Piff the Magic Dragon Unveils His Shrunken Head at The Golden Tiki
The loser of “America’s Got Talent,” Piff the Magic Dragon, unveiled his shrunken head last night at The Golden Tiki. His sidekick, Mr. Piffles, got in on the action too with a miniature stuffed version.
Piff enjoyed a Dole Whip while checking out the bar’s one-of-a-kind decor and Cabinet of Curiosities, stopping for a closer look at a mummified alligator, perhaps one of Piff’s ancestors.
The Baron of the Universe welcomed Piff, Mr. Piffles, and showgirl Jade Simone before Managing Partner Branden Powers unveiled the head. Smithsonian artist Terry Barr sculpted the head over the course of four weeks, referencing photos of Piff to ensure physical accuracies, including his dragon scales.
“Thank you for honoring us with a tiny, shrunken head, AKA a lifesize head,” said Piff.
The stars took a “shellfie” in the clamshell, before posing with fans, who showed up in Piff T-shirts.
Chippendales dancer James Davis was also in attendance.
Overhead in the crowd, “This is as Vegas as it gets.”
Piff joins the bar’s growing collection of famous shrunken heads, including Marky Ramone of The Ramones, Carrot Top, Frank Marino, Robin Leach, Norm Clarke, Claire Sinclair, magician Murray Sawchuck, Vinnie Paul of Pantera, Chris Phillips of Zowie Bowie, Monti Rock III, Lonnie Hammargren, and Rich Little.
Piff unveils his shrunken head at The Golden TikiPiff’s shrunken head
About The Golden Tiki
Located in Chinatown, Las Vegas, The Golden Tiki is a journey to a wondrous land where boundaries are only limited to one’s imagination. The vision of hospitality veteran Branden Powers, in collaboration with Seth Schorr, Jeff Fine and Joe Cain, The Golden Tiki has spared no expense in recreating the classic mid-century tiki bar, reminiscent of Don the Beachcomber and Trader Vic’s storied establishments. The cocktail menu features nostalgic classics and new creations, as well as a special treasure chest VIP experience. Collaborating with renowned artists including Tiki Bosko, Billy the Crud, Bill Collins and Oceanic Arts, the one-of-a-kind decor also boasts an animatronic skeleton of the mythical privateer and legend behind The Golden Tiki, William Tobias Faulkner. Open 24 hours a day, The Golden Tiki offers a multitude of experiences and can host private parties up to 145 people.
The “Man of a Thousand Voices” Rich Little Unveils His Shrunken Head at The Golden Tiki
The “man of a thousand voices,” celebrity impersonator Rich Little, unveiled his shrunken head at The Golden Tiki last night. Upon arrival, Little and his group sat down to enjoy some food and a scorpion bowl, while Krystal the Magician dazzled them with tricks.
Tony Felicetta of The Sharps welcomed guests and fans with an overview of Little’s extensive and impressive career, noting his start on “The Judy Garland Show” in 1964, his appearances on the notorious Dean Martin celebrity roasts, hosting “The Tonight Show” 12 times, and his current act at the Laugh Factory.
Little then took the stage, cracking jokes and delighting the crowd with a George Burns impression. He said, “My mom said to me ‘if you don’t give up doing these stupid impressions, you’ll never get ahead in this business.’ I didn’t give up and I did get a head – a shrunken head! I’m glad that’s the only thing they shrunk!”
Managing Partner Branden Powers unveiled the head, which was sculpted by Smithsonian artist Terry Barr over the course of four weeks, referencing photos of Little to ensure physical accuracies. Glasses were added as an homage to his famous Jack Benny impression.
Little took photos with fans and magician Murray Sawchuck, who has his own shrunken head on display at the iconic Tiki revival bar.
Little joins the bar’s growing collection of famous shrunken heads, including Marky Ramone of The Ramones, Carrot Top, Frank Marino, Robin Leach, Norm Clarke, Claire Sinclair, Murray Sawchuck, Vinnie Paul of Pantera, Chris Phillips of Zowie Bowie, Monti Rock III, and Lonnie Hammargren.
Rich Little with his shrunken head at The Golden Tiki. Credit Brenton Ho.
Tony Felicetta, Rich Little, Branden Powers. Photo credit Brenton Ho.
Rich Little and Murray Sawchuck pose with their shrunken heads at The Golden Tiki. Photo credit Brenton Ho.
About The Golden Tiki
Located in Chinatown, Las Vegas, The Golden Tiki is a journey to a wondrous land where boundaries are only limited to one’s imagination. The vision of hospitality veteran Branden Powers, in collaboration with Seth Schorr, Jeff Fine and Joe Cain, The Golden Tiki has spared no expense in recreating the classic mid-century tiki bar, reminiscent of Don the Beachcomber and Trader Vic’s storied establishments. The handcrafted cocktail menu features nostalgic classics and new creations, alongside a strong list of craft beer and rum selections. Collaborating with renowned artists including Tiki Bosko, Billy the Crud, Bill Collins and Oceanic Arts, the one-of-a-kind decor also boasts an animatronic skeleton of the mythical privateer and legend behind The Golden Tiki, William Tobias Faulkner. Open 24 hours a day, The Golden Tiki offers a multitude of experiences and can host private parties up to 145 people. For more information, visit thegoldentiki.com or call 702.222.3196. Like us at facebook.com/TheGoldenTikiVegas.
Las Vegas Connection Live Radio/Stage Show, Presented by South Point Hotel, Casino and Spa, Hosts Celebrity Guest Robin Leach for Special Edition on Thursday, Nov. 2
What:Las Vegas Connection Live Radio/Stage Show will host worldwide media icon Robin Leach during an onstage live radio show while talking about anything and everything Las Vegas as well as Leach’s new television show, his past, his take on the current Las Vegas entertainment and more.
When:
Thursday, Nov. 2
3:30 to 5 p.m.
Where:
South Point Hotel’s Grandview Lounge Listen: The Highway Vibe 99.7 FM (Las Vegas), 98.9 FM (Arizona), and 98.1 FM (Southern California)
WHO: Special Guest: Robin Leach, Las Vegas Review-Journal Reporter and media icon Bart Torres, Radio Host Michael Libonati, South Point Entertainment Director Vanessa LeGrand, Singer and Performer
Details: Robin Leach is renowned media personality and award-winning journalist, currently working at the Las Vegas Review-Journal. From his early television hit, “Lifestyles of the Rich & Famous,” to his many years here in Las Vegas, Leach is a fascinating interview and has big news with the launch of his brand-new television show on The Food Network called “FoodQuest.” Leach joins his co-host model, Kim Alexis, as they travel the world meeting the finest chefs and learn secrets behind preparation of the world’s finest foods.
The Las Vegas Connection Live Radio/stage Show is free and open to the public with new guests being interviewed each week. Creating an interactive environment, audience members will have a chance to ask the guest any questions they want and the opportunity to win a variety of exciting prizes as they witness A-List guests up close and person, on stage and on air live.
About South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa
Featuring more than 2,100 guestrooms, South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa overlooks the famous Las Vegas Strip and the serenity of the surrounding mountainscape. Each oversized guest room features state-of-the-art LED televisions as well as WiFi with high-speed internet connections. Guests visiting South Point will experience affordable luxury through a casino offering top-of-the-line gaming technology, more than 60 table games and a separate race and sports book area, 11 restaurants, including the award-winning Michael’s Gourmet Room, the world-class Costa Del Sur Spa and Salon, a 400-seat showroom featuring headliner entertainment, a 700-seat Bingo room, a 16-screen Cinemark movie complex, a state-of-the-art 64-lane bowling center, a 52,000-square foot Conference Center and an 80,000-square foot Exhibit Hall. South Point Hotel is also home to the Tournament Bowling Plaza, a multi-million dollar professional bowling tournament facility. In addition, South Point has the finest equestrian event facility in the country. The 240,000 square feet of event space features three climate-controlled arenas, vet clinic, feed store, more than 1,200 climate-controlled stalls and plays host to some of the country’s most unique events. South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa is at 9777 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas, NV 89183.
Deana Martin Hosts Celebrity-Stacked Comedy Roast of
Man of the Hour, Dennis Bono, in the South Point Showroom
Deana Martin, legendary songstress and daughter of Dean Martin, will host The Deana Martin Celebrity Roast honoring the ‘Man of the Hour’ Dennis Bono, in the South Point Showroom on Monday, June 26 at 6 p.m., with doors opening at 5 p.m. To celebrate Bono’s 70th birthday, entertainment legends on stage and screen will take part in the roast as well including Robert Davi, Clint Holmes, Lorraine Hunt-Bono, Robin Leach, Rich Little, Tony LoBianco and Frankie Scinta.
During Bono’s roast, guests can expect to hear hilarious stories from Las Vegas entertainment legend’s illustrious career and good natured jokes from Martin and the rest of the night’s celebrity roasters. In addition, as Martin celebrates her father’s 100th birthday with shows on Friday, June 23 and Saturday, June 24,at the South Point Hotel fans are in for a special treat as this show also pays homage to Martin’s “The Dean Martin Celebrity Roast” television show.
Following the roast, an after party hosted by Chris Phillips (Zowie Bowie) and Dennis Blair will take place with a variety of musical performances in the Grandview Lounge at 8 p.m., with doors opening at 7:30 p.m. The birthday celebration doubles as a fundraising event for Opportunity Village, a local Las Vegas nonprofit that provides services and resources that help adults with intellectual disabilities lead enriched and productive lives. Please visit Opportunity Village’s website for more information on the organization.
Tickets for the Deana Martin Celebrity Roast honoring the ‘Man of the Hour’ Dennis Bono are available to purchase for $35 and the Dennis Bono After Party tickets are available for $20. Guests planning to attend both shows can purchase a package ticket for $50 online and at the South Point Box Office.
For more information on upcoming entertainment or to purchase tickets, please call 866-791-7626 or visit the South Point Entertainment website.
About South Point Hotel & Casino
Featuring more than 2,100 guestrooms, South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa overlooks the famous Las Vegas Strip and the serenity of the surrounding mountainscape. Each oversized guest room features state-of-the-art LED televisions as well as WiFi with high-speed internet connections. Guests visiting South Point will experience affordable luxury through a casino offering top-of-the-line gaming technology, more than 60 table games and a separate race and sports book area, 11 restaurants, including the award-winning Michael’s Gourmet Room, the world-class Costa Del Sur Spa and Salon, a 400-seat showroom featuring headliner entertainment, a 700-seat Bingo room, a 16-screen Cinemark movie complex, a state-of-the-art 64-lane bowling center, a 52,000-square foot Conference Center and an 80,000-square foot Exhibit Hall. South Point Hotel is also home to the Tournament Bowling Plaza, a multi-million dollar professional bowling tournament facility. In addition, South Point has the finest equestrian event facility in the country. The more than 240,000 square feet of event space features three climate-controlled arenas, vet clinic, feed store, more than 1,200 climate-controlled stalls and plays host to some of the country’s most unique events. South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa is at 9777 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas, NV 89183.
HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO LAS VEGAS CLOSED ICONIC CENTER BAR, JUNE 28
Plans for a new bar concept as part of a larger casino remodel officially announced
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas bid farewell to the original and infamous Center Bar in true rock ‘n’ roll fashion on Sunday, June 28. The commemorative event signaled the end of an era for the property, but plans for a new bar concept were officially announced to open this fall as part of a larger casino remodel.
Locals and visitors alike came together to say goodbye to Center Bar as the “Final Toast” party kicked off at 7 p.m. Day one employees were behind the bar serving guests 1995-themed cocktails including “Surfer on Acid,” “Purple Hooter,” “Scooby Snack,” “Red Headed Slut” and “Cosmopolitan Shot” in honor of the year it opened. Throughout the evening, attendees were encouraged to leave their mark on the original Center Bar by signing the walls, floors and stairs. Stories were told all over the interior and exterior of the venue from people who had met celebrities such as Guns N’ Roses’ frontman Axl Rose and guitarist DJ Ashba there, how they met their husbands and wives there, how they learned life lessons there and so much more. Mötley Crüe’s lead singer Vince Neil also showed up to the event to say goodbye to a piece of Las Vegas history and leave his own mark on the side of the bar.
Shortly before 10 p.m., Hard Rock Hotel’s Assistant General Manager Gary Scott welcomed celebrity columnist Robin Leach on stage to give the final toast. Leach discussed the impact Center Bar had on casino floors throughout the city, told his own Center Bar story and encouraged everyone to raise their glasses for last time at trendsetting hub. He then led the crowd with a countdown and flipped the Center Bar power switch off, signaling the official close of a Las Vegas icon.
Center Bar became known for its panoramic views of Hard Rock Hotel’s casino floor, nonstop parties and as the trailblazer for center bars all around Las Vegas when it opened in 1995. It truly redefined the way gaming executives viewed their casino floors – nestled in the heart of tables and slot machines, the trendsetting bar created an infectious energy that other gaming companies adopted. Through its success, Center Bar was inducted into Vegas Seven’s Las Vegas Bar Hall of Fame in 2014, was voted “Best Place to People Watch” in the Best Dining & Nightlife Awards by the readers of Casino Player magazine in 2013, among many other recognitions.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is Las Vegas’ off-strip playground, just minutes and less than three miles from McCarran International Airport. The premier destination entertainment resort is owned by Brookfield Real Estate Finance Fund II and managed by WG-Harmon, LLC, a subsidiary of Warner Gaming, LLC. Built in 1995, the property completed a $700 million expansion in 2010. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino offers an energetic entertainment and gaming experience with the services and amenities associated with a boutique luxury resort hotel. The property is known for its innovative nightlife and music scene where acts such as The Rolling Stones, Bon Jovi, Paul McCartney, Incubus, Foo Fighters, Carlos Santana, Mötley Crüe, Guns N’ Roses and KISS have all performed. Features of the property include an 11-story Casino Tower with 640 rooms and suites, 17-story Paradise Tower with 490 rooms and suites; the 15-story HRH All-Suite Tower with 359 suites, eight spa villas and seven penthouse suites; 60,000 square feet of casino space featuring Peacock High-Limit gaming and Asian gaming amenities; 80,000 square feet of flexible meeting and convention space; more than $4 million in rare music memorabilia; Body English Nightclub; Reliquary Water Sanctuary, Spa & Salon; 4.8 acres of tropical pool paradise, which was voted as the No. 1 “Best Hotel Pool” in the 2015 USA Today 10Best Readers Choice contest; the world-famous pool party REHAB; live music/entertainment venues The Joint and Vinyl; Hart & Huntington Tattoo Co.; restaurants Culinary Dropout, Nobu, The Ainsworth, 35 Steaks + Martinis, Pink Taco, Mr. Lucky’s Café and 福Fú; a fitness center; and trendsetting retailers John Varvatos, Affliction, Love Jones and Rocks The Jewelers. For room availability and additional information call 800.HRD.ROCK (800.473.7625) or visit hardrockhotel.com. Follow Hard Rock Hotel & Casino on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest news and updates.
FAMOUS FACES WISH LAS VEGAS A HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON ON MIRACLE MILE SHOPS’ STRIP-SIDE LED SCREENS
Through Dec. 31, Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino will broadcast a series of special holiday greetings from prominent Las Vegas personalities, headliners and show cast members on its LED screens at the heart of Las Vegas Boulevard.
Every half-hour from 10 a.m. to midnight, visitors walking along The Strip will be treated to a holiday surprise when they hear and see the unique greetings on the center’s two large LED screens. More than 20 different messages will be shown throughout the month, including holiday greetings from Mayor Carolyn Goodman, cast of VEGAS! The Show, cast of Absinthe, host of VegasDeluxe.com Robin Leach, cast of Rock of Ages, UNLV Runnin’ Rebels, host of Bar Rescue Jon Taffer, Oscar Goodman and the cast of Cirque du Soleil among many others.
Since 2009, Miracle Mile Shops has been broadcasting creative and exciting content on its LED screens, including E!’s coverage of the Academy Awards red carpet, 2012 London Olympics, 2012 presidential election on CNN and the inauguration of President Obama.
About Miracle Mile Shops:
Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino is a 1.2 mile retail/entertainment complex at the heart of the famed Las Vegas Strip featuring 170 specialty stores, 15 restaurants and live entertainment venues. The center is home to PBR Rock Bar & Grill, boasting a Strip-side location with excellent food, drinks and bull riding; M·A·C Cosmetics, a leading brand of professional cosmetics; H&M; UK-based global retailer French Connection; Sephora; Chicago popcorn legend Garrett Popcorn Shops’ only Las Vegas location; GUESS; Urban Outfitters; True Religion Brand Jeans; 15,000-square-foot bar and restaurant Cabo Wabo® Cantina; Las Vegas’ very own Sin City Brewing Co.; Club Tattoo, featuring some of the best tattoo artists and body piercers in the nation; the first House of Hoops by Foot Locker in the city; as well as a multi-million dollar fountain show. Miracle Mile Shops is owned by Tristar Capital and RFR Holding LLC, in conjunction with leasing and marketing consultant Robert K. Futterman & Associates LLC.
Miracle Mile Shops is open 10 a.m. – 11 p.m. Sunday – Thursday and 10 a.m. – midnight Friday – Saturday. For more information, call (888) 800-8284 or visit www.miraclemileshopslv.com. Keep up with the latest Miracle Mile Shops news via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
This past weekend, Rose. Rabbit. Lie. at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas debuted a new chapter of amusement with the launch of Breakfast at Piffany’s.
The inaugural evening kicked off on Wednesday, April 30. As midnight approached, an intimate crowd converged inside the Study at Rose. Rabbit. Lie. where attendees were greeted by the hosts of this late night affair – Piff the Magic Dragon and his Chihuahua sidekick Mr. Piffles.
As the night’s emcee, Piff thrusts his guests into a mystical world of hilarious trivia and tableside magic topped with an expert sleight of hand. The duo both dazzled and harmlessly harassed guests with astounding illusions and competitions for points and prizes. Everyone is encouraged to participate and dine on the special late night dragon fare. Concluding this evening of mayhem is a boisterous live auction that unfolds as guests bid for a delectable croissant, with all proceeds benefitting Communities In Schools of Nevada (www.cisnevada.org), which ended up being sold for $1,300. All those who win the mouth-watering flaky treat join the exclusive Croissant Consortium, with the highest all-time bidder having their photo framed and placed on the shelves of the Study.
In all, a total of $4,490 was raised from nightly auctions for the croissant during the grand opening weekend of Breakfast at Piffany’s. On Friday, May 2 comedian Brad Garrett along with a second guest split the coveted pastry with a combined winning bid of $1,400, but not until a man from Garrett’s team and a dainty woman with deceptively dexterous digits from another team attempted a thumb war for the top spot. The following evening, Las Vegas Sun and Vegas Deluxe columnist / television personality Robin Leach, Communities In Schools of Nevada Board President Susie Lee, CEO of Palms Casino Resort Dan Lee,and Ellis and Yvette Landau all split the prize with a combined bid of $1,750 – the highest raised thus far.
Breakfast at Piffany’s is a complimentary experience taking place every Wednesday – Saturday from midnight until 1 a.m. in the Study at Rose. Rabbit. Lie., and is available by reservation only. Delicacies such as Piff’s Special Biscuits, Princess Bait, The Chalice of Chocolate Milk and other edibles and refreshments are available for purchase. All proceeds raised during each night’s croissant auction will be donated to Communities In Schools of Nevada.
To reserve a spot at Las Vegas’ most unique late night breakfast experience, e-mail RSVPiff@RoseRabbitLie.com.
Las Vegas Weekly Celebrated its 15th Anniversary with Loyal Readers, Vegas’ Top Performers and Celebrities at #Unscripted inside The Havana Room at The New Tropicana Las Vegas, Dec. 18
Las Vegas Weeklycelebrated its 15th anniversary in true Las Vegas fashion with #Unscripted, a night that featured dozens of the city’s elite, at the Havana Room inside The New Tropicana Las Vegas on Wednesday, Dec. 18. A portion of the proceeds from the evening benefitted the Foundation to Assist Young Musicians and its mission to encourage young musicians through training, advanced study, career development and more.
More than 650 of the publication’s loyal fans gathered at the party, which commenced with signature spirits by Bacardi USA, sounds by producer and DJ duo MICS and a red carpet full of celebrities. Las Vegas Weekly Publisher Travis Keys and Las Vegas Weekly Editor Sarah Feldberg gave a few words to attendees followed by a “champagne wishes” toast from columnist and television personality Robin Leach. The evening was hosted by the editor at large and writer of entertainment column “The Kats Report,” John Katsilometes, who also took the limelight to introduce some of the party’s key performances including the night’s headliner Frankie Moreno.
Among the audience were several celebrities and Las Vegas personalities including Publisher and Editor of Las Vegas SunBrian Greenspun; television personality Holly Madison and founder and CEO of Insomniac Pasquale Rotella; ‘NSYNC band member and television personality Joey Fatone; PIN UP Star and Playboy’s 2011 Playmate of the Year Claire Sinclair; Lacey Schwimmer of“Dancing with the Stars”; Chippendales members including television personalities Jaymes Vaughn and James Davis; Mötley Crüe lead singer Vince Neil; Guns N’ Roses guitarist DJ Ashba; rock star Paul Shortino; professional BMX rider Ricardo Laguna; Absinthe star Melody Sweets; “America’s Got Talent” winner Michael Grimm; entertainer Zowie Bowie; Broadway star and television actress Pia Zadora; GRAMMY award-winning violinist Joshua Bell; comedian Jeff Civillico; comedy magician Mac King; illusionist Murray SawChuck; resident artist at The Smith Center’s Cabaret Jazz Clint Holmes and Strip headliner Kelly Clinton-Holmes; Miss Nevada United States 2013 Hillary Billings; Nevada’s Lieutenant Governor Brian Krolicki; Chef Rick Moonen; Pantera drummer Vinnie Paul; national artist and musician Franky Perez; former Olympian Anne Cribbs; former professional baseball player Orel Hershiser; cast members from Jersey Boys, MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET, The Phat Pack, ROCK OF AGES and Tournament of Kings; and more.
Guests had a blast as they mingled, sipped on drinks and enjoyed musical stylings, while Las Vegas’ top performers hit the stage with absolutely no rules. At the center of the uncensored madness was Moreno’s band, who invited the stars amongst the crowd to perform at random including Fatone, Neil, Ashba, Shortino, Grimm, Bell, Holmes and Sweets. The artists performed hits ranging from 70s rock to holiday classics.
For more information on Las Vegas Weekly’s 15th anniversary party, please visit www.lasvegasweekly.com.
About Las Vegas WeeklyLas Vegas Weekly is the authoritative newspaper of arts and culture for Las Vegas residents, and LasVegasWeekly.com is updated throughout the week with extensive, up-to-date listings and directories of restaurants, nightclubs, entertainment and more. Las Vegas Weekly is free and available each Thursday at newsstands, bookstores and select racks throughout Las Vegas and online at LasVegasWeekly.com.
About Greenspun Media Group Greenspun Media Group (GMG) is managed by The Greenspun Corporation, which is based in Henderson, Nev. In Nevada, GMG publishes the Las Vegas Sun newspaper, Las Vegas Magazine, Las Vegas Weekly, VEGAS INC and VEGAS2GO. The company produces four local websites, LasVegasSun.com, LasVegasWeekly.com, VEGASINC.com and LasVegasMagazine.com. GMG is owned by the Greenspun family, which also owns Sun Media Productions and tourism websites VEGAS.com and LasVegas.com.
17 WINNERS ALONG WITH HONOREES KERRY SIMON, SIRIO MACCIONI, EMERIL LAGASSE & ALEX STOKES
On Friday, Dec. 13 top restaurants, lounges and chefs were celebrated at the Best of Silver State Restaurants & Lounges Awards, an event created and produced by TMG Entertainment in partnership with the Nevada Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NvRAEF). Proceeds from the night benefited NvRAEF’s educational and scholarship programs, such as ProStart, a national high school culinary and restaurant management program that teaches students the skills and knowledge needed to enter the workforce or to continue to postsecondary after high school graduation.
Held at the Sands Showroom inside The Venetian, the ceremony commenced as Chef Kerry Simon was honored with The Visionary Award. Top chefs and restaurateurs gathered onstage to support their friend and colleague, who just last week shared that he is battling a severe form of Parkinson’s disease. As the night continued, Sirio Maccioni was presented with the honorary Pioneer Award, Emeril Lagasse received the Leadership Award and Alex Stokes was recognized with the Industry Champion Award.
Hosts Nina Radetich, Dayna Roselli and Robin Leach led the awards ceremony and industry notables announced the winners in each category as determined by more than 13,000 votes cast by the public.
Best New Restaurant, Fine Dining
Honey Salt Best Restaurant, Fine Dining
Cut Best Neighborhood Restaurant
Vintner Grill Best Chef
Julian Serrano Best Bar/Tavern
Commonwealth Best Buffet
Wynn Best Interior Design, Restaurant
Andrea’s Best Nightclub
XS Best Restaurateur
Elizabeth Blau Best New Restaurant, Casual Dining
Five 50 Best Restaurant, Casual Dining
Eat Rising Star Chef
Bank Atcharawan Best Restaurant Wine/Spirits Selection
Aureole Best Happy Hour
Blue Martini Best Sunday Brunch
Wynn Country Club Best Interior Design, Bar/Nightclub
Hakkasan Best Service, Restaurant
Picasso
ABOUT NEVADA RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION
Founded in 1982, the Nevada Restaurant Association is the leading business association serving the needs of food service operators in Nevada. As an affiliate of the National Restaurant Association, and together with the NvRA Educational Foundation, the Association’s mission is to promote, protect and educate the restaurant industry, which is comprised of more than 5,000 restaurant and foodservice outlets employing more than 150,000 people.
ABOUT TMG ENTERTAINMENT
Founded in 1991, TMG Entertainment is headquartered in Las Vegas with offices in Miami, Beverly Hills, Houston and Phoenix. Throughout the last two decades, the name TMG has become synonymous with the creation and development of unique and high-profile signature projects. TMG’s internationally acclaimed projects have earned their reputation as some of the world’s most well-known and respected events.
TMG has produced a wide range of projects from world-class fashion shows to entertainment events and nonprofit projects in Las Vegas, Hollywood, South Beach, Houston, Phoenix, Cannes, Monte Carlo, Venice and many more renowned destinations.
13,000 VOTES CAST FOR BEST OF SILVER STATE RESTAURANTS & LOUNGES AWARDS
WINNERS ANNOUNCED AND SPECIAL HONOREES FETED ON DEC. 13
More than 13,000 votes have been cast in the Best of Silver State Restaurants & Lounges Awards, and the winners will be revealed at a special ceremony from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 13 at the Sands Showroom inside The Venetian Las Vegas. Top restaurants, lounges and chefs will be honored at the event, which is sponsored by TMG Entertainment in partnership with the Nevada Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NvRAEF).
The night will begin at 5 p.m. with a silent auction and Champagne reception with passed hors d’oeuvres hosted by The Venetian and Moet Hennessey and the one-hour awards ceremony will commence at 6 p.m. Celebrity Chef Emeril Lagasse will be a special guest presenter and the awards ceremony hosts will be Dayna Roselli, Nina Radetich, and Robin Leach.
Nominees in seventeen categories were selected by a distinguished nominating committee, comprised of industry professionals and notable figures in the community. The winners were decided by a public vote which closed Dec. 2.
In addition several notables will be honored with special awards. The “Visionary Award” will be presented to Chef Kerry Simon, Sirio Maccioni will receive the “Pioneer Award” and the “Industry Champion Award” will be presented to Alex Stokes.
Tickets to the awards ceremony are $40 and include admission to the Champagne cocktail reception as well as reserved seating for the ceremony. Tickets are available for purchase at www.nvrestaurants.com, or at any Palazzo or Venetian box office. Proceeds from the event benefit NvRAEF’s educational and scholarship programs, such as ProStart, a national high school culinary and restaurant management program that teaches students the skills and knowledge needed to enter the workforce or to continue to postsecondary after high school graduation.
ABOUT NEVADA RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION
Founded in 1982, the Nevada Restaurant Association is the leading business association serving the needs of food service operators in Nevada. As an affiliate of the National Restaurant Association, and together with the NvRA Educational Foundation, the Association’s mission is to promote, protect and educate the restaurant industry, which is comprised of more than 5,000 restaurant and foodservice outlets employing more than 150,000 people.
ABOUT TMG ENTERTAINMENT
Founded in 1991, TMG Entertainment is headquartered in Las Vegas with offices in Miami, Beverly Hills, Houston and Phoenix. Throughout the last two decades, the name TMG has become synonymous with the creation and development of unique and high-profile signature projects. TMG’s internationally acclaimed projects have earned their reputation as some of the world’s most well-known and respected events.
TMG has produced a wide range of projects from world-class fashion shows to entertainment events and nonprofit projects in Las Vegas, Hollywood, South Beach, Houston, Phoenix, Cannes, Monte Carlo, Venice and many more renowned destinations.
ABOUT THE VENETIAN LAS VEGAS®
The Venetian Resort-Hotel-Casino , the largest property in the country to receive AAA’s Five Diamond and the coveted Forbes Travel Guide Four Star awards, is one of the world’s most luxurious resort and convention destinations. Recreating Venice’s legendary landmarks, the LEED® EB Gold-certified resort offers unmatched service and quality for leisure and corporate guests. With suites ranging from a standard 650-square-foot Luxury Suite to the luxurious 10,000-square-foot Chairman Suite, the all-suite resort boasts more than 4,000 of Las Vegas’ most lavish suite accommodations. Located in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, The Venetian features Grand Canal Shoppes® , an indoor streetscape complete with gondolas and singing gondoliers, the Canyon Ranch SpaClub®, world-class gaming, exquisite restaurants, a wide variety of entertainment such as “ Soul2Soul with Tim McGraw and Faith Hill,” the party musical “ROCK OF AGES,” showroom headliners including Human Nature, David Spade, Rita Rudner, Tim Allen and Joan Rivers and extensive convention and corporate services. Guests can earn points while they eat, sleep, shop and play with Grazie, the premiere loyalty program. The Venetian and its sister resort, The Palazzo Las Vegas, are the first ever Alliance Resorts in the InterContinental Hotel Group® global portfolio. For additional information, visit venetian.com, follow on Twitter @venetianvegas and interact on Facebook at facebook.com/venetianlasvegas.
Master Hair Stylist Mercedes Dalton from LifeSpa + Salon by Michael Boychuck
You know when you walk in someplace and know you belong there. That is how I feel whenever I go to one of Michaels salons!
He has the best salons in Las Vegas hands down. Not only is his team extremely talented but they are by far the best looking!
I am so incredibly pleased with my haircut from the gorgeous Mercedes! She gave me one of the best layered cuts I’ve ever had!
Mercedes was helpful, friendly, and informative. She went the extra mile to make sure that I loved my hair- asking questions, making sure I felt comfortable with the cut, and updating me as to what she was doing. She was phenomenal!! I will absolutely go back!!
It has been about a week now and everyday I wake up I look forward to the way I will be styling my hair that day
I cannot thank Mercedes enough!! Go in and see her! She’s the best and she will definitely take care of you!!!!
The salon is clean, fun, very chic, and also stocked with hair products that you can’t find anywhere else! It has such a positive vibe and everyone in there is so friendly and nice. Great personal service!
About Mercedes Dalton
Mercedes Dalton began her career in the beauty industry in 2001 working under one of the most talented men in the world of hair, Michael Boychuck. At Boychuck’s AMP Salon at the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, Dalton refined her craft and catapulted to one of the top stylists in the competitive Sin City market. Currently, Dalton coifs the tresses of Las Vegas’ finest at LifeSalon + Spa at Life Time Athletic in Summerlin.
Over the past nine years, Dalton has mastered all areas of the hair trade with an expertise in cutting, coloring, styling, extensions and specialty treatments. In 2009, Dalton led the way as her team at AMP Salon took first place in Las Vegas’ annual “Hair Wars” competition, a fierce battle between dozens of high-end salons on the Strip and surrounding areas.
In addition to her loyal clientele, Dalton has tamed the tresses of some of Hollywood’s finest men and women including: Kevin Spacey, Molly Sims, Nicky Hilton, Robin Leach, Mario Andretti, Palms owner George Maloof, Michael Jackson’s oldest daughter Paris Jackson, Pussycat Dolls founder Robin Antin, world-renowned interior designer Faye Resnick and more.
ABOUT LIFESPA + SALON BY MICHAEL BOYCHUCK IN SUMMERLIN
Colorist to the stars and Las Vegas salon owner, Michael Boychuck, started his latest beauty endeavor, LifeSpa + Salon by Michael Boychuck, on Sunday, July 1. The Summerlin salon is located inside the upscale Life Time Athletic Summerlin, at 10721 W. Charleston Blvd.
“I am thrilled that my team and I have joined the remarkable team at Life Time,” said Boychuck. “I have always wanted a salon with easy access for local clientele and Life Time Athletic is the perfect spot.”
As Las Vegas’ newest salon, LifeSpa + Salon by Michael Boychuck offers guests a full-service beauty experience without the bustle of the Las Vegas Strip. Highly trained LifeSpa artisans will deliver a number of exemplary make up, hair and nail services for guests to enjoy. Open to the public, not just members of the fitness center, Life Time clientele and non-members alike will soon enjoy the convenience of high-quality beauty services while on-the-go or after a workout session. LifeSpa + Salon by Michael Boychuck clients will also have access to Life Time’s spacious childcare center during their visits.
“The outstanding quality of work Michael Boychuck and his team are known for are a great addition to Life Time in Summerlin,” said John Reilly, Senior Vice President Life Time. “As one of the country’s largest salon and spa operations, we are pleased to welcome Boychuck to LifeSpa.”
As the salon provides an upscale boutique salon feel in a warm contemporary setting, LifeSpa + Salon by Michael Boychuck will pamper guests with first class hair care, beauty brands and products on the market including Aveda, Kerastase and Bumble & Bumble.
About Michael Boychuck
Michael Boychuck helped ignite the Las Vegas salon industry 13 years ago when he helped open a branch of Laurent D’s Beverly Hills salon, Prive at Bellagio. He went on to direct the Salon at Canyon Ranch at The Venetian for several years where he secured his status as the city’s leading beauty expert. In 2001, Boychuck branched off and partnered with business mogul and hotelier George Maloof to open AMP salon at the Palms. Boychuck opened his largest salon, COLOR, in late 2007 at Caesars Palace. In 2008, he opened PRIMP located in the plush Palms Place. With his latest salon, Boychuck has partnered with Life Time to create LifeSpa + Salon by Michael Boychuck, providing upscale beauty in Summerlin.
Best known for his work with longtime clients and friends Paris and Nicky Hilton, Boychuck and his salons have an impressive celebrity client roster that includes Jennifer Lopez, Gwen Stefani, Eva Longoria, Lindsay Lohan, Kirsten Dunst, Fergie of The Black Eyed Peas, Jennie Garth, Willa Ford, Shannon Doherty, Donna D’Errico, Jayde Nicole, Kathy Hilton and Leann Rimes. Boychuck was also named “Colorist of the Decade” by leading hair care company Schwarzkopf. The celebrity hair colorist has also been featured in Paris Hilton’s hit TV show “Paris Hilton’s My New BFF” and “The World According to Paris.”
