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.

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.

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.

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.

Yard House, a regional chain with three locations in Las Vegas (Town Square, Red Rock Casino, and The Linq on the Strip), is a popular spot for craft beer lovers and those looking for a lively happy hour experience. Yard House has established itself as a go-to destination for great beer, tasty food, and a casual, fun atmosphere.

Happy Hour Highlights: One of the best reasons to visit Yard House is their fantastic happy hour, featuring half-off food and a wide selection of cheap beers. With so many choices, there’s something for everyone, from appetizers to more filling options, all at a great price. And of course, the craft beer selection is top-notch, boasting an impressive array of local and regional brews on tap. One standout I tried was the Love Lady Love Triangle Amber, which offered a smooth, rich flavor perfect for beer aficionados.

Yard House offers three beer sizes, including their signature Yard, a massive 3-foot-tall beer that is an experience in itself. If you’re unsure what to order, the bartenders are extremely courteous and love offering samples to help you pick your favorite brew.

Food and Drinks: While the beer is the star of the show, the food doesn’t disappoint. I had the Tuna Poke Nachos, which come with crispy tortilla chips topped with spicy ahi poke, avocado, and little black strips of nori (seaweed). The nori adds a nice touch of flavor, though the poke was a bit chewy, suggesting it may have been frozen. That said, the dish was still enjoyable overall. For those who like some heat, the spicy jalapeños and melted cheese toppings are a great addition.

Ambiance: No matter where you sit, you won’t miss any of the action—there are TVs everywhere, making Yard House an ideal place to watch a game. The atmosphere is lively but not overwhelming, with a good balance of energy and comfort. If you prefer outdoor seating, the patio area offers a nice break from the bustling indoor bar scene. It’s spacious and comfortable, perfect for enjoying drinks with friends or just taking in the atmosphere.

Room for Improvement: While most of the experience was great, one downside was the bathroom’s trough urinal, which reminded me of the downright prehistoric restrooms back in the day at the Sebring Florida 12-hour race. A small nitpick, but it doesn’t quite match the rest of the restaurant’s otherwise polished feel.

Final Thoughts: Yard House at Town Square offers an excellent combination of tasty food, a massive beer selection, and a laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re there for happy hour or just catching a game, it’s easy to see why this spot remains popular with locals and tourists alike. With its friendly service, great outdoor seating, and unbeatable happy hour deals, Yard House is definitely worth a visit if you’re in Las Vegas.