April's Tips and Recommendations by April Mench

Esthers Kitchen

aprilmench — 2022-06-04 15:32:48 UTC

My favorite restaurant.Seasonal new Italian by James Beard nominated Chef James Trees. All pasta and sourdough bread made in house. Located in the Arts District

**Call for a reservation!**

Carson Kitchen

aprilmench — 2022-06-04 15:36:18 UTC

One of the other most popular restaurants in town. Also Chef driven, food is served for sharing and there's not a bad thing on the menu. Mine (and everyone else's) favorite dish is the fried chicken skins with hot honey
Located just one block off of Fremont

Battista's Hole In The Wall

aprilmench — 2022-06-04 15:42:05 UTC

This historic red sauce joint is quintessential Vintage Vegas kitsch. Mr Battista was a former opera singer who knew every celeb that came through town in the Golden Era of the Strip and even sang at Betty Grable's funeral.

Prix fixe meals include salad, bread, entree, unlimited wine, and "cappuccino"

If you're from an area with heavy Italian culture the food probably won't inspire you to write home to mom but you'll have a great time and leave satisfied and with a little buzz.

Gabi

aprilmench — 2022-06-04 15:43:18 UTC

Quite simply the most whimsically beautiful coffee and dessert house you will ever lay eyes on.

Public Us

aprilmench — 2022-06-04 15:44:21 UTC

It seems like just a coffeehouse but the food is killer and all made from scratch including the baked goods.

Bagelmania

aprilmench — 2022-06-04 15:45:40 UTC

The closest thing to a New York deli since I left NYC

Southwest Diner (Boulder City)

aprilmench — 2022-06-04 15:46:40 UTC

LOVE this place.

Self Guided Boulder City Walking Tour

aprilmench — 2022-06-04 15:48:11 UTC

El Dorado Canyon Mine Tour

aprilmench — 2022-06-04 15:49:12 UTC

For under $20 bucks you will get dozens of priceless photo ops and a trip deep into an abandoned gold mine. Seeing what people accomplished in the days before power equipment will blow your mind.

If you want to cool off continue 15 min down the road to the water at Nelson’s Landing for CLIFF JUMPING.
*This is a dog friendly activity.

Boulder City/Hoover Dam Museum

aprilmench — 2022-06-04 15:50:01 UTC

This comprehensive museum is a hidden gem at the back of the Boulder Dam hotel and is totally free

The Coffee Cup Cafe

aprilmench — 2022-06-04 15:50:51 UTC

If you go Boulder City hit one of my two favorite spots for breakfast or lunch

The Velveteen Rabbit

aprilmench — 2022-06-04 15:52:05 UTC

ART DISTRICT

One of the OG cocktail bars in Vegas. Located in the Arts District it’s the kind of cocktails that sound bizarre but taste divine. The back patio is a pink dream.

The Sand Dollar

aprilmench — 2022-06-04 15:53:02 UTC

ASIAN DISTRICT:

Vintage Vegas live blues and cocktail bar. No one will guess you’re not a local.

The Golden Tiki

aprilmench — 2022-06-04 15:54:00 UTC

ASIAN DISTRICT:

The Golden Tiki has become one of the must see spots in town. It’s like the Disneyland of Tiki. But actually they have stuff from Disneyland-the old talking birds from The Tiki Room. Beautifully curated tiki cocktail, small bites, and DOLE WHIP! (With rum) Make sure to check out the bathrooms

A WARNING: They dependably have the most abominable service in town.

Dino's

aprilmench — 2022-06-04 15:54:53 UTC

LV BLVD/ ART DISTRICT

This dive on the North Strip has been operating since 1962 and is the THE place in town for karaoke. Even if you hate to sing the combination of locals, tourist and colorful characters rocking out inside these walls will make you fan. Dinos is a must stop for all my out of town guests.

The Speak Easy at The Mob Museum

aprilmench — 2022-06-04 15:56:23 UTC

DOWNTOWN:

You don’t have to visit the museum to check out this stellar cocktail lounge where they are distilling their own moonshine. Check out their website for the password of the week and enter through the side door next to the whiskey barrel. Live music on the weekends.

The Plaza Martini Pool

aprilmench — 2022-06-04 15:59:18 UTC

Neon Museum

aprilmench — 2022-06-04 22:30:09 UTC

Probably my #1 not to miss, there is nothing more uniquely Vegas. Go at night. Guided tours are one hour and Brilliant is a 30 min light show that puts you in the middle of an arena of non-functioning signs that come to life through LED, video and music. It is pure magic.

Springs Preserve

aprilmench — 2022-06-04 22:43:12 UTC

See another side of our town. Springs is a campus consisting of the Nevada State Museum, Museum of Origin, Water Museum, Botanic Gardens, Boomtown 1905 and more spread across architecturally charming grounds. Peaceful, uncrowded and a great way to spend a day.

Fremont Street 1926

aprilmench — 2022-06-05 15:27:25 UTC

Fremont St 1940

aprilmench — 2022-06-05 15:28:04 UTC

Vegas Vic

aprilmench — 2022-06-05 15:30:07 UTC

Vegas History

aprilmench — 2022-06-05 15:39:50 UTC

If you you’d like to learn more about our early history check out these fantastic documentaries funded by our Centennial Commission

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLC4N1bQETz09_iFOe-DBDbFgPOXPzgdsD

The Mob Museum

aprilmench — 2022-06-05 15:42:12 UTC

Aka The National Museum of Organized Crime and Las Enforcement

The Pinball Hall of Fame.

aprilmench — 2022-06-05 15:53:48 UTC

Listen, their website kinda sucks but the space doesn’t. Located just across from the Welcome to Las Vegas sign this an absolute wonderland of old pinball and arcade games. Throw a fiver in the quarter machine, play some pinball and feel like a kid again.

Everyone LOVES this place from my 50 year brother in law to my 7 year old nephew

Bajamar

aprilmench — 2022-06-06 19:15:55 UTC

The most glorious fish tacos in town

Winner of the 1956 Miss Atomic Pageant

aprilmench — 2022-06-06 19:19:57 UTC

Cowabunga Bay

aprilmench — 2022-06-06 19:32:44 UTC

Because it’s summer in the desert.

Frankie’s Tiki Room

aprilmench — 2022-06-06 20:39:13 UTC

Quintessential vintage tiki vibes.

Tastebuzz

aprilmench — 2022-06-06 22:04:14 UTC

Come see us again and save when you book with us directly over the phone.

Don’t forget your Concierge!

aprilmench — 2022-06-09 18:30:53 UTC

Got more questions? Hotel concierge are there to help you. One of the most underutilized amenities in hotels are the concierge. They are the local experts the hotel has provided to guide you in everything from the best shows, how to get into the hottest clubs and when the best time is to arrive at the airport.

Let them help you!

Atomic Testing 1953

aprilmench — 2022-06-09 22:05:02 UTC

1953
Swimmers look on from a local motel as a mushroom cloud rises up from atomic testing 75 miles away.

The Plaza as Biff’s in Back To The Future 2

aprilmench — 2022-06-10 15:49:09 UTC

Things you thought were legal but aren’t

aprilmench — 2022-06-11 22:03:01 UTC

1. Prostitution: prostitution is legal in Nevada in counties with under 700,000 people. This means Clark County where Las Vegas is located is not eligible. Additionally where it is permitted it is only only allowed in licensed brothels.

What Las Vegas does have is a high rate of sex trafficking since people believe it is legal.

2. Weed: It is legal to purchase it and smoke on PRIVATE PROPERTY. Smoking in public is not legal but in resort areas is largely overlooked.

Fergusons Motel Circa 1950's

aprilmench — 2022-06-11 22:10:24 UTC

aprilmench — 2022-06-11 22:21:54 UTC

Fergusons 2017

The Peppermill Fireside Lounge

aprilmench — 2022-06-12 01:27:12 UTC

NORTH STRIP:

Classic Las Vegas. Transport to the best of the 80’s vibe with this hot pink and purple neon dream. Make sure you visit the lounge NOT the restaurant

Vegas Vicky and The Golden Goose

aprilmench — 2022-06-12 07:39:51 UTC

Past the signs you'll notice the horse shoes. That is where the Whiskey Licker Up revolving bar stands today.

aprilmench — 2022-06-20 16:46:27 UTC

Martini shaped pool at the Plaza

aprilmench — 2022-06-20 16:47:19 UTC

Please leave us a review!

aprilmench — 2022-07-09 15:39:09 UTC

Had a good time? We really appreciate your letting people know with 5 ⭐️

Ellis Island

aprilmench — 2022-07-09 15:46:55 UTC

If you’re staying on the Strip Ellis Island is your friend. Located on Koval just behind Ballys it’s the nearest locals casino to the Strip and has multiple restaurants with awesome food at really great prices and their own brewery!

If you're looking for breakfast under $10 the coffee shop is a must.

They are also very generous with comped drinks if you’re gambling.

Izakaya Go

aprilmench — 2022-08-21 19:20:24 UTC

Japanese tapas bar. Excellent food and great late night Happy Hour. Just off the Strip close to Golden Tiki

Golden Steer

aprilmench — 2022-08-26 22:11:31 UTC

This steakhouse is Vintage Vegas at its finest. Each table is marked with a plaque of the Golden Era celebrity who once sat there from Frank Sinatra to Marilyn Monroe

Hugo's Cellar

aprilmench — 2022-08-26 22:13:12 UTC

Top Of Binions

aprilmench — 2022-08-26 22:14:09 UTC

Herbs & Rye

aprilmench — 2022-08-26 22:15:02 UTC

The most popular locals steakhouse in town. They feature Happy House half off steaks TWICE a day and a National award winning cocktail program. This is where you'll find hip locals meeting up for late dinners after work.

Make sure you go to Herbs and Rye and NOT their sister spot Cleaver which can smell like dining in a Port-A-Potty.

Hand of Faith

aprilmench — 2022-09-05 18:49:34 UTC

18b sign

aprilmench — 2022-09-12 15:07:56 UTC

Street Art Gallery

aprilmench — 2022-09-13 22:41:52 UTC

Another Plaza Pool shot.

aprilmench — 2022-09-20 06:23:44 UTC

Tony Hsieh memorial

aprilmench — 2022-10-05 03:29:06 UTC

Tony Hsieh the former CEO of Zappos and the founder of the Downtown Project passed away in November 2020 due to injuries from a fire in Connecticut. He didn't have a will leaving the Downtown Project up in the air. He was 46.

Little Vegas Chapel

aprilmench — 2022-10-08 21:27:15 UTC

The Silver Stamp

aprilmench — 2022-10-08 21:31:27 UTC

This column compliments our Arts District tour

aprilmench — 2022-10-08 21:32:00 UTC

This column compliments our Fremont Street tour

aprilmench — 2022-10-08 21:32:45 UTC

The Omelet House

aprilmench — 2022-10-13 03:52:29 UTC

Another vintage Vegas gem. Serving breakfast since 1979. Jerry Lewis ate breakfast here every morning and can be seen dining here with Jerry Seinfeld in an episode of Comedians In Cars Getting Coffee.

aprilmench — 2022-10-13 21:20:10 UTC

Pretty Done

aprilmench — 2022-10-14 18:19:42 UTC

aprilmench — 2022-10-14 18:21:20 UTC

The Flamingo 1954

aprilmench — 2022-11-19 23:03:37 UTC

Before there was the Venetian there was The Sands

aprilmench — 2022-11-19 23:10:01 UTC

Benjamin "Bugsy" Siegel

aprilmench — 2022-11-19 23:11:17 UTC

Find me on Instagram

aprilmench — 2022-11-23 20:08:09 UTC

Monzu

aprilmench — 2022-12-14 00:07:08 UTC

Tacos El Gordo

aprilmench — 2022-12-30 21:54:24 UTC

El Dorado

aprilmench — 2023-01-03 17:44:13 UTC

Upscale Mexican near the Strip. Open 24 hours!

El Lindo Michochan

aprilmench — 2023-01-03 17:47:59 UTC

One of the most beloved by locals for decades

La Mojarra Loca

aprilmench — 2023-01-03 17:52:00 UTC

Another local favorite. Sauces are EXCELLENT. If you want to go all out on a sit down meal. Be prepared to wait. The restaurant is huge and they are always packed.
The addresses on the website are slightly confusing: It's at 2797 Maryland Pkway

Tecopa

aprilmench — 2023-01-08 22:08:50 UTC

Take the 90 minute ride out towards Dealth Valley to Tecopa. Visit the China Ranch Date Farm and Death Valley Brewing

Shoshone

aprilmench — 2023-01-08 22:10:04 UTC

Combine a trip to Tecopa with a stop in Shoshone for lunch at the Crows Nest and quick hike to the old Miners Caves

aprilmench — 2023-01-18 06:35:39 UTC

Showgirls (and other costumed hustlers)

aprilmench — 2023-01-18 23:13:08 UTC

First off, these are not real showgirls. Real Showgirls wore extraordinary costumes designed by the likes of Bob Mackie and would not have been strolling the Strip.
Many of the girls do rent their costumes from businesses that capitalize on the demand but the girls themselves and anyone else dressed up in costume are nothing more than civilians in costumes hoping for tips in exchange for photo ops.

*They are NOT a legal licensed business.
If you wanted to you could run down to Party City for a Batman costume and do the exact same thing.
*They can't "charge" you.
*They can only ask for "donations" aka tips.
*If they are aggressive with you duck into the nearest casino. They are not allowed to follow you inside.
*The one exception to this is the Chippendales on Fremont. You will notice the difference. They have an actual kiosk with a backdrop and their own cameras. They are a business.

The Showgirl Museum

aprilmench — 2023-01-18 23:44:48 UTC

This is one of the most niche VIP experiences in town. The museum is housed in a private residence and is private tours by appointment only.
It is a guided tour consisting not only of dazzling showgirl costumes but show pieces worn by stars from Carol Channing to Raquel Welch. Be prepared to spend several hours as the museum is owned by one of my own fabulous neighbors who had a wild career producing and designing many of the costumes on display and may personally guide you through the collection and share his stories.

Eat before you go.

Call for an appointment
702-893-9000

Nevada Test Site

aprilmench — 2023-03-22 19:44:28 UTC

VIPs at the Test Site watch an atomic blast just 6 miles from the detonation.

If you think this app is cool

aprilmench — 2023-06-11 08:06:38 UTC

The app is Padlet.com It's really handy. If you sign up you can use my referral code and we'll each get an extra "Padlet" in the free level of the app.

padlet.com/referrals/aprilmench

Clark County Museum

aprilmench — 2023-06-11 18:27:40 UTC

Looking for the best bang for you buck in town? Look no further than the Clark County Museum and Heritage Street. For just a $2 admission you can take a time machine back to the early days of Las Vegas. Stroll down Heritage Street and into authentic historic homes that have been relocated from their original locations around Fremont Street and completely staged as time capsules from the period when they were built.

https://www.clarkcountynv.gov/government/departments/parks___recreation/cultural_division/musuems/clark_county_museum.php

Truffles and Bacon

aprilmench — 2023-06-24 03:24:32 UTC

Is it all the way out in Henderson? Yes. Is it 100% worth getting out to Henderson?
Absolutely.
This Filipino owned gem serves diner staples with a local cultural twist.

The Punk Rock Museums

aprilmench — 2023-07-09 20:42:13 UTC

With monthly tours lead by the musicians who made the history.

Ichiza

aprilmench — 2023-07-09 21:39:57 UTC

Japanese izakaya with great small bites and sushi. Evening Happy Hour starts at 9pm includes food and cocktails. Great late night spot. Honey Milk Toast is one my FAVORITE desserts.

Sul & Beans

aprilmench — 2023-07-09 21:42:03 UTC

Korean desserts specializing in snow ice.
THE BEST HOT WEATHER DESSERT.
Nutella fish are amazing too.

Weera Thai

aprilmench — 2023-07-09 21:45:26 UTC

Forget about Lotus. Weera is the best Thai in town.

Ameribrunch Cafe

aprilmench — 2023-08-04 18:56:08 UTC

Atomic Liquors

aprilmench — 2023-09-08 02:48:05 UTC

FREMONT EAST:

The oldest free standing bar in town. The bar got its name when people began going on the roof to watch the atomic test bombs at the Test Site 60 miles away go off in the early 1950's

Fat Cat

aprilmench — 2023-12-02 20:42:57 UTC

DOWNTOWN:

This absolutely gorgeous Jazz and Cocktail lounge is locally owned and has one of THE BEST Happy Hours in town. Hidden off the beaten path it's entrance is directly across the street from the Mob Museum in the Fremont area.

Watch Chef Kalman from Soul Belly on The Food Network airing now!

aprilmench — 2024-02-08 00:10:52 UTC

The Italian American Club

aprilmench — 2024-05-23 21:25:58 UTC

Quintessential vintage Vegas

Gratuities are appreciated!

aprilmench — 2024-05-31 19:54:00 UTC

Venmo: @April-Mench

Cash App: $AprilMench

Our Vegas workforce runs on tips!

eat downtown

aprilmench — 2024-08-13 17:27:28 UTC

Closed Tues & Wed

Stray Pirate

aprilmench — 2024-08-13 17:29:23 UTC

ART DISTRICT:

Tiki Bar. Technically it's a dog pirate bat but, whatever

Want to know more about our local history?

aprilmench — 2024-11-07 22:09:08 UTC

Download the Nevada Preservation app and take a self guided history tour!

https://apps.apple.com/us/app/npf-nevada-preservation/id6447592209

Craft Creamery

aprilmench — 2024-11-12 20:14:10 UTC

This newly opened ice cream shop in the Arts District has a secret. A glamorous full service speak-easy with a full kitchen, Ask for the scoop of the day after 5 pm and see the newest cool spot in town.

Oscar's

aprilmench — 2024-11-12 20:18:38 UTC

A personal favorite Oscar's is named after former Mayor Oscar Goodman. Perched in what was formerly a martini shaped swimming pool above the main entrance of The Plaza offers a spectacular view of Fremont St and the fantastic food to boot.

Want to explore some more?

aprilmench — 2024-11-12 20:34:14 UTC

Check out this neighborhood interactive map. Presented by the 18B Neighborhood association

This column compliments our Strip tour

aprilmench — 2024-11-12 20:34:35 UTC

April's Tips and Recommendations by April Mench

Esthers Kitchen

Carson Kitchen

Battista's Hole In The Wall

Gabi

Public Us

Bagelmania

Southwest Diner (Boulder City)

Self Guided Boulder City Walking Tour

El Dorado Canyon Mine Tour

Boulder City/Hoover Dam Museum

The Coffee Cup Cafe

The Velveteen Rabbit

The Sand Dollar

The Golden Tiki

Dino's

The Speak Easy at The Mob Museum

The Plaza Martini Pool

Neon Museum

Springs Preserve

Fremont Street 1926

Fremont St 1940

Vegas Vic

Vegas History

The Mob Museum

The Pinball Hall of Fame.

Bajamar

Winner of the 1956 Miss Atomic Pageant

Cowabunga Bay

Frankie’s Tiki Room

Tastebuzz

Don’t forget your Concierge!

Atomic Testing 1953

The Plaza as Biff’s in Back To The Future 2

Things you thought were legal but aren’t

Fergusons Motel Circa 1950's

The Peppermill Fireside Lounge

Vegas Vicky and The Golden Goose

Martini shaped pool at the Plaza

Please leave us a review!

Ellis Island

Izakaya Go

Golden Steer

Hugo's Cellar

Top Of Binions

Herbs & Rye

Hand of Faith

18b sign

Street Art Gallery

Another Plaza Pool shot.

Tony Hsieh memorial

Little Vegas Chapel

The Silver Stamp

This column compliments our Arts District tour￼

This column compliments our Fremont Street tour

The Omelet House

Pretty Done

The Flamingo 1954

Before there was the Venetian there was The Sands

Benjamin "Bugsy" Siegel

Find me on Instagram

Monzu

Tacos El Gordo

El Dorado

El Lindo Michochan

La Mojarra Loca

Tecopa

Shoshone

Showgirls (and other costumed hustlers)

The Showgirl Museum

Nevada Test Site

If you think this app is cool

Clark County Museum

Truffles and Bacon

The Punk Rock Museums

Ichiza

Sul & Beans

Weera Thai

Ameribrunch Cafe

Atomic Liquors

This column compliments our Arts District tour

This column compliments our Strip tour