Eats, Treats, and Feats

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA

One of the great things about Las Vegas, is you can do it up expensively or you can do it on the cheap, and either way, have a sensational time. It used to be, people went to Vegas primarily to gamble. Neither Dennis nor I like to gamble, but we always enjoy the unbridled decadence and fun of the city. There are wonderful restaurants, thrilling shows, acres of shopping, exploring the glitzy hotels, and many other exciting opportunities to keep you very busy and very giddy.

In today’s economy many of the luxurious hotels are practically giving away rooms… in fact, some are giving them away! Hint: If you register for a Players Card (even if you’re not a big gambler), some hotels will offer you a free room for several days when you return the next time!

We had a gorgeous room at the Wynn with just about the best view of the whole Strip. Along with our room, they gave us a $50 gambling credit. Not exactly high rollers, we hit the casino and headed to the slots. A particular poker machine beckoned to us, so we plugged in our card and less than a half-hour later, we couldn’t believe it – we were $150 richer! Now, that was fun. Thank you, Steve Wynn!

Much better than gambling was the opportunity to eat some fabulous meals and watch some extraordinary entertainment.

The Mandalay Bay Hotel has ten signature restaurants, eight casual restaurants, and four “quick eats.” So where do you want to eat, Marilyn? We decided on MIX, and found our way to their hidden elevator that sweeps you up to the top floor of the hotel into a hi-tech world of dark and light. The bar is dark, the dining room is light and, in fact, all white with swirling accents and an amazing 24-ft chandelier with 15,000 hand-blown glass spheres. It was ultra-lavish and ultra- uber!

We were seated next to the window, where we looked out at the Vegas landscape, watching the teeny little people below scurrying across the freezing cold streets to their next adventure. Did we mention it snowed in Las Vegas the day before!

Speaking of adventures, the food at Mix is an adventure in good taste. We loved each and every dish and want to share the yummy details. At the table, we were treated to a variety of artisanal breads served with butter and peanut butter. That is, regular butter with peanuts in it, not the peanut butter your mother gave you!

Our wine was served and we relaxed while deciding on our meal. Marilyn started with the Bison Ragout with Homemade Pasta. Like buried treasure, the ragout was hidden under the pasta, revealed as a dark brown, rich and flavorful delicacy that she liked so much, Dennis never even got a nibble. Even so, he let her sample his Lobster Salad with Apple and Vegetable Mosaic which was also very tasty.

We shared the entrees of Monkfish over Celery Puree and Diver Scallops in a Sea of Clam Chowder Broth. The kitchen’s skill, under the tutelage of Alain Ducasse, was amply demonstrated by the perfect timing and taste of all the seafood. We relished every morsel, contrasting their flavors and preparations to near perfection.

Usually we share one dessert, but this time we each indulged in our personal favorites. Dennis ordered the Chocolate Soufflé with Homemade Pistachio Ice Cream. Ooh la la! So sweet, so good. Marilyn went with a Caramel Sundae with Peanuts which she liked, but she also tried a taste of Dennis’s soufflé. Who could resist that?

Practically rolling out of Mix, we headed to the Venetian Hotel for the BLUE MAN GROUP. This show has been running for years, with touring companies all over the globe. We had never seen it before so we went with eager anticipation.

For a sheer entertainment experience, this laugh-out-loud, pulsating piece of theatre can’t be beat. There’s so much energy expended up there, no wonder they’re blue in the face!

Exhausted, we finally went back to our room at the Wynn where, with the beds turned down and a peppermint awaiting us, we quickly fell asleep anticipating another day of fun and food. Question: Why do hotels put candy on the bed, which you climb into after brushing your teeth? They should give it to you in the elevator on the way up!

The Wynn employs a slew of top chefs in their ten restaurants. We chose the DANIEL BOULUD BRASSERIE for our next trip to food heaven.

Boulud, coupled with rising star Wesley Holten, has created a modern brasserie with a compelling combination of simple dishes, done extraordinary well. The restaurant is located overlooking the Lake of Dreams, which enhances the entire dining experience. We sat cozily together, facing a lighted lake surrounded by foliage, flooded in ever-changing colored lights and with a large movie screen behind a waterfall. The scene is surreal as every half-hour you are treated to a different show of special effects, music and lights.

We sat entranced. First, there were ’70’s style Goldfingeresque women’s silhouettes dancing on the screen to disco music. A half-hour later, we were entertained by two huge flowers dancing above the waterfall, opening and closing in time to the music and changing colors. While one was opening, the other was pointing… almost like a man and woman tantalizing each other. Marilyn’s favorite was a huge frog above the waterfall, opening and closing his big eyes and jauntily croaking out “What a Wonderful World” in Louis Armstrong’s voice.

During dinner we saw five of these little shows outside, which tells you how much we were enjoying our time inside.

At the beginning of our meal, our waiter Michael treated us to a champagne and an amuse bouché. Next, we shared an appetizer of Fruits de Mer, a bountiful assortment of clams, oysters, lobster, prawns, crab, mussels, tuna tartare and ceviche that was large enough for four or five people. Gradually polishing that off, we ordered our entrees and told Michael not to hurry. We were enjoying the wine and show too much to rush things.

Marilyn had the Skate Grenoubles. A delectable, moist and flaky broiled fish served with grapes, mini-croutons, and capers over roasted cauliflower and mashed potatoes. Dennis ordered the Crispy Duck Confit accompanied by red cabbage, quince and fois gras croutons, which were more like delicately fried croquettes, but extremely light and sweet.

We could have and would have stopped there. But the chef sent us a plate of dessert cheeses. There were four kinds: Hooks Cheddar from Wisconsin; Onetik Blue from France; Cendre Goat from France; and a Travegio from Italy accompanied by apple slices, figs, grapes, jam and honey.

Did we mention the bread assortment that came with the meal? Along with a French and sour dough, there was raisin bread, fig bread and date and pistachio bread. Carbo-ecstasy!

As if the cheese plate wasn’t enough, Michael proudly brought us a dessert plate, too! Our absolute favorite was the Four Beignets with a Light Chocolate Filling. We also had the Floating Island of Meringue with Anise Sauce and Four Mini pastries. Michael, enough already!

Our waiter Michael was not only gracious and welcoming, but completely knowledgeable about the origin and preparation of all the food, the other restaurants in Las Vegas, and even the weather around the country! He was charming and helpful – the consummate professional rarely found these days.

Enjoying, actually indulging, ourselves way too much, we reluctantly left the Brasserie at the Wynn and headed over to the Criss Angel BELIEVE Cirque de Soleil show at the Luxor Hotel .

We’ve seen all kinds of magic and illusionist shows over the years, but this is about the most unusual. Criss is an illusionist who became popular from his A&E television show, “Mind Freak,” which struck a chord with the MTV generation. We hadn’t heard of him, but there’s no question, the fan-filled audience knew him, and knew him well. The moment he came onstage, there were endearing cheers from all over the room, and many fans sent presents up to him on stage. It turned out that it was his birthday.

The BELIEVE show is hard to believe… exactly what an illusionist wants! It’s all Goth and dark imagery, with his themes coming to life, somehow, onstage. He excels at providing an exhibition that’s a cross between Transformers-Meets-Prehistoric- Monsters-Meets-Vampires-Meet-Alice-in-Wonderland. You could call it a Criss Cross!

There aren’t as many illusions as one might expect, but there is no shortage of great musical production and terrific dancing, providing an exciting visual feast for the eyes and ears. It is dark and brooding with loud, pulsating rhythms. Unique, imaginative, and supremely fun to watch! Mature folks enjoy it even though it’s geared to a youthful crowd that totally “gets” it.

At the end of this performance, Criss was the one surprised, when his girlfriend Holly Madison, his mother, and the owner of the Luxor brought out a giant birthday cake.

Criss emotionally addressed the audience in a heartwarming way, urging everyone to “Never give up on your dreams.” “Never accept negativity or naysayers,” he continued, as he gave what seemed-to-be truly genuine thanks to everyone, especially to the owner of the Luxor for helping him realize his dream.

It was a special part of the show that perhaps not every audience will see, but not knowing of Criss Angel before, we BELIEVE now.

So ended our stay in Las Vegas! Cut short by the first snow in Las Vegas in 30 years, which closed the El Cajon Pass, our two-and-a-half fun and food-filled days will be remembered fondly. But you can be sure, we’ll return there soon to eat, drink and play.

And don’t forget, “What happens in Vegas… we share with you!”

THE INN OF THE FIVE GRACES
150 E DeVargas Street
Santa Fe, New Mexico 87501
505-992-0957
www.fivegraces.com

Imagine waking up in an enchanted place. You’re on the softest feather bed imaginable, surrounded by exotic treasures from the East, richly-colored throws, Tibetan carved sideboards and a wood-burning kiva fireplace. Outside the window, the snow is falling onto a stone courtyard with hundred-year-old adobe walls. It’s cozy, warm, and almost magical.

You don’t have to imagine it. You can enjoy it, like we did, at The Inn of the Five Graces. The name refers to the five senses of sight, sound, taste, smell and touch, and each of them is treated royally at this elegant and discreet hideaway in the heart of Santa Fe.

This Inn is comprised of a cluster of historic buildings, each distinctively decorated with warmth and luxurious style. With only 23 rooms, the staff gathers your information in advance and when you arrive, they make you feel like family, welcoming you with conviviality and verve… and an assortment of wine and cheeses.

The hotel was begun in 1993 as “Serets One Thousand and One Nights.” The original owners, Ira and Sylvia Seret, brought fabulous art and artifacts back from Afghanistan and the Near East to decorate the rooms, all in their own unique way. In addition to a sitting room and kitchenette, each room or suite has an extraordinarily beautiful bathroom with exquisite hand-tiled mosaics made from crushed urns and custom-designed by Sylvia.

The current owners are David and Christie Garrett, who take pride in offering their guests an experience of exceptional beauty and comfort. The main problem is you never want to leave!

Everything is included with your stay here. The small kitchen in your room is stocked with drinks and snacks, and there’s never an extra charge. Complimentary breakfast is served in the dining area, the main courtyard, or in your room or patio with offerings of juices, fruits, cereals, eggs, and omelets. The staff is attentive and eager to please, without being intrusive. Additionally, this is a no tipping hotel.

For pet-lovers, there’s another wonderful amenity. They gave our dog, Boomer, a pet bed and a doggie goodie bag with toys, treats, and a sign to hang on the door that tells the maid there’s a “Pet Inside.” Still, when Boomer was there and we were out, she came in the room for turn-down service and filled his two bowls and fluffed hisdoggie bed, too! The doggie bed was especially appreciated; he loved it so much that when we returned home, we bought him one and now he sleeps there instead of in our bed. Thank you, Inn of the Five Graces! Boomer gives you two paws up! And we give you four thumbs up!

Ahh, but that’s just the beginning of the Five Graces. To contribute to the delectable tastes and smells, there are two restaurants, The Pink Adobe and Dragon Room.

THE PINK ADOBE
406 Old Santa Fe Trail
Santa Fe, New Mexico 87501
505-983-7712
www.thepinkadobe.com

The Pink, as it is known locally, has a colorful history all its own. It was created in 1944 by Rosalea Murphy, a young woman from New Orleans who came to Santa Fe to cook and paint. A genius with flavor and color, she opened her own restaurant and hung her artwork on display. The Pink immediately became a popular night spot, attracting all kinds of artists, writers, movie stars, and politicians over the years. It was the “in place” for all-night discussions with wine, dancing, high spirits, art showings, and jazz.

Rosalea was a vivacious hostess who would stay until the last song played; although she died in 2000 at the age of 89, her energy, enthusiasm and vision live on at The Pink Adobe.

Today it is part of the Inn of the Five Graces, and Rosalea’s colorful art still adorns the walls of its numerous cozy dining areas. The kitchen reflects the same high level of commitment as the Inn, and our dinner was the perfect combination of delicious food and delightful ambiance. Overseeing the operation was Matt, who also serves as sommelier and who suggested our wine selections.

We started our meal with an appetizer of Veal Cheek Ravioli ala Plancha. It was served on a bed of Fresh Arugula, topped with a Chopped Heirloom Tomato Vinaigrette. Scrumptious is the only word to describe it.

After a salad course, our entrees arrived, piping hot and stunningly presented. Dennis had their house specialty, Steak Dunigan, a charred 14 oz. New York Strip with Sautéed Mushrooms and Green Chile. As he eagerly devoured the oh-so-tender medium rare steak, our only concern was that it was so good, he wouldn’t have even a tiny morsel to take back to Boomer in the room! Poor Boomer.

Marilyn had the Salmon, grilled to perfection, with Fresh Watercress, Chive Couscous and a Grilled Corn, Heirloom Tomato, Basil Vinaigrette. For dessert, we splurged on Rosalea’s Legendary French Apple Pie with Vanilla Ice Cream and Hard Rum Sauce. And yes, you can probably imagine how luscious, just reading about it!

The Pink Adobe, housed in a 400-year-old building, has been a legend and a landmark in Santa Fe for 65 years. This year is no different. So get your taste buds in gear. We enthusiastically recommend it as a must-see and a must-eat-at for 2009.

DRAGON ROOM – http://www.thepinkadobe.com/dragonroom.php

Right across the courtyard from The Pink is the Dragon Room, a chic and fun spot for drinks, food and music, that’s rated as one of the top bars in the world. The atmosphere is true Santa Fe, with trees growing through the roof and more of Rosalea’s art on the walls. We were told that the BBQ Ribs are to die for, but unfortunately we didn’t get the chance to try them. You can be sure the next time we’re in Santa Fe, we will.

With its distinctive dining, gated gardens and magical rooms, The Inn of the Five Graces is an exotic and special world of its own that you will never want to leave. But then, of course, there are so many things to see and do in Santa Fe, you simply have to. Just make sure you allow enough time to totally relax and luxuriate in this delicious haven where all your senses will be tenderly and beautifully coddled.

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More of Santa Fe :

LUMINARIA
Inn and Spa at Loretto
211 Old Santa Fe Trail Santa Fe, New Mexico (NM) 87501
505-984-7915 / Toll Free 800-727-5531
http://www.innatloretto.com/new-mexico-dining/santa-fe-dining.php

Luminaria is the restaurant located in theInn and Spa at Loretto . The décor is Contemporary American with modern western accents and dozens of large hurricane luminaries and candles, as well as a large kiva fireplace. The design elements are based on the ancient history, traditions, arts and crafts of the Anasazi and their ancestors, the Northern Pueblo people, but with a contemporary edge.

The menu has a Southwestern theme with tamales, enchiladas and such. Since we generally aren’t lovers of Mexican-type fare (we hate cilantro), we weren’t expecting to really like the food. But we were 100% wrong. The food was absolutely dee-lish, with a capital D. That’s thanks to Chef Brian Cooper who has developed a menu of contemporary American selections with Southwest influences made from farm fresh and organic foods that feature creative, bold flavors designed to ignite the senses.

As an appetizer, Marilyn got one of their signature dishes, the Confit Duck Tamale, which tasted sweet and wonderful. It was made with truffle oil, which gave it an extra sweetness. And the duck was tender and succulent.

The entrees came and were perfect. Another of their signature dishes, the artful Scallops Wrapped with Spanish Chorizo on a bed of Lemon Spaetzle was served with Wilted Arugula and Sweet Corn. The scallops were sweet and tender and there were just enough so you didn’t feel over-stuffed after the meal.

Our other entrée, the Ruby Trout, was a huge piece, and it was a scrumptious surprise with crispy, yet juicy skin, totally wonderful. The fish rested on a bed of the best Mixed Grains dotted with Beans and Cranberries. The Brussel Sprouts with Ham were good, not great, but the grains made the dish truly special.

And the desserts! We were in “sugar high” heaven. One of their dessert specialties is donuts. Against my protestations, the waitress gave us recommendations and smiled as she brought us the freshly-baked mini-donuts made from corn… in a little white bakery bag to keep them hot. On the side were 3 dipping sauces: chocolate fudge, butterscotch caramel, and apple spice. Dennis hit the chocolate and I hit the caramel. And didn’t want to stop! Truly, they were orgasmic.

But alas, another dessert loomed in front of us. After tasting the donuts, I didn’t even want to try the other dessert, thinking it would just be a disappointment. But again, WRONG. The Anjou Pears Brown Betty was another heavenly treat. Usually served with clove ice cream, we opted instead for vanilla. The pears were sliced very thin, drizzled with just a tad of crumbs as well as with brown sugar and cinnamon, and served with the ice cream on top, all in a mini-iron-skillet. Sweet, warm and OMG… oh-so-good!

We couldn’t take any of the Brown Betty home, because we finished it all. So two very happy but very sated people went back to our hotel happy and full… and with a bag of a few leftover mini-donuts to snack on yet another time. Mmmmm, yummy!

In addition to the main dining room, Luminaria’s outdoor patio dining offers views of the historic Loretto Chapel and town, which gives your dining experience the true feel and spirit of Santa Fe.

The restaurant features an Early Evening Menu from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm, when you can enjoy Chef Cooper’s fabulous cuisine at special reduced prices.

Overall, Luminaria is a romantic and comfortable place where your meal isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary experience you’re certain to savor. Hmmm, I’m wondering if you can order their donuts online? I think not, so we’ll just have to go back again! We’ll look for you there.

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Sights you Don’t Want to Miss:

Situated high in the foothills of the southern Rocky Mountains, Santa Fe is a destination of astonishing beauty and a world-renowned center for arts and culture. The city has more than a dozen major museums showcasing a vast array of art, culture, history and traditions.

The Georgia O’Keefe Museum – http://www.okeeffemuseum.org

The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum is the most visited art museum in the state of New Mexico. It is the only museum in the world dedicated to an internationally-known woman artist.

Art in Santa Fe – http://www.santafegalleries.net

With more than 250 galleries to explore, Santa Fe is a visual haven for art lovers of all sorts, whether you’re a serious collector or simply a fan who finds joy in viewing the work. The city has a huge assortment of art, including traditional and contemporary painting, photography, pottery, sculpture, textiles and more. Santa Fe’s Native American and Spanish Colonial roots are reflected in many of the galleries, but various other cultures of the world are represented as well.

New Mexico State Capitol – http://santafe.org/New Mexico_State_Capital/index.html

The New Mexico State Capitol, known as the Roundhouse, is the only round capitol building in the country. The four-story Roundhouse resembles the Zia sun symbol and features a Rotunda that rises 60 feet through the top three stories. The building houses not only government offices and the state House and Senate chambers, but an immense exhibition of art displayed throughout all of its floors. The Capitol Art Collection includes paintings, sculpture, handcrafted furniture and other work by New Mexico artists and artisans. Free tours, led by docents, are given every weekday.

Plaza of the Governors – www.palaceofthegovernors.org

Originally constructed in the early 17th century as Spain’s seat of government for what is today the American Southwest, the Palace of the Governors chronicles the history of Santa Fe, as well as New Mexico and the region. This adobe structure, now the state’s history museum, was designated a Registered National Historic Landmark in 1960 and an American Treasure in 1999.

Santa Fe Railyard – www.sfrailyardcc.org

The Santa Fe Railyard opened in 2008 and started a new phase in the city’s evolution. Part commercial development and part public space, the Railyard is sure to become a vital town center. Blending new architecture with old, pairing new businesses with the traditional, and placing a modern innovative plan into a 19 th century neighborhood, the Railyard has redefined the Guadalupe Street Historic District. The project includes a 10 acre park with performance space, kids’ area and xeric garden, the Santa Fe Farmers Market, retail shops, theater complex, picnic areas, teen center, and the Santa Fe Southern Railroad and New Mexico Rail Runner tracks.

Santa Fe, New Mexico Convention and Visitors Bureau
800-777-2489
http://santafe.org

The bureau provides comprehensive information on all aspects of Santa Fe, including accommodations, dining, shopping, attractions, tours, history, art, and more.

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