to be done on Sunday the 20th is what I hear.
Yeah I was stuck in Bangkok during it, not sure if I should :( or :D about missing the DO III as I was having a good time in Bangkok. But I did miss seeing the folks there.
Was hoping you'd be swinging out to LV during the opening too, sounds like you can't make it. I'll be flying in from Thailand for it. You should take a trip to the Macau properties, talk about putting LV to shame... Holy S***, I love that place. But talk about aggressive gamblers, they are just crazy.
I hear very reliably that opening festivities will be the weekend of Jan. 17, (the mall and everything else).
You could be right, as I said my old host, the director of all the hosts, is now some big wig over at the new hotel and he will call me tomorrow with an update as I am flying in from half way around the world he wants to clarify a few items before we confirm the dates. And since it is their dime I'm assuming they'll get it right with my reservations. I'll post what I hear if it is anything unusual. But our last talk a few days ago had the opening ceremony's set at the 20th which is a Sunday if I'm not mistaken.
The 17th is a Thur and I can see how everything will be open, but I have a hard time picturing the ribbon's being cut and dedications done on Thur. Currently they have me arriving on Friday with the dedication on Sunday. Maybe that is the soft opening on the 17th or the goal for everything to be ready by. I dunno, I'm usually wrong on many things and I've spent my last 3/4 of the year in Macau and Manila without going back to Vegas.
EDIT: Just reread your post, and yeah you are hearing what I am hearing too, the opening will be the 20th, which is the weekend of the 17th which I assume is what you mean. Everything should be up and running by the 17th with the ribbon cutting and dedication to be done on Sunday the 20th is what I hear.
kingalien
Nov 29, 07, 8:25 pm
Yeah I was stuck in Bangkok during it, not sure if I should :( or :D about missing the DO III as I was having a good time in Bangkok. But I did miss seeing the folks there.
Was hoping you'd be swinging out to LV during the opening too, sounds like you can't make it. I'll be flying in from Thailand for it. You should take a trip to the Macau properties, talk about putting LV to shame... Holy S***, I love that place. But talk about aggressive gamblers, they are just crazy.
Hmmm, let me see, Bangkok or Houston swapping stories...methinks you got the better deal ;). Unlikely I'll be there for the Palazzo opening, planning on a vacation in early Feb so probably can't take any time off previous to that even if it is over a weekend.
Matter of fact, I will be going to Macau. Will be staying at Wynn. Was going to go with Venetian but saw posts and pics that rooms were essentially the same so wanted to try something different.
Was hoping you'd be swinging out to LV during the opening too, sounds like you can't make it. I'll be flying in from Thailand for it. You should take a trip to the Macau properties, talk about putting LV to shame... Holy S***, I love that place. But talk about aggressive gamblers, they are just crazy.
Hmmm, let me see, Bangkok or Houston swapping stories...methinks you got the better deal ;). Unlikely I'll be there for the Palazzo opening, planning on a vacation in early Feb so probably can't take any time off previous to that even if it is over a weekend.
Matter of fact, I will be going to Macau. Will be staying at Wynn. Was going to go with Venetian but saw posts and pics that rooms were essentially the same so wanted to try something different.
baccarat_king
Nov 29, 07, 8:50 pm
Matter of fact, I will be going to Macau. Will be staying at Wynn.
When? I really desire a trip to Macau --- but, really don't want to do it solo. Though, I have a longish trip to the middle east @ the end of December --- so, not sure when I'll be able to allocate the time.
When? I really desire a trip to Macau --- but, really don't want to do it solo. Though, I have a longish trip to the middle east @ the end of December --- so, not sure when I'll be able to allocate the time.
rosspanics
Nov 29, 07, 8:56 pm
Walking by the Palazzo a few weeks ago, I knew there was no way they'd be open before Christmas!
kingalien
Nov 29, 07, 9:30 pm
When? I really desire a trip to Macau --- but, really don't want to do it solo. Though, I have a longish trip to the middle east @ the end of December --- so, not sure when I'll be able to allocate the time.
Second weekend of Feb. I'll be traveling with some non-gamblers so will be bit boring for me :p.
Second weekend of Feb. I'll be traveling with some non-gamblers so will be bit boring for me :p.
KosraeTV
Nov 29, 07, 11:16 pm
Hmmm, let me see, Bangkok or Houston swapping stories...methinks you got the better deal ;). ... Matter of fact, I will be going to Macau. Will be staying at Wynn. Was going to go with Venetian but saw posts and pics that rooms were essentially the same so wanted to try something different.
I'm not sure, I've been in Bangkok five times since August and going back Jan 5th for two more weeks or so. Venetian is close and similar... but it is much bigger. Wynn is nice, I spent some time there but honestly I'm not a Wynn person.
When? I really desire a trip to Macau --- but, really don't want to do it solo... so, not sure when I'll be able to allocate the time.
PM me, let me know when you are thinking about going if you can't do Feb. I'm usually up for a trip and generally am in the area.
Second weekend of Feb. I'll be traveling with some non-gamblers so will be bit boring for me :p.
I might be in the neighborhood during this time. I am spending two weeks in Bangkok then to LV for the opening then to Korea and Shanghai. So I might be able to swing to GZ and over to Macau.
Let me know. Macau, I just really enjoy. I haven't strayed much father then that lately.
I'm not sure, I've been in Bangkok five times since August and going back Jan 5th for two more weeks or so. Venetian is close and similar... but it is much bigger. Wynn is nice, I spent some time there but honestly I'm not a Wynn person.
When? I really desire a trip to Macau --- but, really don't want to do it solo... so, not sure when I'll be able to allocate the time.
PM me, let me know when you are thinking about going if you can't do Feb. I'm usually up for a trip and generally am in the area.
Second weekend of Feb. I'll be traveling with some non-gamblers so will be bit boring for me :p.
I might be in the neighborhood during this time. I am spending two weeks in Bangkok then to LV for the opening then to Korea and Shanghai. So I might be able to swing to GZ and over to Macau.
Let me know. Macau, I just really enjoy. I haven't strayed much father then that lately.
busy
Nov 30, 07, 10:59 am
Soft opening will actually be earlier and from what I have heard (media releases) is that festivities will be going on throughout the weekend with stores and different outlets coming online "officially" the 17th and multiple events through the weekend. They have not finalized/released all the events as of yet from what I was told (but I'm sure your host has a good/better grasp of what they are planning).
opus17
Nov 30, 07, 4:32 pm
I received (this week) an open invitation starting around January 3.
KosraeTV
Nov 30, 07, 4:49 pm
Soft opening will actually be earlier and from what I have heard (media releases) is that festivities will be going on throughout the weekend with stores and different outlets coming online "officially" the 17th and multiple events through the weekend. They have not finalized/released all the events as of yet from what I was told (but I'm sure your host has a good/better grasp of what they are planning).
Nah.. you probably have a better understanding then I do as I'm across the globe. I just got off the phone with the VP of marketing and he said the official grand opening ceremony will be the weekend of 19 and 20th. They have me flying in from Bangkok and landing the 18th for this thing. And per him you are right, they have NO idea what the official ceremony will be like yet, nor when it will actually be but it will be on that weekend time, and most likely on Sunday the 20th. Everything is TBD....
Atleast it will give me 35 K EQM's on CO right off the bat, not a bad way to start the year.
I received (this week) an open invitation starting around January 3.
Mine said Jan 5th :confused: And I'm surprised my mail is as fast as yours is.
Nah.. you probably have a better understanding then I do as I'm across the globe. I just got off the phone with the VP of marketing and he said the official grand opening ceremony will be the weekend of 19 and 20th. They have me flying in from Bangkok and landing the 18th for this thing. And per him you are right, they have NO idea what the official ceremony will be like yet, nor when it will actually be but it will be on that weekend time, and most likely on Sunday the 20th. Everything is TBD....
Atleast it will give me 35 K EQM's on CO right off the bat, not a bad way to start the year.
I received (this week) an open invitation starting around January 3.
Mine said Jan 5th :confused: And I'm surprised my mail is as fast as yours is.
Doppy
Nov 30, 07, 5:14 pm
Atleast it will give me 35 K EQM's on CO right off the bat, not a bad way to start the year.
Wow, that must be some crazy routing you've got. BKK to LAS is only 16k miles, roundtrip.
Wow, that must be some crazy routing you've got. BKK to LAS is only 16k miles, roundtrip.
kingalien
Nov 30, 07, 5:24 pm
I might be in the neighborhood during this time. I am spending two weeks in Bangkok then to LV for the opening then to Korea and Shanghai. So I might be able to swing to GZ and over to Macau.
Let me know. Macau, I just really enjoy. I haven't strayed much father then that lately.
Ya got it, I'll PM when the time nears and if everything works out with our itinerary.
Let me know. Macau, I just really enjoy. I haven't strayed much father then that lately.
Ya got it, I'll PM when the time nears and if everything works out with our itinerary.
kingalien
Nov 30, 07, 5:27 pm
Atleast it will give me 35 K EQM's on CO right off the bat, not a bad way to start the year.
That's pretty good KosraeTV, a comped mileage run, huh? That is some perk :cool:.
For my February trip my relatives will fly from LAX while I go CO to EWR then to HKG :p.
That's pretty good KosraeTV, a comped mileage run, huh? That is some perk :cool:.
For my February trip my relatives will fly from LAX while I go CO to EWR then to HKG :p.
KosraeTV
Nov 30, 07, 5:42 pm
That's pretty good KosraeTV, a comped mileage run, huh? That is some perk :cool:.
For my February trip my relatives will fly from LAX while I go CO to EWR then to HKG :p.
Now that's what I like, you're a lot like me, take the long route while the family goes direct.
Yeah I sneaked in a pretty good MR on this one but it's long, like over a month and a half total time away from home, from home to asia back to LAS back to asia back to home. I had a $$ limit and I had items I had to do in asia and it just worked out that I had that weekend free that I could run away.
KSA - GUM - Manila - BKK
BKK - Tokyo - IAH - LAS
LAS - ICN
ICN into China to Hong Kong
Hong Kong to BKK
BKK to Tokyo to GUM to KSA
That's how it looks right now. With some little connectors I will be over 35 EQM with the 150% bonus as it is all BF. And I have some stop overs in a few of the places.
For my February trip my relatives will fly from LAX while I go CO to EWR then to HKG :p.
Now that's what I like, you're a lot like me, take the long route while the family goes direct.
Yeah I sneaked in a pretty good MR on this one but it's long, like over a month and a half total time away from home, from home to asia back to LAS back to asia back to home. I had a $$ limit and I had items I had to do in asia and it just worked out that I had that weekend free that I could run away.
KSA - GUM - Manila - BKK
BKK - Tokyo - IAH - LAS
LAS - ICN
ICN into China to Hong Kong
Hong Kong to BKK
BKK to Tokyo to GUM to KSA
That's how it looks right now. With some little connectors I will be over 35 EQM with the 150% bonus as it is all BF. And I have some stop overs in a few of the places.
opus17
Nov 30, 07, 5:54 pm
Mine said Jan 5th :confused: And I'm surprised my mail is as fast as yours is.
I don't remember the exact date (it could be the 5th)-- I just got back from a trip that started November 23 and attacked a pile of mail. The offer could have arrived anytime in that period.
(just found it -- it was the 5th).
I don't remember the exact date (it could be the 5th)-- I just got back from a trip that started November 23 and attacked a pile of mail. The offer could have arrived anytime in that period.
(just found it -- it was the 5th).
kingalien
Nov 30, 07, 6:05 pm
Yeah I sneaked in a pretty good MR on this one but it's long, like over a month and a half total time away from home, from home to asia back to LAS back to asia back to home. I had a $$ limit and I had items I had to do in asia and it just worked out that I had that weekend free that I could run away.
KSA - GUM - Manila - BKK
BKK - Tokyo - IAH - LAS
LAS - ICN
ICN into China to Hong Kong
Hong Kong to BKK
BKK to Tokyo to GUM to KSA
That's how it looks right now. With some little connectors I will be over 35 EQM with the 150% bonus as it is all BF. And I have some stop overs in a few of the places.
^^ Went to ICN for first time earlier this year. Loved the eye candy there, started with the Asiana FAs ;).
KSA - GUM - Manila - BKK
BKK - Tokyo - IAH - LAS
LAS - ICN
ICN into China to Hong Kong
Hong Kong to BKK
BKK to Tokyo to GUM to KSA
That's how it looks right now. With some little connectors I will be over 35 EQM with the 150% bonus as it is all BF. And I have some stop overs in a few of the places.
^^ Went to ICN for first time earlier this year. Loved the eye candy there, started with the Asiana FAs ;).
KosraeTV
Nov 30, 07, 6:10 pm
^^ Went to ICN for first time earlier this year. Loved the eye candy there, started with the Asiana FAs ;).
Try Thai Airline... and BKK is much better then ICN IMHO.
Try Thai Airline... and BKK is much better then ICN IMHO.
KosraeTV
Nov 30, 07, 7:13 pm
My scretary just got this about the opening...
"We still haven't officially stated the grand opening date. They have several acts booked but haven't announced them and what dates their performing. With XXXXX arriving on the 18th he should be in good shape to attend most of the parties. We're going to have several events and not all the players will be invited to all of them. "
So it looks like events could start the 17th and go through the 20th but many will be via invitation only.
"We still haven't officially stated the grand opening date. They have several acts booked but haven't announced them and what dates their performing. With XXXXX arriving on the 18th he should be in good shape to attend most of the parties. We're going to have several events and not all the players will be invited to all of them. "
So it looks like events could start the 17th and go through the 20th but many will be via invitation only.
ijgordon
Nov 30, 07, 8:44 pm
Matter of fact, I will be going to Macau. Will be staying at Wynn. Was going to go with Venetian but saw posts and pics that rooms were essentially the same so wanted to try something different.News flash for you -- the Wynn Macau is substantially similar to the Wynn Las Vegas (rooms and everything else), so if you're really looking to try something different, you might consider Galaxy Starworld or MGM Grand or even Grand Lisboa (not sure when/if hotel is open).
I don't know folks, I got a message from my host a while ago that the "soft opening" would be Dec 26, and the Grand Opening would be Jan 20th. The "original" soft opening was in fact planned for December 20th. Obviously it has been delayed.
I hear very reliably that opening festivities will be the weekend of Jan. 17, (the mall and everything else).Yes, there are actually a couple of recent press releases on this topic, you should be able to get them on the Las Vegas Sands website.
I don't know folks, I got a message from my host a while ago that the "soft opening" would be Dec 26, and the Grand Opening would be Jan 20th. The "original" soft opening was in fact planned for December 20th. Obviously it has been delayed.
I hear very reliably that opening festivities will be the weekend of Jan. 17, (the mall and everything else).Yes, there are actually a couple of recent press releases on this topic, you should be able to get them on the Las Vegas Sands website.
mbstone
Dec 31, 07, 8:01 pm
Last night (12-30) saw the opening of the Palazzo, the Venetian expansion casino to the north of the Venetian.
I had heard they were going to open the casino at 7:00 PM; I arrived at the entrance about ten minutes before that, where I encountered a small crowd. I was interviewed by a local TV station and had the opportunity to wish my wife a happy birthday (none of my remarks made the 11:00 news). Casino staff applauded the grand-opening visitors. I had the dubious honor of being the first to roll the dice there.
The Palazzo looks about the same as any newish Strip casino, think Bellagio or Wynn with fewer red colors in the decor. There is no theme as such, no pirates or Roman gladiators. The casino reminded me of an Atlantic City casino in that it is basically a football-field sized room with tables from one end to the other. The hotel and most restaurants appeared to be not open yet, with the exception of a Grand Lux Cafe (not another one!) off the casino floor. There is signage for the 'Jersey Boys Theater.' The casino is connected to the Venetian on the ground floor and on the second floor by tunnels (e.g. to the north of Emeril's Delmonico).
While the place was pleasant enough, there is no 'unique selling proposition' that I could see, and if you wind up staying at the Palazzo, it is probably because they were sold out at the Venetian. Maybe the hotel and shopping mall will prove noteworthy once they open.
Trivia: If you stand smack dab in the center of the casino, under the chandelier, and say something in a normal tone of voice, there is an echo. Echo!!
I had heard they were going to open the casino at 7:00 PM; I arrived at the entrance about ten minutes before that, where I encountered a small crowd. I was interviewed by a local TV station and had the opportunity to wish my wife a happy birthday (none of my remarks made the 11:00 news). Casino staff applauded the grand-opening visitors. I had the dubious honor of being the first to roll the dice there.
The Palazzo looks about the same as any newish Strip casino, think Bellagio or Wynn with fewer red colors in the decor. There is no theme as such, no pirates or Roman gladiators. The casino reminded me of an Atlantic City casino in that it is basically a football-field sized room with tables from one end to the other. The hotel and most restaurants appeared to be not open yet, with the exception of a Grand Lux Cafe (not another one!) off the casino floor. There is signage for the 'Jersey Boys Theater.' The casino is connected to the Venetian on the ground floor and on the second floor by tunnels (e.g. to the north of Emeril's Delmonico).
While the place was pleasant enough, there is no 'unique selling proposition' that I could see, and if you wind up staying at the Palazzo, it is probably because they were sold out at the Venetian. Maybe the hotel and shopping mall will prove noteworthy once they open.
Trivia: If you stand smack dab in the center of the casino, under the chandelier, and say something in a normal tone of voice, there is an echo. Echo!!
kingalien
Dec 31, 07, 10:52 pm
Thanks mbstone, can't wait to see it though don't see any opening in my calendar for at least a couple of months. Not surprised they opened another Grand Lux, the original earns big bucks.
ijgordon
Jan 3, 08, 9:42 pm
While the place was pleasant enough, there is no 'unique selling proposition' that I could see, and if you wind up staying at the Palazzo, it is probably because they were sold out at the Venetian.Well, for you and me, there isn't really supposed to be a "unique selling proposition." For whales, I believe they really upped the quality/quantity of high roller suites/villas vs. what the Venetian offers. For convention attendees at the Sand Expo Center - it means that 3000 more of them can stay on-site and generate profits for LVS, instead of having them booked at Mirage/TI and MGM making the $.
ebayj
Jan 12, 08, 11:55 pm
Has anyone determined if the Palazzo has the same awful perfume stench piped throughout the casino and common areas like the Venetian? I'm hoping and praying not. It is a big deal for anyone with any form of environmental illness or scent sensitivity.
kingalien
Jan 13, 08, 1:28 am
Has anyone determined if the Palazzo has the same awful perfume stench piped throughout the casino and common areas like the Venetian? I'm hoping and praying not. It is a big deal for anyone with any form of environmental illness or scent sensitivity.
I don't think it will take long before the new scent is replaced with the Venetian fragrance :p.
I don't think it will take long before the new scent is replaced with the Venetian fragrance :p.
mbstone
Jan 13, 08, 7:21 pm
One thing I also noticed about the Palazzo is there is lots of flat marble area around the various fountains where one might actually sit down! It is against the Moral Code of Casino Operators to offer people anyplace to sit down that isn't a bar or slot machine (there is certainly no such place at the Venetian).
Expect them to fix this error quickly, perhaps with lots of ugly metal spikes....
Expect them to fix this error quickly, perhaps with lots of ugly metal spikes....
kingalien
Jan 14, 08, 12:17 am
Expect them to fix this error quickly, perhaps with lots of ugly metal spikes....
Actually some might find this pleasurable...:eek: :p.
Actually some might find this pleasurable...:eek: :p.
UAfan
Jan 14, 08, 9:58 pm
Made one stop in the Palazzo recently. Found it, well, kinda boring. Very well lit, very over air conditioned, and just generally awful sterile. A casino for conventioneers in between meetings is the impression I got. Wasn't very busy either, while the Venetian was hopping with $15 min craps tables, the Palazzo could barely get action going at $10. Maybe things will improve when they finish the place up.
An aside, anyone try the Mario Batali restaurant yet? Interesting looking menu...
An aside, anyone try the Mario Batali restaurant yet? Interesting looking menu...
ijgordon
Jan 19, 08, 2:30 am
Judging from everyone I've spoken to here, there really seems to be a mixed opinion. Some find it blah, but some (like myself) enjoy the understated elegance, good sight lines, high ceilings and easy layout. I like it much better than the Venetian casino.
As for the hotel, I just can't say much good about it. Maybe still some ramping up issues, but (1) I've had to have someone come fix the room safe twice (it won't lock) -- and each time I had to wait 45 minutes. And I can swear that when I left the room this evening it was locked and when I returned it was open (and broken). Nothing missing fortunately. (2) No entrance to Canyon Ranch Spa/fitness center, you have to walk all the way through the Palazzo and Venetian casinos to the entrance over there. I guess this will be fixed in a few weeks when the spa expansion opens. (3) I left my room at 8am and when I got back at 2:30 the room hadn't been made up. (4) There are NO spare outlets by the desk. All 4 outlets are being used (phone, lamp, internet hub, fax/printer). THIS IS SUPPOSED TO BE A CONVENTION HOTEL. F-ing retarded. (5) A lot of the shops & restaurants still aren't open and probably won't be for another month or two.
I had some similar service issues at Venetian over New Year's. I doubt I'll be staying at either property again...
As for the hotel, I just can't say much good about it. Maybe still some ramping up issues, but (1) I've had to have someone come fix the room safe twice (it won't lock) -- and each time I had to wait 45 minutes. And I can swear that when I left the room this evening it was locked and when I returned it was open (and broken). Nothing missing fortunately. (2) No entrance to Canyon Ranch Spa/fitness center, you have to walk all the way through the Palazzo and Venetian casinos to the entrance over there. I guess this will be fixed in a few weeks when the spa expansion opens. (3) I left my room at 8am and when I got back at 2:30 the room hadn't been made up. (4) There are NO spare outlets by the desk. All 4 outlets are being used (phone, lamp, internet hub, fax/printer). THIS IS SUPPOSED TO BE A CONVENTION HOTEL. F-ing retarded. (5) A lot of the shops & restaurants still aren't open and probably won't be for another month or two.
I had some similar service issues at Venetian over New Year's. I doubt I'll be staying at either property again...
KosraeTV
Jan 19, 08, 6:47 am
Judging from everyone I've spoken to here, there really seems to be a mixed opinion. Some find it blah, but some (like myself) enjoy the understated elegance, good sight lines, high ceilings and easy layout. I like it much better than the Venetian casino.
As for the hotel, I just can't say much good about it. Maybe still some ramping up issues, but (1) I've had to have someone come fix the room safe twice (it won't lock) -- and each time I had to wait 45 minutes. And I can swear that when I left the room this evening it was locked and when I returned it was open (and broken). Nothing missing fortunately. (4) There are NO spare outlets by the desk. All 4 outlets are being used (phone, lamp, internet hub, fax/printer). THIS IS SUPPOSED TO BE A CONVENTION HOTEL. F-ing retarded. (5) A lot of the shops & restaurants still aren't open and probably won't be for another month or two.
I had some similar service issues at Venetian over New Year's. I doubt I'll be staying at either property again...
Got in last night after travelling for 30 hours so my mental state was not the best.
I had to switch rooms as the room I had not one of the phones or any of the lines would work. So I had to wait and move rooms. I am not sure I like the L shape couch in the Palazo that much and a lot of the items do not work right yet like the doors to my mini bar do not stay shut. I agree that there are NO OUTLETS at the table, what a PITA. The clock, OK folks I'm no genius but I can usually find out how to progam a clock and this one here neither myself, the bell boy, or the chamber maid can figure out how to change the time as the time is off. We can program the alarm but not change the time that is set. As far as the gambling goes, I'm not sure I like the feel of this casino, the layout. It just feels strange, not used to it plus got no action last night on the tables either. If I wasn't so tired I was going to go back to Venetian last night but after switching rooms said for get it. I'll of course try it out again today :p
Also, maybe it was the neighbors or such, but folks going into another room, sounds exactly like they are entering my room, so maybe the walls are thin or I'm in a bad location or my neighbors are loud but I noticed it three times and I'm not sensitive to noise, sounds exactly like they are opening my door and entering my room.
Now I gotta go check the safe as you made me paranoid. :p But on a positive note, the VIP Lounge and staff are still top notch. Very helpful in arranging items. For me the host makes all the difference and I have not had a good host at Bellagio or Wynn yet. Hopefully it is just the opening bugs that need to get worked out.
As for the hotel, I just can't say much good about it. Maybe still some ramping up issues, but (1) I've had to have someone come fix the room safe twice (it won't lock) -- and each time I had to wait 45 minutes. And I can swear that when I left the room this evening it was locked and when I returned it was open (and broken). Nothing missing fortunately. (4) There are NO spare outlets by the desk. All 4 outlets are being used (phone, lamp, internet hub, fax/printer). THIS IS SUPPOSED TO BE A CONVENTION HOTEL. F-ing retarded. (5) A lot of the shops & restaurants still aren't open and probably won't be for another month or two.
I had some similar service issues at Venetian over New Year's. I doubt I'll be staying at either property again...
Got in last night after travelling for 30 hours so my mental state was not the best.
I had to switch rooms as the room I had not one of the phones or any of the lines would work. So I had to wait and move rooms. I am not sure I like the L shape couch in the Palazo that much and a lot of the items do not work right yet like the doors to my mini bar do not stay shut. I agree that there are NO OUTLETS at the table, what a PITA. The clock, OK folks I'm no genius but I can usually find out how to progam a clock and this one here neither myself, the bell boy, or the chamber maid can figure out how to change the time as the time is off. We can program the alarm but not change the time that is set. As far as the gambling goes, I'm not sure I like the feel of this casino, the layout. It just feels strange, not used to it plus got no action last night on the tables either. If I wasn't so tired I was going to go back to Venetian last night but after switching rooms said for get it. I'll of course try it out again today :p
Also, maybe it was the neighbors or such, but folks going into another room, sounds exactly like they are entering my room, so maybe the walls are thin or I'm in a bad location or my neighbors are loud but I noticed it three times and I'm not sensitive to noise, sounds exactly like they are opening my door and entering my room.
Now I gotta go check the safe as you made me paranoid. :p But on a positive note, the VIP Lounge and staff are still top notch. Very helpful in arranging items. For me the host makes all the difference and I have not had a good host at Bellagio or Wynn yet. Hopefully it is just the opening bugs that need to get worked out.
pompomad
Jan 22, 08, 12:29 am
Please help.....
My parents and I will go to Las Vegas this Feb. I booked Palazzo bella already--very pricy, I must say-- 720 fts with 2 queen beds, TV everywhere in the suites. (My parents aint big fan of Plasma TV though, they are v old fashion )
However, I got a coupon last night. It is Wynn, with the coupon code I can save about 600 dollar (for 5 night in total). It is standard resort room (640 fts) with 2 double beds. No living room though.
I have never stayed in Wynn or Palazzo before. Palazzo looks so beautiful and it's brand new. Wynn is new as well and we can do a lot with that 600 dollars ! I am not sure double bed comfy enough for my parents though,:( they are very picky.
Which is better option for us? Wynn or Palazzo?
Thanks in advance for any suggestion!
My parents and I will go to Las Vegas this Feb. I booked Palazzo bella already--very pricy, I must say-- 720 fts with 2 queen beds, TV everywhere in the suites. (My parents aint big fan of Plasma TV though, they are v old fashion )
However, I got a coupon last night. It is Wynn, with the coupon code I can save about 600 dollar (for 5 night in total). It is standard resort room (640 fts) with 2 double beds. No living room though.
I have never stayed in Wynn or Palazzo before. Palazzo looks so beautiful and it's brand new. Wynn is new as well and we can do a lot with that 600 dollars ! I am not sure double bed comfy enough for my parents though,:( they are very picky.
Which is better option for us? Wynn or Palazzo?
Thanks in advance for any suggestion!
kingalien
Jan 22, 08, 1:02 am
Please help.....
My parents and I will go to Las Vegas this Feb. I booked Palazzo bella already--very pricy, I must say-- 720 fts with 2 queen beds, TV everywhere in the suites. (My parents aint big fan of Plasma TV though, they are v old fashion )
However, I got a coupon last night. It is Wynn, with the coupon code I can save about 600 dollar (for 5 night in total). It is standard resort room (640 fts) with 2 double beds. No living room though.
I have never stayed in Wynn or Palazzo before. Palazzo looks so beautiful and it's brand new. Wynn is new as well and we can do a lot with that 600 dollars ! I am not sure double bed comfy enough for my parents though,:( they are very picky.
Which is better option for us? Wynn or Palazzo?
Thanks in advance for any suggestion!
Welcome to FlyerTalk pompomad. Looks like Palazzo is still ironing out opening day kinks and $600 can get you at least a nice show and dinner. Unless you want a large room, the Wynn is just as elegant and would be my choice for the price difference.
My parents and I will go to Las Vegas this Feb. I booked Palazzo bella already--very pricy, I must say-- 720 fts with 2 queen beds, TV everywhere in the suites. (My parents aint big fan of Plasma TV though, they are v old fashion )
However, I got a coupon last night. It is Wynn, with the coupon code I can save about 600 dollar (for 5 night in total). It is standard resort room (640 fts) with 2 double beds. No living room though.
I have never stayed in Wynn or Palazzo before. Palazzo looks so beautiful and it's brand new. Wynn is new as well and we can do a lot with that 600 dollars ! I am not sure double bed comfy enough for my parents though,:( they are very picky.
Which is better option for us? Wynn or Palazzo?
Thanks in advance for any suggestion!
Welcome to FlyerTalk pompomad. Looks like Palazzo is still ironing out opening day kinks and $600 can get you at least a nice show and dinner. Unless you want a large room, the Wynn is just as elegant and would be my choice for the price difference.
ijgordon
Jan 22, 08, 10:13 pm
The clock, OK folks I'm no genius but I can usually find out how to progam a clock and this one here neither myself, the bell boy, or the chamber maid can figure out how to change the time as the time is off. We can program the alarm but not change the time that is set.
That is sooo funny you mention that. I had this same exact problem a few weeks ago, but actually at the Venetian. The engineer that came to fix the safe couldn't figure it out either! Well, he did after literally 15 minutes.
I've really soured on the hotel operations at Venetian/Palazzo. :td:
That is sooo funny you mention that. I had this same exact problem a few weeks ago, but actually at the Venetian. The engineer that came to fix the safe couldn't figure it out either! Well, he did after literally 15 minutes.
I've really soured on the hotel operations at Venetian/Palazzo. :td:
marcvh
Jan 22, 08, 11:08 pm
That is sooo funny you mention that. I had this same exact problem a few weeks ago, but actually at the Venetian. The engineer that came to fix the safe couldn't figure it out either! Well, he did after literally 15 minutes.
I've really soured on the hotel operations at Venetian/Palazzo. :td:
That may explain the problems we had. The (unoccupied) room next door had an alarm set for something like midnight, so every time we got back to the room for the evening it was beeping. We called security, who did eventually send someone up and turn it off (I guess) but the same thing happened again every night. Apparently they couldn't figure out how to properly turn it off (or didn't care.)
I liked a lot of things about the property, but it did seem like virtually every Venetian employee we talked to had a very deer-in-the-headlights reaction to what seemed like very routine requests.
I've really soured on the hotel operations at Venetian/Palazzo. :td:
That may explain the problems we had. The (unoccupied) room next door had an alarm set for something like midnight, so every time we got back to the room for the evening it was beeping. We called security, who did eventually send someone up and turn it off (I guess) but the same thing happened again every night. Apparently they couldn't figure out how to properly turn it off (or didn't care.)
I liked a lot of things about the property, but it did seem like virtually every Venetian employee we talked to had a very deer-in-the-headlights reaction to what seemed like very routine requests.
WBurcham
Jan 22, 08, 11:13 pm
Thanks mbstone, can't wait to see it though don't see any opening in my calendar for at least a couple of months. Not surprised they opened another Grand Lux, the original earns big bucks.
You have no idea ;-)
There's a reason that Cheesecake is using Grand Lux as their growth concept.
You have no idea ;-)
There's a reason that Cheesecake is using Grand Lux as their growth concept.
hedoman
Jan 24, 08, 1:06 am
If you're staying in a 4 or 5 star (whatever the Venetian might be) do you expect made in China bathroom amenities? Soap, shampoo, etc. That the furniture is cheapo product from China is not a big surprise. But the soap?
I've had more problems with the AOMNI brand flat screen TV in the past three hours than all hotel room televisions the past ten years. It did provide for a nice conversation with the maintenance man.
I've had more problems with the AOMNI brand flat screen TV in the past three hours than all hotel room televisions the past ten years. It did provide for a nice conversation with the maintenance man.
ijgordon
Jan 24, 08, 10:12 pm
You have no idea ;-)
There's a reason that Cheesecake is using Grand Lux as their growth concept.Actually the one at Venetian grosses about $25m a year, IIRC. Far more than any of the other Grand Luxes (or Cheesecakes), in part due to its 24 hour operation.
And the real reason they're using GL as their growth concept is because many of the Cheesecake Factory leases have radius restrictions, so they can't put another one within X miles. That was why they created Grand Lux in the first place for the Venetian - there's already a Cheesecake at the Forum Shops and the Venetian was too close.
Obviously with Las Vegas Sands as the landlord for both, they're perfectly ok with one at Venetian and one at Palazzo... :)
There's a reason that Cheesecake is using Grand Lux as their growth concept.Actually the one at Venetian grosses about $25m a year, IIRC. Far more than any of the other Grand Luxes (or Cheesecakes), in part due to its 24 hour operation.
And the real reason they're using GL as their growth concept is because many of the Cheesecake Factory leases have radius restrictions, so they can't put another one within X miles. That was why they created Grand Lux in the first place for the Venetian - there's already a Cheesecake at the Forum Shops and the Venetian was too close.
Obviously with Las Vegas Sands as the landlord for both, they're perfectly ok with one at Venetian and one at Palazzo... :)
opus17
Jan 24, 08, 10:37 pm
Actually the one at Venetian grosses about $25m a year, IIRC. Far more than any of the other Grand Luxes (or Cheesecakes), in part due to its 24 hour operation.
And the real reason they're using GL as their growth concept is because many of the Cheesecake Factory leases have radius restrictions, so they can't put another one within X miles. That was why they created Grand Lux in the first place for the Venetian - there's already a Cheesecake at the Forum Shops and the Venetian was too close.
Obviously with Las Vegas Sands as the landlord for both, they're perfectly ok with one at Venetian and one at Palazzo... :)
Years ago, when we first went to the GL in the Venetian, the waiter proudly announced to us that the restaurant was run by the same people as who ran the Cheesecake Factory.
Like we supposed to be impressed.
I avoid the place as much as possible. And I have a permanent line pass.
And the real reason they're using GL as their growth concept is because many of the Cheesecake Factory leases have radius restrictions, so they can't put another one within X miles. That was why they created Grand Lux in the first place for the Venetian - there's already a Cheesecake at the Forum Shops and the Venetian was too close.
Obviously with Las Vegas Sands as the landlord for both, they're perfectly ok with one at Venetian and one at Palazzo... :)
Years ago, when we first went to the GL in the Venetian, the waiter proudly announced to us that the restaurant was run by the same people as who ran the Cheesecake Factory.
Like we supposed to be impressed.
I avoid the place as much as possible. And I have a permanent line pass.
mbstone
Jan 25, 08, 1:13 am
So explain the existence of a GL at Beverly Center (Los Angeles, La Cienega at 3d St)(same high prices and bad service). The nearest CF is all the way over in Brentwood.
The problem I have with GL is the service is notoriously s l o w
The problem I have with GL is the service is notoriously s l o w
mbstone
Jan 25, 08, 1:17 am
If you're staying in a 4 or 5 star (whatever the Venetian might be) do you expect made in China bathroom amenities? Soap, shampoo, etc. That the furniture is cheapo product from China is not a big surprise. But the soap?It's OK, the Chinese have learned how to make French Milled Soap. (http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=422794)
hotelierLA
Jan 25, 08, 12:11 pm
Not to mention the horrendous wait times for a table at anywhere close to a typical meal period.
By the way, there are (at least) two closer Cheesecake Factories to Beverly Center than Brentwood: The Grove and Beverly Hills (Beverly Drive).
So explain the existence of a GL at Beverly Center (Los Angeles, La Cienega at 3d St)(same high prices and bad service). The nearest CF is all the way over in Brentwood.
The problem I have with GL is the service is notoriously s l o w
By the way, there are (at least) two closer Cheesecake Factories to Beverly Center than Brentwood: The Grove and Beverly Hills (Beverly Drive).
So explain the existence of a GL at Beverly Center (Los Angeles, La Cienega at 3d St)(same high prices and bad service). The nearest CF is all the way over in Brentwood.
The problem I have with GL is the service is notoriously s l o w
KosraeTV
Jan 25, 08, 1:16 pm
Welcome to FlyerTalk pompomad. Looks like Palazzo is still ironing out opening day kinks and $600 can get you at least a nice show and dinner. Unless you want a large room, the Wynn is just as elegant and would be my choice for the price difference.
As much as I like Venetian, for 600 dollars... go to wynn. Palazzo is still ironing out a lot of kinks, plus it isn't finished yet. Many shops and restaurants are not opened yet.
As much as I like Venetian, for 600 dollars... go to wynn. Palazzo is still ironing out a lot of kinks, plus it isn't finished yet. Many shops and restaurants are not opened yet.
KosraeTV
Jan 25, 08, 1:30 pm
That may explain the problems we had. The (unoccupied) room next door had an alarm set for something like midnight, so every time we got back to the room for the evening it was beeping. We called security, who did eventually send someone up and turn it off (I guess) but the same thing happened again every night. Apparently they couldn't figure out how to properly turn it off (or didn't care.)
I liked a lot of things about the property, but it did seem like virtually every Venetian employee we talked to had a very deer-in-the-headlights reaction to what seemed like very routine requests.
If you were at the Palazzo doesn't the sound carry a lot more then it seemed to do in Venetian?? I mean I heard a lot of doors opening and a lot of conversations not in my room it seems like. I don't remember this at Venetian but it seems the walls are paper thin.
As far as the employees go... yes, many are Venetian staff, many are new obviously. The Lounge staff had no clue on package delivery, hotel doctor, shows, restaurants, etc... Most of the folks I talked to had no clue on operations and were often calling over to Venetian to get advice. My host was spending half his time running back and forth between Venetian and Palazzo. I did like the change in some items in gambling in Palazzo, like using dice at Pai Gow instead of the automatic button, some tables were OK, but it was hard to get a good feel. The slots not like I play them a lot but I saw a ton of high dollar slots spread all over and then a lot of penny slots and such. Not many one dollar slots that I saw. Not sure about table minimums all over but seems same as Venetian.
The biggest difference I saw was the LG flat screen TV's in the room with the screen in the bathroom. Big deal, I'm not there to watch TV and the screens were not programmed yet to accept channel up and down you had to punch in each channel number as no one took the time to program the TV's yet. Bathroom, it did have a scale which Venetian did not which I did like, that was nice to have. The drop off and pick up were a little confused and not worked out yet as Ventian Limo's drop off and pick up up stairs where other limo's, drivers, and taxis pick up down stairs so often the luggage of folks seemed to end up in the wrong place and you ended up getting into a disagreement with the hotel staff at the main upstairs drop off and pick up.
Basically, I'm disappointed with Sands overall. I am not impressed with Palazzo after my opening stay. The concert's so what. Most of it is not ready to open. I think they really have gone totally to a convention based hotel and have gone almost completely away from a visitors hotel. Now the largest suite based hotel in America or maybe the world with over 7,000 suites I guess. But all is dependent on the Sands Convention Hall.
And the town keeps building, city center and others.... it sure has changed in the last 20 years. I think I am going back to the Venetian and avoid the Palazzo.
With the increase in rooms maybe atleast the regular room rates will drop and maybe some comps might come out of this for others. I heard the room rates at Palazzo were like 300 a night or something like that is what they were asking for.
I liked a lot of things about the property, but it did seem like virtually every Venetian employee we talked to had a very deer-in-the-headlights reaction to what seemed like very routine requests.
If you were at the Palazzo doesn't the sound carry a lot more then it seemed to do in Venetian?? I mean I heard a lot of doors opening and a lot of conversations not in my room it seems like. I don't remember this at Venetian but it seems the walls are paper thin.
As far as the employees go... yes, many are Venetian staff, many are new obviously. The Lounge staff had no clue on package delivery, hotel doctor, shows, restaurants, etc... Most of the folks I talked to had no clue on operations and were often calling over to Venetian to get advice. My host was spending half his time running back and forth between Venetian and Palazzo. I did like the change in some items in gambling in Palazzo, like using dice at Pai Gow instead of the automatic button, some tables were OK, but it was hard to get a good feel. The slots not like I play them a lot but I saw a ton of high dollar slots spread all over and then a lot of penny slots and such. Not many one dollar slots that I saw. Not sure about table minimums all over but seems same as Venetian.
The biggest difference I saw was the LG flat screen TV's in the room with the screen in the bathroom. Big deal, I'm not there to watch TV and the screens were not programmed yet to accept channel up and down you had to punch in each channel number as no one took the time to program the TV's yet. Bathroom, it did have a scale which Venetian did not which I did like, that was nice to have. The drop off and pick up were a little confused and not worked out yet as Ventian Limo's drop off and pick up up stairs where other limo's, drivers, and taxis pick up down stairs so often the luggage of folks seemed to end up in the wrong place and you ended up getting into a disagreement with the hotel staff at the main upstairs drop off and pick up.
Basically, I'm disappointed with Sands overall. I am not impressed with Palazzo after my opening stay. The concert's so what. Most of it is not ready to open. I think they really have gone totally to a convention based hotel and have gone almost completely away from a visitors hotel. Now the largest suite based hotel in America or maybe the world with over 7,000 suites I guess. But all is dependent on the Sands Convention Hall.
And the town keeps building, city center and others.... it sure has changed in the last 20 years. I think I am going back to the Venetian and avoid the Palazzo.
With the increase in rooms maybe atleast the regular room rates will drop and maybe some comps might come out of this for others. I heard the room rates at Palazzo were like 300 a night or something like that is what they were asking for.
medic
Jan 25, 08, 1:55 pm
Finished a stay at Plazzo last weekend. I was booked at venitian, but all the rooms were gone to some convention, so they said I'd be in Plazzo. i'd continue to avoid it for a few more weeks. construction is still ongoing and many of the rooms are missing the final finish.
first night I arrived, it took over 30 minutes to check-in. this was at 11pm and with only 5 people in line in front of me. part of the reason was that people in a seperate questions line were taken over people waiting in line to check in. once it was my turn, all the Plazzo rooms showed up on the cleks systems as unavilialbe for check in. eventually, they found a way to override the system and put me in a low hospitatlity suite level floor. I don't know what the difference is between the hospitality level suites vs the others, but the room seems like the typical suite.
the decor inside is nice, but all the materials are still outgassing, so there was a strange odor at times. rooms are nice - plasmas as people have said, but the system seems very slow to respond to channel changes. in my room, and from others I spoke with while there, there are fit and finish items missing in many rooms. For example, my room did not have a hair dryer - I didn't need one, but strange. There were pieces of blue tape to indicate areas that need to be touched up, some light fixtures without bulbs, non-working air conditioning, etc.
The elevators are painfully slow, so if you plan to be going to your room a lot, you many want a lower floor since everyone seems to cram into any elevator that shows up so you end up stopping a lot. there is also supposed to be a smoke-free coridor to get to your rooms without having to walk through the casino, but nobody seems to know where this is - I assume somewhere through the canal shops.
The biggest annoyance was the on going construction. Nothing was really operating except the casino - most stores were still being built. As a result, there was the constant sound of hammers and power tools. My room overlooked the pool area facing TI and I was awoken to the sound of jackhammers at 6am.
The tables were empty a lot of the time I passed by. Seemed like only the people staying there may have been gambling. The minimums were what you'd expect about 10-25 dollars depending on the time of day. Drink service was also pretty slow - not sure if they're understaffed.
In short, I'd probably go to another location for atleast the next few months. Plazzo still has some work to do to even reach venitian's 4* level.
first night I arrived, it took over 30 minutes to check-in. this was at 11pm and with only 5 people in line in front of me. part of the reason was that people in a seperate questions line were taken over people waiting in line to check in. once it was my turn, all the Plazzo rooms showed up on the cleks systems as unavilialbe for check in. eventually, they found a way to override the system and put me in a low hospitatlity suite level floor. I don't know what the difference is between the hospitality level suites vs the others, but the room seems like the typical suite.
the decor inside is nice, but all the materials are still outgassing, so there was a strange odor at times. rooms are nice - plasmas as people have said, but the system seems very slow to respond to channel changes. in my room, and from others I spoke with while there, there are fit and finish items missing in many rooms. For example, my room did not have a hair dryer - I didn't need one, but strange. There were pieces of blue tape to indicate areas that need to be touched up, some light fixtures without bulbs, non-working air conditioning, etc.
The elevators are painfully slow, so if you plan to be going to your room a lot, you many want a lower floor since everyone seems to cram into any elevator that shows up so you end up stopping a lot. there is also supposed to be a smoke-free coridor to get to your rooms without having to walk through the casino, but nobody seems to know where this is - I assume somewhere through the canal shops.
The biggest annoyance was the on going construction. Nothing was really operating except the casino - most stores were still being built. As a result, there was the constant sound of hammers and power tools. My room overlooked the pool area facing TI and I was awoken to the sound of jackhammers at 6am.
The tables were empty a lot of the time I passed by. Seemed like only the people staying there may have been gambling. The minimums were what you'd expect about 10-25 dollars depending on the time of day. Drink service was also pretty slow - not sure if they're understaffed.
In short, I'd probably go to another location for atleast the next few months. Plazzo still has some work to do to even reach venitian's 4* level.
ijgordon
Jan 25, 08, 6:53 pm
Finished a sthere is also supposed to be a smoke-free coridor to get to your rooms without having to walk through the casino, but nobody seems to know where this is - I assume somewhere through the canal shops.I interpreted the signs indicating the smoke-free corridor to mean that the actual corridor through the casino was supposed to be smoke-free, like a no-smoking area. It wasn't particularly well-enforced though.
KosraeTV
Jan 25, 08, 7:13 pm
I interpreted the signs indicating the smoke-free corridor to mean that the actual corridor through the casino was supposed to be smoke-free, like a no-smoking area. It wasn't particularly well-enforced though.
all the walkways are to be no smoking through the casino... and no it was not enforced. I'm now a non smoker and noticed this too. I saw many security guards giving directions to people standing there smoking away and ashing on the carpet.
all the walkways are to be no smoking through the casino... and no it was not enforced. I'm now a non smoker and noticed this too. I saw many security guards giving directions to people standing there smoking away and ashing on the carpet.
BenjaminNicholas
Jan 25, 08, 10:15 pm
Bland is the right adjective for Palazzo... INCREDIBLY bland.
I walked the property, as well as stayed in a mid-level suite and, overall, found the hotel to be underbaked and nowhere near the detailed quality of Wynn. IMO, the only saving grace Palazzo has is that Barneys opened a location there, but that's not enough for me to ever stay there again.
This new tower only makes the whole Venetian complex the 'biggest,' but not the 'best' in any way. It's one-upmanship of the most asinine, cigar-club variety: A thought process that embodies if enough common areas are covered in tossed marble, it must mean it's an elegant and swank place to stay.
Wrong.
Palazzo was sunk long before it opened. I'm putting my money on Encore and any future plan that Steve Wynn puts his stamp on. To me, it's a whole other level of quality, service and refinement.
BN
I walked the property, as well as stayed in a mid-level suite and, overall, found the hotel to be underbaked and nowhere near the detailed quality of Wynn. IMO, the only saving grace Palazzo has is that Barneys opened a location there, but that's not enough for me to ever stay there again.
This new tower only makes the whole Venetian complex the 'biggest,' but not the 'best' in any way. It's one-upmanship of the most asinine, cigar-club variety: A thought process that embodies if enough common areas are covered in tossed marble, it must mean it's an elegant and swank place to stay.
Wrong.
Palazzo was sunk long before it opened. I'm putting my money on Encore and any future plan that Steve Wynn puts his stamp on. To me, it's a whole other level of quality, service and refinement.
BN
old3
Jan 30, 08, 11:08 pm
We walked the Palazzo during the grand opening -- one word: underwhelmed. Nice waterfall, but the casino is almost as boring as the dealers there. I'm convinced that the only person smiling about the Palazzo is Steve Wynn!
Amicus
Feb 3, 08, 6:35 pm
Currently staying at the Palazzo over Super Bowl weekend.
Some unfinished details in our suite, such as the tv in the living area was not programmed, so it was stuck on the Venetian channel.
The motorized privacy blinds were never installed in our suite, and none of the mounting hardware was even present for them.
The tub was filthy, lots of grime and dirt, seemingly from construction.
Lots of plaster dust in the room everywhere.
We were told that our room, being on one of the highest floors, just under the luxury high roller suite floors (40 and above), was recently turned over for accepting occupants, and it was a rush to get enough rooms ready for a busy Super Bowl weekend.
But, the beds are fantastic and comfy, and the housekeeping staff has been excellent in meeting requests since we arrived.
I think they are trying hard to get things right, but they didn't allow enough time to do final inspections of rooms before turning them over for occupants.
Moreover, nearly every staff member we met had only been working there for a few months, or in some cases a week.
Some unfinished details in our suite, such as the tv in the living area was not programmed, so it was stuck on the Venetian channel.
The motorized privacy blinds were never installed in our suite, and none of the mounting hardware was even present for them.
The tub was filthy, lots of grime and dirt, seemingly from construction.
Lots of plaster dust in the room everywhere.
We were told that our room, being on one of the highest floors, just under the luxury high roller suite floors (40 and above), was recently turned over for accepting occupants, and it was a rush to get enough rooms ready for a busy Super Bowl weekend.
But, the beds are fantastic and comfy, and the housekeeping staff has been excellent in meeting requests since we arrived.
I think they are trying hard to get things right, but they didn't allow enough time to do final inspections of rooms before turning them over for occupants.
Moreover, nearly every staff member we met had only been working there for a few months, or in some cases a week.
Romelle
Feb 4, 08, 8:50 pm
Palazzo has been a very frequent win on Priceline lately, at least as reported in biddingfortravel.com.
Romelle
Romelle
mikeyworm
Feb 6, 08, 3:18 pm
So explain the existence of a GL at Beverly Center (Los Angeles, La Cienega at 3d St)(same high prices and bad service). The nearest CF is all the way over in Brentwood.
The problem I have with GL is the service is notoriously s l o w
There is a Cheesecake at the Grove just down 3rd street a mile or so.
The problem I have with GL is the service is notoriously s l o w
There is a Cheesecake at the Grove just down 3rd street a mile or so.
hlburi
Feb 29, 08, 2:44 pm
anyone stay there recently or currently staying there? My Player Rep got me a pretty sweet deal there from March 4 through 8. I'm wondering if they are any nearer completion on property stuff and how the rooms are.
I suppose even if they are not, I can't complain too much as this deal was too good to pass up. ;)
Looking forward to my trip next week.
I suppose even if they are not, I can't complain too much as this deal was too good to pass up. ;)
Looking forward to my trip next week.
tinkybelle
Mar 7, 08, 3:58 pm
theres a good deal at the moment $179 pn. but i already have the venetian at 199 for 2n and 239 for 2n
venezia tower upgrade .. that seems to mean lounge access is this so?
is it worth changing the booking?
venezia tower upgrade .. that seems to mean lounge access is this so?
is it worth changing the booking?
kingalien
Mar 7, 08, 4:49 pm
theres a good deal at the moment $179 pn. but i already have the venetian at 199 for 2n and 239 for 2n
venezia tower upgrade .. that seems to mean lounge access is this so?
is it worth changing the booking?
It depends on what is meant by "upgrade." Rooms booked in the Venetian tower can be "upgraded" to the Venezia tower which is essentially the same type room. Lounge access is what refers to the Concierge Lounge and that is for bookings in the Venezia Concierge rooms, i.e. Luxury, Bella and Medici suites.
venezia tower upgrade .. that seems to mean lounge access is this so?
is it worth changing the booking?
It depends on what is meant by "upgrade." Rooms booked in the Venetian tower can be "upgraded" to the Venezia tower which is essentially the same type room. Lounge access is what refers to the Concierge Lounge and that is for bookings in the Venezia Concierge rooms, i.e. Luxury, Bella and Medici suites.
tinkybelle
Mar 7, 08, 11:31 pm
thanks king alien
do i find u at table 21 on 26-30 march?the website is very misleading!
when you click on venezia tower it has this
http://venetian.com/VENEZIA.aspx
VENEZIA AMENITIES
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SERVICE & APPROACH
ACCOMMODATIONS
POOL GARDEN COURTYARD WEDDING CHAPEL
BOUCHON RESTAURANT
CONCIERGE LOUNGE
wouldnt that mean that when one is in the venezia tower one gets these amenities.?
I would imagine that if one is in the venezia tower and it offers lounge access that one should get it but i called the reception today and they have advised that it is an extra $100 per day.
what are the drink offerings in the evening?
Do they offer french champagne if so then it is worth it for me b ut not for my travelling companions.
I called the front desk the day before I booked she said yes venezia tower gets you lounge access.
I do wisht hey would listen to the question asked!
I dont want to expect lounge access and then not get it as I can get the palazzo for a lot less.
I see that the palazzo has some problems but is it really worth $50 a day extra for the venetian.
I mean how bad can the newest hotel on the strip be?
do i find u at table 21 on 26-30 march?the website is very misleading!
when you click on venezia tower it has this
http://venetian.com/VENEZIA.aspx
VENEZIA AMENITIES
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SERVICE & APPROACH
ACCOMMODATIONS
POOL GARDEN COURTYARD WEDDING CHAPEL
BOUCHON RESTAURANT
CONCIERGE LOUNGE
wouldnt that mean that when one is in the venezia tower one gets these amenities.?
I would imagine that if one is in the venezia tower and it offers lounge access that one should get it but i called the reception today and they have advised that it is an extra $100 per day.
what are the drink offerings in the evening?
Do they offer french champagne if so then it is worth it for me b ut not for my travelling companions.
I called the front desk the day before I booked she said yes venezia tower gets you lounge access.
I do wisht hey would listen to the question asked!
I dont want to expect lounge access and then not get it as I can get the palazzo for a lot less.
I see that the palazzo has some problems but is it really worth $50 a day extra for the venetian.
I mean how bad can the newest hotel on the strip be?
kingalien
Mar 9, 08, 7:28 pm
thanks king alien
do i find u at table 21 on 26-30 march?
Not likely, I've been to LV only once this year :eek:. Basically bogged down with work :(.
the website is very misleading!
when you click on venezia tower it has this
http://venetian.com/VENEZIA.aspx
VENEZIA AMENITIES
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SERVICE & APPROACH
ACCOMMODATIONS
POOL GARDEN COURTYARD WEDDING CHAPEL
BOUCHON RESTAURANT
CONCIERGE LOUNGE
wouldnt that mean that when one is in the venezia tower one gets these amenities.?
Venezia Tower has regular suites and concierge level suites. Based on the rate you indicated you're likely just going to get a regular suite which is very similar to the Venetian tower suite.
I would imagine that if one is in the venezia tower and it offers lounge access that one should get it but i called the reception today and they have advised that it is an extra $100 per day.
It is about $100 a day extra which is not worth it. I believe it may be less on a weekday. You can plug in your dates into the regular online reservation and you'll likely get the different rates which will include separate Venezia tower concierge level rates (assuming they are not sold out).
what are the drink offerings in the evening?
Do they offer french champagne if so then it is worth it for me b ut not for my travelling companions.
See this the consolidated Venetian thread for more info, starting with the post from this link:
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=5471406&highlight=#post5471406
I called the front desk the day before I booked she said yes venezia tower gets you lounge access.
Consider the $20 (or more) Trick and get an upgrade to concierge level.
do i find u at table 21 on 26-30 march?
Not likely, I've been to LV only once this year :eek:. Basically bogged down with work :(.
the website is very misleading!
when you click on venezia tower it has this
http://venetian.com/VENEZIA.aspx
VENEZIA AMENITIES
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SERVICE & APPROACH
ACCOMMODATIONS
POOL GARDEN COURTYARD WEDDING CHAPEL
BOUCHON RESTAURANT
CONCIERGE LOUNGE
wouldnt that mean that when one is in the venezia tower one gets these amenities.?
Venezia Tower has regular suites and concierge level suites. Based on the rate you indicated you're likely just going to get a regular suite which is very similar to the Venetian tower suite.
I would imagine that if one is in the venezia tower and it offers lounge access that one should get it but i called the reception today and they have advised that it is an extra $100 per day.
It is about $100 a day extra which is not worth it. I believe it may be less on a weekday. You can plug in your dates into the regular online reservation and you'll likely get the different rates which will include separate Venezia tower concierge level rates (assuming they are not sold out).
what are the drink offerings in the evening?
Do they offer french champagne if so then it is worth it for me b ut not for my travelling companions.
See this the consolidated Venetian thread for more info, starting with the post from this link:
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=5471406&highlight=#post5471406
I called the front desk the day before I booked she said yes venezia tower gets you lounge access.
Consider the $20 (or more) Trick and get an upgrade to concierge level.
tinkybelle
Mar 9, 08, 8:30 pm
thanks kingalien for addressing my questions so quickly
:)
:)
kingalien
Mar 9, 08, 9:11 pm
thanks kingalien for addressing my questions so quickly
:)
Glad to be of help. With all the great eats in Vegas, access to concierge level is no biggie unless it is free. Also keep in mind Venetzia tower is a bit of a hike to get to the casino. Have fun.
:)
Glad to be of help. With all the great eats in Vegas, access to concierge level is no biggie unless it is free. Also keep in mind Venetzia tower is a bit of a hike to get to the casino. Have fun.
hlburi
Mar 10, 08, 2:30 am
Just back from a 4 night stay at the Palazzo.
The rooms are nicely appointed. (I had a "regular" suite). There were 3 Plasma/LCD (I'm not sure which) televisions in the room. A 42" in the bedroom area, a 32" in the sitting area and a smaller one in the bathroom. Minibar is standard in the room. The room also has a remote that works the drapes, which was kind of cool.
Room service was prompt and took care of pretty much everything I asked for. They even brought me something to heat water for my tea.
The only construction I saw still going on was with the shops. The casino was completed and, (my floor at least) was completed.
I'm not sure why they decided to put another Grand Lux Cafe in when there is one over at the Venetian, but that is the main "general" cafeteria there. Didn't see a Food Court-type establishment like they have over at the Venetian and I'm not sure if one is on the drawing board or not.
Overall, it was a very pleasant stay and I look forward to staying there again.
Plus, you can't beat Las Vegas weather in March. :D
The rooms are nicely appointed. (I had a "regular" suite). There were 3 Plasma/LCD (I'm not sure which) televisions in the room. A 42" in the bedroom area, a 32" in the sitting area and a smaller one in the bathroom. Minibar is standard in the room. The room also has a remote that works the drapes, which was kind of cool.
Room service was prompt and took care of pretty much everything I asked for. They even brought me something to heat water for my tea.
The only construction I saw still going on was with the shops. The casino was completed and, (my floor at least) was completed.
I'm not sure why they decided to put another Grand Lux Cafe in when there is one over at the Venetian, but that is the main "general" cafeteria there. Didn't see a Food Court-type establishment like they have over at the Venetian and I'm not sure if one is on the drawing board or not.
Overall, it was a very pleasant stay and I look forward to staying there again.
Plus, you can't beat Las Vegas weather in March. :D
tinkybelle
Mar 10, 08, 5:32 am
so at $179 is it worth it
or
is it worth paying another 40++ per night for the venetian?(4 nights 2 rooms)
or
is it worth paying another 40++ per night for the venetian?(4 nights 2 rooms)
hlburi
Mar 10, 08, 6:22 am
so at $179 is it worth it
or
is it worth paying another 40++ per night for the venetian?(4 nights 2 rooms)
I'd have to ask what you are getting for the extra $40 per night at the Venetian? Is that with Concierge service? If so, and you think you would make use of the Concierge service, I would do that. But after reading the room appointments at the Venezia towers, it sounds very similar to what is offered at the Palazzo (the Palazzo may even be a bit nicer with the plasma tv's and the remote drapes). I had turndown service each night in my room, minibar, etc. So unless that extra $40 is including something I don't know about, I'd go for the Palazzo. :)
or
is it worth paying another 40++ per night for the venetian?(4 nights 2 rooms)
I'd have to ask what you are getting for the extra $40 per night at the Venetian? Is that with Concierge service? If so, and you think you would make use of the Concierge service, I would do that. But after reading the room appointments at the Venezia towers, it sounds very similar to what is offered at the Palazzo (the Palazzo may even be a bit nicer with the plasma tv's and the remote drapes). I had turndown service each night in my room, minibar, etc. So unless that extra $40 is including something I don't know about, I'd go for the Palazzo. :)
hlburi
Mar 10, 08, 6:32 am
Years ago, when we first went to the GL in the Venetian, the waiter proudly announced to us that the restaurant was run by the same people as who ran the Cheesecake Factory.
Like we supposed to be impressed.
I avoid the place as much as possible. And I have a permanent line pass.
I like the Grand Lux ok but the thing is, you are in Las Vegas where tons of fabulous restaurants and food abounds.
The Grand Lux I will do but only if there is NO line and I'm craving the Pasta Telefono (which I sometimes am) :D
Like we supposed to be impressed.
I avoid the place as much as possible. And I have a permanent line pass.
I like the Grand Lux ok but the thing is, you are in Las Vegas where tons of fabulous restaurants and food abounds.
The Grand Lux I will do but only if there is NO line and I'm craving the Pasta Telefono (which I sometimes am) :D
tinkybelle
Mar 10, 08, 4:09 pm
I'd have to ask what you are getting for the extra $40 per night at the Venetian? Is that with Concierge service? If so, and you think you would make use of the Concierge service, I would do that. But after reading the room appointments at the Venezia towers, it sounds very similar to what is offered at the Palazzo (the Palazzo may even be a bit nicer with the plasma tv's and the remote drapes). I had turndown service each night in my room, minibar, etc. So unless that extra $40 is including something I don't know about, I'd go for the Palazzo. :)
no it is upgrade to venezia tower only. I was really going to change to palazzo till I called the res line and the girl recommended that I stay at the venetian.:rolleyes:
im not into casino and want to be as close to the strip as possible. I checked out the venezia tower on googleearth and it seems a long way to walk to the street.
no it is upgrade to venezia tower only. I was really going to change to palazzo till I called the res line and the girl recommended that I stay at the venetian.:rolleyes:
im not into casino and want to be as close to the strip as possible. I checked out the venezia tower on googleearth and it seems a long way to walk to the street.
hlburi
Mar 10, 08, 4:43 pm
no it is upgrade to venezia tower only. I was really going to change to palazzo till I called the res line and the girl recommended that I stay at the venetian.:rolleyes:
im not into casino and want to be as close to the strip as possible. I checked out the venezia tower on googleearth and it seems a long way to walk to the street.
I hate to break it to you, but anywhere you stay is gonna be a long walk to the Strip. :D They deliberately design these properties so that the rooms are at the back and you have to walk through the Casino to get out to the street. I suppose the Palazzo has some kind of entrance/exit to the Strip from the hotel but what I did was walk through the Grand Canal shops on the second level over to the Venetian exit and accessed the Strip that way.
im not into casino and want to be as close to the strip as possible. I checked out the venezia tower on googleearth and it seems a long way to walk to the street.
I hate to break it to you, but anywhere you stay is gonna be a long walk to the Strip. :D They deliberately design these properties so that the rooms are at the back and you have to walk through the Casino to get out to the street. I suppose the Palazzo has some kind of entrance/exit to the Strip from the hotel but what I did was walk through the Grand Canal shops on the second level over to the Venetian exit and accessed the Strip that way.
kingalien
Mar 10, 08, 7:12 pm
I hate to break it to you, but anywhere you stay is gonna be a long walk to the Strip. :D They deliberately design these properties so that the rooms are at the back and you have to walk through the Casino to get out to the street. I suppose the Palazzo has some kind of entrance/exit to the Strip from the hotel but what I did was walk through the Grand Canal shops on the second level over to the Venetian exit and accessed the Strip that way.
It's still a lot shorter to exit than from the Venetzia tower :).
It's still a lot shorter to exit than from the Venetzia tower :).
hlburi
Mar 11, 08, 4:43 am
It's still a lot shorter to exit than from the Venetzia tower :).
Walking from the Palazzo through the Canal shops over to the Venetian is a shorter walk than walking from the Venetzia Towers? :eek:
Where are these towers located? Tahoe?? :D
Walking from the Palazzo through the Canal shops over to the Venetian is a shorter walk than walking from the Venetzia Towers? :eek:
Where are these towers located? Tahoe?? :D
bobd46
Mar 17, 08, 4:28 pm
I've been looking for a site with floor plans for the Palazzo, but can't find one. Is the internal access from the Palazzo to the Venetian fairly painless? I'm staying at the Palazzo, but playing in a slot tournament at the Venetian, so I'll have to make the trip back and forth several times.
kingalien
Mar 17, 08, 10:25 pm
I've been looking for a site with floor plans for the Palazzo, but can't find one. Is the internal access from the Palazzo to the Venetian fairly painless? I'm staying at the Palazzo, but playing in a slot tournament at the Venetian, so I'll have to make the trip back and forth several times.
It's a little bit of a hike. Palazzo to Venetian via the Blue Man Theater and then to the tournament area usually opposite the Poker Room.
Casino Property Maps (http://www.lvcasinoinfo.com/propmap1.html)
It's a little bit of a hike. Palazzo to Venetian via the Blue Man Theater and then to the tournament area usually opposite the Poker Room.
Casino Property Maps (http://www.lvcasinoinfo.com/propmap1.html)
hlburi
Mar 18, 08, 3:13 am
I've been looking for a site with floor plans for the Palazzo, but can't find one. Is the internal access from the Palazzo to the Venetian fairly painless? I'm staying at the Palazzo, but playing in a slot tournament at the Venetian, so I'll have to make the trip back and forth several times.
actually, it wasn't that terribly bad. I used the 2nd level Canal shops access to walk from the Palazzo over to the Venetian. As another poster has said, you can use the escalators to the Blue Man Group to access the casino and I also found several "pocket" elevators that not many people seemed to be aware of, to take you down to the Venetian area as well. Once you've walked it once or twice, it's pretty easy. Just remember that your landmark for the Palazzo elevators coming back, is the Double Helix Bar. :D It's not very well marked.
actually, it wasn't that terribly bad. I used the 2nd level Canal shops access to walk from the Palazzo over to the Venetian. As another poster has said, you can use the escalators to the Blue Man Group to access the casino and I also found several "pocket" elevators that not many people seemed to be aware of, to take you down to the Venetian area as well. Once you've walked it once or twice, it's pretty easy. Just remember that your landmark for the Palazzo elevators coming back, is the Double Helix Bar. :D It's not very well marked.
bobd46
Mar 19, 08, 11:42 am
It's a little bit of a hike. Palazzo to Venetian via the Blue Man Theater and then to the tournament area usually opposite the Poker Room.
Casino Property Maps (http://www.lvcasinoinfo.com/propmap1.html)
Thanks, kingalien. I would have sworn I had that link in my Favorites, but I couldn't find it.
Casino Property Maps (http://www.lvcasinoinfo.com/propmap1.html)
Thanks, kingalien. I would have sworn I had that link in my Favorites, but I couldn't find it.
bobd46
Mar 19, 08, 11:50 am
actually, it wasn't that terribly bad. I used the 2nd level Canal shops access to walk from the Palazzo over to the Venetian. As another poster has said, you can use the escalators to the Blue Man Group to access the casino and I also found several "pocket" elevators that not many people seemed to be aware of, to take you down to the Venetian area as well. Once you've walked it once or twice, it's pretty easy. Just remember that your landmark for the Palazzo elevators coming back, is the Double Helix Bar. :D It's not very well marked.
The walk back and forth will be good for me. It'll probably be the only exercise I get the whole trip! :)
The walk back and forth will be good for me. It'll probably be the only exercise I get the whole trip! :)
kaukau
Mar 19, 08, 12:46 pm
The walk back and forth will be good for me. It'll probably be the only exercise I get the whole trip! :)
Don't count on it: we're gonna bend your elbow pretty good Sunday night at the Golden Nugget! (Got a bunch of FTers showing up to party!)
Don't count on it: we're gonna bend your elbow pretty good Sunday night at the Golden Nugget! (Got a bunch of FTers showing up to party!)
bobd46
Mar 20, 08, 1:07 pm
Don't count on it: we're gonna bend your elbow pretty good Sunday night at the Golden Nugget! (Got a bunch of FTers showing up to party!)
Now THAT kind of exercise I can handle!! :D
Now THAT kind of exercise I can handle!! :D
milemonkey
Mar 23, 08, 8:48 pm
I've heard that the pool at the Palazzo is not yet finished. Anyone know when it will be open?
bigrob
Mar 27, 08, 1:35 pm
The old "when is the pool at the Palazzo going to open" question...I am heading out April 17th with a buddy and we have reservations at the Palazzo but have decided if they don't have the pool open, we're going somewhere else. The answers have gone like this:
Mid-Feb: My buddy is out in Vegas staying somewhere else on business and goes over to the Palazzo to check it out and asks everyone from the concierge to the front desk staff to the pit bosses to the casino hosts and he continuously gets the "not sure--sometime in April" response.
March 14th: Another buddy of mine is out there staying at the Palazzo for the night so every time he passes the concierge and sees a new person there, he asks when the pool is opening. 2 people at the concergie desk tell him April 1st, two others tell him mid-April
March 25th: I call out to the Palazzo and ask for the concierge desk where I ask the person who answers what the date is. She tells me the tentative date they've been told is April 7th. I tell her I'm planning on staying out there on April 17th and she says to call back in a week and ask for her and she'll give us more information, but she said she'd estimate the chances of the pool being open by April 17th at 80%. So clearly there is no set date yet--I can update if people want when I call her back next week to check again.
Mid-Feb: My buddy is out in Vegas staying somewhere else on business and goes over to the Palazzo to check it out and asks everyone from the concierge to the front desk staff to the pit bosses to the casino hosts and he continuously gets the "not sure--sometime in April" response.
March 14th: Another buddy of mine is out there staying at the Palazzo for the night so every time he passes the concierge and sees a new person there, he asks when the pool is opening. 2 people at the concergie desk tell him April 1st, two others tell him mid-April
March 25th: I call out to the Palazzo and ask for the concierge desk where I ask the person who answers what the date is. She tells me the tentative date they've been told is April 7th. I tell her I'm planning on staying out there on April 17th and she says to call back in a week and ask for her and she'll give us more information, but she said she'd estimate the chances of the pool being open by April 17th at 80%. So clearly there is no set date yet--I can update if people want when I call her back next week to check again.
mikeef
Apr 1, 08, 2:35 pm
I just got back from a couple of nights there and thought the hotel was quite nice, but nothing that knocked me off my chair. Service was excellent, prices exorbitant and the rooms were huge, but there was nothing that felt terribly new about the experience. I'd stay there if I had a conference there, but I would probably stay somewhere else if I were just heading back on my own.
Mike
Mike
kingalien
Apr 2, 08, 6:39 pm
Palazzo Restaurants
LA Times ran an article on some of the restaurants in Palazzo.
At the Palazzo Las Vegas, it's no-limit dining (http://www.latimes.com/features/food/la-fo-vegas2apr02,1,3048088.story)
Article below (highlighted names by me):
At the Palazzo Las Vegas, it's no-limit dining
Lagasse, Puck, Batali, Osteen, Trotter -- it seems everyone wants in the game.
By S. Irene Virbila
Times Restaurant Critic
April 2, 2008
LAS VEGAS — THE server shows off the charred bistecca fiorentina, then carves the massive porterhouse into finger-thick slices. At $160 for two, it's easily the most expensive steak I've ever eaten, if not the most expensive piece of aged meat in the country. Want to anoint it with horseradish sauce? Here at Carnevino, Mario Batali's new restaurant on the Strip, that'll be $5 more.
A few steps away, in a private dining room floating above a state-of-the-art kitchen, six businessmen spend a minimum of $350 each to work their way through the tasting menu at Restaurant Charlie. That's without wine, tax or tip. Or chef Charlie Trotter in the kitchen.
In another casino, guests step out of an elevator and are ushered into a small lounge just inside Guy Savoy's hyper-chic, very French restaurant. Here they sip $75 glasses of Champagne before floating off to their tables for $280 dinners.
Though everybody may be pinching pennies at home, Las Vegas seems untouched by the prevailing winds of economic downturn, operating by its own rules and logic. The economy may be contracting elsewhere, but here the casinos are still building. And building, with thousands more hotel rooms yet to come.
The Palazzo Resort-Hotel-Casino, a 3,000-room, all-suite extravaganza next to the Venetian, has just opened, and that's where you'll find most of the new wave of notable restaurants. In a town where "wine angels" in black cat suits rappel down a glass wine tower to fetch a special bottle for a table, where you can dine on a raft moored under a faux waterfall spilling from a faux mountain or indulge in an opulent multi-course meal from a French chef with three Michelin stars -- actually, there are three three-star chefs here -- what could possibly be next?
Less flash, less gimmickry -- and less invention. This time around, menus are more traditional, the design sometimes so conservative you can't believe you're in Vegas. They're luring in crowds with no more than good food, high comfort and great service.
And for that, they're charging enough to give even high rollers indigestion.
Batali's newest venture
MARIO BATALI and Joe Bastianich swagger into the Palazzo with Carnevino, their new Italian steakhouse just up the mall from B&B, their year-old ristorante at the Venetian. I like the spaciousness of the rather formal room, its high ceilings, heavy drapes and dark wood sideboards. What makes Carnevino unique is its obsessive pursuit of the best meat. Adam Perry Lang is a kind of meat forager for the restaurant: His job is to visit farms in the Midwest and choose specific animals for the steakhouse. At the moment, he has 15,000 pounds of beef aging in his humongous Vegas meat locker.
Naturally, the star of the steak menu is that pricey fiorentina for two, which by the time I visited a second time had been reduced to $145 from $160. Aged about nine weeks, it is massive, about two inches thick, and cooked without wood or mesquite to keep the flavors pure. If you want to save 10 bucks, order the hefty rib-eye for two, which is more heavily marbled than the fiorentina's porterhouse. The quality of the meat is exceptional for both, but my vote goes to the fiorentina for its texture and the way the rich beefy flavor lingers like a fine wine.
But first, before everything else, is a small crock of pure pork lard flavored with rosemary that arrives with some oily focaccia. I defy you not to finish it, the lard is so flat-out wonderful. The salumi plate for two or more includes slices of that marvelous lard, prosciutto cut like silk, coppa and more -- not a bad way to start a meal here. Carne cruda (steak tartare) is seasoned with capers and too much olive oil -- and salt. Lobster two ways -- the tail as thick-cut sashimi, the claws fried in Prosecco-dosed tempura batter -- is delicious, especially the fried lemon slices, if you can countenance $60 for a first course. The alternative is a half order of pasta, such as ravioli with duck liver and aceto balsamico sauce, duck cannelloni or pappardelle with porcini sauce (and too much butter).
Salt makes too strong an entrance in many dishes. And what's with the Milanese? The pounded pork cutlet comes fried to a crisp and absolutely swimming in butter. Sides bring out the Italian in the kitchen with Tuscan fries (fried fingerlings pan-roasted with rosemary and Parmesan), braised fennel with sambuca, and fresh peas with walnuts.
Do not skip dessert, especially if it's the tender rice torte with a topknot of honeycomb or the gubana, a special yeast-raised cake filled with nuts and dried fruit with grappa poured over at the last minute. Bottom line: As good as the beef is here, I'd rather eat at B&B, Batali's more intimate Italian restaurant in the Venetian next door. It's not cheap, either, but it's got more soul -- and a more consistent kitchen.
Puck's 6th Vegas venue
WOLFGANG Puck's Cut just opened in the Palazzo, too, making that three -- count 'em-- steakhouses under one roof (the third is Morels French Steakhouse from the Grove in L.A.). This one is in sight of the luscious Barneys New York store in the Palazzo and its full complement of bling. Buy something, a $400 T-shirt or a $19,000 sultanesque ring, say, and wear it right over to dinner. Want a dress? You'll need a home equity loan.
Though the menu is almost identical to the Beverly Hills steakhouse, the look is quite different from the cool white expanses of Richard Meier's design for the original Cut. This one, from the local design firm ABA, is warmer, featuring generous booths, a striped rug underfoot and bulky geometric chandeliers. There's an inviting lounge too, where you can order up some of Cut's signature mini-Kobe beef sliders or oysters on the half shell.
Prices, at least compared to Carnevino's, seem almost moderate, though in the real world, of course, they're vertigo-inducing -- a 3-pound lobster is a mere $110. Wine prices, though, are very fair, especially for the more esoteric choices on the interesting, wide-ranging list. For a restaurant that was a mere 2 weeks old when I visited, the whole operation was very professional, with a first-rate front of the house. But then, Puck is no amateur: This is his sixth Las Vegas restaurant.
The amuses -- crisp skinny breadsticks shaggy with Parmesan, dainty gougères and pillowy potato knishes -- are suitably amusing. Go easy, though -- there's lots more to come. Austrian oxtail bouillon with chive blossoms and bone marrow dumplings, a Cut's classic, is ethereal. Asparagus on a slab of toast topped with a poached egg and a single piece of bacon makes a great first course too. And so does a salad of tender little fava beans and baby artichokes with pecorino Romano, mint and Meyer lemon; it practically defines spring.
Steaks -- Nebraska dry-aged 35 days and Illinois aged 21 days, plus pricey Kobe beef from Japan and domestic Kobe-style Wagyu beef -- are the heart of the menu. Dry-aged rib-eye for $61 has plenty of flavor, but it's an awfully thin cut. I much prefer the $54 bone-in sirloin cooked with a nice char and served with a slick of butter on top and a gutsy Armagnac black pepper sauce.
But there's much more than steaks here: a terrific double-thick Kurobuta pork chop, roast duckling with lavender and thyme and whole roasted wild French turbot for two. The best deal is the rotisserie-roasted poussin for $31 with a graceful black truffle jus. Sides include a tall tower of thinnest gold onion rings in a lacy tempura batter, delicious chard and escarole greens, and fresh English peas with pea pods and pea tendrils.
In terms of all-around excellence, Cut outperforms the other steakhouses in town. And with it so difficult to get a reservation at the original in Beverly Hills, here's your chance right here in Vegas.
Trotter's seafood stop
THE restaurant opening with the most food world buzz has to be Restaurant Charlie from Chicago's Charlie Trotter. He doesn't have a slew of restaurants (just one other in Los Cabos, Mexico), so this is big news for the iconoclastic chef. And this isn't a clone of Charlie Trotter's (he did that years ago with the short-lived Charlie Trotter's in the MGM Grand), but an entirely new seafood-themed restaurant complete with that kitchen loft for big spenders.
He's got a prime location on the edge of the casino, but inside it feels as anti-Las Vegas as you can get. The design is very plain, with rumpled pale blue upholstered chairs that are so uncomfortable we asked to sit in a booth, but that wasn't much better. The backs are like ironing boards. And that chef's table, a.k.a. the Kitchen Table Loft? From our vantage point it looked like an office with glaring light as waiters ministered to a group of high rollers at $350 per person minimum.
Restaurant Charlie is really two restaurants. One is a la carte. Our server laid claim to Charlie Trotter's in Chicago being the ultimate tasting-menu restaurant, whereas this one is meant to be the ultimate a la carte experience. Part Two is Bar Charlie, where Trotter indulges his fascination with sushi in two prix fixe menus (8 courses for $175; 14 courses for $250). We opted for the a la carte menu in the main dining room, leaving Bar Charlie for next time.
The meal began on a strong note with a wonderful amuse of tuna tartare with avocado, olives and black sesame seeds. I liked a crab salad appetizer with sake sorbet and rice milk topped with a lacy rice cracker, too, but skate wing terrine cooked sous vide and lined up like a ruler on the plate was very bland. My favorite is the elegant tai snapper sashimi with ocher uni and a deep-flavored hibiki seaweed sauce.
Overall, though, the meal isn't exactly fireworks (and Mr. Trotter is not in-house that night). Alaskan halibut sits on lemon curd so sweet it could go into a pie. Arctic char on crunchy savoy cabbage is uninspired. And the delicate taste of poulard is bludgeoned by a thick chocolate sauce. Desserts, such as kabocha cake, are just as odd, and ultimately unsatisfying. Service is good, but stiff. There's no real conversation: It's like talking to members of the Charlie Trotter cult. Where's the fun? Where's the indulgence?
Lagasse drops the label
EMERIL LAGASSE is the fourth big-name chef to open a restaurant at the Palazzo. Oddly, for someone who's known to plaster his name on everything in sight, Table 10's sign doesn't give away the fact that this is the Food Network star's place. At lunch one day I find myself sitting "outside" on an indoor terrace framed by potted moth orchids and fake topiary, listening to dueling grand pianos playing at either end of the Palazzo's designer shops. A motley collection of tourists strolls by in the faux daylight. Where am I? What is this place? And why is Bauman Rare Books setting up shop near Chloé and Christian Louboutin? Curiouser and curiouser.
Our waiter informs us that Table 10's produce is organic and shipped in daily from Lagasse's farm. Lagasse isn't going for fireworks either: The menu is basic and not particularly inspired, and only a few tables are occupied. I know from previous experiences at Lagasse's Las Vegas restaurants, the simpler you order, the better. Here, that would be the rotisserie meats, but I want something lighter for lunch.
So I make it a bowl of his signature gumbo, which has a good flavor and a nice kick of pepper. Blue crab salad with remoulade sauce is OK, three scoops of crab salad flanking a boring mixed green salad. A Cuban-style sandwich made with Kurobuta pork is fine too. Service is sincere and attentive, but I still can't help the feeling that nothing much is going on here. With so many restaurants and so few meals, this one might merit a skip.
Osteen's secret spot
THE Palazzo doesn't have a lock on all the new restaurants in town. Maverick chef Louis Osteen bypassed the casinos entirely and opened his new place in the sprawling Town Square mall just south of the Strip. Could South Carolina's most famous chef have picked a more hidden location? We drove around and around looking for Louis's Las Vegas until we finally spotted a small placard pointing out the location -- upstairs at the back of a building, not even visible from the street. This place, however, is well worth the trouble for the chance to feast on Osteen's superb low-country cooking.
Instead of going for flash or glamour, he's opened a very sincere, very personal restaurant with a planed cypress tree as the reservation desk, an old-fashioned swinging bench for waiting and an elegant sideboard made by a master craftsman. He and his wife have actually moved to Las Vegas and are there most nights. He's also got the talented Carlos Guia, former executive chef of Commander's Palace at the Aladdin, as his chef de cuisine. This is the real deal, and it's such a pleasure to find so many things you'd like to try on the menu.
His jumbo lump crab and lobster cakes with whole grain mustard are mouthwatering examples of the genre. Barely cooked shrimp top a timbale of molded grits with a beautifully nuanced low country shrimp gravy that tastes as if it's been cooking for hours. Bourbon-cured and smoked duck breast is served like carpaccio with bourbon raisin poppers and fried crackling on top, a wonderful combination of flavors. And don't overlook the Charleston she crab soup with aged sherry either.
Main courses include a chicken-fried duck breast in a crisp fluffy batter with a sumptuous gravy (the guy is a master) punctuated with julienned candied kumquats. Check out his marinated charred rib pork chop with buttery fork-mashed potatoes. Sides are all terrific. And for dessert, consider the elegant bourbon brown butter pecan tart and the unusual many-layered Mississippi caramel cake dripping in caramel frosting, served with buttermilk ice cream. Louis's is as down-home as it gets in the glitzy town.
Meanwhile, it seems every restaurant in L.A. has designs on cashing in big in Vegas. Ago just opened at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. Drai's has a new lease on life on the Strip. Boa, Valentino, Sushi Roku, Spago and Chinois, Koi and Trader Vic's -- they're all doing the bright lights, big city thing. But do we care? Probably not. Enough is enough. Except in Las Vegas, when it's never enough.
LA Times ran an article on some of the restaurants in Palazzo.
At the Palazzo Las Vegas, it's no-limit dining (http://www.latimes.com/features/food/la-fo-vegas2apr02,1,3048088.story)
Article below (highlighted names by me):
At the Palazzo Las Vegas, it's no-limit dining
Lagasse, Puck, Batali, Osteen, Trotter -- it seems everyone wants in the game.
By S. Irene Virbila
Times Restaurant Critic
April 2, 2008
LAS VEGAS — THE server shows off the charred bistecca fiorentina, then carves the massive porterhouse into finger-thick slices. At $160 for two, it's easily the most expensive steak I've ever eaten, if not the most expensive piece of aged meat in the country. Want to anoint it with horseradish sauce? Here at Carnevino, Mario Batali's new restaurant on the Strip, that'll be $5 more.
A few steps away, in a private dining room floating above a state-of-the-art kitchen, six businessmen spend a minimum of $350 each to work their way through the tasting menu at Restaurant Charlie. That's without wine, tax or tip. Or chef Charlie Trotter in the kitchen.
In another casino, guests step out of an elevator and are ushered into a small lounge just inside Guy Savoy's hyper-chic, very French restaurant. Here they sip $75 glasses of Champagne before floating off to their tables for $280 dinners.
Though everybody may be pinching pennies at home, Las Vegas seems untouched by the prevailing winds of economic downturn, operating by its own rules and logic. The economy may be contracting elsewhere, but here the casinos are still building. And building, with thousands more hotel rooms yet to come.
The Palazzo Resort-Hotel-Casino, a 3,000-room, all-suite extravaganza next to the Venetian, has just opened, and that's where you'll find most of the new wave of notable restaurants. In a town where "wine angels" in black cat suits rappel down a glass wine tower to fetch a special bottle for a table, where you can dine on a raft moored under a faux waterfall spilling from a faux mountain or indulge in an opulent multi-course meal from a French chef with three Michelin stars -- actually, there are three three-star chefs here -- what could possibly be next?
Less flash, less gimmickry -- and less invention. This time around, menus are more traditional, the design sometimes so conservative you can't believe you're in Vegas. They're luring in crowds with no more than good food, high comfort and great service.
And for that, they're charging enough to give even high rollers indigestion.
Batali's newest venture
MARIO BATALI and Joe Bastianich swagger into the Palazzo with Carnevino, their new Italian steakhouse just up the mall from B&B, their year-old ristorante at the Venetian. I like the spaciousness of the rather formal room, its high ceilings, heavy drapes and dark wood sideboards. What makes Carnevino unique is its obsessive pursuit of the best meat. Adam Perry Lang is a kind of meat forager for the restaurant: His job is to visit farms in the Midwest and choose specific animals for the steakhouse. At the moment, he has 15,000 pounds of beef aging in his humongous Vegas meat locker.
Naturally, the star of the steak menu is that pricey fiorentina for two, which by the time I visited a second time had been reduced to $145 from $160. Aged about nine weeks, it is massive, about two inches thick, and cooked without wood or mesquite to keep the flavors pure. If you want to save 10 bucks, order the hefty rib-eye for two, which is more heavily marbled than the fiorentina's porterhouse. The quality of the meat is exceptional for both, but my vote goes to the fiorentina for its texture and the way the rich beefy flavor lingers like a fine wine.
But first, before everything else, is a small crock of pure pork lard flavored with rosemary that arrives with some oily focaccia. I defy you not to finish it, the lard is so flat-out wonderful. The salumi plate for two or more includes slices of that marvelous lard, prosciutto cut like silk, coppa and more -- not a bad way to start a meal here. Carne cruda (steak tartare) is seasoned with capers and too much olive oil -- and salt. Lobster two ways -- the tail as thick-cut sashimi, the claws fried in Prosecco-dosed tempura batter -- is delicious, especially the fried lemon slices, if you can countenance $60 for a first course. The alternative is a half order of pasta, such as ravioli with duck liver and aceto balsamico sauce, duck cannelloni or pappardelle with porcini sauce (and too much butter).
Salt makes too strong an entrance in many dishes. And what's with the Milanese? The pounded pork cutlet comes fried to a crisp and absolutely swimming in butter. Sides bring out the Italian in the kitchen with Tuscan fries (fried fingerlings pan-roasted with rosemary and Parmesan), braised fennel with sambuca, and fresh peas with walnuts.
Do not skip dessert, especially if it's the tender rice torte with a topknot of honeycomb or the gubana, a special yeast-raised cake filled with nuts and dried fruit with grappa poured over at the last minute. Bottom line: As good as the beef is here, I'd rather eat at B&B, Batali's more intimate Italian restaurant in the Venetian next door. It's not cheap, either, but it's got more soul -- and a more consistent kitchen.
Puck's 6th Vegas venue
WOLFGANG Puck's Cut just opened in the Palazzo, too, making that three -- count 'em-- steakhouses under one roof (the third is Morels French Steakhouse from the Grove in L.A.). This one is in sight of the luscious Barneys New York store in the Palazzo and its full complement of bling. Buy something, a $400 T-shirt or a $19,000 sultanesque ring, say, and wear it right over to dinner. Want a dress? You'll need a home equity loan.
Though the menu is almost identical to the Beverly Hills steakhouse, the look is quite different from the cool white expanses of Richard Meier's design for the original Cut. This one, from the local design firm ABA, is warmer, featuring generous booths, a striped rug underfoot and bulky geometric chandeliers. There's an inviting lounge too, where you can order up some of Cut's signature mini-Kobe beef sliders or oysters on the half shell.
Prices, at least compared to Carnevino's, seem almost moderate, though in the real world, of course, they're vertigo-inducing -- a 3-pound lobster is a mere $110. Wine prices, though, are very fair, especially for the more esoteric choices on the interesting, wide-ranging list. For a restaurant that was a mere 2 weeks old when I visited, the whole operation was very professional, with a first-rate front of the house. But then, Puck is no amateur: This is his sixth Las Vegas restaurant.
The amuses -- crisp skinny breadsticks shaggy with Parmesan, dainty gougères and pillowy potato knishes -- are suitably amusing. Go easy, though -- there's lots more to come. Austrian oxtail bouillon with chive blossoms and bone marrow dumplings, a Cut's classic, is ethereal. Asparagus on a slab of toast topped with a poached egg and a single piece of bacon makes a great first course too. And so does a salad of tender little fava beans and baby artichokes with pecorino Romano, mint and Meyer lemon; it practically defines spring.
Steaks -- Nebraska dry-aged 35 days and Illinois aged 21 days, plus pricey Kobe beef from Japan and domestic Kobe-style Wagyu beef -- are the heart of the menu. Dry-aged rib-eye for $61 has plenty of flavor, but it's an awfully thin cut. I much prefer the $54 bone-in sirloin cooked with a nice char and served with a slick of butter on top and a gutsy Armagnac black pepper sauce.
But there's much more than steaks here: a terrific double-thick Kurobuta pork chop, roast duckling with lavender and thyme and whole roasted wild French turbot for two. The best deal is the rotisserie-roasted poussin for $31 with a graceful black truffle jus. Sides include a tall tower of thinnest gold onion rings in a lacy tempura batter, delicious chard and escarole greens, and fresh English peas with pea pods and pea tendrils.
In terms of all-around excellence, Cut outperforms the other steakhouses in town. And with it so difficult to get a reservation at the original in Beverly Hills, here's your chance right here in Vegas.
Trotter's seafood stop
THE restaurant opening with the most food world buzz has to be Restaurant Charlie from Chicago's Charlie Trotter. He doesn't have a slew of restaurants (just one other in Los Cabos, Mexico), so this is big news for the iconoclastic chef. And this isn't a clone of Charlie Trotter's (he did that years ago with the short-lived Charlie Trotter's in the MGM Grand), but an entirely new seafood-themed restaurant complete with that kitchen loft for big spenders.
He's got a prime location on the edge of the casino, but inside it feels as anti-Las Vegas as you can get. The design is very plain, with rumpled pale blue upholstered chairs that are so uncomfortable we asked to sit in a booth, but that wasn't much better. The backs are like ironing boards. And that chef's table, a.k.a. the Kitchen Table Loft? From our vantage point it looked like an office with glaring light as waiters ministered to a group of high rollers at $350 per person minimum.
Restaurant Charlie is really two restaurants. One is a la carte. Our server laid claim to Charlie Trotter's in Chicago being the ultimate tasting-menu restaurant, whereas this one is meant to be the ultimate a la carte experience. Part Two is Bar Charlie, where Trotter indulges his fascination with sushi in two prix fixe menus (8 courses for $175; 14 courses for $250). We opted for the a la carte menu in the main dining room, leaving Bar Charlie for next time.
The meal began on a strong note with a wonderful amuse of tuna tartare with avocado, olives and black sesame seeds. I liked a crab salad appetizer with sake sorbet and rice milk topped with a lacy rice cracker, too, but skate wing terrine cooked sous vide and lined up like a ruler on the plate was very bland. My favorite is the elegant tai snapper sashimi with ocher uni and a deep-flavored hibiki seaweed sauce.
Overall, though, the meal isn't exactly fireworks (and Mr. Trotter is not in-house that night). Alaskan halibut sits on lemon curd so sweet it could go into a pie. Arctic char on crunchy savoy cabbage is uninspired. And the delicate taste of poulard is bludgeoned by a thick chocolate sauce. Desserts, such as kabocha cake, are just as odd, and ultimately unsatisfying. Service is good, but stiff. There's no real conversation: It's like talking to members of the Charlie Trotter cult. Where's the fun? Where's the indulgence?
Lagasse drops the label
EMERIL LAGASSE is the fourth big-name chef to open a restaurant at the Palazzo. Oddly, for someone who's known to plaster his name on everything in sight, Table 10's sign doesn't give away the fact that this is the Food Network star's place. At lunch one day I find myself sitting "outside" on an indoor terrace framed by potted moth orchids and fake topiary, listening to dueling grand pianos playing at either end of the Palazzo's designer shops. A motley collection of tourists strolls by in the faux daylight. Where am I? What is this place? And why is Bauman Rare Books setting up shop near Chloé and Christian Louboutin? Curiouser and curiouser.
Our waiter informs us that Table 10's produce is organic and shipped in daily from Lagasse's farm. Lagasse isn't going for fireworks either: The menu is basic and not particularly inspired, and only a few tables are occupied. I know from previous experiences at Lagasse's Las Vegas restaurants, the simpler you order, the better. Here, that would be the rotisserie meats, but I want something lighter for lunch.
So I make it a bowl of his signature gumbo, which has a good flavor and a nice kick of pepper. Blue crab salad with remoulade sauce is OK, three scoops of crab salad flanking a boring mixed green salad. A Cuban-style sandwich made with Kurobuta pork is fine too. Service is sincere and attentive, but I still can't help the feeling that nothing much is going on here. With so many restaurants and so few meals, this one might merit a skip.
Osteen's secret spot
THE Palazzo doesn't have a lock on all the new restaurants in town. Maverick chef Louis Osteen bypassed the casinos entirely and opened his new place in the sprawling Town Square mall just south of the Strip. Could South Carolina's most famous chef have picked a more hidden location? We drove around and around looking for Louis's Las Vegas until we finally spotted a small placard pointing out the location -- upstairs at the back of a building, not even visible from the street. This place, however, is well worth the trouble for the chance to feast on Osteen's superb low-country cooking.
Instead of going for flash or glamour, he's opened a very sincere, very personal restaurant with a planed cypress tree as the reservation desk, an old-fashioned swinging bench for waiting and an elegant sideboard made by a master craftsman. He and his wife have actually moved to Las Vegas and are there most nights. He's also got the talented Carlos Guia, former executive chef of Commander's Palace at the Aladdin, as his chef de cuisine. This is the real deal, and it's such a pleasure to find so many things you'd like to try on the menu.
His jumbo lump crab and lobster cakes with whole grain mustard are mouthwatering examples of the genre. Barely cooked shrimp top a timbale of molded grits with a beautifully nuanced low country shrimp gravy that tastes as if it's been cooking for hours. Bourbon-cured and smoked duck breast is served like carpaccio with bourbon raisin poppers and fried crackling on top, a wonderful combination of flavors. And don't overlook the Charleston she crab soup with aged sherry either.
Main courses include a chicken-fried duck breast in a crisp fluffy batter with a sumptuous gravy (the guy is a master) punctuated with julienned candied kumquats. Check out his marinated charred rib pork chop with buttery fork-mashed potatoes. Sides are all terrific. And for dessert, consider the elegant bourbon brown butter pecan tart and the unusual many-layered Mississippi caramel cake dripping in caramel frosting, served with buttermilk ice cream. Louis's is as down-home as it gets in the glitzy town.
Meanwhile, it seems every restaurant in L.A. has designs on cashing in big in Vegas. Ago just opened at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. Drai's has a new lease on life on the Strip. Boa, Valentino, Sushi Roku, Spago and Chinois, Koi and Trader Vic's -- they're all doing the bright lights, big city thing. But do we care? Probably not. Enough is enough. Except in Las Vegas, when it's never enough.
opus17
Apr 3, 08, 7:40 pm
I'm staying there next week -- where is the entrance to parking (assuming it is different from the Venetian Garage) -- on LVB, Koval or Sands?
kaukau
Apr 4, 08, 3:08 am
I'm staying there next week -- where is the entrance to parking (assuming it is different from the Venetian Garage) -- on LVB, Koval or Sands?
The Palazzo parking garage is accessed off Sands. We found that out last week when we swung by to pick up Mikeef on the way to the Todd's Unique DO.
I think that's correct!
Good luck!
The Palazzo parking garage is accessed off Sands. We found that out last week when we swung by to pick up Mikeef on the way to the Todd's Unique DO.
I think that's correct!
Good luck!
txrus
Apr 4, 08, 1:47 pm
I'm staying there next week -- where is the entrance to parking (assuming it is different from the Venetian Garage) -- on LVB, Koval or Sands?
According to this map http://www.lvcasinoinfo.com/images/propmaps/venprop62.pdf it's off Sands.
According to this map http://www.lvcasinoinfo.com/images/propmaps/venprop62.pdf it's off Sands.
kaukau
Apr 4, 08, 2:29 pm
According to this map http://www.lvcasinoinfo.com/images/propmaps/venprop62.pdf it's off Sands.
Yeah, what I remembered as possibly being Koval is indeed Sands!
Have a great trip!
Yeah, what I remembered as possibly being Koval is indeed Sands!
Have a great trip!
opus17
Apr 4, 08, 3:02 pm
The Palazzo parking garage is accessed off Sands. We found that out last week when we swung by to pick up Mikeef on the way to the Todd's Unique DO.
I think that's correct!
Good luck!
According to this map http://www.lvcasinoinfo.com/images/propmaps/venprop62.pdf it's off Sands.
Yeah, what I remembered as possibly being Koval is indeed Sands!
Have a great trip!
Thanks to all -- it will probably save me at least one trip around the block!
I think that's correct!
Good luck!
According to this map http://www.lvcasinoinfo.com/images/propmaps/venprop62.pdf it's off Sands.
Yeah, what I remembered as possibly being Koval is indeed Sands!
Have a great trip!
Thanks to all -- it will probably save me at least one trip around the block!
tinkybelle
Apr 6, 08, 5:49 pm
I could see the pool from my room at the venetian on 30th mar
it looks finished though no one was in it
it does have water
is smaller than the venetian pool and has lots of white cabanas.
it looks finished though no one was in it
it does have water
is smaller than the venetian pool and has lots of white cabanas.
Carter29072
Apr 9, 08, 10:33 am
We just returned last night from the Palazzo, the pools were opened on Saturday (the 5th). We do not go to swim but saw many people using the pool. We were told by the staff that the pool was heated. The cabannas were not completed but this did not keep people from using the pool. As far as the Palazzo-- it was fanatasic. We have stayed at many places-- the wynn several times, caesars a few times, treasure island, ny, ny, a few others. The Palazzo was tops. We had a luxury room on the 27th floor with a view of the strip. The room was great, the parking was the best and most convenient. We will stay again. :).
txrus
Apr 10, 08, 2:19 pm
We just returned last night from the Palazzo, the pools were opened on Saturday (the 5th). We do not go to swim but saw many people using the pool. We were told by the staff that the pool was heated. The cabannas were not completed but this did not keep people from using the pool. As far as the Palazzo-- it was fanatasic. We have stayed at many places-- the wynn several times, caesars a few times, treasure island, ny, ny, a few others. The Palazzo was tops. We had a luxury room on the 27th floor with a view of the strip. The room was great, the parking was the best and most convenient. We will stay again. :).
Were all the shops & restaurants open yet? I'll be there end of the month.
Were all the shops & restaurants open yet? I'll be there end of the month.
Carter29072
Apr 10, 08, 2:40 pm
Looked like several of the stores in the Palazzo were open, a few were unfinished. I know that we saw a few places to eat in the Palazzo but I am not sure if all the restaurants were open. We had plans and reservations each night away from the hotel so the only meal that we ate at the hotel was a quick hamburger at the Grand Luxe Cafe. It was really pretty good and reasonably priced.
txrus
Apr 10, 08, 3:24 pm
Looked like several of the stores in the Palazzo were open, a few were unfinished. I know that we saw a few places to eat in the Palazzo but I am not sure if all the restaurants were open. We had plans and reservations each night away from the hotel so the only meal that we ate at the hotel was a quick hamburger at the Grand Luxe Cafe. It was really pretty good and reasonably priced.
Yeah, I've been to the one @ the Venetian on a previous trip. Was more than a little surprised to find TPTB decided to put one in the Palazzo given the close proximity to the Venetian, but at least it's open. We are there for 1night for a conference-cannot figure out how or why they decided on this place, but having had the 'pleasure' of staying @ the Grand America in SLC while that was trying to get the kinks out after a soft opening, I don't have any desire to do it again. And, for a hotel that's still getting the kinks out, whomever negiotated this contract w/them got taken to the cleaners (in my opinion, anyway). Oh well. Thanks for the feedback!
Yeah, I've been to the one @ the Venetian on a previous trip. Was more than a little surprised to find TPTB decided to put one in the Palazzo given the close proximity to the Venetian, but at least it's open. We are there for 1night for a conference-cannot figure out how or why they decided on this place, but having had the 'pleasure' of staying @ the Grand America in SLC while that was trying to get the kinks out after a soft opening, I don't have any desire to do it again. And, for a hotel that's still getting the kinks out, whomever negiotated this contract w/them got taken to the cleaners (in my opinion, anyway). Oh well. Thanks for the feedback!
opus17
Apr 15, 08, 8:42 am
Just got back from the Palazzo -- some observations:
I liked the room, I thought it was quite a bit more modern than the Venetian/Venetiza. My wife thought the decor was "too much".
We had a room overlooking the pools -- it was a bit noisy at night, especially when TI shot off fireworks.
The curtains and blinds in the room were automated and controlled by a remote.
3 TVs in the room, 2 are true HDTV with a bunch of HD channels. Also, there is a DVD player in the living room.
I liked the casino -- it was open and much less smoky that the Venetian (of course, the Venetian has had years of absorbing the smoke). The machines in the non-smoking sections were not to our liking, however.
It is very convenient to cross over from the casino to the Wynn.
The food in Dos Caminos is good (not a huge menu), but the whole ultra lounge vibe might be a bit much for some.
I'm not a big fan of the Grand Luxe Cafe Brought To You By The Same People Who Run The Cheesecake Factory, but the one in the Palazzo is a big improvement over the one in the Venetian.
Everything seemed to be working fine at the hotel.
My experience in hitting jackpots that required hand pays is that service was a lot faster in the Palazzo than the Venetian.
I liked the room, I thought it was quite a bit more modern than the Venetian/Venetiza. My wife thought the decor was "too much".
We had a room overlooking the pools -- it was a bit noisy at night, especially when TI shot off fireworks.
The curtains and blinds in the room were automated and controlled by a remote.
3 TVs in the room, 2 are true HDTV with a bunch of HD channels. Also, there is a DVD player in the living room.
I liked the casino -- it was open and much less smoky that the Venetian (of course, the Venetian has had years of absorbing the smoke). The machines in the non-smoking sections were not to our liking, however.
It is very convenient to cross over from the casino to the Wynn.
The food in Dos Caminos is good (not a huge menu), but the whole ultra lounge vibe might be a bit much for some.
I'm not a big fan of the Grand Luxe Cafe Brought To You By The Same People Who Run The Cheesecake Factory, but the one in the Palazzo is a big improvement over the one in the Venetian.
Everything seemed to be working fine at the hotel.
My experience in hitting jackpots that required hand pays is that service was a lot faster in the Palazzo than the Venetian.
kingalien
Apr 15, 08, 9:40 am
I liked the casino -- it was open and much less smoky that the Venetian (of course, the Venetian has had years of absorbing the smoke).
I agree, I liked the casino too. It's a bit "wynn-esque" in terms of feel, decor and lighting.
IThe machines in the non-smoking sections were not to our liking, however.
Yeah, those machines are lame. I guess management thought non-smokers would only like to play boring games :p.
I'm not a big fan of the Grand Luxe Cafe Brought To You By The Same People Who Run The Cheesecake Factory, but the one in the Palazzo is a big improvement over the one in the Venetian.
Interesting. Haven't eaten there yet. Big improvement in service? I would think the food would be the same.
I agree, I liked the casino too. It's a bit "wynn-esque" in terms of feel, decor and lighting.
IThe machines in the non-smoking sections were not to our liking, however.
Yeah, those machines are lame. I guess management thought non-smokers would only like to play boring games :p.
I'm not a big fan of the Grand Luxe Cafe Brought To You By The Same People Who Run The Cheesecake Factory, but the one in the Palazzo is a big improvement over the one in the Venetian.
Interesting. Haven't eaten there yet. Big improvement in service? I would think the food would be the same.
opus17
Apr 15, 08, 2:50 pm
Interesting. Haven't eaten there yet. Big improvement in service? I would think the food would be the same.
It's the same menu. I'm talking about atmosphere -- the one in the P is broken into more intimate spaces. The one in the V is like a Soviet mess hall.
(The food is on the level of CF -- competent, kind of boring, huge variety. Fine for burgers, sandwiches and salads.)
It's the same menu. I'm talking about atmosphere -- the one in the P is broken into more intimate spaces. The one in the V is like a Soviet mess hall.
(The food is on the level of CF -- competent, kind of boring, huge variety. Fine for burgers, sandwiches and salads.)
happymom2008
Apr 15, 08, 6:18 pm
I was planning to eat at the 40/40 Club and restaurant. Has anyone been there yet? My daughter is a fan of Jay Z, owner, (a rapper, for those who don't know). The place I think is sports themed.
Any comments would be greatly appreciated.
Any comments would be greatly appreciated.
ijgordon
Apr 15, 08, 10:31 pm
I liked the room, I thought it was quite a bit more modern than the Venetian/Venetiza. My wife thought the decor was "too much".The rooms at Palazzo are virtually identical to the renovated rooms at Venetian. I believe all rooms in the main Venetian tower have been renovated. I think Venezeia is still the older-style, more heavily Italian themed.
I liked the casino -- it was open and much less smoky that the Venetian (of course, the Venetian has had years of absorbing the smoke). I like the openness as well. But I've heard from a lot of people who hate it, and prefer the Steve Wynn style (Wynn, Bellagio) which is more intimate, with the canopies et. al.
I liked the casino -- it was open and much less smoky that the Venetian (of course, the Venetian has had years of absorbing the smoke). I like the openness as well. But I've heard from a lot of people who hate it, and prefer the Steve Wynn style (Wynn, Bellagio) which is more intimate, with the canopies et. al.
opus17
Apr 16, 08, 1:24 am
The rooms at Palazzo are virtually identical to the renovated rooms at Venetian. I believe all rooms in the main Venetian tower have been renovated. I think Venezeia is still the older-style, more heavily Italian themed.
I haven't been in the main Venetian rooms in years, so I haven't seen the renovations -- every stay, they put us in the Venetzia... one advantage to the Palazzo was the lack of those long walks between the room and anywhere.
BTW, it seems that a lot of the new restaurants are some sort of steak house...adding to the already open Delmonico. I would have liked to see a bit more variety.
I haven't been in the main Venetian rooms in years, so I haven't seen the renovations -- every stay, they put us in the Venetzia... one advantage to the Palazzo was the lack of those long walks between the room and anywhere.
BTW, it seems that a lot of the new restaurants are some sort of steak house...adding to the already open Delmonico. I would have liked to see a bit more variety.
MikeE
Apr 16, 08, 6:11 am
...a lot of people who hate it, and prefer the Steve Wynn style (Wynn, Bellagio) which is more intimate, with the canopies et. al.
It's been proven time and again that smaller spaces = increased revenues. Wait'll Encore opens. With only 60,000 square feet sectioned with canopies, draperies, half walls, and columns, it'll be like one vast high limit room without as high of minimums.
It's been proven time and again that smaller spaces = increased revenues. Wait'll Encore opens. With only 60,000 square feet sectioned with canopies, draperies, half walls, and columns, it'll be like one vast high limit room without as high of minimums.
ikura
Apr 18, 08, 4:40 am
I'm going to Vegas for the first time in June, and I'm considering staying at the Palazzo (or Venetian).
What's the crowd like there? I'm barely 25, and my significant other even younger (but old enough to gamble :D). Will we feel out of place?
We're new to gambling, but prefer to stay at the nicer hotels when traveling.
What's the crowd like there? I'm barely 25, and my significant other even younger (but old enough to gamble :D). Will we feel out of place?
We're new to gambling, but prefer to stay at the nicer hotels when traveling.
annerj
Apr 18, 08, 5:51 pm
I'm going to Vegas for the first time in June, and I'm considering staying at the Palazzo (or Venetian).
What's the crowd like there? I'm barely 25, and my significant other even younger (but old enough to gamble :D). Will we feel out of place?
We're new to gambling, but prefer to stay at the nicer hotels when traveling.
This is just my opinion but I think the level of clientel at the Venetian/Palazzo is a bit higher then most strip hotels. The table mins seem higher and most people seemed to be "dressed up".
We are in our early 30's but are straight T-shirt/Jeans type people. Its not a problem for us but one might feel a little under dressed there. I've set next to guys in suits and gals in dresses more there then anywhere else I've gambled.
What's the crowd like there? I'm barely 25, and my significant other even younger (but old enough to gamble :D). Will we feel out of place?
We're new to gambling, but prefer to stay at the nicer hotels when traveling.
This is just my opinion but I think the level of clientel at the Venetian/Palazzo is a bit higher then most strip hotels. The table mins seem higher and most people seemed to be "dressed up".
We are in our early 30's but are straight T-shirt/Jeans type people. Its not a problem for us but one might feel a little under dressed there. I've set next to guys in suits and gals in dresses more there then anywhere else I've gambled.
opus17
Apr 18, 08, 6:48 pm
This is just my opinion but I think the level of clientel at the Venetian/Palazzo is a bit higher then most strip hotels. The table mins seem higher and most people seemed to be "dressed up".
We are in our early 30's but are straight T-shirt/Jeans type people. Its not a problem for us but one might feel a little under dressed there. I've set next to guys in suits and gals in dresses more there then anywhere else I've gambled.
It's such a big place, it is hard to generalize. First of all, most of the people are probably with a convention. But you'll see the gamut from expensive Italian sports jackets (me) to Sci-Fi channel sweatshirts (my wife).
We are in our early 30's but are straight T-shirt/Jeans type people. Its not a problem for us but one might feel a little under dressed there. I've set next to guys in suits and gals in dresses more there then anywhere else I've gambled.
It's such a big place, it is hard to generalize. First of all, most of the people are probably with a convention. But you'll see the gamut from expensive Italian sports jackets (me) to Sci-Fi channel sweatshirts (my wife).
annerj
Apr 18, 08, 7:29 pm
It's such a big place, it is hard to generalize. First of all, most of the people are probably with a convention. But you'll see the gamut from expensive Italian sports jackets (me) to Sci-Fi channel sweatshirts (my wife).
I agree that its a big place but its not hard to generalize when the vast majority (I'm talking at and around the tables....the only place I hang out) of people are dressed well above my t/jeans.
I've taken another couple in there and without saying a word they thought the same thing. There is a distinct difference between there and say NY/NY, Mandalay, or similar.
I'm not saying its a bad thing. But I could see it making some uncomfortable. For me I could be in t/jeans and everyone else in a tux and I wouldn't be uncomforatble :)
I agree that its a big place but its not hard to generalize when the vast majority (I'm talking at and around the tables....the only place I hang out) of people are dressed well above my t/jeans.
I've taken another couple in there and without saying a word they thought the same thing. There is a distinct difference between there and say NY/NY, Mandalay, or similar.
I'm not saying its a bad thing. But I could see it making some uncomfortable. For me I could be in t/jeans and everyone else in a tux and I wouldn't be uncomforatble :)
bigrob
Apr 25, 08, 10:32 am
Stayed at Palazzo last weekend. Probably not as seasoned as some Vegas travellers on here, but I've stayed at Caesars, Paris, Bellagio, Wynn and the HRH on previous trips. My impressions--
I think the place is still finding its way. We checked in and had a bella suite with a view reserved. We tried the old $20 trick (but since there were 3 of us and we were staying on a Thurs, Fri and Sat night we tried it with a $100 bill) and it worked fantastically. We were upgraded to a larger suite than you can't even book online--1450 square feet on the 45th floor overlooking the Wynn and its pool. Huge living space, bedroom, bathroom and a second bathroom in the foyer. There was also a small room that had nothing in it--since there were 3 of us and only one king bed, we had a rollaway put in the small room--the person who lost the most money every night had to sleep in there. So I give the room and service to get said room an A+++.
Restaurants--we hit the Grand Luxe Cafe for lunch and really liked it a lot--a bit expensive, but cheaper than the coffee shops at Wynn or Bellagio. That night we went to 40/40 for dinner. Walked in, were told to sit wherever we wanted, we pulled up a couch with a table and nobody waited on us for 15 minutes. Finally, what I assume was a waitress came by and asked if we had been helped. We said no and she said she'd be right back (she had shopping bags so it looked like she was just getting there). 10 minutes later she hadn't returned so we left. Went to Dos Caminos for dinner and had exceptional service and I thought the food there was fantastic. We also went to Cut for dinner one night which was great--very expensive so if you don't want to drop $150 a person minimum don't go there, but it was excellent.
Casino--this seems to be the big debate--I really wasn't crazy about it. The Wynn style with the canopies and such is my favorite--to me, the Wynn and Bellagio casinos are very intimate, but very spacious at the same time. The high ceilings made this place almost feel too open--there's a lot of space between the tables and where the slots are and there are big bars on the floor that were rarely filled. Never really felt like there was much excitement on the casino floor.
Pool--we had reserved a cabana for the day only to get out there and find out that they weren't ready yet. We were given one at the Venetian which turned out to be great--I really liked the cabanas at the Venetian--good amenities, close to the pool and you get a little patio--that's key to me in a cabana--you like to have your own private space to lay out in the sun. Personally, I think they geeked the cabanas at Palazzo--the amenities look the same, but there is no patio--the pool deck near most of them starts almost immediately after the opening to the cabana, so if you put your lounge chair out in front of the cabana, it'll be about 6 inches to the chair in front of you. If I'm spending $400 a day for a private space at the pool, I like to have a bit of separation from the rest of the people there. I also didn't like that the only food option was Riva--we ate it and the food was fantastic, but sitting at the pool, I usually just want a burger and fries or more general bar food--I like that you can order from a place like Riva, but I would have liked another option or two as well. I like the Venetian pool which you have access to from Palazzo, but I wasn't wild about the Palazzo pool at all and was thankful that the cabanas there weren't open yet.
Overall, it's a very nice place, but I will be staying at Wynn for the foreseeable future and eventually Encore when that opens up. I liked the Palazzo, but prefer the Wynn property.
I think the place is still finding its way. We checked in and had a bella suite with a view reserved. We tried the old $20 trick (but since there were 3 of us and we were staying on a Thurs, Fri and Sat night we tried it with a $100 bill) and it worked fantastically. We were upgraded to a larger suite than you can't even book online--1450 square feet on the 45th floor overlooking the Wynn and its pool. Huge living space, bedroom, bathroom and a second bathroom in the foyer. There was also a small room that had nothing in it--since there were 3 of us and only one king bed, we had a rollaway put in the small room--the person who lost the most money every night had to sleep in there. So I give the room and service to get said room an A+++.
Restaurants--we hit the Grand Luxe Cafe for lunch and really liked it a lot--a bit expensive, but cheaper than the coffee shops at Wynn or Bellagio. That night we went to 40/40 for dinner. Walked in, were told to sit wherever we wanted, we pulled up a couch with a table and nobody waited on us for 15 minutes. Finally, what I assume was a waitress came by and asked if we had been helped. We said no and she said she'd be right back (she had shopping bags so it looked like she was just getting there). 10 minutes later she hadn't returned so we left. Went to Dos Caminos for dinner and had exceptional service and I thought the food there was fantastic. We also went to Cut for dinner one night which was great--very expensive so if you don't want to drop $150 a person minimum don't go there, but it was excellent.
Casino--this seems to be the big debate--I really wasn't crazy about it. The Wynn style with the canopies and such is my favorite--to me, the Wynn and Bellagio casinos are very intimate, but very spacious at the same time. The high ceilings made this place almost feel too open--there's a lot of space between the tables and where the slots are and there are big bars on the floor that were rarely filled. Never really felt like there was much excitement on the casino floor.
Pool--we had reserved a cabana for the day only to get out there and find out that they weren't ready yet. We were given one at the Venetian which turned out to be great--I really liked the cabanas at the Venetian--good amenities, close to the pool and you get a little patio--that's key to me in a cabana--you like to have your own private space to lay out in the sun. Personally, I think they geeked the cabanas at Palazzo--the amenities look the same, but there is no patio--the pool deck near most of them starts almost immediately after the opening to the cabana, so if you put your lounge chair out in front of the cabana, it'll be about 6 inches to the chair in front of you. If I'm spending $400 a day for a private space at the pool, I like to have a bit of separation from the rest of the people there. I also didn't like that the only food option was Riva--we ate it and the food was fantastic, but sitting at the pool, I usually just want a burger and fries or more general bar food--I like that you can order from a place like Riva, but I would have liked another option or two as well. I like the Venetian pool which you have access to from Palazzo, but I wasn't wild about the Palazzo pool at all and was thankful that the cabanas there weren't open yet.
Overall, it's a very nice place, but I will be staying at Wynn for the foreseeable future and eventually Encore when that opens up. I liked the Palazzo, but prefer the Wynn property.
bigguyinpasadena
Apr 26, 08, 1:43 pm
Has anyone eaten at Carne&Vino-Mario Batalli's new place in the Pallazzo?
it is kind of pricey-but if the food is wonderful.....
Also-any Valet secrets to access the Pallazzo?
Thanks in advance for the feed back.
it is kind of pricey-but if the food is wonderful.....
Also-any Valet secrets to access the Pallazzo?
Thanks in advance for the feed back.
txrus
May 3, 08, 9:32 am
Some may think I'm being too picky & that I should give them a break because they are still trying to work the kinks out. That's fine-you're entitled to your opinions. My feeling is that much of what I'm describing here should have been caught before they ever opened the doors, but that's just my opinion. I did send a note to the hotel's mgr on Thurs, but no response.
Stayed only 1 night (thankfully!) for a conference. I'm not a gambler, so I can't attest to anything to do w/the casino, other than it seemed pretty empty. Not as smoky as others in Las Vegas, but I suspect that has more to do w/the fact that it hasn't been open long enough to get that way. The Shops area also seemed pretty deserted the one time I walked thru, though there were more stores open than I expected.
My biggest peeve w/this hotel is the guest room plumbing. Never, in all the hotels I've stayed in over the years, have I been in one where the plumbing in the guest rooms is as loud as it is here. If I have to turn up the volume on the tv in order to hear it over the sound of the shower running in the next room (or 'suite' as they insist on calling them here), as I did, then there is a serious problem. (I apologize to whomever was next door to me & had to listen to my shower running @ 6am)
Check-in is a rather convoluted process that requires one to first identify oneself, & the reason for needing to speak w/someone @ the front desk, to a roving hotel staff person. He/she then goes over to a registration person for a brief discussion before allowing you to approach where, of course, you then must re-state your request. I was actually scolded when I tried to walk up to the counter, not knowing I had to wait for permission. The lobby area is huge, w/marble everywhere, & loud music blasting throughout which means all conversations w/anyone in this area must be SHOUTED in order to be heard. Suggestion to hotel mgmt-TURN THE MUSIC DOWN!!!!!!!!!! Also, despite having a registration counter than ran the width of the lobby, all the check-in staff are bunched up together shoulder to shoulder which meant that not only could I clearly hear the conversation of the guest checking in beside me, w/o even trying, that guest could easily hear my conversations. No reason staff can't be spread out to provide a bit of privacy during this process.
Be warned, this is a hotel that has rent-a-cops stationed at the guest elevators to harass anyone trying to use them, especially if, it seemed, the guests hands were full. The first time I tried to go up to my room, not only did I have to show these people my key, they also demanded to know what room I was in! Keys did not work on my first trip up, after having successfully gotten past the rent-a-cops, which meant trekking all the way back down, across the casino, & repeating the above process to once again approach the registration desk for a new set of keys. This also meant dealing w/the rent-a-cops again, as well, even though literally not 10 minutes had passed. When I came back from dinner that night, 1 of the new keys had already deactivated itself & no, it was no where near my cellphone.
The decor chosen for the guest suites, as others have pointed out, actually gives the impression of a hotel that is much older, run-down, & dated than it is. They actually managed to dig-up a cordless phone that I would swear is straight out of the 70's! It took me 3 trips up & down the hall to find the room w/the ice machine in it since the wall sign for it was tucked behind a pillar & not well lit. I don't know that all the elevators to the guest rooms are working yet-certainly, in the tower I was in, I ended up in the same elevator every time I went up or down. They are not only incredibly slow, but also very noisy to the point that, as others also remarked at one point, you do wonder whether it's safe to be in them.
Like the suites @ the Venetian, the suites here feature a sunken living room. Someone must have decided that a green nightlight was in order for the 2 steps that lead down to the living room. The problem is that I could not see any way to turn it off @ night & that little light gives off an amazing amount of light in what is supposed to be a darkened room! Control for the A/C is wedged into a corner behind a bedside chair which made it difficult to get to. Doors are incredibly heavy & even when holding on to it, when exiting the room, it's nearly impossible to keep the door from slamming. My room overlooked Sands, the Wynn & it's golf course (which is very nice), but unfortunately, also all the A/C units for at least one area of the hotel. Even though I was on the 17th floor & they were quite a few floors below, it was still possible to clearly hear the roaring of the machines all night; same w/planes taking off from the airport.
I give them points for actually putting a work desk in the living room area since so many of the LV casinos don't, however, it has a glass top on it & an optical computer mouse doesn't work on those. In addition, there is a rolling cart sitting beside the desk w/a fax machine/printer on, but since it is squeezed in between the desk chair & wall, & in front of the window curtains, there is a overwhelming feeling of being squeezed in when trying to use the desk. Remote control for the tv in the living room was very sluggish in changing the channels-I'm not sure whether it needed batteries or just didn't work well w/the tv in the room. Ice bucket they provided is very small & the glasses in the room don't really fit into it for getting ice out nor did they provide tongs to use instead which left no other option besides one's hands.
Bed is a pillow top, but there is no mattress pad on it. In addition, they have put a flat sheet on the bottom which, of course, ends up in a wadded up knot under your back the first time you turn over. Note to hotel mgmt-invest in fitted bottom sheets. If the Crowne Plaza, Hilton Garden Inn, & even Hampton Inn, to name but a few, can do it, so can the Palazzo.
Bathroom is quite large, though it took time to figure out how to get the lights turned on in there! Very large & thick bath sheets, along w/large bath towels, but only 2 of each; same w/handtowels & washcloths. Large towel rack over the tub, but the only way to get near it, especially if you want to hang towels on it to dry, is to actually climb into the tub. Door to the 'wc' compartment will not stay open on its own. Double sinks w/granite vanity, but there are already stains around the bottom of the faucets (ick!). Toiletries are from Agraria & are 'lemon verbena'. If, as a little girl reading 'Little House on the Prarie' you ever wondered what Miss Beadle's 'lemon verbena' smelled like, get a can of Pledge furniture polish & you'll know. I think the hotel is trying to be 'green' w/low flow water fixtures; unfortunately, this has translated into very low water pressure & the water temp in the shower fluxuated constantly while in it which was very annoying.
The only restaurant I tried @ the Palazzo was the Grand Lux Cafe. As is typical for a single female diner, they tried to seat me at the smallest table they could find initially-it even had only 1 chair! Then I had to send my lunch back as it had been prepared incorrectly. Though the waiter apologized & took responsibility, there was no reduction on the check, of course.
Meeting space for the Palazzo is actually the Sands Convention Center which itself is @ the Venetian which translates into another hike to get to it. Those attending our mtg either from the local area or staying elsewhere were not happy to find out, upon arrival @ the Palazzo, they were actually at the wrong place. Meeting rooms are not very well soundproofed-we could clearly hear the group next door to us & I would assume they could clearly hear us, as well. Banquet staff actually bus the tables in the meeting room by dragging around gigantic trash bags vs. using trays, which I found very odd & not very hygenic. Wi-fi in the public areas was difficult to access; multiple attendees had problem getting connected.
I give the Palazzo points for actually providing newspaper delivery to my room in the morning; many of the big casinos in Las Vegas don't. However, no copy of the hotel bill slipped under the door & I had to argue w/the staff person who checked me out to see a printed copy of the bill. She tried to fold it up & stick it in an envelope w/o my ever seeing it. When I asked to see it, she said, 'Why? It's just the room & tax & you already paid that', as the woman next to me was arguing w/another staff person about charges on her bill that didn't belong to her!
Overall, as my title suggested, I was not impressed. Had I had another option for that night, I certainly would have taken it. Thankfully, I did have another option for the next night!
Stayed only 1 night (thankfully!) for a conference. I'm not a gambler, so I can't attest to anything to do w/the casino, other than it seemed pretty empty. Not as smoky as others in Las Vegas, but I suspect that has more to do w/the fact that it hasn't been open long enough to get that way. The Shops area also seemed pretty deserted the one time I walked thru, though there were more stores open than I expected.
My biggest peeve w/this hotel is the guest room plumbing. Never, in all the hotels I've stayed in over the years, have I been in one where the plumbing in the guest rooms is as loud as it is here. If I have to turn up the volume on the tv in order to hear it over the sound of the shower running in the next room (or 'suite' as they insist on calling them here), as I did, then there is a serious problem. (I apologize to whomever was next door to me & had to listen to my shower running @ 6am)
Check-in is a rather convoluted process that requires one to first identify oneself, & the reason for needing to speak w/someone @ the front desk, to a roving hotel staff person. He/she then goes over to a registration person for a brief discussion before allowing you to approach where, of course, you then must re-state your request. I was actually scolded when I tried to walk up to the counter, not knowing I had to wait for permission. The lobby area is huge, w/marble everywhere, & loud music blasting throughout which means all conversations w/anyone in this area must be SHOUTED in order to be heard. Suggestion to hotel mgmt-TURN THE MUSIC DOWN!!!!!!!!!! Also, despite having a registration counter than ran the width of the lobby, all the check-in staff are bunched up together shoulder to shoulder which meant that not only could I clearly hear the conversation of the guest checking in beside me, w/o even trying, that guest could easily hear my conversations. No reason staff can't be spread out to provide a bit of privacy during this process.
Be warned, this is a hotel that has rent-a-cops stationed at the guest elevators to harass anyone trying to use them, especially if, it seemed, the guests hands were full. The first time I tried to go up to my room, not only did I have to show these people my key, they also demanded to know what room I was in! Keys did not work on my first trip up, after having successfully gotten past the rent-a-cops, which meant trekking all the way back down, across the casino, & repeating the above process to once again approach the registration desk for a new set of keys. This also meant dealing w/the rent-a-cops again, as well, even though literally not 10 minutes had passed. When I came back from dinner that night, 1 of the new keys had already deactivated itself & no, it was no where near my cellphone.
The decor chosen for the guest suites, as others have pointed out, actually gives the impression of a hotel that is much older, run-down, & dated than it is. They actually managed to dig-up a cordless phone that I would swear is straight out of the 70's! It took me 3 trips up & down the hall to find the room w/the ice machine in it since the wall sign for it was tucked behind a pillar & not well lit. I don't know that all the elevators to the guest rooms are working yet-certainly, in the tower I was in, I ended up in the same elevator every time I went up or down. They are not only incredibly slow, but also very noisy to the point that, as others also remarked at one point, you do wonder whether it's safe to be in them.
Like the suites @ the Venetian, the suites here feature a sunken living room. Someone must have decided that a green nightlight was in order for the 2 steps that lead down to the living room. The problem is that I could not see any way to turn it off @ night & that little light gives off an amazing amount of light in what is supposed to be a darkened room! Control for the A/C is wedged into a corner behind a bedside chair which made it difficult to get to. Doors are incredibly heavy & even when holding on to it, when exiting the room, it's nearly impossible to keep the door from slamming. My room overlooked Sands, the Wynn & it's golf course (which is very nice), but unfortunately, also all the A/C units for at least one area of the hotel. Even though I was on the 17th floor & they were quite a few floors below, it was still possible to clearly hear the roaring of the machines all night; same w/planes taking off from the airport.
I give them points for actually putting a work desk in the living room area since so many of the LV casinos don't, however, it has a glass top on it & an optical computer mouse doesn't work on those. In addition, there is a rolling cart sitting beside the desk w/a fax machine/printer on, but since it is squeezed in between the desk chair & wall, & in front of the window curtains, there is a overwhelming feeling of being squeezed in when trying to use the desk. Remote control for the tv in the living room was very sluggish in changing the channels-I'm not sure whether it needed batteries or just didn't work well w/the tv in the room. Ice bucket they provided is very small & the glasses in the room don't really fit into it for getting ice out nor did they provide tongs to use instead which left no other option besides one's hands.
Bed is a pillow top, but there is no mattress pad on it. In addition, they have put a flat sheet on the bottom which, of course, ends up in a wadded up knot under your back the first time you turn over. Note to hotel mgmt-invest in fitted bottom sheets. If the Crowne Plaza, Hilton Garden Inn, & even Hampton Inn, to name but a few, can do it, so can the Palazzo.
Bathroom is quite large, though it took time to figure out how to get the lights turned on in there! Very large & thick bath sheets, along w/large bath towels, but only 2 of each; same w/handtowels & washcloths. Large towel rack over the tub, but the only way to get near it, especially if you want to hang towels on it to dry, is to actually climb into the tub. Door to the 'wc' compartment will not stay open on its own. Double sinks w/granite vanity, but there are already stains around the bottom of the faucets (ick!). Toiletries are from Agraria & are 'lemon verbena'. If, as a little girl reading 'Little House on the Prarie' you ever wondered what Miss Beadle's 'lemon verbena' smelled like, get a can of Pledge furniture polish & you'll know. I think the hotel is trying to be 'green' w/low flow water fixtures; unfortunately, this has translated into very low water pressure & the water temp in the shower fluxuated constantly while in it which was very annoying.
The only restaurant I tried @ the Palazzo was the Grand Lux Cafe. As is typical for a single female diner, they tried to seat me at the smallest table they could find initially-it even had only 1 chair! Then I had to send my lunch back as it had been prepared incorrectly. Though the waiter apologized & took responsibility, there was no reduction on the check, of course.
Meeting space for the Palazzo is actually the Sands Convention Center which itself is @ the Venetian which translates into another hike to get to it. Those attending our mtg either from the local area or staying elsewhere were not happy to find out, upon arrival @ the Palazzo, they were actually at the wrong place. Meeting rooms are not very well soundproofed-we could clearly hear the group next door to us & I would assume they could clearly hear us, as well. Banquet staff actually bus the tables in the meeting room by dragging around gigantic trash bags vs. using trays, which I found very odd & not very hygenic. Wi-fi in the public areas was difficult to access; multiple attendees had problem getting connected.
I give the Palazzo points for actually providing newspaper delivery to my room in the morning; many of the big casinos in Las Vegas don't. However, no copy of the hotel bill slipped under the door & I had to argue w/the staff person who checked me out to see a printed copy of the bill. She tried to fold it up & stick it in an envelope w/o my ever seeing it. When I asked to see it, she said, 'Why? It's just the room & tax & you already paid that', as the woman next to me was arguing w/another staff person about charges on her bill that didn't belong to her!
Overall, as my title suggested, I was not impressed. Had I had another option for that night, I certainly would have taken it. Thankfully, I did have another option for the next night!
txrus
May 6, 08, 12:30 pm
One thing I also noticed about the Palazzo is there is lots of flat marble area around the various fountains where one might actually sit down! It is against the Moral Code of Casino Operators to offer people anyplace to sit down that isn't a bar or slot machine (there is certainly no such place at the Venetian).
Expect them to fix this error quickly, perhaps with lots of ugly metal spikes....
When I came up from the garage last week, upon arrival, one of the first things I saw in the grand lobby entrance was a woman sitting @ the fountain, mountain of luggage around her, happily working away on a laptop.
My immediate thought was that I was in the wrong hotel-no way a LV casino would permit such a thing!!
Expect them to fix this error quickly, perhaps with lots of ugly metal spikes....
When I came up from the garage last week, upon arrival, one of the first things I saw in the grand lobby entrance was a woman sitting @ the fountain, mountain of luggage around her, happily working away on a laptop.
My immediate thought was that I was in the wrong hotel-no way a LV casino would permit such a thing!!
briankoenig
May 6, 08, 12:45 pm
happily working away on a laptop
I see women working in the lobby of the Venetian all the time, but they don't have laptops ;)
I see women working in the lobby of the Venetian all the time, but they don't have laptops ;)
ijgordon
May 6, 08, 8:27 pm
Some may think I'm being too picky & that I should give them a break because they are still trying to work the kinks out. That's fine-you're entitled to your opinions.FWIW, I do think you are being a little bit picky, but to be honest, a lot of those little nits just add up, and this is why I really can't stand either Palazzo or Venetian. I've stayed at one or the other four times so far in 2008, and for my last trip, where the conference was (also) at the Sands, I just flat out decided to stay elsewhere, inconvenience be damned.
I would point out that the Sands expo center (and meeting space) is actually equidistant from the Palazzo and Venetian tower elevator banks; it was master planned that way. Of course the Venezia tower is another story...just be GLAD you weren't stuck there!
I would point out that the Sands expo center (and meeting space) is actually equidistant from the Palazzo and Venetian tower elevator banks; it was master planned that way. Of course the Venezia tower is another story...just be GLAD you weren't stuck there!
silverthief2
May 6, 08, 10:52 pm
Some may think I'm being too picky & that I should give them a break because they are still trying to work the kinks out. That's fine-you're entitled to your opinions. My feeling is that much of what I'm describing here should have been caught before they ever opened the doors, but that's just my opinion. I did send a note to the hotel's mgr on Thurs, but no response.
Stayed only 1 night (thankfully!) for a conference. I'm not a gambler, so I can't attest to anything to do w/the casino, other than it seemed pretty empty.
Wow, did you keep a written list? This is a very long litany of nitpicks. Where do you usually stay in Vegas that does better, and are you usually as attuned to minor details?
Stayed only 1 night (thankfully!) for a conference. I'm not a gambler, so I can't attest to anything to do w/the casino, other than it seemed pretty empty.
Wow, did you keep a written list? This is a very long litany of nitpicks. Where do you usually stay in Vegas that does better, and are you usually as attuned to minor details?
bigguyinpasadena
May 7, 08, 8:31 am
And so what?Those "nitpicks"add up and I thank txrus for her thorough and detailed review-that is what this site is all about.
I have no desire to ever stay in one of the Venitian hotels ever-the whole place feels as cheesy as a bad amusement park.There are some good restaurants-but getting in and out of the place is a pain.
I have no desire to ever stay in one of the Venitian hotels ever-the whole place feels as cheesy as a bad amusement park.There are some good restaurants-but getting in and out of the place is a pain.
aceman
May 7, 08, 11:48 am
but getting in and out of the place is a pain.
Agreed, worst valet/parking in Vegas...
Agreed, worst valet/parking in Vegas...
txrus
May 7, 08, 12:04 pm
Wow, did you keep a written list? This is a very long litany of nitpicks. Where do you usually stay in Vegas that does better, and are you usually as attuned to minor details?
Good memory :D Plus, I've done a number of hotel site visits for large mtgs in the past couple of years, for another hat I wear, so it's somewhat second nature now when I go to a new hotel for the first time.
As I said, it's my opinion & you can use, or disregard, some or all of it as you desire.
P.S. You're very welcome, BigguyinPasadena (home of my all-time favorite flea market, the Rose Bowl!).
Good memory :D Plus, I've done a number of hotel site visits for large mtgs in the past couple of years, for another hat I wear, so it's somewhat second nature now when I go to a new hotel for the first time.
As I said, it's my opinion & you can use, or disregard, some or all of it as you desire.
P.S. You're very welcome, BigguyinPasadena (home of my all-time favorite flea market, the Rose Bowl!).
ijgordon
May 7, 08, 11:03 pm
Agreed, worst valet/parking in Vegas...
Really? I think Palazzo self-park is fantastic. You drive right in, park near the escalators, and a minute later your smack in the middle of the casino. One of the few redeeming qualities of this property. :D
Really? I think Palazzo self-park is fantastic. You drive right in, park near the escalators, and a minute later your smack in the middle of the casino. One of the few redeeming qualities of this property. :D
Carter29072
May 8, 08, 6:14 am
Really? I think Palazzo self-park is fantastic. You drive right in, park near the escalators, and a minute later your smack in the middle of the casino. One of the few redeeming qualities of this property. :D
I agree, it has the best parking of all the hotels we have stayed in there. I am really suprised with the negative comments about the Palazzo, ofcourse everyone is entitled to their opinion and everyone has a different experience. We had a great time and a great experience when we went. I will be making a return trip to the Palazzo this year. We usually go to vegas a few times a year and this is my favorite hotel!
I agree, it has the best parking of all the hotels we have stayed in there. I am really suprised with the negative comments about the Palazzo, ofcourse everyone is entitled to their opinion and everyone has a different experience. We had a great time and a great experience when we went. I will be making a return trip to the Palazzo this year. We usually go to vegas a few times a year and this is my favorite hotel!
aceman
May 8, 08, 6:43 am
Really? I think Palazzo self-park is fantastic. You drive right in, park near the escalators, and a minute later your smack in the middle of the casino. One of the few redeeming qualities of this property. :D
sorry, was actually thinking of the venetian when I posted that!
sorry, was actually thinking of the venetian when I posted that!
silverthief2
May 8, 08, 3:32 pm
Good memory :D Plus, I've done a number of hotel site visits for large mtgs in the past couple of years, for another hat I wear, so it's somewhat second nature now when I go to a new hotel for the first time.
As I said, it's my opinion & you can use, or disregard, some or all of it as you desire.
P.S. You're very welcome, BigguyinPasadena (home of my all-time favorite flea market, the Rose Bowl!).
I applaud your memory! :) While most of the items you listed don't matter to me, others (like the check-in experience) do and I will consider them when planning my August trip to LAS. Thanks for sharing.
As I said, it's my opinion & you can use, or disregard, some or all of it as you desire.
P.S. You're very welcome, BigguyinPasadena (home of my all-time favorite flea market, the Rose Bowl!).
I applaud your memory! :) While most of the items you listed don't matter to me, others (like the check-in experience) do and I will consider them when planning my August trip to LAS. Thanks for sharing.
ijgordon
May 8, 08, 7:10 pm
sorry, was actually thinking of the venetian when I posted that!Ah, ok. Venetian self-park is definitely worse, but still not all that bad. Have you been to Planet Hollywood? :)
bigguyinpasadena
Jun 23, 08, 6:12 pm
I visited the Pallazzo last Friday night for dinner at Carne et Vino.
Self parking is a breeze here for those that know where the enterance is(Spring Mountain-Just east of the strip-just past the bus stop,drive to the lowest level-there will be parking right by the elevators most likely)much quicker than the Valet(which is as bad as the Venetian-the worst in LV IMO)
Dinner was great-but realllllly expensive(my nice boss picked up the tab)We had pasta for a opener(duck liver ravioli was fantastic/gnocchi with bolognese was very good-sauce a little salty)and split the florentine steak($145 :eek: )which was great-a tad undercooked but the meat was flawless.The third person in our party had the scalopinne-very good.Deserts are very simple-very good and very overpriced at $15 each.
Setting was beautiful.Music is loud and god awful.Service by Carlos was great=very enthustiastic and knowladgable.The service in this place is really overwhellming-huge staff.
After dinner we went up to the shopping mall.Much nicer than the Venetian IMO.They had an outpost of Bauman's Rare Books-we paid their rent for the day :D
Boss had to wait 25 minutes for valet-I self parked and zipped right out!
Self parking is a breeze here for those that know where the enterance is(Spring Mountain-Just east of the strip-just past the bus stop,drive to the lowest level-there will be parking right by the elevators most likely)much quicker than the Valet(which is as bad as the Venetian-the worst in LV IMO)
Dinner was great-but realllllly expensive(my nice boss picked up the tab)We had pasta for a opener(duck liver ravioli was fantastic/gnocchi with bolognese was very good-sauce a little salty)and split the florentine steak($145 :eek: )which was great-a tad undercooked but the meat was flawless.The third person in our party had the scalopinne-very good.Deserts are very simple-very good and very overpriced at $15 each.
Setting was beautiful.Music is loud and god awful.Service by Carlos was great=very enthustiastic and knowladgable.The service in this place is really overwhellming-huge staff.
After dinner we went up to the shopping mall.Much nicer than the Venetian IMO.They had an outpost of Bauman's Rare Books-we paid their rent for the day :D
Boss had to wait 25 minutes for valet-I self parked and zipped right out!
chichow
Jun 25, 08, 8:11 pm
Ah, ok. Venetian self-park is definitely worse, but still not all that bad. Have you been to Planet Hollywood? :)
Does the Planet Hollywood self-park require you to walk @$#%#%$% through the mall before you get to the casino?
Does the Planet Hollywood self-park require you to walk @$#%#%$% through the mall before you get to the casino?
baccarat_king
Jun 25, 08, 8:13 pm
Off to Palazzo tomorrow [Concierge Level - Bella Suite] for my birthday --- using a "Ultimate" Birthday Comp offer....
------ I'll report back next week.
Best!
Michael
------ I'll report back next week.
Best!
Michael
chichow
Jun 25, 08, 8:32 pm
Carne et Vino
agreed.
Food...yummy!
very high ceilings and not a lot of carpet, etc. makes it a rather loud place.
err...expensive
agreed.
Food...yummy!
very high ceilings and not a lot of carpet, etc. makes it a rather loud place.
err...expensive
opus17
Jun 25, 08, 11:48 pm
Off to Palazzo tomorrow [Concierge Level - Bella Suite] for my birthday --- using a "Ultimate" Birthday Comp offer....
------ I'll report back next week.
Best!
Michael
I got that offer too!
But it is too hot to go to LV.
------ I'll report back next week.
Best!
Michael
I got that offer too!
But it is too hot to go to LV.
indo79
Jun 26, 08, 12:38 am
Does the Planet Hollywood self-park require you to walk @$#%#%$% through the mall before you get to the casino?
:D
:D
Shangri-La
Jul 2, 08, 9:32 pm
I visited the Pallazzo last Friday night for dinner at Carne et Vino.
Self parking is a breeze here for those that know where the enterance is(Spring Mountain-Just east of the strip-just past the bus stop,drive to the lowest level-there will be parking right by the elevators most likely)much quicker than the Valet(which is as bad as the Venetian-the worst in LV IMO)
Dinner was great-but realllllly expensive(my nice boss picked up the tab)We had pasta for a opener(duck liver ravioli was fantastic/gnocchi with bolognese was very good-sauce a little salty)and split the florentine steak($145 :eek: )which was great-a tad undercooked but the meat was flawless.The third person in our party had the scalopinne-very good.Deserts are very simple-very good and very overpriced at $15 each.
Setting was beautiful.Music is loud and god awful.Service by Carlos was great=very enthustiastic and knowladgable.The service in this place is really overwhellming-huge staff.
After dinner we went up to the shopping mall.Much nicer than the Venetian IMO.They had an outpost of Bauman's Rare Books-we paid their rent for the day :D
Boss had to wait 25 minutes for valet-I self parked and zipped right out!
Yikes. Vegas seems to step up the prices with each new restaurant to new levels. How are the other restaurants in the resort? They seem to have a lot of "outposts". I'll be interested to see what Encore will bring, since Steve Wynn doesn't seem to want the "outposts" and chefs who are committed full-time to resort.
Self parking is a breeze here for those that know where the enterance is(Spring Mountain-Just east of the strip-just past the bus stop,drive to the lowest level-there will be parking right by the elevators most likely)much quicker than the Valet(which is as bad as the Venetian-the worst in LV IMO)
Dinner was great-but realllllly expensive(my nice boss picked up the tab)We had pasta for a opener(duck liver ravioli was fantastic/gnocchi with bolognese was very good-sauce a little salty)and split the florentine steak($145 :eek: )which was great-a tad undercooked but the meat was flawless.The third person in our party had the scalopinne-very good.Deserts are very simple-very good and very overpriced at $15 each.
Setting was beautiful.Music is loud and god awful.Service by Carlos was great=very enthustiastic and knowladgable.The service in this place is really overwhellming-huge staff.
After dinner we went up to the shopping mall.Much nicer than the Venetian IMO.They had an outpost of Bauman's Rare Books-we paid their rent for the day :D
Boss had to wait 25 minutes for valet-I self parked and zipped right out!
Yikes. Vegas seems to step up the prices with each new restaurant to new levels. How are the other restaurants in the resort? They seem to have a lot of "outposts". I'll be interested to see what Encore will bring, since Steve Wynn doesn't seem to want the "outposts" and chefs who are committed full-time to resort.
baccarat_king
Jul 2, 08, 10:16 pm
I got that offer too!
But it is too hot to go to LV.
agree, but, friends twisted my arm....
much better Atlantic City weather --- and that's where I'm going for the July 4th holiday. :D:D
But it is too hot to go to LV.
agree, but, friends twisted my arm....
much better Atlantic City weather --- and that's where I'm going for the July 4th holiday. :D:D
goheelswks
Jan 20, 09, 2:51 pm
Off to Palazzo tomorrow [Concierge Level - Bella Suite] for my birthday --- using a "Ultimate" Birthday Comp offer....
------ I'll report back next week.
Best!
Michael
Michael, how did this turn out? How did you get the comp offer--we have a group staying at the Palazzo for a 30th this weekend.
Cheers,
Bill
------ I'll report back next week.
Best!
Michael
Michael, how did this turn out? How did you get the comp offer--we have a group staying at the Palazzo for a 30th this weekend.
Cheers,
Bill
baccarat_king
Jan 20, 09, 3:13 pm
Michael, how did this turn out? How did you get the comp offer--we have a group staying at the Palazzo for a 30th this weekend.
Cheers,
Bill
Oh, it was a very memorable trip, I blogged about it a bit (http://smartbaccarat.blogspot.com/2008_07_01_archive.html), though, I must admit my blogging has been pretty light this year.
I also posted a bit about the concierge level in this milepost (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/10037621-post19.html).
So, basically, very happy with Palazzo (returned a few times since June)... and will be there again on February 6th....
Cheers,
Bill
Oh, it was a very memorable trip, I blogged about it a bit (http://smartbaccarat.blogspot.com/2008_07_01_archive.html), though, I must admit my blogging has been pretty light this year.
I also posted a bit about the concierge level in this milepost (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/10037621-post19.html).
So, basically, very happy with Palazzo (returned a few times since June)... and will be there again on February 6th....
autospy
Jan 21, 09, 11:46 am
Michael, how did this turn out? How did you get the comp offer--we have a group staying at the Palazzo for a 30th this weekend.
Cheers,
Bill
I don't know if you made reservations already, but Palazzo is offering $159/night (king bed) for that weekend. Call (866) 403-8046 and mention code EPOJANY. Officially, that code expired, but I had a few friends make reservations this morning no problem. Queen bed suites are $30 more. $20 more for a guaranteed view.
Cheers,
Bill
I don't know if you made reservations already, but Palazzo is offering $159/night (king bed) for that weekend. Call (866) 403-8046 and mention code EPOJANY. Officially, that code expired, but I had a few friends make reservations this morning no problem. Queen bed suites are $30 more. $20 more for a guaranteed view.
baccarat_king
May 18, 09, 2:59 pm
AZURE - Immerse yourself (http://www.palazzolasvegas.com/azure.aspx)
Opening May 15th
Friday- Sunday
11 a.m. -6 p.m.
Membership Fee: $20
*21 and over
Bringing the radiance of a Mediterranean resort to The Palazzo, Azure is a little bit of Capri in Las Vegas. While relaxing on daybeds enveloped by verdant surroundings, guests enjoy Champagne, frozen grapes, ice towels, poolside cabana massages, and Evian water mistings. Magnum bottle service, fresh fruit purees, Bellini's, and frozen beverages will also be available.
There are several menus to choose from, ranging from Wolfgang Puck's signature culinary offerings to Canyon Ranch SpaClub treatments. Culinary offerings at Azure will be just as exclusive with small bites by Celebrity Chef Wolfgang Puck. Mini Lobster Club Sandwiches, House Smoked Salmon Pizza, and Organic Cherry Tomatoes & Bocconcini Mozzarella Skewers are just a sampling of the many options available on the delectable menu. In addition, guests can pair their dining selection with wines or champagne-by-the-glass.
Treatments from Canyon Ranch SpaClub are available such as a 50-minute cooling and invigorating massage with cold-stone placement, a cool mint foot mask, and a Blanc de Blanc Champagne body-oil massage. Naturally, complimentary SPF lotion applications are available upon request.
Saturdays include high-fashion shows featuring apparel and accessories from The Shoppes at The Palazzo's many design luminaries like Barneys New York, Diane von Furstenberg, and Tory Burch. Stunning models will strut the catwalk while DJs spin a Euro beat soundtrack – it's a feast for the eyes and the senses.
Opening May 15th
Friday- Sunday
11 a.m. -6 p.m.
Membership Fee: $20
*21 and over
Bringing the radiance of a Mediterranean resort to The Palazzo, Azure is a little bit of Capri in Las Vegas. While relaxing on daybeds enveloped by verdant surroundings, guests enjoy Champagne, frozen grapes, ice towels, poolside cabana massages, and Evian water mistings. Magnum bottle service, fresh fruit purees, Bellini's, and frozen beverages will also be available.
There are several menus to choose from, ranging from Wolfgang Puck's signature culinary offerings to Canyon Ranch SpaClub treatments. Culinary offerings at Azure will be just as exclusive with small bites by Celebrity Chef Wolfgang Puck. Mini Lobster Club Sandwiches, House Smoked Salmon Pizza, and Organic Cherry Tomatoes & Bocconcini Mozzarella Skewers are just a sampling of the many options available on the delectable menu. In addition, guests can pair their dining selection with wines or champagne-by-the-glass.
Treatments from Canyon Ranch SpaClub are available such as a 50-minute cooling and invigorating massage with cold-stone placement, a cool mint foot mask, and a Blanc de Blanc Champagne body-oil massage. Naturally, complimentary SPF lotion applications are available upon request.
Saturdays include high-fashion shows featuring apparel and accessories from The Shoppes at The Palazzo's many design luminaries like Barneys New York, Diane von Furstenberg, and Tory Burch. Stunning models will strut the catwalk while DJs spin a Euro beat soundtrack – it's a feast for the eyes and the senses.
csgoalie
Sep 12, 09, 10:25 am
Does anyone have a name and contact info (email or fax) for the Director of Hotel Operations at Palazzo?
Thanks very much in advance.
Thanks very much in advance.
txrus
Sep 12, 09, 11:05 am
Does anyone have a name and contact info (email or fax) for the Director of Hotel Operations at Palazzo?
Thanks very much in advance.
When I asked for that, about a year ago @ check-out, I was given a card for Luis Velasco; e-mail: luis.velasco@palazzolasvegas.com & phone# 702-607-2132 (fax #702-607-9931. However, I never heard back from him directly; he turfed me to a Krystal Rodriguez in Sales (I can't find her card, for some reason, right now, though).
Hope this helps.
Thanks very much in advance.
When I asked for that, about a year ago @ check-out, I was given a card for Luis Velasco; e-mail: luis.velasco@palazzolasvegas.com & phone# 702-607-2132 (fax #702-607-9931. However, I never heard back from him directly; he turfed me to a Krystal Rodriguez in Sales (I can't find her card, for some reason, right now, though).
Hope this helps.
OverThereTooMuch
Sep 12, 09, 2:03 pm
Stayed at the Palazzo earlier this week. I've been there a few times over the last year.
Front desk - They still have that useless person at the front of the line that you need to talk to that tells your name and reason for going to the desk to the person standing at the desk. I really do not get the point.
Housekeeping - I think it's a universal thing that housekeeping ignores the "do not disturb" sign on the door after a certain time (they need to get the rooms cleaned by a certain time). But you'd think that in a place where people might not even get to their rooms before 6am, they'd try to respect that :) No such luck here. Make sure you use the top lock on the door so that they don't surprise you when they walk in before 10am. I had the same issue the last time I was here. Not a big deal to me, since I ended up getting up pretty early most days this time, but a warning to others.
They seemed to be busier now than they were the last time I went back in Feb. They weren't really packed as far as I could tell though. Still plenty of empty tables and low minimums ($10) on most of them. The Canyon Ranch Spa seemed to have fewer customers too (1 other person in the shower), but that was at 8am mid-week, so it's probably not their busiest time.
I found that the frequency with which a cocktail waitress goes around offering "free" drinks has really gone down quite a bit. There were several other people around me at various times that made similar comments. I don't know if there are fewer waitresses covering a larger area or what, but it often took 20-30 minutes after placing an order before you'd see your drink. And it was probably 45+ minutes after that before she'd be around again.
To give you an idea how bad it was: In a 4 day/3 night trip, I didn't get drunk even 1x on free booze. :mad: On my last trip, I think I would just be finishing one drink before the waitress was going around taking orders again. I certainly don't go to Vegas just for the booze, but it was one of the areas where I noticed some big changes since my last trip.
I was mostly at slots for this trip (didn't seem to matter if they were 1c/5c/25c/$1). In the short amount of time I was at a table, a waitress never stopped by. So I don't know if the service there is better/worse than for slot players. I was tipping $3-6 per drink, which is the same as last time, and I think is more than reasonable. Maybe they're used to getting more now at Palazzo/Venetian? (BTW, service was equally poor on the Venetian side of things too.)
I see that the Grand Lux folks have made some changes to their menu. Most of the stuff I liked was still there, but if you're heading there, you might want to check out the menu online first to make sure your favorites aren't gone.
Lagasse's Stadium is open now, but I didn't get a chance to step in.
They're also having an auction in October for one of the most complete T-Rex skeletons ever found. Apparently they were showing it off in the Venetian earlier in the week. But I didn't find out about it until I was waiting for the airport shuttle :( Seems like that's something unique enough that you'd want to mention to someone at checkin.
Front desk - They still have that useless person at the front of the line that you need to talk to that tells your name and reason for going to the desk to the person standing at the desk. I really do not get the point.
Housekeeping - I think it's a universal thing that housekeeping ignores the "do not disturb" sign on the door after a certain time (they need to get the rooms cleaned by a certain time). But you'd think that in a place where people might not even get to their rooms before 6am, they'd try to respect that :) No such luck here. Make sure you use the top lock on the door so that they don't surprise you when they walk in before 10am. I had the same issue the last time I was here. Not a big deal to me, since I ended up getting up pretty early most days this time, but a warning to others.
They seemed to be busier now than they were the last time I went back in Feb. They weren't really packed as far as I could tell though. Still plenty of empty tables and low minimums ($10) on most of them. The Canyon Ranch Spa seemed to have fewer customers too (1 other person in the shower), but that was at 8am mid-week, so it's probably not their busiest time.
I found that the frequency with which a cocktail waitress goes around offering "free" drinks has really gone down quite a bit. There were several other people around me at various times that made similar comments. I don't know if there are fewer waitresses covering a larger area or what, but it often took 20-30 minutes after placing an order before you'd see your drink. And it was probably 45+ minutes after that before she'd be around again.
To give you an idea how bad it was: In a 4 day/3 night trip, I didn't get drunk even 1x on free booze. :mad: On my last trip, I think I would just be finishing one drink before the waitress was going around taking orders again. I certainly don't go to Vegas just for the booze, but it was one of the areas where I noticed some big changes since my last trip.
I was mostly at slots for this trip (didn't seem to matter if they were 1c/5c/25c/$1). In the short amount of time I was at a table, a waitress never stopped by. So I don't know if the service there is better/worse than for slot players. I was tipping $3-6 per drink, which is the same as last time, and I think is more than reasonable. Maybe they're used to getting more now at Palazzo/Venetian? (BTW, service was equally poor on the Venetian side of things too.)
I see that the Grand Lux folks have made some changes to their menu. Most of the stuff I liked was still there, but if you're heading there, you might want to check out the menu online first to make sure your favorites aren't gone.
Lagasse's Stadium is open now, but I didn't get a chance to step in.
They're also having an auction in October for one of the most complete T-Rex skeletons ever found. Apparently they were showing it off in the Venetian earlier in the week. But I didn't find out about it until I was waiting for the airport shuttle :( Seems like that's something unique enough that you'd want to mention to someone at checkin.
csgoalie
Sep 12, 09, 5:27 pm
Lagasse's Stadium is open now, but I didn't get a chance to step in.
I have to say, Lagasse's is amazing. Movie theater type seating, good TV's nice chairs and couches, great food, a private room with 3 BJ tables and 1 craps table. But SMALL.
The reason you probably didn't step in there is because it is virtually impossible to find without asking. It is not in the casino. Follow the signs to it and you end near the hotel concierge. From there, you must ask, only to discover that you need to take the escalator downstairs to the where the lambourghini dealership is, pull a 180 around the escalator, and then go into a room that is not marked so well. Palazzo needs to improve its visibility on this amazing sports book. Then again, it could just be our secret...
I have to say, Lagasse's is amazing. Movie theater type seating, good TV's nice chairs and couches, great food, a private room with 3 BJ tables and 1 craps table. But SMALL.
The reason you probably didn't step in there is because it is virtually impossible to find without asking. It is not in the casino. Follow the signs to it and you end near the hotel concierge. From there, you must ask, only to discover that you need to take the escalator downstairs to the where the lambourghini dealership is, pull a 180 around the escalator, and then go into a room that is not marked so well. Palazzo needs to improve its visibility on this amazing sports book. Then again, it could just be our secret...
csgoalie
Sep 12, 09, 5:31 pm
I should also add that after extensive research, Venetian/Palazzo offers way better odds on futures bets (e.g., Superbowl, Stanley Cup, etc...) that any other sports book in town. You can consistently get higher odds than any Harrah's or MGM property. I laid my bet on the Giants at 12-1 (not a fan but think they will have a good team) - other casinos were giving 10-1 or so. Long shots, the difference was even more profound, sometimes more than double the other casino's odds.
OverThereTooMuch
Sep 12, 09, 7:39 pm
Nah, I knew where it was, I just didn't get a chance to stop there :)
I thought the signs were pretty good. Everything I saw said "lower level". I thought other signs reference that the restaurants are on the casino level, making it clear that they aren't the same.
I thought the signs were pretty good. Everything I saw said "lower level". I thought other signs reference that the restaurants are on the casino level, making it clear that they aren't the same.
ksanna
Sep 19, 09, 7:48 pm
Just returned from The Palazzo and have a very very nice experience.
We skipped main reception and went right up to the 23rd floor for private checkin and a champaign welcome.
From there we took a private elevator to our room with a wonderful view of the strip (Oh TI, treasure island, ..I was wondering if that really stood for TIred and I grew pretty TIred of the Pirate ship performance to some super sad RAPish music and fireworks). We were on the concierge floor which provided a very nice continental breakfast, light lunch and dinner. From 5 to 9PM there are free drinks (Kettle 1 and other premium items were included)
Concierge was very good about arranging massages at The Canyon Ranch Spa as well as show tickets and airport transfers.
The room was very nice till I tried to sleep on the bed. Someone had broken the bed and I spent then night clinging onto the bed to keep from falling out. It was slanted so I spent the rest of my stay on the couch which was extremely nice! I actually think it was way better than the bed!
In the morning I advised the concierge of the issue with the bed and was told that they would have a new bed brought in ASAP. Well, 5PM came and went and the slanted bed was still there. At 6PM I called to the concierge to inquire. I was told that house keeping is working on this and would get back to me. Something didnt feel right about this so I went to the concierge on the 23rd floor and addressed the issue, again. After waiting there for about 10 minutes the concierge advised me that the request was addressed at 1pm and is now closed out. Funny, I said, as the slanted be is still in place. I told the concierge that I had enough and wanted a new room. That process took a good 15 minutes to process a new. I dont think that this process was the best customer services but we worked through the kinks here and all was well.
Carnevino is the Palazzo steak house and was very very good. The food was created with love and expert culinary skill. Even better than the food was the service. If you do decide to go ask to be seated in "MJ" table as he was one of the best waiters I have ever had in my life.
I enjoyed my stay at Palazzo and I will return again and again.
^
We skipped main reception and went right up to the 23rd floor for private checkin and a champaign welcome.
From there we took a private elevator to our room with a wonderful view of the strip (Oh TI, treasure island, ..I was wondering if that really stood for TIred and I grew pretty TIred of the Pirate ship performance to some super sad RAPish music and fireworks). We were on the concierge floor which provided a very nice continental breakfast, light lunch and dinner. From 5 to 9PM there are free drinks (Kettle 1 and other premium items were included)
Concierge was very good about arranging massages at The Canyon Ranch Spa as well as show tickets and airport transfers.
The room was very nice till I tried to sleep on the bed. Someone had broken the bed and I spent then night clinging onto the bed to keep from falling out. It was slanted so I spent the rest of my stay on the couch which was extremely nice! I actually think it was way better than the bed!
In the morning I advised the concierge of the issue with the bed and was told that they would have a new bed brought in ASAP. Well, 5PM came and went and the slanted bed was still there. At 6PM I called to the concierge to inquire. I was told that house keeping is working on this and would get back to me. Something didnt feel right about this so I went to the concierge on the 23rd floor and addressed the issue, again. After waiting there for about 10 minutes the concierge advised me that the request was addressed at 1pm and is now closed out. Funny, I said, as the slanted be is still in place. I told the concierge that I had enough and wanted a new room. That process took a good 15 minutes to process a new. I dont think that this process was the best customer services but we worked through the kinks here and all was well.
Carnevino is the Palazzo steak house and was very very good. The food was created with love and expert culinary skill. Even better than the food was the service. If you do decide to go ask to be seated in "MJ" table as he was one of the best waiters I have ever had in my life.
I enjoyed my stay at Palazzo and I will return again and again.
^
baccarat_king
Oct 16, 09, 9:41 pm
Palazzo Paiza Club (http://www.flickr.com/photos/21002350@N08/sets/72157607383682209/)
[mostly food porn photos]
Access to Paiza Club (gaming, dining and lounge) is tough to pin down exactly; but most definitely a consistent average bet far north of $1,000 and a large credit line should do the trick. ;)
[mostly food porn photos]
Access to Paiza Club (gaming, dining and lounge) is tough to pin down exactly; but most definitely a consistent average bet far north of $1,000 and a large credit line should do the trick. ;)
kingalien
Oct 17, 09, 4:25 pm
Palazzo Paiza Club (http://www.flickr.com/photos/21002350@N08/sets/72157607383682209/)
[mostly food porn photos]
Access to Paiza Club (gaming, dining and lounge) is tough to pin down exactly; but most definitely a consistent average bet far north of $1,000 and a large credit line should do the trick. ;)
Sure that wasn't just Woo restaurant? :D
[mostly food porn photos]
Access to Paiza Club (gaming, dining and lounge) is tough to pin down exactly; but most definitely a consistent average bet far north of $1,000 and a large credit line should do the trick. ;)
Sure that wasn't just Woo restaurant? :D
baccarat_king
Oct 18, 09, 7:14 am
Sure that wasn't just Woo restaurant? :D
The cognac and geoduck pretty much guarantees that it wasn't Woo. ;)
Actually, Simon To of Paiza Club now has his mark on Zine (which is something that occurred rather recently)
From acclaimed chef Simon To, recipient of the prestigious blue ribbon by the Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts and the genius behind the exclusive Paiza Club, Zine melds traditional dishes with the exotic, simple with the extravagant in a comfortable, contemporary ambience.
Chef Simon To, a Paiza Club chef since its inception in 2004, has 35 years of experience cooking Asian cuisine. Originally from Hong Kong, he specializes in Canton and Szechwan styles and is considered a Dim Sum master. Chef To has served his signature dishes all over the world including France, Hong Kong and Canada and was recently awarded the coveted Bleu Ribbon award from Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts.
and a few more Paiza Club details :
It’s an almost individual cook-to-order feast from any part of the Chinese food culture and can be as little as one sensational bite or a massive 21-course meal of magnificence. Simon serves casual and adventurous diners with delicacies such as rare filet mignon noodle soup to Singapore-style pan-fried crab with chili.
Unfortunately, not a heck of a lot of public details about Paiza Club. Mostly the same PR clips reprinted by different sources. Not surprised, as many of the big money players tend to reveal very few details [of their perks and play].
The cognac and geoduck pretty much guarantees that it wasn't Woo. ;)
Actually, Simon To of Paiza Club now has his mark on Zine (which is something that occurred rather recently)
From acclaimed chef Simon To, recipient of the prestigious blue ribbon by the Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts and the genius behind the exclusive Paiza Club, Zine melds traditional dishes with the exotic, simple with the extravagant in a comfortable, contemporary ambience.
Chef Simon To, a Paiza Club chef since its inception in 2004, has 35 years of experience cooking Asian cuisine. Originally from Hong Kong, he specializes in Canton and Szechwan styles and is considered a Dim Sum master. Chef To has served his signature dishes all over the world including France, Hong Kong and Canada and was recently awarded the coveted Bleu Ribbon award from Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts.
and a few more Paiza Club details :
It’s an almost individual cook-to-order feast from any part of the Chinese food culture and can be as little as one sensational bite or a massive 21-course meal of magnificence. Simon serves casual and adventurous diners with delicacies such as rare filet mignon noodle soup to Singapore-style pan-fried crab with chili.
Unfortunately, not a heck of a lot of public details about Paiza Club. Mostly the same PR clips reprinted by different sources. Not surprised, as many of the big money players tend to reveal very few details [of their perks and play].
mctrees02
Oct 19, 09, 9:09 am
Unfortunately, not a heck of a lot of pubic details about Paiza Club. Mostly the same PR clips reprinted by different sources. Not surprised, as many of the big money players tend to reveal very few details [of their perks and play].
I don't think anybody here is looking for "pubic details!" ;)
I don't think anybody here is looking for "pubic details!" ;)
baccarat_king
Oct 19, 09, 12:44 pm
I don't think anybody here is looking for "pubic details!" ;)
LOL, opps... corrected now.
BTW,
Here is a LINK (http://www.palazzolasvegas.com/tour.aspx) to the Palazzo tours page (which is a bit buried). Choose the suite drop down to view tours and pics (5 pages worth) of almost all of the suites; including the Lago, Penthouse, and Hospitality Suites.
LOL, opps... corrected now.
BTW,
Here is a LINK (http://www.palazzolasvegas.com/tour.aspx) to the Palazzo tours page (which is a bit buried). Choose the suite drop down to view tours and pics (5 pages worth) of almost all of the suites; including the Lago, Penthouse, and Hospitality Suites.