Golden Gate Hotel & Casino Spring 2016

It is literally the original hotel in Las Vegas, built in 1906 and given the address 1 Fremont St. It was originally the Hotel Nevada, then in 31 it became a casino and was renamed Sal Sagev, Las Vegas backwards until 1955 when a group of Italian-Americans from San Francisco rethemed it into the Golden Gate.

Fast forward to today and this isn’t what you would expect out of a 110 year old property. This is the very definition of classic. It’s old without being dated, it’s small without feeling cramped and it's themed without being gaudy. Much of that can be attributed to it’s most recent owners, Greg and Derek Stevens. Their 2012 renovation may be the most subtle and functional ever in a place that doesn’t really have any space to grow. With 122 rooms Golden Gate is the smallest hotel/casino in Vegas on Fremont or the Strip but again, that somehow adds to it’s charm.

And the future looks even brighter. The Stevens group’s recent acquisition of La Bayou next door seems to indicate plans for expansion of the Golden Gate. And the purchase of the Las Vegas Club, Glitter Gultch and Mermaids across the street makes it clear that they are making their claim to shape Fremont St as they see fit. Those who are fans of the D have reason to believe a players club card that connects all 3 properties is coming soon.

Rating

Keren - 3/5

Mark - 3.5/5

Alastair - 4/5

Andiamo Steakhouse @the D Fall 2014

Download MP3

When you think of downtown Vegas, value is the first thing that comes to mind. Even the Golden Nugget's dining options are largely chains. High end in most cases but chains all the same. However as one would expect to find in any major cities downtown area, diamonds are among the rough. 

Take Andiamo’s at the D. You wouldn't expect anything stellar from the Italian Steakhouse located on the second floor of the property next to all the coin operated vintage slots.  Reflection on the experience gives a new appreciation to the words of wisdom your grandparents gave you that newer isn't always better. 

Please don't misunderstand. Andiamo’s is not old. It exemplifies the word classic. It shows that some people are so far ahead of the curve, it takes a lot of time for everyone to catch up. The food, the staff and the atmosphere make it yet another experience to be had in Las Vegas. 

Vegas Mate Rating – 3/5 chips

Alastair - 4/5 chips

Mark & Keren – 5/5 chips

Nacho Daddy Downtown Vegas Spring 2014

Download MP3

Nacho Daddy is perhaps the greatest idea in the history of culinary invention.  Take any food concept you love, deconstruct and recreate the experience then remove the bread and replace it with a bed crispy, salty tortilla chips.  You don’t need Will Hunting to tell you that the answer to that equation equals exquisite dining.

Buffalo chicken, cheeseburger, spicy shrimp, Filet Minion… yeah, I know.  Take a second to collect yourself.  Okay, lets proceed…TO BREAKFAST!  Chorizo, chicken fried steak…okay, enough.  I can’t stand it.  It’s amazing.  Just go to the audio.

Vegas Mate - N/A

Mark - 5/5

Alastair & Keren - 4/5