Rao’s
The West Coast outpost of Rao’s, located in Caesars Palace, has everything the original East Harlem version does, with one major exception: You can actually score a table at the Vegas Rao’s. In fact, it’s walk-in friendly (and many do, right from the pool, which sits adjacent to the restaurant). Everything about this place—from the leather-backed booths to the framed pictures of celebrities—screams “old-school Italian joint.” The food is no exception. You know what to order: baked clams, meatballs, mozzarella carrozza, seafood salad, penne alla vodka, and the gigantic veal chops. Hunker down with a stiff cocktail or a bottle of red. Wait, scratch that: a stiff cocktail and a bottle of red. While your chances of celebrity spotting are admittedly greater in NYC, there is one distinct advantage to dining at the Vegas Rao’s: Here, you’re the VIP. Go big and go ahead, order that extra cannoli. It’s made with fresh ricotta and life’s short, eh?
PRO TIP: Happy Hour is at the big square wooden bar every Sunday to Wednesday from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Go for the $8 cocktails and abbreviated menu—including a Nutella and vanilla gelato sundae.
THE DETAILS: Sunday–Thursday, 5 p.m.–10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 5 p.m.–10:30 p.m.
