Tipping during happy hour should be simple, but a few key tips can help ensure you tip fairly and accurately. The standard tip is 20% of the bill, though I often round up or down for an even dollar amount of the total—that’s just my Engineer’s precise nature at work. To easily calculate a 20% tip, move the decimal point one spot to the left on the total and double it. For example, a $50 total becomes $5.00 (after moving the decimal), then doubled to $10.00 for the tip.

Be wary of establishments that provide “suggested tip amounts” on your receipt. These are often incorrect—sometimes including sales tax (which shouldn’t be tipped on) or using faulty math. Always calculate the tip yourself to avoid overpaying.

Happy hour prices can make standard tipping seem too low for the service provided. At Echo & Rig, for instance, two cocktails and two hotdogs cost just $12. A 20% tip would only be $2.40, which didn’t feel fair considering the excellent service and space I occupied at the bar. Instead, I tipped $6—still a bargain for the overall experience.

In Las Vegas, always check the bill for added fees. Some venues, like Blue Martini, include a 20% gratuity (sometimes even on the taxed total) automatically, then present another receipt with space for an additional tip. This practice can be misleading, so make sure you’re not tipping twice unless you truly feel it’s deserved.

Ultimately, tipping is your choice, based on the service you received. While the standard is 20%, you can tip more or less depending on your experience. Good tipping practice ensures you reward great service while retaining control over how much you choose to leave—it’s your decision, not the establishments.

Cornerstone Steakhouse, tucked in the far corner of the Gold Coast Casino, greets visitors with a variety of placards advertising its appealing deals, from birthday specials to weekend brunch and chef’s featured choices. This cozy yet upscale venue offers a relaxed, refined atmosphere just minutes from the Strip, making it a great alternative to the usual Las Vegas crowd.

One of Cornerstone’s highlights is their daily happy hour, held from 4-6 PM Wednesday through Sunday. Their drink menu focuses on Prohibition-themed cocktails—mainly whiskey and martinis—each priced at $11. The Barrel-Aged Old Fashioned is a standout, aged in-house for 40 days, giving it a rich, smooth flavor that whiskey enthusiasts will love. Another favorite is the Bourbon Blush, a lighter whiskey option with a fruity twist.

For martini fans, Cornerstone doesn’t disappoint, with dessert-inspired options like the Chocolate Covered Cherry Martini and the Creamsicle Martini. These cocktails are sweet, indulgent, and deliciously nostalgic, making them fun choices for those looking for something unique.

The happy hour food menu is also impressive. I tried the Shanghai Calamari for $12, and it was crispy, well-seasoned, and perfectly cooked. The Tempura Shrimp at $11 was equally satisfying, with a nice crunch that complemented the cocktails. Both dishes felt like excellent value for the quality and portion sizes.

The bar area, open to the main casino floor, is both inviting and upscale, with attentive service that enhances the experience. The setup allows you to enjoy a lively atmosphere without overwhelming noise.

Overall, Cornerstone delivers a quality near-Strip experience with great drinks, delicious food, and a sophisticated yet comfortable setting. It’s an ideal spot for a classy happy hour without the typical congestion of the Las Vegas Strip.

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.

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.

When is a happy hour not a happy hour? Apparently, when Cadillac Mexican Kitchen’s website says they have one, only for it to be cancelled weeks before my visit. Upon pointing out the error, the happy hour listing was promptly removed from the website, leaving a somewhat disappointing experience for those hoping to enjoy discounted drinks and food. It feels like the restaurant is run more by MBAs focused on numbers than on creating the intangibles that contribute to a genuinely pleasant guest experience.

It’s unfortunate, too, because Cadillac Mexican Kitchen occupies a prime location between the parking garage and the pool—a high-traffic area. With a happy hour and some strategic signage, this spot could easily pack in guests when other restaurants nearby are empty. The absence of a happy hour feels like a missed opportunity.

That being said, the food and drinks themselves are quite good. I sampled the Cadillac Vegas Tea, a Mexican take on a Long Island Iced Tea, and my table enjoyed the Prickly Pear Margarita, a flavorful twist on the classic margarita. The appetizers were solid, with generous portions of Chips and Salsa served with guacamole and queso dip, followed by Chicken Quesadillas, which were filling and delicious.

Beyond what was once a happy hour, the experience was pleasant. The restaurant’s location across from the pool makes for great people-watching, and the abundance of TVs creates an ideal setting for enjoying live sports. However, parking at the Golden Nugget detracts from the experience. The $25 fee requires navigating a clunky smartphone system at the garage elevator exits, and a poor cell connection can complicate the process. The surprise 99-cent fee for using the system and the subsequent email prompts from Parking.com asking for a rating add to the frustration.

While Cadillac Mexican Kitchen offers good food and drinks, the absence of happy hour and the cumbersome parking experience make the visit less enjoyable than it could be. At the Golden Nugget, if you’re seeking a happy hour, you’ll have to head over to the Chart House instead.

Ambiance: Fleming’s Steakhouse on West Charleston has recently entered the happy hour scene, introducing what they call “Social Hour.” Running from 4 PM to 6 PM every day of the week, this new offering brings a touch of elegance and refinement to the happy hour landscape in Summerlin. The atmosphere at this Fleming’s location is typically quiet, with a subdued bar scene that makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a more intimate and relaxed environment. The bar area is complemented by ample seating around tables, making it a great spot to meet up with friends or take a date. The quiet, personable ambiance adds to the overall appeal, creating an inviting space that feels both exclusive and welcoming.

Happy Hour Offerings:

• Time: 4 PM – 6 PM, daily
• Drinks: The cocktail menu during Social Hour features several tempting options, but the standout for me was the Time is Honey cocktail. This drink is a delightful cross between a Manhattan and an Old Fashioned, offering a perfect blend of sweetness and depth. It’s a sophisticated choice that pairs well with the refined atmosphere of Fleming’s.

Menu Highlights:

• Time is Honey Cocktail: This cocktail is a highlight of the Social Hour menu. With its rich flavors that strike a balance between a Manhattan and an Old Fashioned, it’s a drink that appeals to those who appreciate classic cocktails with a twist. The drink was not only well-crafted but also perfectly suited to the elegant setting of Fleming’s.
• Charcuterie n Cheese Plate: For my food selection, I opted for the Charcuterie n Cheese Plate, which was nothing short of amazing. The plate was beautifully presented and generously portioned, offering a variety of flavors and textures that completely filled me up. It’s a great option for those looking to indulge in something savory and satisfying during happy hour.

Experience:

• Service: The bar staff at Fleming’s is exceptionally polite and professional, adding to the upscale experience. Their attentive service ensures that you feel well taken care of, whether you’re enjoying a quiet drink alone or catching up with friends.
• Ambiance: The quiet and refined atmosphere at Fleming’s makes it a standout choice among happy hour spots in Summerlin. It’s the kind of place where you can have a conversation without shouting, making it perfect for more personal or intimate gatherings. The ample seating around the bar area further enhances the experience, offering a comfortable and inviting space to relax.

Room for Improvement:

• Longevity of Happy Hour: While the Social Hour at Fleming’s is a fantastic addition to the local happy hour scene, it feels like an experiment that may not last. There’s a sense of urgency in hoping that more patrons will discover and appreciate this hidden gem, ensuring that the happy hour offerings remain a permanent fixture. With such great food and drink options, it’s easy to wish for more foot traffic to keep this elegant happy hour alive.

Final Thoughts: Fleming’s Steakhouse on West Charleston is a welcome newcomer to the Summerlin happy hour scene, offering a refined and elegant experience that stands out from the typical bar crowds. The Time is Honey cocktail and Charcuterie n Cheese Plate are just two examples of the high-quality offerings available during their Social Hour. The quiet, sophisticated ambiance and professional service make it an excellent spot for meeting up with friends or enjoying a peaceful date night. However, given the experimental nature of this happy hour, it leaves you hoping that more people will discover and support it, ensuring that this exceptional Social Hour becomes a lasting tradition. If you’re looking for a more refined happy hour experience in Summerlin, Fleming’s is definitely worth a visit.

Trattoria Reggiano, nestled in the bustling Downtown Summerlin, is one of two locations, with the other situated at the Venetian. This Italian-themed restaurant captures the essence of a traditional trattoria, offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for both casual dining and special occasions. The outdoor seating area is small but charming, reminiscent of the quaint patios in Little Italy, New York City. It’s a prime location on the outdoor mall, allowing diners to enjoy their meal while soaking in the lively surroundings.

Food and Drink

The menu at Trattoria Reggiano is a delightful journey through classic Italian cuisine, with a variety of dishes that cater to different tastes. I started with the Caprese Bruschetta, priced at $10. This dish consisted of fresh tomato, creamy cheese, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of olive oil, served along two pieces of toasted bread. While the flavors were undoubtedly fresh and tasty, the portion felt a bit small for the price, leaving me wanting more.

To satisfy my appetite, I also tried the Eggplant Rollatini, which was a pleasant surprise. For just $10, this dish featured three pieces of eggplant rolled in parmesan cheese and fried to perfection. The combination of the tender eggplant with the crispy, cheesy exterior was absolutely delicious and left me craving more. It’s a dish I would highly recommend to anyone visiting.

One of the standout items during happy hour is the homemade meatballs, a favorite among regulars. Normally priced at $18 on the dinner menu, they are offered at just $12 during happy hour. These meatballs are a must-try, bursting with flavor and embodying the comforting essence of Italian home cooking. Interestingly, many of the happy hour food items are not listed on the regular dinner menu, making happy hour a great time to explore unique offerings.

Bar and Happy Hour Experience

The bar at Trattoria Reggiano, though somewhat small, is often not very busy during happy hour, which means seating is usually available. This makes it a perfect spot for those who prefer a quieter, more relaxed environment to enjoy a drink and a bite to eat. The focus at this location is clearly more on the dining experience than the bar scene, and it shows in the quality and presentation of the food.

Overall Experience

Trattoria Reggiano in Downtown Summerlin offers a delightful blend of traditional Italian flavors in a warm and welcoming setting. While some items, like the Caprese Bruschetta, may feel a bit light for the price, the overall experience is satisfying, particularly with dishes like the Eggplant Rollatini and the homemade meatballs. The happy hour menu is especially appealing, offering great value for money with items that you might not find on the regular dinner menu.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxed meal with friends or a quiet spot to enjoy a drink, Trattoria Reggiano delivers a charming and authentic Italian dining experience, enhanced by the fun and lighthearted ’80s music that plays in the background. It’s a place where you can savor the simple pleasures of good food, good company, and a cozy atmosphere.

Nestled in the upscale setting of Tivoli Village, Al Solito Posto offers an elegant and inviting ambiance perfect for a refined yet relaxed happy hour experience. The interior design features a blend of classic Italian décor with modern touches, creating a warm and sophisticated atmosphere. The restaurant’s ambiance is further enhanced by soft lighting and comfortable seating, making it an ideal spot for both casual get-togethers and more intimate gatherings. Whether you choose to sit at the bar or at one of the many well-appointed tables, you’ll find the setting conducive to enjoying a delightful evening.

Happy Hour Offerings:

• Time: 4 PM – 6 PM (Early Happy Hour) and after 9 PM (Late Night Pasta Happy Hour)
• Drinks: The drink menu is extensive, featuring a variety of cocktails, wines, and beers to cater to all tastes. The highlight for many is the expertly crafted Old Fashioned, which strikes the perfect balance of flavors without being overly sweet.
• Food: The happy hour food menu is both impressive and diverse, offering a range of Italian appetizers and small plates that are sure to satisfy. Each dish is crafted with care, ensuring high quality and delightful flavors.

Menu Highlights:

• Old Fashioned: A standout cocktail that is both balanced and flavorful. Although served in taller glasses, which may give the impression of a smaller pour, the quantity is just right. The bartenders ensure that each drink is meticulously prepared to maintain the perfect blend.
• Complimentary Bread: One of the unique touches at Al Solito Posto is the complimentary focaccia extra crispy friend bread that comes with any cocktail order, even those at happy hour prices. This delicious bread is served with a bowl of olive oil, roasted garlic, and sea salt, setting the tone for a great dining experience.
• Fried Lasagna Bits: Exclusive to the happy hour menu, these fried lasagna bits are a must-try. The portion size is perfect for a light snack, but if you’re particularly hungry, you might want to explore more items from the menu.

Experience:

• Crowd: During the early happy hour at 4 PM on a Wednesday, the restaurant was pleasantly quiet, allowing for a more intimate experience. As the evening progressed towards 5 PM, the venue became busier, adding to the lively and vibrant atmosphere. Despite the increase in patrons, the service remained attentive and efficient.
• Service: The bartenders and waitstaff at Al Solito Posto are exceptionally friendly and knowledgeable. They are eager to discuss the menu, offer recommendations, and ensure that your dining experience is enjoyable. Their attentiveness adds a personal touch that enhances the overall experience.

Additional Highlights:

• Late Night Pasta Happy Hour: After 9 PM, Al Solito Posto offers a unique Pasta Happy Hour where you can enjoy half off any pasta dish with the purchase of a regular-priced drink. This is a fantastic deal for pasta lovers and offers a great way to enjoy a high-quality meal at a fraction of the cost. The late-night atmosphere is equally inviting, providing a relaxed setting to wind down the day.
• Variety: The broad selection of food and drink options ensures that there is something for everyone. From classic Italian dishes to innovative cocktails, the menu caters to diverse tastes and preferences. This variety makes Al Solito Posto an excellent choice for groups with different culinary preferences.

Final Thoughts: Al Solito Posto in Tivoli Village stands out as a premier destination for happy hour in Las Vegas. With its upscale ambiance, extensive menu, and unique late-night offerings, it provides an exceptional experience for both early evening and late-night patrons. The complimentary focaccia crispy fried bread, expertly crafted cocktails, and diverse food options set it apart from other happy hour spots. The attentive service and welcoming atmosphere ensure that every visit is memorable. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day, enjoy a delicious Italian meal, or simply savor a well-made cocktail, Al Solito Posto is sure to exceed your expectations. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience this gem in Tivoli Village—you’ll find yourself returning time and again for the delightful food, drinks, and ambiance.

If you’re looking for a lively spot to enjoy a relaxed happy hour in the Tivoli or Boca area, 90 Ninety Bar and Grille inside Suncoast Casino is a solid choice. The bar area is spacious, with plenty of room at the tables even if the bar itself is packed. The clientele here are typically local gamblers, adding to the friendly, laid-back vibe.

One standout menu item is the Grilled Chicken Nachos, a generous portion perfect for sharing and priced at just $10.75. It’s no wonder this dish is a crowd favorite. If you’re looking for a healthier option, the Spinach and Artichoke dip is a great choice at $6.75, nearly half off the regular price.

Another intriguing item on the happy hour menu is the plate of fresh potato chips with dill pickle dip, also priced at $6.75. When I first tried it, the portion was disappointingly small, but the chips were delicious. Given its popularity, I would expect the portions to be more satisfying now.

Drink specials are also impressive, with great prices on beer and wine. For cocktails, you can either get $2 off specialty drinks or opt for the Happy Hour Amsterdam Martini, which is the best deal. I recommend trying it dirty with extra olives – a classic choice.

The atmosphere at 90 Ninety is enhanced by live music in the evenings, creating a vibrant and enjoyable environment. The bar and wait staff are friendly and attentive, ensuring you have everything you need for a great time.

Beyond the bar, Suncoast Casino offers an excellent movie theatre and bowling alley, with an all-new sportsbook coming soon. Overall, 90 Ninety Bar and Grille is a fantastic spot for happy hour, especially if you’re planning to enjoy other amenities at the casino.

Jade Asian Kitchen offers a casual and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a long day. Despite the bar being a bit small with limited seating, the addition of tables and party benches in the bar area ensures there’s enough room for everyone. However, the true gem of Jade is its outdoor patio. Equipped with misters for those warmer days, the patio shines in nicer weather when the entire wall opens up, creating an inviting indoor-outdoor experience.

Happy Hour Offerings:

• Specialty Cocktails: $8 each (with savings up to $7 off the regular price).  Jade’s clever menu features an impressive selection of specialty cocktails that are both delicious and affordably priced.
• Appetizers: Wide range from $4 to $15 (sushi rolls are less than half the regular price)  The large selection of Appetizers offers something for everyone.
• Portions: Small but perfect for sampling a variety of flavors. Despite the smaller portions, the value is excellent, allowing you to try a variety of dishes without breaking the bank.

Unique Features:

• One of the few happy hours in Summerlin open on Sundays.
• The standout feature is undoubtedly the outdoor patio. On pleasant weather days, the entire wall opens up, blending the indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly. This setup creates a delightful al fresco dining experience without actually being outside.

Experience Beyond Happy Hour:

• After indulging in happy hour, take a leisurely stroll through the Zen Walk, a meticulously maintained garden path and duck ponds surrounding the JW Marriott hotel and Rampart Casino. It’s a perfect spot for a romantic walk with a date, providing a serene escape from the bustling casino action.

Final Thoughts: Jade Asian Kitchen’s happy hour is a must-visit for anyone in the Summerlin area. With great prices, a relaxing ambiance, and a unique indoor-outdoor experience, it’s an ideal spot for both casual meetups and special occasions. Whether you’re sipping on a specialty cocktail or savoring a sushi roll, Jade’s happy hour promises a delightful culinary adventure.