If you love to gamble, a quick trip to Las Vegas is a no-brainer. You find a hotel — preferably a casino on the strip — park yourself at whichever game tickles your fancy, and then hopefully have Lady Luck on your side until it’s time to go home. But what if you’re like me, and you don’t gamble?
To be clear, I will play the occasional game or two. But giving my money to the house is never a sound investment in my book. Since I’m not much of a gambler, places like Atlantic City and Las Vegas aren’t usually at the top of my list for destinations.
However, I was just in Las Vegas this past March and I still had an amazing time without giving the casino floors any of my money. Thankfully, the city has plenty of other things to do that will keep non-gamblers like me occupied. Here’s how you can take a quick trip to Vegas and have unforgettable memories.
Las Vegas is for Foodies
Luxe Dining Experiences
For an upscale experience, I tried Carversteak, which is one of 12 fine dining restaurants located in Resorts World’s atrium. This premium steakhouse has a wide array of offerings including authentic wagyu beef, attentive staff, and a great cocktail selection which makes it ideal for date nights — especially if you want to impress your boo. Like most steakhouses, this is an à la carte style restaurant.
I love the attention to detail which included a waiter coming to your table with a sampling of steak knives so you could choose the right one for your intended cut of meat. Meanwhile, hefty pre-cracked crab legs, and a beef tartare that was super fresh with the right amount of lemon juice, and filet mignon that was practically fork-tender were highlights for me. It’s rare that I eat at a restaurant and love every dish I sample, but this was one of those nights.
If you don’t eat meat, there is a vegan menu too. And, like I mentioned, the ambiance and oversized booths makes it great for couples. For a 24-hour trip to Vegas, this is a fun and posh way to cap the night before hitting the clubs or heading out of town. However, the à la carte menu means if you choose to sample multiple items and indulge in tasty cocktails, your check can add up quickly—bring your black card.
But this space is also fantastic for groups or girls’ trips since you can continue the night at the rooftop lounge Allē on the 66th floor or Gatsby’s on the main casino floor with its secret speakeasy menu.
New York may be a long way from Kentucky, but Starchild Rooftop ensured that no one’s derby attire would go to waste! The rooftop was the ideal place to celebrate on Saturday, right in the heart of the city! Located at the Civilian Hotel in Hell’s Kitchen, the spot featured Mint Juleps, shareable cocktails, food specials, and Live Jazz at Rosevale Kitchen.
The first Saturday in May is an iconic occasion for fashion lovers and horse racing fans. While the Kentucky Derby was taking place in Louisville, Kentucky, the rooftop was buzzing with excitement as guests gathered to celebrate the iconic horse race. The spot offered a unique and luxurious experience for those who wanted to indulge in the Derby Day festivities. With stunning views of the city skyline, guests enjoyed live entertainment, delicious food, and refreshing cocktails, all while watching the race on multiple big screens.
On Wednesday, we visited Starchild Rooftop for their season party and enjoyed delicious hors d’oeuvres, including Pizza, Charcuterie boards, and refreshing, handcrafted drinks!
Unlike most rooftops in the city, Starchild Rooftop is operational year-round and open seven nights a week, so the fun never has to end! The restaurant boasts two outdoor patios and a retractable rooftop that can quickly transform to become a fully open-air space with panoramic views of the New York skyline and Hudson River. Starchild Rooftop is the neighborhood’s newest destination for Happy Hour, corporate events, and late-night revelry in a safe and secure environment.
Thursdays through Saturdays, DJs, special guest artists, and original programming elevate the energy as guests commune, dance, and party under the stars. Rockwell Group’s design celebrates the energy of the surrounding neighborhood and a trending cocktail list featuring five types of Espresso Martinis, shareable table-side drinks, and an OnlyFans Martini can be found on the menu.
Black Tape Project, the brand using skin-safe tape to create wearable body art that has become increasingly popular in rave culture, will be hosting a series of lively events to shake up Fashion Week at CIVILIAN Hotel in the Theatre District (305 W48th St).
Starting on Thursday 2/8, Black Tape Project will host their NYC casting session at ground floor restaurant Rosevale, where models can audition for the brand with a chance to walk in this year’s NYFW (open casting sign up here).
On February 10th, Black Tape Project and models selected from the casting will host a curated, pre-fix dinner party at Rosevale Kitchen (7pm-10pm), followed by a show and after party (10:30pm – 2am) at the enclosed Starchild Rooftop featuring their newest body tape creations. There will be DJ performances, alongside Black Tape Project’s founder Drakhan Blackhart live taping models. The events will be a celebration of expression, fashion, and art — and of course, the versatility of tape.
Tickets to the dinner and show are linked below, available for purchase:
https://posh.vip/e/nyfw-2024-black-tape-at-starchild
Time Out says
Produced by local nightlife legend Hector Romero, Pour Decisions is Starchild Rooftop’s new Afro-Latino party that will be happening every Saturday throughout the summer. Their event on May 4 will include sets by DJ PolyRhythm, followed by Benji Candelario on May 11. The event is free with RSVP on Resy.
What Is the Best Sports Bar in Las Vegas?
Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar is the best sports bar in Las Vegas to watch the big game. Everywhere you look, high-definition TVs stream the big event, so you don’t have to miss a single second of action.
You’ll get all the classic bar foods but with a Las Vegas twist that brings out the luxury in every bite. It doesn’t matter if you love soccer, football, UFC, or any other sporting event; our huge facility hosts them all in a comfortable setting with plenty of space for you and your group.
What Unique Dishes Can You Find at Sports Bars in Las Vegas?
Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar sets itself apart from the typical sports bar scene in Las Vegas with a menu that offers a few unexpected surprises. Among the traditional favorites, you will find unique dishes that elevate the dining experience to a whole new level.
Leading the way is the Salmon Belly Aquachile, which blends a mix of fresh ingredients to produce a mouthful of delicious flavors. Another menu section you won’t find around town is the Wagyu burgers, where you will find three different options.
Are There Any Sports Bars in Las Vegas Known for Their Wings?
If you want the best crispy and golden wings with different styles of sauce, Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar is your haven. These delectable wings come in three mouthwatering flavors: salt and lemon pepper, traditional Buffalo, and Spicy Korean Gochujang.
Nothing goes better with your favorite game than the crispy wing appetizers at Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar. A must-try for any wing lover, we offer a flavor-filled experience to charge up on while catching the best moments of the game.
Which Sports Bars in Las Vegas Offer the Best Drink Specials?
Stop getting lost in all the empty promises for great bar specials around Vegas, and stick with one you can trust. Rain or shine, we have daily specials for you every single day. From 4 p.m. – 6 p.m., you can enjoy $7 specials on select cocktails on our menu.
You’ll even get special deals for bigger parties. If you’re all splitting some beers for the big game, get a tower to lower the cost per beer for each person in the group.
Which Sports Bars in Las Vegas Have the Best Beer Selection?
Looking for a spot that has the biggest beer selection in Las Vegas? Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar boasts a huge selection of specially curated beers from all over the world. We’ve built our selection from light to dark beers, so you get a choice to match what you’re looking for.
Whether you prefer a crisp lager, a hoppy IPA, or a rich stout, we have something to satisfy every beer lover. If you have several people joining you, choose from one of the pitchers or towers to get more bang for your buck.
What Sports Bars in Las Vegas Have the Best Ambiance for Watching Games?
There is no better place to feel like you’re in the midst of the action than at Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar. You’ll hear cheers from the tables around you and the sounds of the game being pumped from the state-of-the-art sound system.
The darker room makes every high-definition TV surrounding you the focus of attention. The lively atmosphere, combined with the energy of fellow sports fans, creates an electric setting for your next venue reservation.
Which Las Vegas Sports Bars Offer the Best Variety of Craft Beers?
Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar in Las Vegas is dedicated to providing patrons with an unparalleled craft beer experience. The team curates a special selection of craft beers, such as Beer Zombie Boomstick Blonde Ale or the Crafthaus Hop Vegas IPA.
Sports fans don’t have to sacrifice the quality of their brew just because they want to enjoy the big game. Enjoy the best of both worlds by choosing us the next time you sit down to catch a big game.
What Are the Best Late-Night Food Options at Las Vegas Sports Bars?
When you want to savor every moment of the game without worrying about missing out on sports bar food in Las Vegas, we have you covered. During the week, you can catch your favorite game till 11 p.m. from Monday to Thursday.
When the weekend comes, Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar stays open until 1 a.m. to let you catch every second of the action.
Which Sports Bar in Las Vegas Has the Best Happy Hour?
It doesn’t matter what day of the week you want affordable prices for your favorite late-night food on the Las Vegas Strip; Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar always has our happy hour running. Available every day from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., there are $7 select cocktails and special prices on specific foods.
There is no need to endlessly look for a good deal in Vegas. We are your reliable option, always offering special prices on your favorite foods and drinks.
Where Can You Find the Best Pizza at Sports Bars in Las Vegas?
While unavailable during the day, you can find the best late-night pizzas on the Las Vegas Strip at Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar. Every night, for a couple of hours before closing, you can get some of the cheesiest and most delicious pizza in town.
Choose from three flavorful choices: classic pepperoni, Italian sausage, and a tasty bianco. Don’t let hunger strike when the night is still young — head to Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar for a delicious pizza fix that will keep you fueled to keep the night going.
Looking for a big screen for football in Las Vegas? We’ve got you covered. At Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar, we’re not your classic small-town sports bar. Heck, we’re not even your run-of-the-mill big-city sports restaurant. Located in the heart of Las Vegas in the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar is proud to be the premier destination for any and all individuals and parties looking for an electrifying atmosphere where they can enjoy good food, the latest sports game, and great company. Want to kick off the football season right? Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar has got you covered.
Book your reservation today.
What Makes Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar the Best Place to Watch Football?
As the leading sports bar in the greater Las Vegas area, we are proud to be the best place to watch football in Las Vegas while enjoying good food and good company. Whether you’re coming in with a friend or a party of 60, we’ve got all the accommodations, deals, and drinks to make your visit the best experience possible.
So, what makes our location stand out? Here are just some of the amenities you can expect from one of the leading sports bars for football fans on the Las Vegas Strip:
- Private dining rooms
- Karaoke dining room
- Over 50 TVs
- 70 ft LED viewing screen
- Gourmet American dining
- Weekly deals and promotions
- Weekend brunch menu
How Many Different Beers Are Available at Flanker?
At Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar, we know what it means to have a good time with good friends. That’s why we proudly carry a selection of 40 draft taps. We’ve also got an ever-rotating selection of bottles and beers.
In addition to our vast selection of alcoholic beverages, we also offer a number of non-alcoholic beverages as well.
What Kind of Seating Options and Viewing Areas Are Available at Flanker?
Flanker offers a variety of seeking options for parties of all sizes. Our main dining hall features a spacious and open-air feel and includes both table and booth seating options. There are also seating options alongside the bar. Our dining halls have over 50 TV screens, so you never miss a beat.
In addition to our main dining hall, we offer private dining rooms with soundproof pocket doors that can accommodate groups of all sizes. Whether your party is six people or 60 people, our private dining rooms are perfect for creating an intimate setting where you can celebrate your special event with family and friends.
In addition to our private dining rooms, we feature a karaoke room that can seat up to 20 guests. Our karaoke room can be rented by the hour and can also serve as a private dining room if you’d like to host a special event or celebration.
How Many Big Screens and TVs Are Available for Watching Football Games?
Throughout our dining hall and private dining rooms, you’ll find over 50 TVs showing the latest matches, games, interviews, and more.
The star of the show is our LED wall, which boasts a massive 30’ x 9’ LED screen. This is the most advanced LED technology on the market and is the best way to watch your favorite games and players in real-time.
What Special Promotions or Deals Do We Offer During Football Season?
We run special promotions and deals throughout the week, especially during football season. Deals and promotions are ever-changing, depending on the week. Keep in touch to stay on top of our latest deals and promotions so you can plan your visit.
Outside of football season, you’ll find a variety of deals and promotions throughout the week, including the following:
Happy Hour
Join us for happy hour every day from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Enjoy specials on select cocktails and meals, including wings, fries, and more.
Taco Tuesday
Join us every Tuesday from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. for Taco Tuesday, where you can indulge in flavorful carne asada or crispy garlic shrimp tacos paired with our signature margaritas.
3X3 Wednesdays
Enjoy the best deals on your favorite food and drink selections every Wednesday from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. During 3X3 Wednesdays, you can savor the flavors of Flanker with a perfect midweek treat through our slider and beer flight pairings.
What Kind of Food and Drink Options Are Available at Our Sports Bar?
At Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar, we serve the best gourmet American dishes you and your entire party will love. Indulge in American favorites, including burgers, sliders, wings, steak, and more.
In addition to our full menu, we offer a selection of get-it-to-go meals through our drive-through window. If you are looking for a to-go option, you can also order from our main menu.
What Makes Our Sports Bar’s Location Convenient for Football Fans?
Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar is the premier destination for individuals wondering where to watch football in Las Vegas. In addition to our electric and inviting atmosphere, our menu puts a gourmet touch on your favorite classic American dishes. Dine in absolute comfort and connect with big screens around every corner so you never miss out on the action.
Unlike other sports bars in the area, we offer private dining rooms that can accommodate parties of all sizes. Whether you’re hosting a watch party for your team or want to plan a special event centered around the big game, our private dining rooms have you covered.
Are There Any Special Events or Themed Nights for Football Games?
Throughout the week during football season, we regularly host a range of special events and themed nights for our guests. Since Las Vegas is the home of the Raiders, we are proud to display our enthusiasm for the game and are excited to have you sharing in on the action.
From deals and promotions centered around the game to evening performances through our Flavor Fridays, Flankers is the top spot for kicking off the season right.
How Do We Accommodate Large Groups or Parties Wanting to Watch Football Games Together?
We make it easy to watch your favorite football games with your group. For larger groups, we recommend reserving one of our private dining halls so you get the ultimate dining experience.
You can also reserve tables ahead of time by calling and making your reservation. While smaller groups are easier to accommodate on the same day, we always recommend our guests call ahead.
Plan Your Visit to Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar
As the premier sports bar near Allegiant Stadium, the home of the Las Vegas Raiders, Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar is conveniently located on the Las Vegas Strip. When it’s time to kick off football season, we’ll be ready with good food and good vibes. Plan your visit today, reserve your table, and kick off the football season in Las Vegas with style.
Big news for fans of thoughtfully crafted cocktails this week – the skills of a certain Francesco Lafranconi are back on the menu right here in Salt Lake City. The award-winning mixologist is the brains behind an extra special cocktail menu, appearing now at Flanker’s latest intimate popup – Paradise Parlor. Before I dig into what that means for local tipplers, first some backstory on the storied bartender himself.
Born and raised in the bar business back in Aviano Italy, Lafranconi’s career has been a globe-trotting series of postings. Notable names on the resume include the likes of Gleneagles in Scotland, who are famous hosts to many world dignitaries. Harry’s Bar in Venice is on the lineup too – birthplace of the Bellini and haunt of famous carouser Hemingway. Accolades for his work run the gamut of global prestige; everything from a place in the bartender hall of fame through to winner of the Bacardi-Martini Grand Prix World Final. I could go on and on, suffices to say, that the man has world-class chops when it comes to wielding a cocktail shaker.
It was at the age of 28 that he made the leap across the pond landing in Vegas with a career at alcohol distribution giant, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits. Various Sin City appearances later, Lafranconi ended up as impresario and owner of Mr. Coco, a destination cocktail lounge inside the mammoth Palms resort. Under his direction, the bar was named Eater’s best Las Vegas bar of 2019. No small beans in a town jammed to the slots with lofty bar programs. Covid then changed the entire game, stuttering casinos and experiences across the strip and beyond. The master mixologist ultimately joined a nascent Carver Road Hospitality team a year later. Carver, the group behind Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar in downtown Salt Lake.
Most recently Lafranconi helped open Starchild, the rooftop bar that peers out from the 27th floor of the NYC Civilian hotel; like everything in his back catalogue, it’s already receiving rave reviews and appearing in best of New York City lists.
Back to Salt Lake City though, this Thursday (April 20th) saw Lafranconi kick off the opening night of downtown SLC’s Flanker pop-up bar experience. It’s set to run every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night into the Summer. And a word to the wise, it’s reservation only. You might recall a similar ephemeral setup last Christmas, Flanker dressed every square inch of their private cocktail room The Parlor, with festive razzle-dazzle. This time around the theme is tiki, and once again, the company have gone all in.
The theme is a 1960s fever dream of beachside Hawaii. All that’s missing is the ocean breeze. The space is artfully lit throughout in arresting pops of red, blue and green; all the meanwhile, guests are gazed upon approvingly by custom Elvis artwork. Every microscopic nook and cranny of the space is filled with detail to explore. The local designer for the room took some six weeks to conceptualize the setting I’m told. No expense spared, as the infamous John Hammond might say.
A small light bites menu takes off from where the lei bedecked staff leave – spare ribs with hoisin, wonton chips, crispy shrimp, crab rangoon, chicken pineapple skewers and more. Available ala carte, the whole collection can be ordered as a pu pu platter to share too.
And of course, there’s the drink menu, Lafranconi’s curated menu of tiki-informed drinks. More than ten creations each presented in a range of larger-than-life vessels. The Tahiti Takeout comes table side in a Chinese takeout box, pineapple pieces float atop a sea shell in the Cursed Mermaid Lagoon. From the moment you walk through the door, it’s one of the most unique sensory experiences in Utah right now.
Keep your eyes peeled on Flanker’s social media accounts, as the star bartender himself will return her the course of the bar’s limited run. In his stead though, an expertly drilled team that will deliver Lafranconi’s curated menu three nights a week. Lafranconi’s catchphrase is, “We’re not drinking, we’re learning.” This sure beats any book learning as far as I’m concerned. Grab reservations, this will book out fast.
Slam Dunk Menu & More @ Flanker
There’s a lot ramping up at Flanker Kitchen + Sporting Club in The Gateway. For starters, they’ve launched a special prix fixe ($36) Slam Dunk menu aimed at Jazz fans heading to a game. The Slam Dunk menu offers a choice of appetizer from Mac & Cheese Bites, Spicy Tuna Bites, Pulled Pork Sliders, Classic Caesar Salad, or Soft Pretzels; a choice of Main Course from an All-American Burger, Hot Chicken Sandwich, Chicken Wings, or Steak Sandwich, and then dessert cookies: Chocolate Chip, Double Chocolate, and Macadamia White Chocolate.
Photo courtesy of Dan Campbell Photography
Also at Flanker, their Halloween Tiki Pop-Up (Paranormal Tiki Parlor) opened this week and is a fun way to get into the Halloween spirit a little early. Flanker’s speakeasy has been transformed into an enchanted Halloween-themed tiki wonderland. Master mixologist Francesco Lafranconi has summoned a collection of specialty cocktails inspired by classic tiki island flavors, each served in delightfully eerie Halloween-themed vessels.
Looking for a place to celebrate the big game? Here is a compiled list of different Super Bowl watch parties and sports bars that are airing the game on their screens.
WATCH PARTIES
Flanker Kitchen + Sporting Club
6 N Rio Grande St, Suite 35, Salt Lake City
Flanker at the Gateway is an expansive sports bar with multiple bar and seating areas. With more than 60 TVs and a couple of projection screens, there will always be a way for you to see the game. Flankers has set aside a menu for the big game, including nachos, wings, sliders and more. This is a 21+ establishment.
For event info and tickets, click here.
Sometimes, you want an experience, not just a cocktail on a night out on the town. These are the local themed bars that have a certain vibe, mood, or atmosphere that makes for a memorable visit and great photos.
’80s Cocktail Beach Vibes: Tipsy Flamingo at Flanker SLC
Flanker Kitchen & Sporting Club is known for its stunning pop-up bar in the back of the larger restaurant. It has become a destination in and of itself for the over-the-top decor, fun bartenders, kitschy themes, and plenty of neon with a sprinkle of disco. The highlight? You enter through a door hidden behind a vintage Pepsi machine. Have your phone out and ready to record.
In the latest iteration, the bar is decked out in 80s style with retro beachy cocktails in the best cocktail glasses in town. The Tequila Sunrise 2.0 is a pleasant update with both tequila and mezcal, “fluffy” orange juice, and tropical Red Bull + grenadine. The Miami Vice is a solid frozen daiquiri taken up a notch with real creme of coconut, strawberry puree, and pineapple juice blended with rum and lime juice. You can also find bar bites and plenty of photo ops.
Tipsy Flamingo is open Wednesday through Saturday. A live DJ spins vinyl every Wednesday, adding to the nostalgic vibe. Be sure to make a reservation. The space is intimate and fills up fast.
If you go: Tipsy Flamingo at Flanker Kitchen & Sporting Club at The Gateway 6 N Rio Grande St, Suite #35 flankerslc.com
Cowboy Bebop Japanese Anime Vibes: Sayonara
Walking into Sayonara, you go from a standard Downtown street corner and transport into a Tokyo Izakaya Bar. With neon street signs, an entire wall of anime prints, themed booths, and decor brought over directly from Japan, this bar is the perfect place to gather for bar snacks and drinks after work.
Izakaya bars are traditionally casual neighborhood bars, and Sayonara is no exception. The food menu is limited to finger food. The Katsu Sandwich is crispy and delicious, with tangy Japanese BBQ sauce. You can get food on skewers, the ultimate small bites. The Togarashi Fries are tossed in togarashi with a yuzu dipping sauce and are perfect for sharing.
Drinks range from imported Japanese beers and whiskey. Many of the cocktails also have ingredients from Japan, like wasabi, sesame seeds, sake, and yuzu. Their highballs are particularly refreshing. Check out our full review!
If you go: Sayonara 324 S. State St., sayonaraslc.com
Gaming IRL Vibes: Quarters Arcade Bar
Quarters Arcade Bar is your spot if you want activities with your beverages. With everything from skeeball to classic PacMan to retro pinball machines, this is the spot to go and blow through a roll of coins while you enjoy a surprisingly well-crafted cocktail.
Be prepared for lots of noise, flashing lights, and high-fives. Games are quarters each. And don’t worry if you don’t have a change jar at home; there is an ATM and change machine on site.
With two locations, there is a distinct vibe at each. The Downtown location is literally underground (where the old Manhattan Club used to be). You won’t find food beyond a vending machine here, but plenty of local spots will deliver. Inside the Downtown Quarters, you’ll also find a live music venue, The DLC, with multiple weekly shows.
The Sugar House Quarters is right off 2100 South and 1100 East. When you walk in, you’ll be greeted by a giant skeleton. With personal pizzas and two stories, this bar feels more expansive, and you may even find video games being played live up on the wall.
Both locations have excellent cocktails. As a matter of fact, Quarter’s bartender Emma Roberts’ cocktail took the lead in our Reader’s Choice category for last year’s cocktail contest. The drinks are just that good.
If you go: Quarters Sugar House Quarters (1045 E. 2100 South) Downtown (5 E. 400 South, quartersslc.com
Dark Academia Underground Speakeasy Vibes: Bodega and The Rest
Bodega is an unassuming spot on Main Street with excellent food. But behind closed doors and down some stairs is The Rest, a “subterranean speakeasy for creative eats & cocktails in atmospheric digs with a hunting-lodge vibe.”
Complete with stuffed things and Victorian-style paintings on the wall, exposed brick, skulls and books tucked on shelves, and bottles of tinctures hidden behind wood and glass cabinets; it is mad scientist meets Wednesday Addams meets steampunk goals.
With a new American menu, craft cocktails, house-created bitters (aka Honest John Bitters), and the best list of Amaro spirits in town, The Rest is the cocktail nerd’s hideaway. Be sure to make a reservation. Again, seating is limited.
If you go: Bodega and The Rest 331 S. Main St., bodegaslc.com