5 Happy Hour Hot Spots: Las Vegas Strip

From the Mandalay Bay Resort to the Stratosphere is about 6 miles. This section of Las Vegas Boulevard is known as The Strip. This was the toughest of my 5-part happy hour reviews. Dining options are in the thousands and restaurants backed by mega chef's are located at every major resort. My top 5 Strip hot spots were picked based on selection, atmosphere, and price.

Photo by Bradley Wentzel

5. Sushi Roku at Caesars Forum Shops

Known as the Red Sun Happy Hour it's obvious this dining option is all about Japan. Try a hot sake for $5.00 or a Sapporo or Kirin beer also $5.00. If your looking for a refreshing cocktail try a ginger lychee mojito for $8.00. Of course, there are several sushi and sashimi offerings. Tuna carpaccio with sesame soy and garlic chips are a bargain for $7.00. For sushi lovers, you have 10 options from $5 to $7. The salmon and avocado roll is the most popular. Also, try the highly recommended rock shrimp tempura and jalapeño roll. For those not feeling the raw fish, they have several cooked meat and vegetable dishes: chicken skewers, mushroom tempura w/ truffle miso, and roasted brussel sprouts. Red Sun Happy Hour is available 7 days a week. Sunday thru Thursday from 4-7 and 4-6 on Friday and Saturday.

4. Pub 1842 at the MGM Grand Resort

This Michael Mina venture replicates a British-style pub. By the way, 1842 was the year Pilsner beer was invented, one of my favorite brews. The unique pub food makes it tough to choose from. They offer 6 dishes from $6 to $8. Brisket sliders, Korean ribs with a Gochujang glaze, and pulled pork tacos topped with slaw, crema, and fried jalapeños. The Pub Tots are the must try on this menu. A generous pile of tater tots coated in a 5-cheese sauce, a rich red wine demi, and finished off with bacon lardons. Not feeling up to the bacon fat? The pub offers a wedge salad: marinated tomatoes, red onion, and bleu cheese dressing are served over an iceberg lettuce wedge. Try a Pilsner Urquell from the Czech Republic, the inventors of Pilsner, for $5.00. Wines and cocktails are $7.00. Visit Michael from 2-5 daily and enjoy.

3. Mr. Chow at Caesars Palace

Head to the bar or patio and enjoy some great food and drink specials. Start off with a cocktail. Everything is half off during what Mr.Chow calls "social hour." Even the signature drink, the 50/50, is discounted. Made with Martell XO Cognac, Yumberry Liqueur, and fresh yuzu juice. After your drink, you have 6 Chinese inspired food choices. Try the minced beef pancakes, filled with Chinese seasoned beef, and topped with a spicy sriracha. A nice portion for $8.00. I had never heard of prawn toast before. I later found out it is quite a popular Asian munchie. Fresh prawns are puréed with garlic, egg whites, and hot sauce. It's then toasted in sesame seed crusted bread. Make your first time trying it for $7.00. Also, try the Chinese spiced ribs for $7.00. When you're finished, don't forget to say thank you or xiexie to your server. Mr. Chow's social hours are daily from 5 to 7.

2. Emeril's New Orleans Fish House at the MGM Grand Resort

When it comes to celebrity chefs Emeril Lagasse leads the list. Emeril was once the executive chef at Commander's Palace in New Orleans, so he knows New Orleans cuisine. Try a taste of Creole, cayenne, and Cajun-inspired dishes. You can't taste New Orleans without having gumbo. Emeril's shrimp and Andouille sausage gumbo is one of the best in the southwest. Rich and hearty, served traditionally over rice, for $8.00. If you haven't tried frog legs yet, this would be the place to start. They are marinated in hot sauce and buttermilk, coated in flour, and deep-fried. A red pepper jam is served with it for dipping. Mmm, tastes like chicken. Fresh oysters are chilled and succulent for $11.00. Try beers and wines for $5 to $7. Enjoy and as they say in Nah leans, pass a good time. Served from 2 to 6 daily.

1. Buddy V's Ristorante at The Palazzo

At Buddy's, you get the best of both worlds for food ... classic and clever. Enjoy classic Italian dishes with a clever spin. There are 8 small bites to choose from and all are $6.00. I would have tried them all, but I don't believe in doggy bags. Try the unique sliders, filled with Italian sausage and peppers, and topped with provolone cheese. Also, try the Mac & Cheese Carbonara. The pasta is coated in a rich cheese and egg sauce, with rendered pancetta, and topped with a generous amount of cracked black pepper ... makes it truly Roman. The gnocchi with pesto and the fresh ricotta cheese are also magnifico. Drinks include beers, wines, Proseccos, and sangria for $4 to $5. Enjoy from 4:30 to 6:30 daily.

Hope you enjoyed Happy Hour Hot Spots: Las Vegas Strip. Check them out and let me know what you think. Until then ... happy eating, happy travels, and happy hours.

Next week I'll be reviewing my favorite United States travel destinations. It will include everything from museums to campgrounds.