Palazzo and good eats

Hotel offers keep rolling in, combine that with excuses like a birthday or anniversary - it's too hard to resist.

I booked a Palazzo Luxury Suite for $109/night with $25 free slot play, $10 off at Aquaknox and David Burke, discounts to Phantom and free admission to Tao and happy hour drinks.

We kicked off our anniversary staycation, Sunday, with brunch at Siena Bistro. We sat out on the patio overlooking the golf course.



I had a frittata with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes it came with toast and hashbrowns. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Frank chose a honey roasted turkey club. His sandwich came with homemade chips and a small salad. His dish did not disappoint. Service was great and prices were very reasonable. It was a great find. We’ll definitely dine again.

We took a stroll around the grounds after we finished up. It was lovely just to take in the scenery and soak up the sun.





From there, we headed to the strip to check into the Palazzo. We used valet, they were prompt, the bell desk handled our bag, and we were off to registration. We were offered an upgrade for a reduced fee, I inquired about the Siena suite. Those suites offer a jetted-tub. That’s what mattered most. We were quoted $100 to upgrade on top of our $109 nightly rate. We tried to negotiate, we offered $75, our associate checked on it, but $100 was as low as they’d go. We decided against it. We were assigned a luxury suite on the 36th floor overlooking Wynn’s golf course.













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The suite was long and somewhat narrow. It was nicely appointed, but pretty worn given its age. Furniture was nicked, upholstery was stained, and bedding was ripped. After we had a look around, we decided it was worth the $100 to upgrade to the Siena Suite. I’ve priced it before between $699 and $369. $209 was a great rate for the 1280 sq ft suite. I called the front desk and they brought up new keys. The new room was on the 16th floor, but we wanted a high floor. We went back down to the desk to get it straightened out. We scored a complimentary strip view, supposedly a $40 value, for the trouble. They wished us a happy anniversary and we were on our way.

We moved to the 45th floor. The Siena suite was beautiful. There were two bathrooms, jetted-tub and large shower, three flat panel TV’s, living and dining area, with separate bedroom and walk-in closet. There was also a fitness room that housed a humongous elliptical. Furnishings were plush and comfortable.



















We had beautiful views from the living room and the bedroom.









I unpacked and we got settled. I was very surprised that the suite didn’t have a fridge. Technically, it did, but it was filled with beverages available for purchase. I used one of the sinks as a make shift cooler. I filled it with water, pop and Prosecco. I replenished the ice whenever it got low. Fortunately, the ice machine was only a couple doors down.

We relaxed and lounged about just enjoying each other, the accommodations and view until our dinner reservation at Aquaknox. We dined at 6:00, we practically had the place to ourselves, however, it did fill toward the end of our meal.

An amuse bouche of salmon mousse and parmesan cheese sticks got us started.

Orders of jumbo prawn cocktail and crab claws followed. The claws were excellent, we wished we skipped the prawns (they’re better at Seablue) and ordered more claws.

Next, we shared a cheese platter. Three types were served with fig, honey comb, grapes, crackers and baguettes. The selection was very good.

I planned to order halibut, but it wasn’t offered. I opted to go with seared sea scallops (my third time having them this week) served with a pea medley and mushrooms. They had a perfect sear, they were tender moist and simply delicious. Just as good as those I had at Fiamma a week before. Frank went with grilled jumbo prawns with cous cous. His dish was good, but the cous cous was a bit more notable than the prawns. That shouldn’t be the case. Again, Seablue outshines Aquaknox with their prawns. We also ordered a side of asparagus. It was fine. I just prefer my own grilled version I make at home.

We skipped dessert because over dinner we decided we’d grab our favorite treats next door at Stratta.

Petit fours were delivered with a check. They were a tasty sweet bite to end the meal. Service was good. Total bill came to $125 before tip.

We crossed back over to Palazzo and made our way to Wynn. Since we were there we thought we’d gamble a bit. Frank experienced issues with his red card, we had to go to the desk to get them resolved. The gentleman there was a dick. He was needlessly rude. It really affected Frank’s mood. We went to Stratta. The wait for the bar was over a half hour. We didn’t want to wait. The whole thing was displeasing. We went back to Palazzo and agreed to forget it and just continue enjoying the night. We gambled at Palazzo. We tried our luck on all kinds of video poker and slot machines. The only thing that treated me kindly was caveman keno. It was my second time playing, both times I’ve been successful. I should really just stick with it until my luck runs out. The gambling gods weren’t shining on Frank, either. We gave up and retreated to our suite.

Frank soaked in the tub. While I gazed at the lights across the valley. The tub is lovely, but not large enough for two. Nor was it big enough for Frank. I think you’d need to be no taller than 5’10†to be comfortable.

Hours had passed since our dinner. We were in the mood for a snack. We looked over the in-suite dining menu, but we decided to go down to Grand Lux for a bite.

It was midnight it seemed everyone was loaded from the hotel elevators, through the casino and including other diners in the restaurant. Cocktail service must be steady.

We ordered our usual wedge salad and buffalo chicken rolls, Frank, also ordered a burger.

Food was good as always. Bellies full, we returned to the room. I soaked in tub, while Frank lazed in bed. We snuggled in bed and eventually dozed off.

Monday I was first to rise. I gave the elliptical a try. It was far more complicated than mine so I gave up messing with the settings. I took a long soak and showered. Frank followed behind me.

We thought we’d try Bouchon for breakfast, but they only serve until 10:30. By the time we were dressed, we missed the cut-off. We both wanted to try Morels, as well. I checked to see if they serve lunch, they do, and open at 11:00. We hung in the room until nearly noon. We just sat by the window and watched the world go by. It was wonderful.

We checked out, and headed down to Morels. We hoped to dine outside, but the patio was still shaded and it was too cool. We chose to sit in the dining room.

We snacked on light airy bread and butter while we waited to meet with the cheesemonger. We wanted some help choosing cheese selections. We paired our choices with a variety of sausages. The three cheeses we had were Gouda Super Aged, Montgomery Cheddar, and Tomme de Recollets. All were excellent.

Frank shared his onion soup with me. A feat, because it was incredibly delicious; it must be tastiest version we’ve come across.

Although, we could’ve called those selections lunch, we still had our entrees to go.

Frank had the Croque Monsieur. The sandwich was superb, it seemed to melt in you mouth. I had Quiche Lorraine, which was smooth and creamy. It was fantastic. As much as Frank enjoyed his sandwich he said he’d order the Quiche next time. Yes, there will certainly be a next time. Service was outstanding. Our check came to $87. A pricey lunch, but it was worth every penny. It won’t be forgotten any time soon.

We had a free-day, so I suggested we check out the Pinball Museum at Pecos/Trop (NW corner). We had a great time playing the machines. We took a liking to the baseball games from ’68 and ’69.




I gotta a kick out of Elton’s machine



We had fun, we’ll definitely go back sometime. From there we went to the Gun Store on Tropicana. I’ve been shopping around for a Taurus .45, I was hoping they had one on hand for me to try, but no such luck. We debated trying a couple other ranges, but instead decided to go home and grab our gear and go shoot in the desert to take advantage of what was left of the beautiful day. Minutes later, we were in the middle of no where, only mountains and desert as far as the eye can see. Have I mentioned I love this city? Posh suite, fine dining to shooting in the desert. Yes, I love Las Vegas. I’m lucky to call it home. Another great staycation in the books. I can't think of a better way to celebrate twelve years together.

 

Ah, yes, now I know what I want Palazzo to offer me (since they surely want their money back)... very nice suite!!

Kellee, I agree the scallops at AquaKnox are good. That's my favorite dish there. But I thought you didn't cook? Grilled asparagus?

Thanks for the review of Morels. That's a must-try next time!

 

Thanks for the poker lessons

Nice trip report. I'm hoping for some offers from the Palazzo in June.That will be me and my wife's 20th anniversary . You have given me some really nice places to eat at. When I'm with the the guys it's mostly burgers and beer. I was the one sitting next to you in the MMVI poker tourney. The one with the yellow Corona hat. Thanks again

 

Vey nice report, definitely sounds like a great anniversary trip. Thanks for sharing.

 

You have to read her blog--not only is she cooking, she posts photos & recipes

I'm incredibly envious of your staycation - just sounds lovely!!!

 

Yeah, I had to learn to cook when we moved into the house. Don't tell anyone, but I kinda like it, too.

My grilled asparagus is easy, toss in a ziploc bag with extra-virgin olive oil, garlic salt and pepper. Coat well. Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill. Grill for a few minutes on each side. You'll get nice grill marks and the asparagus should have bite to it. When we've ordered it out, it's been covered in butter or oil, and usually mushy. I like bite in my veggies.

It was great meeting you, Drew. I hope you get a nice offer. Congrats on nearly 20 years!

Thanks for reading.

 

Very nice write-up of your staycation. Thanks for posting.

later, GVJ

 

Great report, nice pictures too!

 

Nice report and picks...thanks for posting.

 

Great photos of the suite ... thanks.

 

I'm jealous too...how nice to be able to take advantage of all those offers by just running down to the strip for the weekend

Thanks for posting the recipe for the asparagus too....sounds excellent!

 

Glad you're enjoying cooking, Kellee! It's probably my very favorite hobby other than travelling. I have asparagus on tonight's menu and may give your recipe a try!

 

Great report and thanks for the heads up on the Palazzo for we will be there in May! Whooo hooo!