Here's the scoop: My friend's parents are paying to take us to Vegas for the father's 60th birthday. They're paying for everything - hotel, shows, airfare, the kennel for the dog . . . We would like to show our appreciation by taking them out for the father's birthday.

My friend and I are huge restaurant people, but the parents have more simple taste. We want to impress them, but not overwhelm them. Since this is the only thing we're paying for, price isn't an issue. I guess I'm looking for someplace with a nice view, food that's excellent but not too fussy, service that's friendly and not uptight, and a place that these simple people will feel important, but not out of place. Does that make sense?

Thanks!

Canaletto at the Venetian

Mon Ami Gabi at Paris

Cafe Bellagio

Mon Ami Gabi is a great idea - I was just there in Feb. The food was great & the service was just right (not fast paced) and the atmosphere cozy. If the weather is nice, there is an outdoor patio which is great for people watching. Our waiter happened to be a sommelier & was able to give excellent wine suggestions.

Also, since it's at Paris - that is a great chance to wander along the indoor cobblestone roads & soak up a bit of the french decor.

We went for a drink first at the "top" of the Eiffel Tower - no reservations needed, and a stunning view. There is no fee & no line to go up - an elevator - we had to just wait for one group to go ahead of us. This might add that extra special something to the night.

I have been to Vegas many times, & many of the restaurants might, as you say be too fussy & formal.

Be sure to have reservations:

www.monamigabilasvegas.com/

I choose Delmonico in the Venetian. It is not fussy but has the best steaks! We go whenever we are in town. It is a Emeril's place and boy the food is great. Fun and relaxing with wonderful service without feeling over done. Yum yum!!

On the Strip I would also choose Mon Ami Gabi, this is where I like to go for my birthday dinner every year. To me, there is nothing better than sitting on the patio and watching the fountains go across the street at the Bellagio, sipping wine and eating a good steak! There is also a place that I highly recommend that is off the Strip if you will have a rental car. Ventana's is in Henderson, not far from the Green Valley Ranch. It is Italian, the food is TERRIFIC, there are gorgeous views of the Strip at night, the service is great. What is nice is it is more a local restaurant, so dressy casual is great and you will feel very comfortable and not stuffy at all. Afterwards you could go to GVR and walk around The District, that makes for a real nice evening!

Here is the website, menu for Ventano's in Henderson, also some pic's of the restaurant!
http://www.ventanoitalian.com/index.html

I vote for Mon Ami Gabi. Classy Casual, as my daughter said.

Thanks for the suggestions!

I agree - Mon Ami Gabi is a good choice. My nephew had his wedding dinner at Mon Ami Gabi and it was lovely. We've been back for dinner every time we visit Vegas.