Review of Vetri Cucina at the Palms Resort and Casino:

Perched on the 56th floor of the Palms Casino, Vetri Cucina offers an exceptional dining experience with some of the most breathtaking views in all of Las Vegas. The floor-to-ceiling windows allow for a stunning panorama of the city skyline, making it a must-visit for anyone who appreciates a spectacular view. However, taking photos can be a challenge due to the reflections from the interior lights. To get there, head to the elevator on the first floor, located between Ghost Bar and Scotch 80 Prime, and let it whisk you to an unforgettable experience.

The bar area, located right at the entrance, is small but inviting, setting the stage for a perfect Aperitivo Hour, which starts at 5 PM. The menu offers a selection of refined small plates that pair perfectly with the atmosphere. I tried the Pizzetta, a small pizza with rosemary and an abundance of Parmesan cheese. The flavors were simple yet elegant, creating a dish that left me thoroughly satisfied. The Roasted Pumpkin Culurgiones, a customer favorite, will definitely be my choice for a future visit.

Drinks during Aperitivo Hour are an incredible value at just $12, including expertly crafted cocktails and wines. For such a high-end restaurant, this pricing is rare and makes the experience feel even more indulgent. The staff is friendly, professional, and attentive, even asking about food allergies or dietary preferences before taking your order—a small but thoughtful touch that adds to the overall experience.

The ambiance is both upscale and comfortable, striking a perfect balance that makes you feel special without being over the top. The happy hour selections and reasonable prices make Vetri Cucina feel like a hidden gem, perfect for unwinding or celebrating a special occasion.

I left impressed by the quality of the food, drinks, and service. Vetri Cucina exceeded my expectations and is a spot I’ll undoubtedly revisit. Next time, I’ll bring a date to enjoy the experience with me—it’s the kind of place that’s sure to impress. If you’re looking for a sophisticated yet approachable happy hour with world-class views, this is the spot for you.

Tucked away in the Evora building on the northwest corner, Basilico Ristorante Italiano can be a bit tricky to find on your first visit. But once discovered, it offers a modern and inviting atmosphere that makes the search worth it. On a Thursday afternoon during happy hour, it wasn’t particularly busy, but I was told the place fills up as the evening progresses.

The restaurant boasts a nice open-air reflective pool next to the patio seating, which creates a serene and enjoyable outdoor dining experience. The setting is clean, sleek, and modern, with a wall that opens up to the bar, creating an open-air vibe. Sunshades effectively shield the space from the bright western sun as it sets, adding to the comfort.

Curious about the most popular items on the happy hour menu, I asked the bartender for recommendations. I started with the Fiore Di Fiamma, a vodka and elderflower martini served with a beautiful edible flower. Not only was it visually appealing, but it was also tasty and refreshing—and at $9 during happy hour (regularly $16), it felt like a great deal.

For food, I ordered the Cavatelli pasta with sausage ragu. Priced at $15, it was flavorful but the portion was small, leaving me wanting more. To satisfy my hunger, I followed up with the Pizza Margherita, which was large, delicious, and more than made up for the light pasta dish. The pizza’s crust was perfectly cooked, and the fresh ingredients elevated it beyond the usual margherita pizza.

I couldn’t resist trying another cocktail, so I opted for the Fuma E Spezie, a mezcal and aperitif cocktail served with a large clear ice cube. I love cocktails with high-quality ice, and this drink was not only beautifully presented but also smoky and spicy, a perfect pairing for the food.

If you visit later in the week, you’ll be treated to live music on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday after happy hour, adding another layer of ambiance to the already inviting setting.

Overall, Basilico offers a stylish, modern setting with tasty cocktails and a mix of smaller and more filling food options. While the Cavatelli left me a bit hungry, the Margherita pizza and exceptional cocktails more than made up for it. For those seeking an upscale yet relaxing spot for happy hour, Basilico is definitely worth checking out.

Pancho’s Mexican Restaurant is a bustling, popular gathering spot in the heart of Downtown Summerlin, and it’s easy to see why. Always busy, especially during peak hours, Pancho’s offers a lively and welcoming atmosphere that draws in locals and visitors alike. The restaurant has a small outdoor patio, but the real action is inside at the large bar area, which includes plenty of tables for seating. However, you’ll want to arrive early—this place fills up fast.

While there’s a fine dining area in the back, the bar area is where you’ll want to be for happy hour. The energy here is upbeat, with patrons enjoying good food, great drinks, and plenty of TV screens to watch sports. During my visit, I ordered the Spicy Jalapeño Margarita, and it was excellent. If you’re into spicy drinks, this one delivers a serious kick with just the right amount of heat. It’s the kind of margarita that leaves a lasting impression with its bold, fiery flavor.

For food, I tried the Botanas Especiales Combination Platter, which was a generous portion that could easily feed two people. At just $16, it felt like a steal for the amount and quality of food you get. The platter was filled with tasty appetizers, perfect for sharing or enjoying solo. Though not on the happy hour menu, I couldn’t resist trying their Don Julio shots, which were priced at just $7 each, another great deal for fans of quality tequila.

The chips and salsa were fresh, with the salsa offering a nice level of spiciness that complemented the margarita well. Pancho’s also has big-screen TVs scattered throughout the bar area, making it an ideal spot for catching a game while enjoying some drinks and snacks.

If you’re a tequila fan, Sunday nights at Pancho’s are a must-visit, as they offer 50% off any tequila from 3 PM until close. Pair that with Sunday Night Football, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a fun evening out.

Overall, Pancho’s offers a lively, vibrant experience with a menu full of great deals, delicious food, and drinks that are sure to satisfy. Whether you’re coming in for happy hour or to watch the game, Pancho’s is a fantastic spot to gather with friends and enjoy the energy of Downtown Summerlin.

Tommy Bahama Marlin Bar is a themed bar that draws a lively crowd, especially on a busy Sunday. The tropical vibe of the place is enhanced by its open-air design, with all sides of the building opening up to let in a nice breeze, making the atmosphere feel like a vacation in the middle of the city. Located adjacent to a center park and playground, the patio offers covered outdoor seating, which makes it a great spot to relax and people-watch while enjoying your drink.

I ordered the Mai Tai, which was beautifully layered and visually stunning, but be warned—it’s very sweet. While it was tasty, the sweetness might not be for everyone. One downside of the experience was the absence of a happy hour food menu. It’s a bit disappointing that you can’t order discounted bites to accompany your drinks, so don’t expect any food specials during happy hour.

That said, the live music that starts at 5 PM adds a wonderful touch to the evening. The vibe is laid-back and tropical, and the friendly, fast staff keeps the energy high and the service efficient. Being right under the flight path for landing aircraft adds an occasional interruption, but it’s a minor distraction in the overall island-like ambiance.

One unique perk is the bar’s location adjacent to the Tommy Bahama retail store, so you can shop while sipping on your cocktail. It’s a perfect blend of leisure and retail therapy. While the lack of happy hour food is a drawback, the open-air setting, live music, and friendly service make Tommy Bahama Marlin Bar a great spot for a casual drink and some island-inspired relaxation.

Blue Martini Lounge, located in Las Vegas and part of a chain stretching from Miami to Vegas, offers an upscale, nightclub-like atmosphere that caters to those looking for a more lively and energetic experience. The venue itself is well-designed, with a stylish indoor space and a more casual outdoor patio, creating a balance between sophistication and relaxation. Adding to its appeal, live entertainment is featured nightly, enhancing the vibrant ambiance. However, the overall experience feels more like a club than a traditional happy hour spot, complete with ID checks at the door, even when the venue opens at 5 PM, which can be a bit off-putting for early evening patrons.

Blue Martini’s happy hour consists of half-off martinis and cocktails, alongside a limited food menu. While this sounds appealing, I found the offerings to be somewhat underwhelming. I ordered a Bulleit Old Fashioned, which lacked the flair and presentation I was expecting from a place that emphasizes premium cocktails. The chicken tacos I tried were served with takeout-style garnishes, which seemed a bit out of place for an upscale setting like Blue Martini. The food and drink, while adequate, didn’t live up to the overall chic vibe that the venue aims to create.

One particularly frustrating aspect was the requirement to leave a credit card open before ordering—a practice more typical of a nightclub than a casual lounge or happy hour experience. It added an unnecessary level of formality to what should have been a more relaxed outing. This kind of procedure made the atmosphere feel more transactional than inviting.

What left the most negative impression, however, was the mandatory 20% gratuity automatically added to the bill. The small receipt showed this added gratuity along with the new total cost, but the main bill only reflected the updated total. This could easily mislead customers into adding additional gratuity, unaware that they had already been charged. Anyone wanting to leave less than 20% for any reason would have no option, as the gratuity is pre-set, taking away the choice to tip based on service quality.

While the venue’s upscale design and live entertainment may draw in visitors, the overall experience feels overshadowed by frustrating policies, lackluster drinks, and deceptive billing practices. For those seeking a happy hour in Las Vegas with clearer, more customer-friendly practices, there are better options to consider.

Nicco’s Prime Cuts & Fresh Fish, located within the Durango Casino Resort, now offers a delightful upscale happy hour called Golden Hour, running from 4-6 PM Sunday through Thursday. This new addition is a pleasant surprise, as previously, the only happy hour option in the casino was at The George or in the food court. Golden Hour has been around for about a month, and I hope it’s here to stay rather than just an experiment—it’s the perfect way to enjoy Nicco’s quality dishes and cocktails without a full dinner commitment.

For drinks, I chose the Spicy Paloma, a refreshing and unique cocktail that brought just the right amount of heat. It’s the most popular cocktail on the Golden Hour menu, and it’s easy to see why. The balance of flavors made it a memorable choice, especially on a warm evening. For food, I opted for the chef’s ceviche, which was so fresh and flavorful that it disappeared all too soon. While Prime Rib Poutine and Frito Misto are also popular items, the ceviche was a light yet satisfying option, complementing the cocktail perfectly.

Golden Hour also features a lovely outdoor patio, providing a serene spot to relax and enjoy the upscale atmosphere. The patio wasn’t very busy during my visit, but it adds to the charm, making it feel like a hidden gem within the casino resort.

The $28 for a cocktail and ceviche felt like a reasonable price, given the refined setting. While it’s not the lowest happy hour pricing in town, it’s fair considering Nicco’s upscale ambiance and quality offerings.

Overall, Golden Hour at Nicco’s Prime Cuts & Fresh Fish is a great way to sample the restaurant’s offerings. With inventive cocktails, delicious dishes, and a serene outdoor patio, it’s a refreshing addition to the Durango Casino Resort’s dining options. Hopefully, Golden Hour becomes a permanent fixture, as it’s a sophisticated option worth revisiting.

Luckley Tavern & Grill, located inside the newly remodeled Rio Casino, has undergone a transformation from its previous incarnation as the American Bar. The remodel has brought a fresh, modern vibe to the space, making it a convenient and enjoyable spot for happy hour or a casual meal.

The first thing you’ll notice about Luckley Tavern & Grill is the absence of casino game consoles at the bar, a rare and welcome relief for those looking to enjoy a drink without the noise and distraction of video poker machines. It’s a refreshing change of pace from the typical casino bar setup and provides a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere for guests.

The restaurant and staff seem relatively new, and while there’s a bit of uncertainty in the service, the staff is sincere and eager to please. It’s clear they’re still getting their bearings, but their genuine approach and willingness to make your experience enjoyable make up for any early-stage hiccups.

The happy hour at Luckley Tavern & Grill is one of its standout features. Running daily, all signature cocktails are priced at just $10, which is quite the deal considering the quality and creativity of the drinks offered. It’s rare to see a full specialty cocktail menu on happy hour, but Luckley delivers a selection of well-crafted drinks that cater to different tastes.

I had the Cable Car cocktail, which was delicious and perfectly balanced. The Cucumber and Black Currant cocktails my table ordered were also well-received, showcasing the range and quality of their drink offerings. It’s clear that the bar takes pride in crafting unique cocktails, making it a highlight of the experience.

For food, the menu is limited but offers some solid choices for those looking for a bite to complement their drinks. I ordered the Lollipop Buffalo Wings, which were a fun and practical twist on traditional wings. They were easy to handle and not as messy, making them a perfect snack while enjoying cocktails. I also tried the Pigs in a Blanket, a nostalgic and playful dish that paired well with the upscale cocktail menu.

The atmosphere at Luckley Tavern & Grill is inviting, with walls adorned with vintage record labels, giving it a quirky and interesting vibe. It’s a great place to escape the noise and bustle of the casino floor while still staying close to the action. The decor, combined with the bar’s relaxed setting, makes it an excellent spot for casual bites and drinks.

While my next visit to the Rio will include checking out the Voodoo Lounge on the 50th floor, Luckley Tavern & Grill has firmly secured its spot on my list of great happy hour destinations in the newly remodeled casino. Whether you’re looking for a low-key spot to unwind after some time on the casino floor or a place to grab some delicious cocktails and snacks, Luckley Tavern & Grill is worth a visit.

In summary, Luckley Tavern & Grill offers a cozy, casual atmosphere with excellent cocktails, a simple yet satisfying food menu, and a much-needed respite from the usual casino bar chaos. If you’re in the Rio, don’t miss the chance to stop by for happy hour and enjoy the laid-back charm of this newly revamped space.

Dom DeMarco’s Pizzeria & Wine Bar boldly claims to have the best happy hour in Las Vegas—a statement they display prominently on their building and website. And while I take that as a challenge to find one better someday, they may not be wrong! Located on the west side of town, this local favorite is well worth the trip for any visitor in search of quality pizza, good wine, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Inspired by the legendary Di Fara Pizza in Brooklyn and pizza aficionado Albert Scalleat, Dom DeMarco’s brings a slice of New York to Vegas. The place exudes a casual yet cozy vibe, with a tiny bar that seats only six. However, there are plenty of high-top tables and a spacious outdoor patio, giving it a laid-back neighborhood feel. While the bar itself may be small, the service is attentive and the atmosphere inviting.

The happy hour runs from 2 PM to 6 PM, with half-off pizzas from 2 PM to 4 PM, and half-off wines, well cocktails, and select wines by the bottle until 6 PM. The drink menu is a standout—offering premium choices you rarely see discounted. I had the Justin Cabernet, a wine of exceptional quality that’s a rare find on any happy hour list.

The $11 menu features delicious offerings, and of course, I couldn’t resist trying their most popular pizza: the DiFara Special. This 12-inch pie is a true masterpiece. The cheese was long and stringy, a sure sign of top-quality ingredients, while the pepperonis were fresh and flavorful, standing out with every bite.

My bar seat neighbor had the eggplant ricotta pictured here.

The attention to detail, such as wine glasses marked for 6-oz and 9-oz pours, ensures that guests feel they’re getting exactly what they’re paying for.

One of the charming aspects of Dom DeMarco’s is its New York roots. The restaurant is licensed under the legendary DeFara name and NYC’s Domenico DeMarco, bringing an authentic slice of the Big Apple to the Las Vegas dining scene. With accolades like “Best New Pizzeria” and “Best Casual Restaurant” from local foodie sites, it’s clear that this place has earned its reputation.

In summary, Dom DeMarco’s Pizzeria & Wine Bar lives up to its bold claim of being one of the best happy hour spots in town. Whether you’re there for the half-price wine or their signature NY-style pizza, you’re in for a treat. It’s a must-visit for locals and tourists alike, and I’ll certainly be back to enjoy more of their top-tier offerings.

Brio Italian Kitchen combines a charming atmosphere with good food and drinks, making it a standout spot for happy hour. As you step in, the soothing Italian music sets the tone, while the large outdoor terrace invites you to sit back and relax, especially during the fall when the weather is perfect. It’s an ideal retreat after the scorching summer heat, and the terrace really shines as a peaceful and scenic place to unwind.

I started my visit with a Manhattan, a strong and hearty drink that was well-crafted and satisfying. The bartender was quick on the draw when it came to making drinks, though a bit slower in taking my food order. But in his defense, he was really hustling to keep up with a busy bar, and his energy was appreciated. Despite the rush, his service was friendly and efficient, ensuring that customers were taken care of in a lively and bustling environment.

The happy hour menu is cleverly priced, with $7 for all items, making it accessible for locals while still maintaining the upscale appeal of a venue you’d expect on the Strip. Happy hour is available both at the bar and on the outdoor terrace, which is spacious and particularly inviting on a nice day. The superb terrace is one of the best features of Brio, offering a pleasant space to enjoy your drinks and food while watching the world go by. There are also charming shops and a courtyard nearby where kids can play, making it a convenient stop for families.

For food, I ordered the Margherita Flatbread Pizza, which was topped with fresh tomatoes and mozzarella on a crispy cracker-like crust. Simple yet flavorful, it was a great accompaniment to my Manhattan. I also had the Carpaccio, which was tender, well-seasoned, and delicious. The only small downside was that Brio typically serves complimentary bread, but I didn’t receive any during this visit—perhaps due to the busyness of the bar staff. While it wasn’t a dealbreaker, it’s something I missed, as their bread is usually quite good.

One thing worth noting is the frequent sound of jets flying overhead, reminding you of Brio’s proximity to Las Vegas’ airport and tourist centers. However, this was a minor distraction in what was otherwise a serene setting. The overall vibe is upscale yet approachable, perfect for locals and tourists alike.

In summary, Brio Italian Kitchen offers a great combination of beautiful outdoor seating, an excellent happy hour menu, and a relaxed yet lively atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a spot to enjoy after work or a casual place to meet friends, Brio provides an experience that’s both enjoyable and memorable.

Double Helix Wine & Whiskey Lounge at Town Square might not be the easiest place to find, tucked among other businesses, but it’s definitely worth seeking out. The website boasts the best wine and whiskey selection in Vegas, and while that may be true, we’re here to focus on their Happy Hour, which is equally impressive.

Running daily, the Happy Hour menu offers incredible deals for being so close to the Strip. Their selection of specialty cocktails is wide and varied, and I opted for the Double Helix Mule, a delightful twist on the classic cocktail that hit all the right notes. They also feature a whiskey of the month and Silver State Blonde Ale, giving you options that cater to whiskey lovers and craft beer enthusiasts alike.

On the food side, the Happy Hour menu features sharable plates and Chef’s Specials. I tried the Crispy Tacos, which were more like mini taquitos—adorable and perfectly bite-sized. They were crunchy and flavorful, a great snack to pair with a drink. A fun feature is their Tacos and Tequila special, exclusively for those sitting on the patio, making it a tempting option for an outdoor happy hour experience.

One of the best parts about Double Helix is the atmosphere. While it competes with the bustling Yard House right next door, Double Helix offers a more quaint, intimate ambiance. The staff here can take their time to help you select the perfect drink or dish, adding a personal touch that’s sometimes hard to find in busier venues.

Though it may not have the crowds that some of its neighbors pull in, that’s part of the charm. You can relax, savor your drink, and enjoy a peaceful experience. I recommend checking out their website to see the full range of offerings and heading over with a mission in mind—whether it’s whiskey, wine, or those irresistible patio tacos.

For those looking for a more relaxed, personable happy hour in Town Square, Double Helix Wine & Whiskey Lounge is a must-visit.