AaronM

We're two couples on a family trip in the Southwest with only one night out in Vegas without the kids(never been). Looking for a great dining experience (leaning toward Aqua at Bellagio or something similar). We were first thinking about Picasso but would prefer not to have to pack jackets/dresses for only one night. Thanks in advance.

Loki

I was going to suggest Picasso. Is Aqua not as dressy? Aqua in San Fran was all suits. Either would be great.

flowergirl

We stay at Bellagio every time we go and cannot wait to eat at PRIME. This is visually stunning (silver-blues and cocoa hues) and the food, service, ambiance, and crowd are all 5-star. It's primarily a steak restaurant, but they have seafood, etc as well.
We tried Aqua this last time as well and service was not up to par and the menu choices were scant. We have eaten at Aqua in San Fran and liked it. We will not go to Aqua at Bellagio again. Prime is the best, in our opinion, at the hotel. Picasso is supposed to be outstanding, but the cuisine is very French , which is not our first choice in cuisine.

flowergirl

Sorry,I just read your comment about dress code at the restaurant...Prime is definately an upscale restaurant, but a jacket is not required for gents...but "smart-casual"attire is in order. I never wear "dresses"....nice black pants and nice top/heels are fine.

AaronM

Thanks for the suggestions. From what I understand, the Aqua in L.V. is not as dressy as the original in S.F. - their dress suggestion is "Business Casual" whereas Picasso requires jackets for men. Since we're going to be on a family vacation with the kids, we're trying to pack smart. We want an "upscale" dinning experience and plan on dressing appropriatly but I was hoping to avoid bringing a jacket for only one night out. If Picasso or another restaurant was worth it, however, I would reconsider. Thanks again.

SueDoc

When we were in Las Vegas we went to Aqua and Picasso at Bellagio and Renoir at Mirage. They were all great. I loved Acqua. We had the tasting menu and the food and service were excellent. Picasso has a large, contemporary atmosphere where Renoir is a smaller, victorian setting. At Picasso you can sit outside and see the watershow. That would be cool. If I remember correctly, Acqua looks out to a grassy area with the pool in the distance. I believe they have an open kitchen. I don't think you would go wrong with any of them.

Ryan

Picasso to me was nice, but I would pick Le Cirque anyday for a splurge meal. (Service to me was significantly better.) However, as both require a jacket, then Aqua is a great alternative.

Prime is also very good. Really just a matter of your desire for Steak or Fish vis a vis Aqua. BTW, a pre-dinner cocktail at the Prime Patio which overlooks the Lake, is a great start to the evening.

flopmeister

i might also suggest Aureole in Mandalay Bay, where i think you can get away without having a jacket.

AaronM

Thanks everyone for the advice. One of our options is Aureole and then heading to Rumjungle afterwards. Does anyone have opinions on Rumjungle - either the restaurant or club? What kind of crowd is there on a Tuesday (or any other) night. Thanks.

cnmiranda

The nightclub can be a hit or miss depending on the conventions/crowd. Sometimes it's great. However the Foundation room in MB is always the ticket. It is open to the public on Monday, Tues you must pull some strings to get in (if you are a hotel guest in a suite you get passes) as it is mostly a members only nighclub. If it all possible you should go Mon evening just for the views of the strip from the top of the MB. If you click on my name you'll find other restaurant recommendations.