Our Las Vegas wedding trip
Hello all. Thank you for stopping by at our travel blog. We are Olivia and Jesse. We got married on 02/21/2013 at one of our favorite cities in the world, Las Vegas, NV. Please find our trip report and reviews below written by Olivia. We divided our report by categories. We hope the reviews will help a lot of people. Please come by here again soon.
Flight review:
Southwest Airlines = B
I love Southwest and have been flying with them many times. However, this time they were not so enjoyable to fly with. On the flight going to Vegas, the flight attendant didn’t give us snacks. We got our drinks, but no snacks. He skipped about 4 or 5 rows. On the flight back, the flight was full. We sat three rows from the back and one of the flight attendants lady was not doing her job. She’s just chatting with two passengers behind us. She was loud. I was trying to catch a nap but couldn’t do it. Poor guy next to my husband, he kept waking up because of her laughter and shrieking.
Hotel review:
Flamingo Hotel & Casino = B+
The only problem with this hotel was the checked in process. We got there at 11 pm and didn’t get call to check in until 11:30 pm. We stood in line for half hour. Then, my mom’s room is not ready yet. We did the $20 tip trick (sandwiched between ID and credit card) to get upgrade for her room. They upgraded her from Fab luxury room to the GO room with fountain view. The problem was, she had to wait for 2 hours. Same with my sisters’ room. At that time, the bell hop desk was closed so they stored their luggage in our suite which is fine. We grabbed bite to eat and we came back their rooms were ready. It was about 2:30 am.
Our room number is 20001 at the Spa Tower. We got the view of the pool, flamingo habitat, The Quad, Harrah’s, The Linq ferris wheel, and Venetian. We love our room. It has 2 televisions in the living room. One didn’t work. One tv on the bathroom mirror. The cordless phone didn’t work (thank God for cell phones). We didn’t have privacy do not disturb sign and the coffee maker didn’t really work right. Besides that, the bed was so comfortable and the room was clean. It has a separate shower and a bath tub. We booked this hotel during cyber Monday and we only paid $100 per night. So the price is right and we will stay there again for that price.
Some of our friends and family got their Fab Luxury rooms at the Habitat tower. Even though they said it was remodeled, that wasn’t the case. The room is the old Flamingo room and the décor is still brown color not pink and white. When you go between Spa tower to Habitat tower, it’s kind of like two different hotels.
Flight review:
Southwest Airlines = B
I love Southwest and have been flying with them many times. However, this time they were not so enjoyable to fly with. On the flight going to Vegas, the flight attendant didn’t give us snacks. We got our drinks, but no snacks. He skipped about 4 or 5 rows. On the flight back, the flight was full. We sat three rows from the back and one of the flight attendants lady was not doing her job. She’s just chatting with two passengers behind us. She was loud. I was trying to catch a nap but couldn’t do it. Poor guy next to my husband, he kept waking up because of her laughter and shrieking.
Hotel review:
Flamingo Hotel & Casino = B+
The only problem with this hotel was the checked in process. We got there at 11 pm and didn’t get call to check in until 11:30 pm. We stood in line for half hour. Then, my mom’s room is not ready yet. We did the $20 tip trick (sandwiched between ID and credit card) to get upgrade for her room. They upgraded her from Fab luxury room to the GO room with fountain view. The problem was, she had to wait for 2 hours. Same with my sisters’ room. At that time, the bell hop desk was closed so they stored their luggage in our suite which is fine. We grabbed bite to eat and we came back their rooms were ready. It was about 2:30 am.
Our room number is 20001 at the Spa Tower. We got the view of the pool, flamingo habitat, The Quad, Harrah’s, The Linq ferris wheel, and Venetian. We love our room. It has 2 televisions in the living room. One didn’t work. One tv on the bathroom mirror. The cordless phone didn’t work (thank God for cell phones). We didn’t have privacy do not disturb sign and the coffee maker didn’t really work right. Besides that, the bed was so comfortable and the room was clean. It has a separate shower and a bath tub. We booked this hotel during cyber Monday and we only paid $100 per night. So the price is right and we will stay there again for that price.
Some of our friends and family got their Fab Luxury rooms at the Habitat tower. Even though they said it was remodeled, that wasn’t the case. The room is the old Flamingo room and the décor is still brown color not pink and white. When you go between Spa tower to Habitat tower, it’s kind of like two different hotels.
Ground Transportation:
Presidential Limousine: A++++
I booked three separate trips with Presidential Limo. The first one was a surprise for my husband & our family whom flew with us. It was an eight passengers limo. John was our driver. He was there at the baggage claim on time. We walked to the limo and he helped us load our too many suitcases in the trunk. There was chilled champagne waiting for us and everybody was so surprised with the limo. It was definitely the best way to start the trip. When we got to the Flamingo, we saw how he packed the trunk. Because there were too many suitcases the trunk won’t shut, so he had to use ropes to hold them in place. He didn’t want to make us worried so he didn’t tell us. He’s a really excellent driver and chauffeur.
Second trip using Presidential Limo was to the courthouse. We didn’t want to hassle with taxi or bus, so I arranged for the Lincoln sedan to pick us up. Our driver was Raffi. He’s a 6’4” tall guy with a deep voice and super funny. When we got to the courthouse, he even opened the door for us and walked us to the steps of the courthouse. He told us usually people who tried to sell marriage packages on the entrance won’t bug us if he’s there.
He dropped us off from the courthouse at the Monte Carlo. It was a fun ride because he told many stories and talked about his family.
Third trip was for the party bus. Originally we wanted to use the double decker bus but we canceled that thought because it’s during winter season. We were glad we didn’t do that because it was pretty chilly. The 20 passengers party bus was perfect. Our driver was Jeff and he was funny and polite as well. There were two bottles of chilled Champagne and bottle waters. We drove up to the Las Vegas sign so everybody could get their pictures taken there. Then we drove down the strip and stopped by in front of Pawn stars shop but it’s closed. Drove by the Fremont street and back to the strip. Everybody love the party bus.
The only thing that was a bummer, they only have radios in their limos. It was just weird to listen to commercials when it’s supposed to be a party atmosphere. Presidential Limo is a top notch company. Their drivers were excellent in customer service and I will use them again for my future Vegas trips.
Presidential Limousine: A++++
I booked three separate trips with Presidential Limo. The first one was a surprise for my husband & our family whom flew with us. It was an eight passengers limo. John was our driver. He was there at the baggage claim on time. We walked to the limo and he helped us load our too many suitcases in the trunk. There was chilled champagne waiting for us and everybody was so surprised with the limo. It was definitely the best way to start the trip. When we got to the Flamingo, we saw how he packed the trunk. Because there were too many suitcases the trunk won’t shut, so he had to use ropes to hold them in place. He didn’t want to make us worried so he didn’t tell us. He’s a really excellent driver and chauffeur.
Second trip using Presidential Limo was to the courthouse. We didn’t want to hassle with taxi or bus, so I arranged for the Lincoln sedan to pick us up. Our driver was Raffi. He’s a 6’4” tall guy with a deep voice and super funny. When we got to the courthouse, he even opened the door for us and walked us to the steps of the courthouse. He told us usually people who tried to sell marriage packages on the entrance won’t bug us if he’s there.
He dropped us off from the courthouse at the Monte Carlo. It was a fun ride because he told many stories and talked about his family.
Third trip was for the party bus. Originally we wanted to use the double decker bus but we canceled that thought because it’s during winter season. We were glad we didn’t do that because it was pretty chilly. The 20 passengers party bus was perfect. Our driver was Jeff and he was funny and polite as well. There were two bottles of chilled Champagne and bottle waters. We drove up to the Las Vegas sign so everybody could get their pictures taken there. Then we drove down the strip and stopped by in front of Pawn stars shop but it’s closed. Drove by the Fremont street and back to the strip. Everybody love the party bus.
The only thing that was a bummer, they only have radios in their limos. It was just weird to listen to commercials when it’s supposed to be a party atmosphere. Presidential Limo is a top notch company. Their drivers were excellent in customer service and I will use them again for my future Vegas trips.
Wedding Ceremony Review
Ceremony review:
Silver Sky Chapel at The Quad Hotel: B+
Our original wedding coordinator was Veronica and she’s not there anymore. Iliana contacted me in January and told me that she’s our new coordinator. All the communications before the wedding were great. We even did the scouting trip in November and it was fine. Iliana told me that I need to be there at 1:15 because I wanted to use their bridal room to get change. We stayed at The Flamingo and I didn’t want to get my dress dirty before the ceremony because of the walking around the construction.
Well, we walked there and my mom told me it was 12:50 when we started to walk. We got there and Iliana wasn’t there. The pastor Leslie who married us was there. It was weird that he was acting as the coordinator. He told us not in a very nice way that we were one hour early. I thought it was 1:15 so I told him that Iliana told us to be there at 1:15. Apparently it was only 1 pm. He could tell me in a nicer way rather than being a bit mean about it. We were waiting in the hallway and finally he told us we could use the other bridal room.
I got changed in there and Kris another wedding coordinator came by. She brought my bouquet. I requested Lavender color because that’s one of the color listed. However, my bouquet is more pink than purple. I was disappointed about that but since flowers are not my priority it was fine. Then the pastor came in and chit chat with me. It wasn’t as personal as I want it to be. I told him we were going to read our own vows. He made a note of that. I asked Iliana a week before if we could used our video camera to record the ceremony and she said yes we could. However, the pastor told my friend who supposed to record our wedding that we couldn’t do that. I just think it’s odd that the officiant acted as wedding coordinator and made all the calls of what we could and could not do. I didn’t want to argue so no video camera.
The ceremony was beautiful because of my husband and our vows. If we could do it all over again, I would hire a different officiant, and paid for the extra for outside photographers. So note for all Silver Sky chapel brides to be, call your coordinator a day or two days before and make sure she will be there. Also try to get all correspondence in emails that way just in case there’s a hiccup you can show whoever is there that your coordinator said it’s ok to do.
Silver Sky Chapel at The Quad Hotel: B+
Our original wedding coordinator was Veronica and she’s not there anymore. Iliana contacted me in January and told me that she’s our new coordinator. All the communications before the wedding were great. We even did the scouting trip in November and it was fine. Iliana told me that I need to be there at 1:15 because I wanted to use their bridal room to get change. We stayed at The Flamingo and I didn’t want to get my dress dirty before the ceremony because of the walking around the construction.
Well, we walked there and my mom told me it was 12:50 when we started to walk. We got there and Iliana wasn’t there. The pastor Leslie who married us was there. It was weird that he was acting as the coordinator. He told us not in a very nice way that we were one hour early. I thought it was 1:15 so I told him that Iliana told us to be there at 1:15. Apparently it was only 1 pm. He could tell me in a nicer way rather than being a bit mean about it. We were waiting in the hallway and finally he told us we could use the other bridal room.
I got changed in there and Kris another wedding coordinator came by. She brought my bouquet. I requested Lavender color because that’s one of the color listed. However, my bouquet is more pink than purple. I was disappointed about that but since flowers are not my priority it was fine. Then the pastor came in and chit chat with me. It wasn’t as personal as I want it to be. I told him we were going to read our own vows. He made a note of that. I asked Iliana a week before if we could used our video camera to record the ceremony and she said yes we could. However, the pastor told my friend who supposed to record our wedding that we couldn’t do that. I just think it’s odd that the officiant acted as wedding coordinator and made all the calls of what we could and could not do. I didn’t want to argue so no video camera.
The ceremony was beautiful because of my husband and our vows. If we could do it all over again, I would hire a different officiant, and paid for the extra for outside photographers. So note for all Silver Sky chapel brides to be, call your coordinator a day or two days before and make sure she will be there. Also try to get all correspondence in emails that way just in case there’s a hiccup you can show whoever is there that your coordinator said it’s ok to do.
Wedding Reception Review
Our wedding cake
Wicked Spoon Buffet at The Cosmopolitan Hotel: A
I’ve been working with Danielle for our wedding reception planning and I saw her the day before the wedding. We dropped off the cake topper and boxes for cake leftovers. Our appointment was at 2 pm and we got there at 2 pm. One of the cashiers at Wicked Spoon gave me a hard time because she didn’t know who Danielle is. I keep telling her she’s the food & beverage sales manager. She even asked me if I’m sure that I’m at the right place. I told her that I’ve been here few times including the scouting trip. She grabbed the restaurant manager and he’s very polite. He apologized and he called Danielle to let me know that I was there.Danielle showed up and I gave her our cake topper. I made sure with her that Wicked Spoon would just deduct my deposit from the final bill and she told me yes that would happened.
On the day of the wedding, we got there at 5 pm with the rest of our guests. We waited about 5 minutes because they were still preparing our table. We got seated in the main dining room. Our server was Cynthia and she was so nice. They had drink specials, $20 bottle of wine, $5 cocktails (hubby and I got Lemon drops), beer is about $6-$8, and other craft cocktails is $13-$15 per glass. I know some knotties want to buy the drink package, but with the amount of food our guest was only able to drink only one drink each. We were kinda glad we didn’t buy the drink package, save us ton of $$$.
The food like usual is amazing. The Korean short ribs were the bomb, fried chicken in basket was amazing, crab legs, prime ribs, Chinese food, salads,the vegetables are all fresh, desserts were excellent. I tried the Bone Marrow and it wasn’t my favorite. Too fatty. Everybody were raving about the food. They couldn’t stop eating and they keep saying how it’s the best buffet they ever had. I agreed and I think because our reservation is at 5 right when they are opened, everything is fresh.
We ordered our cake through Wicked Spoon. I told the pastry chef Devyn that we expected 20 guests. Well, the cake that she made for us was only one round tier cake, but it was huge. It could fed 50 people easily. Everybody loved the cake and it was as what we expected.
When the manager brought our bill, it was for the whole amount. I told him that I paid for a deposit and it supposed to be deducted. He was confused about that. He left to checked it again with cashier. He came back again and asked if the number on the paperwork (which I found out later was a house account number) meant anything. I told him I didn’t know. He left again and came back with the adjusted amount. He apologized for the mixed up because he’s new. That’s the only bump we encountered for our reception which could get worse and I’m glad it didn’t.
We already paid for two of our friends who live in Vegas. They were super late because of the horrendous traffic due to the strip was being closed (after the shooting). The manager let them stay and they could enjoyed the meal that I already paid for. They even got to eat the cake. I told the manager that all the service people at Wicked Spoon should enjoyed the cake because after he put them in boxes there was still quite a bit left.
Our reception was just perfect. I’m glad that we made the perfect decision and everything turned out to be amazing. We would do it all over again at Wicked Spoon because they still serve the best buffet food in town.
I’ve been working with Danielle for our wedding reception planning and I saw her the day before the wedding. We dropped off the cake topper and boxes for cake leftovers. Our appointment was at 2 pm and we got there at 2 pm. One of the cashiers at Wicked Spoon gave me a hard time because she didn’t know who Danielle is. I keep telling her she’s the food & beverage sales manager. She even asked me if I’m sure that I’m at the right place. I told her that I’ve been here few times including the scouting trip. She grabbed the restaurant manager and he’s very polite. He apologized and he called Danielle to let me know that I was there.Danielle showed up and I gave her our cake topper. I made sure with her that Wicked Spoon would just deduct my deposit from the final bill and she told me yes that would happened.
On the day of the wedding, we got there at 5 pm with the rest of our guests. We waited about 5 minutes because they were still preparing our table. We got seated in the main dining room. Our server was Cynthia and she was so nice. They had drink specials, $20 bottle of wine, $5 cocktails (hubby and I got Lemon drops), beer is about $6-$8, and other craft cocktails is $13-$15 per glass. I know some knotties want to buy the drink package, but with the amount of food our guest was only able to drink only one drink each. We were kinda glad we didn’t buy the drink package, save us ton of $$$.
The food like usual is amazing. The Korean short ribs were the bomb, fried chicken in basket was amazing, crab legs, prime ribs, Chinese food, salads,the vegetables are all fresh, desserts were excellent. I tried the Bone Marrow and it wasn’t my favorite. Too fatty. Everybody were raving about the food. They couldn’t stop eating and they keep saying how it’s the best buffet they ever had. I agreed and I think because our reservation is at 5 right when they are opened, everything is fresh.
We ordered our cake through Wicked Spoon. I told the pastry chef Devyn that we expected 20 guests. Well, the cake that she made for us was only one round tier cake, but it was huge. It could fed 50 people easily. Everybody loved the cake and it was as what we expected.
When the manager brought our bill, it was for the whole amount. I told him that I paid for a deposit and it supposed to be deducted. He was confused about that. He left to checked it again with cashier. He came back again and asked if the number on the paperwork (which I found out later was a house account number) meant anything. I told him I didn’t know. He left again and came back with the adjusted amount. He apologized for the mixed up because he’s new. That’s the only bump we encountered for our reception which could get worse and I’m glad it didn’t.
We already paid for two of our friends who live in Vegas. They were super late because of the horrendous traffic due to the strip was being closed (after the shooting). The manager let them stay and they could enjoyed the meal that I already paid for. They even got to eat the cake. I told the manager that all the service people at Wicked Spoon should enjoyed the cake because after he put them in boxes there was still quite a bit left.
Our reception was just perfect. I’m glad that we made the perfect decision and everything turned out to be amazing. We would do it all over again at Wicked Spoon because they still serve the best buffet food in town.
Wedding Vendors Reviews
Hair & Make Up:
Desert Glamour: A++++
I’ve been corresponding with Whitney for few months before the wedding. I told her I wanted the Vintage look. I sent her pictures and picture of veil & hair clip as well. On the wedding day, Angie who is part of the team came first before Whitney. Due to the strip was being closed, they were about one hour late but it didn’t delay the hair & make up procedure at all. I paid for 6 of us to get the hair & make up done. They worked very efficiently. They listened to what we wanted and executed them well. Our packages came with complimentary fake eye lashes and airbrush make up as well.
I couldn’t believe I spent way less than what other hair & make up vendors were charging and the result are the same or even better. I highly recommend Desert Glamour to all brides to be for your wedding days or even Bachelorette parties. Contact them at http://www.desertglamour.com
Photographers:
Light Source Films: A+++++++++
I found the husband & wife team Jim & Rowena Swinson through Craigslist. We are sort of on limited budget and I was looking for the best price and the best quality of photography work. They charged me way less than other photographers in exchange for the right to use our pictures which is not a big deal for us. Jim told us that we could have three photographers, but I told him we only need two because the size of our party is not that big. Two photographers and unlimited hours. They were there since the beginning when we were getting ready and until after the party bus.
They walked everywhere with us. Due to the strip was being closed we had to do detours from Flamingo to the back of the hotel and crossed to Bally’s. Walked through Paris and crossed to Bellagio. They took many amazing shots because the strip was closed we were able to take pictures at spots that we usually can’t do. There were pictures of us in front of the Eiffel tower where usually the cars entrance is. It was a perfect day to get amazing shots.
We even took many pictures at Cosmopolitan without getting interrupted by security guards. Jim & Rowena ate dinner with us and they were kind of a part of our family. My mom loves them and everybody chit chatted with them. They were professional and made it so much fun. I couldn’t believe we got to have them for more than 12 hours.
We also got to take pictures at the Las Vegas sign at night time and everybody got to get their pictures taken. Jim even helped taking a picture for a mom & a daughter there. He’s such a nice guy.
I highly recommend them to all the knotties. They are the number one vendor on the knot for wedding videography and I really want to see them succeed as well as photography vendor. Contact them at [email protected] & www.lightsourcefilms.com .
Catering for getting ready:
Jason’s Deli: A+
The process of ordering food was easy. I called them the day before and placed an order for 12 of the breakfast packages (with sausage and bacon) + fruits + coffee. Because of the shooting the driver was late, but he called me right at 9 am and told me where he was. He called me again when he got to The Flamingo. He dropped off all the food in our room. He even set it up for us.
We ordered too much food even though there were 12 of us. Everything was delicious. They provided everything (plates, forks, knives, spoons, cups, lids, stir sticks). The only thing they didn’t provide was real sugar. Somehow they gave us Splenda & Sweet & Low. No big deal. Total bill for the food including the $5 deliver fee was $109. Such a bargain.
Desert Glamour: A++++
I’ve been corresponding with Whitney for few months before the wedding. I told her I wanted the Vintage look. I sent her pictures and picture of veil & hair clip as well. On the wedding day, Angie who is part of the team came first before Whitney. Due to the strip was being closed, they were about one hour late but it didn’t delay the hair & make up procedure at all. I paid for 6 of us to get the hair & make up done. They worked very efficiently. They listened to what we wanted and executed them well. Our packages came with complimentary fake eye lashes and airbrush make up as well.
I couldn’t believe I spent way less than what other hair & make up vendors were charging and the result are the same or even better. I highly recommend Desert Glamour to all brides to be for your wedding days or even Bachelorette parties. Contact them at http://www.desertglamour.com
Photographers:
Light Source Films: A+++++++++
I found the husband & wife team Jim & Rowena Swinson through Craigslist. We are sort of on limited budget and I was looking for the best price and the best quality of photography work. They charged me way less than other photographers in exchange for the right to use our pictures which is not a big deal for us. Jim told us that we could have three photographers, but I told him we only need two because the size of our party is not that big. Two photographers and unlimited hours. They were there since the beginning when we were getting ready and until after the party bus.
They walked everywhere with us. Due to the strip was being closed we had to do detours from Flamingo to the back of the hotel and crossed to Bally’s. Walked through Paris and crossed to Bellagio. They took many amazing shots because the strip was closed we were able to take pictures at spots that we usually can’t do. There were pictures of us in front of the Eiffel tower where usually the cars entrance is. It was a perfect day to get amazing shots.
We even took many pictures at Cosmopolitan without getting interrupted by security guards. Jim & Rowena ate dinner with us and they were kind of a part of our family. My mom loves them and everybody chit chatted with them. They were professional and made it so much fun. I couldn’t believe we got to have them for more than 12 hours.
We also got to take pictures at the Las Vegas sign at night time and everybody got to get their pictures taken. Jim even helped taking a picture for a mom & a daughter there. He’s such a nice guy.
I highly recommend them to all the knotties. They are the number one vendor on the knot for wedding videography and I really want to see them succeed as well as photography vendor. Contact them at [email protected] & www.lightsourcefilms.com .
Catering for getting ready:
Jason’s Deli: A+
The process of ordering food was easy. I called them the day before and placed an order for 12 of the breakfast packages (with sausage and bacon) + fruits + coffee. Because of the shooting the driver was late, but he called me right at 9 am and told me where he was. He called me again when he got to The Flamingo. He dropped off all the food in our room. He even set it up for us.
We ordered too much food even though there were 12 of us. Everything was delicious. They provided everything (plates, forks, knives, spoons, cups, lids, stir sticks). The only thing they didn’t provide was real sugar. Somehow they gave us Splenda & Sweet & Low. No big deal. Total bill for the food including the $5 deliver fee was $109. Such a bargain.
Other restaurants reviews
Nine Fine Irishmen at NYNY hotel: A
We had our rehearsal dinner here. I made a reservation a month before. They have really delicious food. Service was good and like other places in Vegas, portion was huge. Love the chicken pot pie! I used the MyVegas game reward and it took off $100 of the bill. Totally worth it and will dine here again.
The Pub at Monte Carlo: B
Another MyVegas reward that we redeemed, $50 for food & beverage at Monte Carlo. We chose The Pub because we heard good things about the place. We ordered hot wings for appetizer, hub got the Kobe Beef Burger and I ordered the Penne Pasta. We loved the hot wings and the burger. My pasta was really bad. They said it has Panchetta in it and I only found 2 tiny pieces. It wasn’t good. I should have stick to burgers. Total bill was just under $50.
Paradise Buffet at The Flamingo: C
We came here one day for their breakfast buffets and I don’t think it was very good at all. All the food are greasy and not very fresh. The price after $5 off with total rewards card is $16 per person. I do not recommend it.
Petrossian Bar at Bellagio: A
We redeemed the Afternoon High Tea service at Petrossian Bar from MyVegas rewards. Each reward was worth $37. We redeemed two of them. One for hub and one for me. Those finger sandwiches were so cute and they were pretty filling for how little they were. I loved the scones that came with the tea. They also serve another tray of little desserts which were all good. We love this tea service. It’s something that we usually don’t do but definitely want to do again.
The Buffet at Bellagio: B+
Another MyVegas rewards we redeemed during our trip. We came here on Saturday and they were serving brunch. We had to pay extra because the voucher was only for lunch. I like how they have dim sum selections and everything were great. However, they don’t have crab legs just cocktail shrimps so I don’t know why they have to charge so much for the brunch. Overall, we enjoyed it and we were full.
Pan Asia Express at The Flamingo: B+
After our wedding reception we went back to our hotel. I got out from my dress and I realized how hungry I was. The dress was pretty tight on me but I didn’t realize how tight it was. We went downstairs and I got the one entrée combo plate from this place. I couldn’t believe it was $9 but the food was good. I got the fried rice and Chicken with Mushrooms. They were fresh and I was happy to had food at 11 pm.
Hash House A Go Go at The Quad: A-
We came here while we were waiting for our rooms the first night we were in Vegas. I warned my family about the huge portion and people ended up sharing the food. I had the scramble with Avocado and cheese. It was really good. One of our friends got the Snickerdoodle pancake and it was enormous. We love the food, the service, but not so much of the smoke. I couldn’t believe how smoky it is there even though no one was smoking in the restaurant.
Gordon Ramsay Steak: A-
The day after the wedding is our one day mini honeymoon. We made reservation at Gordon Ramsay Steak before heading out to see LOVE at the Mirage. Our reservation was at 6:15 but we didn’t get our table until 6:30 pm. Luckily we were waiting at the bar. I had the Hell’s Kitchen Anti Oxidant cocktail which was really good and hub had a pear cider. I love how we ordered our drinks on iPad.
When got seated at one of the table on the ground floor. Our waiter was nice but he was upselling the food to us like crazy. We were originally not going to order appetizer because we knew they were going to serve us bread. He told us the entrees will take 35-40 minutes to come out which we found out later it’s not true. We ended up ordering the Beef Tartar for appetizer and it was so damn delicious (no regret).
I love their breads as well especially the salty one. I couldn’t have enough of it. They brought out their steaks cart and showed us the different cuts. They all looked wonderful. I ordered the Beef Wellington and hub ordered the Rib Eye. We ordered the side of Loaded Baked Potato (has bacon in it) and The Brussel Sprouts (more bacon in it).
We love our steaks and those sides. We didn’t have any dessert because we were stuffed. The only thing that we don’t like about the restaurant is the music. They play it loud at the lounge and also loud in the restaurant. We couldn’t hear the waiter and he couldn’t hear us. Also we took some left over with us and asked if they had plastic knives and forks because when we took our left overs from Hash House they provided us with one set. Now, you think a nice place like Gordon Ramsay Steak will provide you with plastic utensils, but turn out to be they don’t have any. Our waiter said we should have some back in our room which is not the case.
Besides that, we love our experience here. However, I think trying it once is enough. We will try other swanky places next time if we have $$$ to splurge.
We had our rehearsal dinner here. I made a reservation a month before. They have really delicious food. Service was good and like other places in Vegas, portion was huge. Love the chicken pot pie! I used the MyVegas game reward and it took off $100 of the bill. Totally worth it and will dine here again.
The Pub at Monte Carlo: B
Another MyVegas reward that we redeemed, $50 for food & beverage at Monte Carlo. We chose The Pub because we heard good things about the place. We ordered hot wings for appetizer, hub got the Kobe Beef Burger and I ordered the Penne Pasta. We loved the hot wings and the burger. My pasta was really bad. They said it has Panchetta in it and I only found 2 tiny pieces. It wasn’t good. I should have stick to burgers. Total bill was just under $50.
Paradise Buffet at The Flamingo: C
We came here one day for their breakfast buffets and I don’t think it was very good at all. All the food are greasy and not very fresh. The price after $5 off with total rewards card is $16 per person. I do not recommend it.
Petrossian Bar at Bellagio: A
We redeemed the Afternoon High Tea service at Petrossian Bar from MyVegas rewards. Each reward was worth $37. We redeemed two of them. One for hub and one for me. Those finger sandwiches were so cute and they were pretty filling for how little they were. I loved the scones that came with the tea. They also serve another tray of little desserts which were all good. We love this tea service. It’s something that we usually don’t do but definitely want to do again.
The Buffet at Bellagio: B+
Another MyVegas rewards we redeemed during our trip. We came here on Saturday and they were serving brunch. We had to pay extra because the voucher was only for lunch. I like how they have dim sum selections and everything were great. However, they don’t have crab legs just cocktail shrimps so I don’t know why they have to charge so much for the brunch. Overall, we enjoyed it and we were full.
Pan Asia Express at The Flamingo: B+
After our wedding reception we went back to our hotel. I got out from my dress and I realized how hungry I was. The dress was pretty tight on me but I didn’t realize how tight it was. We went downstairs and I got the one entrée combo plate from this place. I couldn’t believe it was $9 but the food was good. I got the fried rice and Chicken with Mushrooms. They were fresh and I was happy to had food at 11 pm.
Hash House A Go Go at The Quad: A-
We came here while we were waiting for our rooms the first night we were in Vegas. I warned my family about the huge portion and people ended up sharing the food. I had the scramble with Avocado and cheese. It was really good. One of our friends got the Snickerdoodle pancake and it was enormous. We love the food, the service, but not so much of the smoke. I couldn’t believe how smoky it is there even though no one was smoking in the restaurant.
Gordon Ramsay Steak: A-
The day after the wedding is our one day mini honeymoon. We made reservation at Gordon Ramsay Steak before heading out to see LOVE at the Mirage. Our reservation was at 6:15 but we didn’t get our table until 6:30 pm. Luckily we were waiting at the bar. I had the Hell’s Kitchen Anti Oxidant cocktail which was really good and hub had a pear cider. I love how we ordered our drinks on iPad.
When got seated at one of the table on the ground floor. Our waiter was nice but he was upselling the food to us like crazy. We were originally not going to order appetizer because we knew they were going to serve us bread. He told us the entrees will take 35-40 minutes to come out which we found out later it’s not true. We ended up ordering the Beef Tartar for appetizer and it was so damn delicious (no regret).
I love their breads as well especially the salty one. I couldn’t have enough of it. They brought out their steaks cart and showed us the different cuts. They all looked wonderful. I ordered the Beef Wellington and hub ordered the Rib Eye. We ordered the side of Loaded Baked Potato (has bacon in it) and The Brussel Sprouts (more bacon in it).
We love our steaks and those sides. We didn’t have any dessert because we were stuffed. The only thing that we don’t like about the restaurant is the music. They play it loud at the lounge and also loud in the restaurant. We couldn’t hear the waiter and he couldn’t hear us. Also we took some left over with us and asked if they had plastic knives and forks because when we took our left overs from Hash House they provided us with one set. Now, you think a nice place like Gordon Ramsay Steak will provide you with plastic utensils, but turn out to be they don’t have any. Our waiter said we should have some back in our room which is not the case.
Besides that, we love our experience here. However, I think trying it once is enough. We will try other swanky places next time if we have $$$ to splurge.
Gambling report
I hardly did any gambling this trip. It was so hard to find a time to just concentrate on gambling with all family, friends, errands, and events to go to. I got to play the Lord of the rings Villain slot machine at The Flamingo, like that machine but don’t care for the Gollum bonus round. The Elvis machine by the Margaritaville casino entrance from the Flamingo side was really good to me. I put $5 in and cashed out $30 something. It gave me 3 bonus rounds (jukebox, and 2 hound dog rounds) in 10 minutes.
We wanted to play table games during this trip and managed to play the $3 craps at Casino Royale. It was fun and we ended up won some. Not a lot but it was fun for our first time. I found out that I couldn’t really put my chips down because I’m too short. My hub always had to help me to put it down.
No blackjack or Pai Gow sessions as what I originally planned. This is why we probably need to make another trip in October/November. I need a trip just for gambling :).
We wanted to play table games during this trip and managed to play the $3 craps at Casino Royale. It was fun and we ended up won some. Not a lot but it was fun for our first time. I found out that I couldn’t really put my chips down because I’m too short. My hub always had to help me to put it down.
No blackjack or Pai Gow sessions as what I originally planned. This is why we probably need to make another trip in October/November. I need a trip just for gambling :).
Show & Activities reviews
The Beatles LOVE at the Mirage: A+++++
We played a lot of MyVegas game and enough to redeemed a pair of tickets to see LOVE. Our seats were row 200 section O seat 1&2. Those were the best seats in the house. We got showered by the confetti in the beginning and we never missed a thing from the show.
I love the show a lot. It’s more serious than I thought it was going to be. I also love the fact they showcased other not so popular The Beatles songs. It didn’t feel like a 90 minutes show for me. I was kinda sad when it’s over. My hub said he liked it but he liked Zumanity better (which we saw couple years ago). I disagree because I think LOVE is a much better show with a lot of special effects and awesome music. Go see it!
Roller Coaster at NYNY: A
I didn’t ride the roller coaster but my husband did. We used two of the MyVegas rewards and he went with his dad, my bro in law, and our friend. They said it was really scary and lots of upside down and twist. They also said it was the most fun roller coaster they ever rode on.
Minus 5 Ice Bar at Monte Carlo: B
After rehearsal dinner the original plan was to have a bachelor & bachelorette parties but I wasn’t feeling well. I didn’t want to get sick the next day on the wedding day, so we decided just to head out to the ice bar since I had rewards from MyVegas game to use. All of us went and it was fun. It was a bit small than what I expected. The drink was expensive but it was cool to see everything was made out of ice. The reason why I gave the grade B was because they didn’t allow us to bring cameras inside but they had their own photographer and she was pretty bossy. She took quite a few pictures of us. My sister bought those pictures for us. It was 3 for $40. It’s spendy. We were glad we did it as a group but probably not gonna do it again.
Summary of our trip
We had the best time in Vegas and couldn’t ask for the better place to get married. Everything went by perfectly despite the tragedy on the strip. Our family and friends most of them were Vegas virgins and now they are Vegas lovers. My sisters want to go back soon and I told them they should bring me with them.
Thanks to MyVegas game we did many things and enjoyed different restaurants. We hardly spent our money besides for the wedding reception and Gordon Ramsay. We will continue to play the game because it’s worth it.
We love Vegas and can’t wait to come back. Next trip will be off the strip trip. We will stay at off strip hotel and plan to do sight seeing (hoover dam, red rock, etc) and eat at local places (lotus of siam, all you can eat korean bbq, babystack,etc).
Thank you for reading and Viva Las Vegas!
Thanks to MyVegas game we did many things and enjoyed different restaurants. We hardly spent our money besides for the wedding reception and Gordon Ramsay. We will continue to play the game because it’s worth it.
We love Vegas and can’t wait to come back. Next trip will be off the strip trip. We will stay at off strip hotel and plan to do sight seeing (hoover dam, red rock, etc) and eat at local places (lotus of siam, all you can eat korean bbq, babystack,etc).
Thank you for reading and Viva Las Vegas!