Monday, January 17, 2011

Viva tip 3! Eating....

Bloody Mary's are the only alcoholic drinks that can be considered a meal while you are at Viva, so you need to remember to EAT. At times I get so busy, running around and planning what I'm going to do and what I'm going to see, I forget to plan meals.



Because there is so much to do, so many people at the Orleans, and I am always trying not to miss anything,  the first thing I do in the morning is order breakfast room service. I can hop in the shower and start my beauty ritual and the food usually comes before I'm finished. It helps economize on time and I don't suddenly get hungry and grumpy in the middle of the car show. You can either charge, charge to your room or pay cash when the food arrives. Don't forget to tip, they spread the word around who is tipping and you will get better service.

The Orleans is equipped with a few restaurants and a food court. There is a TGIFriday's, and typical chain eateries. The coffee shop isn't so bad, and there is a swank joint called "The Prime Rib Loft", Big Al's Oyster Bar, New Orleans style dining at Canal Street, Coasta Cantina, French Market Buffet, and Koji Sushi Bar and Chinese Food. Personally, I've never eaten any place but the Buffet, Coffee Shop or TGIFridays. The truth is, I don't want to take the time for a fancy dinner away from my fun.

When to eat is as important as what you eat. Eating at off hours will help minimize your delay for your meal. I find that dinner at 9 or 10 makes the wait and serve time quicker. When you eat at regular meal hours, you are sometimes waiting in line for 45 minutes. Late lunch or early dinner around 3 works, and then at midnight you can grab something at the coffee shop.

If you are not from the southwest of the United States, you have to stop at In n Out Burger. They are pretty close to the Orleans, maybe even walking distance. Something about their sauce, or the fresh cut fries, not sure which, makes me hungry thinking about it.




If you are planning some fancy night out on the Strip during Viva, expect to spend some big $$$. Vegas is not the town of deals anymore. It has become the town of spoiled trust fund brats and Jersey Shore types who want to max their credit card on "Bottle Service." Also, you will miss something, so plan on staying after or arriving early to visit the strip.

11 comments:

Gabriella said...

First thing in the morning room service is a GREAT tip! It also means you don't get hungry and grumpy waiting for your friends to get thier asses in gear so you can go get breakfast!! :) I thought the food choices at the Gold Coast were a little better, but I do like that the Orleans has a Subway. The Mexican place is good too. We usually do at least one big group lunch or dinner there.

Kim said...

I have called my friend's rooms before and ordered for them and they just met at my room for breakfast.

I did get coffee in my pajamas last year from the Seattle's Best in the Casino.

Erin said...

Mmm...In 'N Out! I miss it! Hey, I threw you a shout-out on a recent post at my blog! http://bit.ly/ec7k7y

Straight Talking Mama! said...

Ha ha ha I wolud forget to eat too but my husband loves his food so I would never be allowed to forget to eat! We actually enjoy eating breakfast out as breakfast in the US is so different to breakfast in the UK so it's great for us!

You are making me hanker for coming to Vegas, now if I could just win the lottery I'll be there ;o)

Dolly Cool Clare said...

I came to Vegas in June 2007 for my best friends wedding. We really enjoyed the food! You certainly can't go hungry and the buffet breakfasts were amazing! making me hungry just thinking about it!!

Elisa said...

Canal Street is quite nice if you want to take the time for a fancy dinner. Ate there at the last Rave that was held so I'm not sure if it has changed since. It does take your time away from the fun though (not to mention more of your spending money) so quicker eats are the best way to go!

Kim said...

Elisa, it will be great to see you in Vegas! I haven't been out in the East Bay much lately, no chances to bump into you and Ben.

doradadama said...

Cute pic..Mmm that burger looks so good.. Mi byddy loves vegas.. Especially at thebuffets..they have nothing in england like that.

Rachelle said...

I can't believe you forgot to mention SONIC Burger!!!

Kim said...

Sonic is in Bakersfield, where is the one in Vegas? Is it close to the Orleans?

Rachelle said...

I think it's on Tropicana way off the strip. Also, if you want the best Italian and aren't worried about spending $40/person check out Cappo's. Yummo

 

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