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6 days agoForbes Travel Guide Inspector answered the question:
What are the best things to eat and drink at The Palazzo Resort Hotel Casino?
The Palazzo Hotel Resort Casino offers a variety of dining options, with food courts, fine dining and everything in between. Here’s our list of the five best things to eat and drink at the Palazzo:
1. Bone marrow flan. Cut serves fantastic steaks, but good luck finding a bone marrow flan dish anywhere else. The dish comes with mushroom marmalade and parsley salad in a striking presentation; you’ll eat the flan straight out of the bone with a little spoon, and you can soak up all the goodies with a brioche that comes along for the ride.
2. Cheese and charcuterie. The French know a thing or two about cheese and meats, and Morels French Steakhouse lives up to that standard. The charcuterie comes with cornichons, whole grain mustard and cocktail onions.
3. Ribeye. Simply put, Carnevino prepares a juicy, dry-aged ribeye so good it will remind you why you’re not a vegetarian.
4. Sea bass. The roasted Chilean sea bass at Lavo will make you want to come to the hotspot well before regular nightclub hours; the perfectly prepared fish comes with fresh heirloom tomatoes, butter and crispy portobello mushrooms.
5. Pisco Punch. At SUSHISAMBA, the bartenders take the traditional Peruvian drink, the pisco sour (made with Macchu Pisco and egg white), and add a twist of mango and lime zest. It’s a simple drink made supremely exotic. -
6 days agoForbes Travel Guide Inspector answered the question:
What are the best things about The Palazzo Resort Hotel Casino?
There’s a lot to love about The Palazzo Resort Hotel Casino and its connected sister hotel, The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino — both Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star hotels. Here are the five best things about the two:
1. The Grand Canal. Get a feel of what it’s like cruising the canals of Venice by taking a relaxing ride with a crooning gondolier through The Venetian’s Grand Canal. Afterwards, stop to watch one of the street performances in St. Mark’s Square while you grab a bite to eat at one of the surrounding restaurants.
2. Restaurants. Speaking of food, you’ll be spoiled for choice inside the sprawling complexes of The Venetian and The Palazzo with more than 30 restaurants to choose from, including award-winning spots from celebrity chefs like Mario Batali, Emeril Lagasse and Wolfgang Puck. In the mood for gourmet Italian, French or sushi? No problem. How about Mexican or traditional American favorites like burgers and sandwiches? You’ll have all of that and more.
3. The Grand Canal Shoppes and The Shoppes at The Palazzo. With a variety of well-known brand-name stores that includes Banana Republic, Dooney & Bourke, Coach and Sephora, The Venetian and The Palazzo are great places to satisfy your shopping fix.
4. The pools. Whether you want to go for a quick dip or just lounge poolside, you’ll have a whopping 10 pools (and five hot tubs) to choose from: three at The Venetian and seven at The Palazzo. -
6 days agoForbes Travel Guide Inspector answered the question:
What are the wet areas like at The Spa at Four Seasons New York?
The wet areas at Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star The Spa at Four Seasons New York are all located together in the back of the locker room and feature a sauna, steam room and whirlpool. All three are definitely on the cozy side in size (hey, real estate in New York doesn’t come cheap!) but given the small number of guests at any given time at the spa, it’s unlikely that you’ll have to share the space. We prefer the wood sauna to the tiled steam room and will work up a sweat there before taking a dip in the bubbling whirlpool, helping ourselves to the chilled towels in between to boost our body’s circulation. You’ll also find two showers, one featuring a rainfall showerhead, but both stocked with luxe shampoo, conditioner and body wash that smell subtly of bananas and displayed in elegant glass holders. Hand and body towels are located by the showers, as well as the lockers, and should you need any amenities like razors, shower caps or dental kits, you’ll find them at the vanity next to the shower or at the larger mirrored vanity by the lockers. They might not be the largest wet areas at a Big Apple spa, but The Spa at Four Seasons New York offers all that you’d need for a day of total bliss. -
6 days agoForbes Travel Guide Inspector answered the question:
What are the five best treatments at The Spa at Four Seasons New York?
Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star The Spa at Four Seasons New York ranks high on our list of top hotel spas in New York City thanks to its luxe treatments including these best of the bunch:
1. Four Hands at Four Seasons. Twice the number of therapists working on your body means twice the bliss in this massage. When you want to eliminate all of your daily stresses, this is the treatment to get. We also love that you have the choice between lotion and oil for massages here.
2. New York Energy Balancer. Following a foot purifying ritual, this body treatment focuses on rebalancing your body’s energy with long sweeping strokes and a reflexology massage, plus stonework to open your body’s chakras.
3. Botanical Balancer. If your skin is looking a bit sallow but is also on the sensitive side, opt for this facial that uses organic botanical products to rejuvenate the skin, leaving it glowing and radiant.
4. Acupressure with Back Walking. During this massage, your therapist will be supported from parallel ceiling bars and will use her body weight to walk on your back to help relieve muscle tension and improve circulation.
5. City Relief Pedicure. Traipsing about New York can do a number on your toes, which is why we love getting our feet scrubbed, soaked and painted here. You’ll recline in a club chair in the nail salon, which can only accommodate two guests at any one time. We also absolutely adore the selection of Butter and Deborah Lippmann nail polishes here — definitely opt for one of the fun glittery shades. -
6 days agoForbes Travel Guide Inspector answered the question:
What does the entrance look like at The Spa at Four Seasons New York?
You’ll see the entrance to Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star The Spa at Four Seasons New York as soon as you step out of the elevator banks on the subterranean spa level, the glass doors abutted on either side by large black vessels holding tall bamboo sticks. In both the outside foyer as well as lining the walls inside the spa’s entrance, you’ll also discover illuminated glass shelving units stocked with goodies from Moroccanoil, as well as decorative vases and faux orchids. Push open the glass door and you’ll be greeted by a large wood reception desk, which also doubles as the check-in area for the hotel’s gym. This wood-walled enclave also offers a chair should you want to sit down while filling out your registration card, or you can simply fill it out at the desk itself since it really only takes a few seconds to complete. From there, either the reception staff or a spa attendant will escort you to the locker room where you can undress and prep for your Four Hands at Four Seasons massage and all the other pampering that awaits. -
6 days agoForbes Travel Guide Inspector answered the question:
What is the interior design of The Spa at Four Seasons New York?
Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star The Spa at Four Seasons New York boasts an interior design that is influenced by nature and reflects the hotel’s overall minimalist aesthetic. Upon arrival at the spa, you’ll see vases filled with large bamboo sticks, the walls inside the treatment rooms featuring textured fiber wallpaper and perhaps a decorative mirror on the door. A cream and pale brown color palette with blue glass accents is used throughout the spa, and in the relaxation room you’ll find cozy chocolate-colored leather club chairs and wooden benches, all illuminated by the gentle glow of faux votive light sconces. The locker rooms, meanwhile, are definitely on the simpler side in design, outfitted with light wood lockers and white tiles, but the overall look is fresh, clean and eye-appealing. -
6 days agoForbes Travel Guide Inspector answered the question:
What does the relaxation area look like at The Spa at Four Seasons New York?
After changing into your robe and slippers at Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star The Spa at Four Seasons New York, wait for your treatment to begin in the men’s and women’s relaxation rooms that are connected to the locker rooms. There, you will find a place to put your feet up — the leather club chairs and wooden bench provide a comfortable spot, while the lighting is soft and dark thanks to flickering faux votive candle sconces affixed to the walls. There aren’t any beds or full chaise lounges, but you’ll find pillows, blankets and an ottoman so you can make do and lie down on the furnishings if you put in a bit of effort. We recommend either coming half an hour prior to your treatments to relax or giving yourself some time in between your facial and pedicure because you’ll want to allow enough time to pour yourself a hot cup of Tealeaves English breakfast or orange pekoe tea or nab a refreshing glass of citrus water or the Vivaloe bottled aloe vera juice in the refrigerator, all compliments of the spa. A selection of high-end city magazines like Manhattan and Where are available to read along with luxury titles like Vogue and Robb Report. Catch up on the latest city news and gossip as you simultaneously center yourself and relax. -
6 days agoForbes Travel Guide Inspector answered the question:
What are the locker rooms like at The Spa at Four Seasons New York?
The locker rooms at Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star The Spa at Four Seasons New York comprise the majority of the spa’s facilities, and include a simple tiled steam room, wood sauna and bubbling whirlpool (all cozy in size, but hey, New York real estate doesn’t come cheap!) — that is, of course, in addition to the light wood lockers provided where you can store your belongings. Inside each locker you’ll find a robe, pair of disposable slippers, two hangers and a laundry bag, which you’ll want to use if you decide to don a swimsuit while taking a plunge in the locker room’s hot tub. You’ll also find two showers — one with a rainfall showerhead and the other with a standard one —stocked with luxe shower amenities that smell subtly of banana. Shower caps and dental kits are also provided near the showers, and other amenities include deodorant, face cream, lotion, and hair spray and gel by the mirrored vanity next to the lockers. White hand and body towels are located throughout the locker room while chilled towels can be found next to the whirlpool. There’s also regular water, citrus-infused water, aloe juice and hot tea available in the relaxation lounge along with a selection of reading material. We actually found everything we needed in the locker room, although you should know that the locker room is shared with the hotel gym’s guests, so it might get a bit more crowded during peak workout hours. If you’re looking for total Zen and quiet, we’d suggest booking a treatment at The Spa at Four Seasons New York in the late morning or early afternoon. -
6 days agoForbes Travel Guide Inspector answered the question:
What are the robes and slippers like at The Spa at Four Seasons New York?
After checking in for your treatment at Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star The Spa at Four Seasons New York, a spa attendant will take you back to the locker rooms so you can prepare for your pampering session to begin. Inside each locker, you will find plush white robes that feature the hotel’s logo on the breast pocket — similar to those offered in the rooms at the Five-Star Four Seasons New York but slightly lighter in weight — as well as freshly packaged disposable white slippers that have never before been worn. Unlike the rubber footwear typical of some spas, the luxuriously soft slippers at the spa only add to the relaxation while you wait for your treatment (though they are one size fits all). And should you get your apparel wet following a plunge in the whirlpool, fear not — you’ll find an additional stock of robes in an open closet in the hallway connecting the relaxation lounge to the locker room. -
6 days agoForbes Travel Guide Inspector answered the question:
What is in the mini-bar at ARIA Resort & Casino?
The rooms at ARIA Resort & Casino come with well-stocked mini-bars. Each one is filled with candy like gummy bears and Milky Ways, as well as salty snacks like Pringles. You have even more options in the beverage department, what with Red Bull, Grey Goose vodka, Bombay Sapphire gin, water, orange juice and bottles of all the standard Coca-Cola sodas filling the shelves. A disposable camera is also tucked inside the mini-bar, in case you find yourself without a digital model.
But when you peruse the options, beware: The mini-bar is wired with sensors, and if you pick up a soda to take a look, you’ll be charged after 30 seconds. That means the mini-fridge isn’t the best place to hold last night’s leftovers. Just above the fridge, there are other snacks like pistachios and cashews. You’ll also see some non-edible treats there — a cord kit containing all kinds of connectors and wires. It’s a for-charge amenity, but it’s especially helpful if you forgot any important connections at home. -
6 days agoForbes Travel Guide Inspector answered the question:
What is the children’s room service menu like at ARIA Resort & Casino?
Although you won’t find a children’s room service menu geared specifically toward young travelers in the guest rooms at ARIA Resort & Casino, you will find appealing items any kid would be happy to eat. For breakfast, you can order things such as chocolate chip pancakes, cold cereal, steel-cut Irish oatmeal, eggs and cinnamon swirl French toast. The all-day dining menu features items such as chicken noodle soup, quesadillas, tacos, chicken fingers, sliders, salads, tuna melts and chicken wraps. There are create-your-own pizzas, and youth-approved entress including pasta, chicken, fish and chips and short ribs. And your kids can always order some gelato for dessert. -
6 days agoForbes Travel Guide Inspector answered the question:
What restaurants at ARIA Resort & Casino are best for families with children?
At ARIA Resort & Casino, you’ll find both kid-friendly restaurants and ultra-sophisticated eateries. Café Vettro is particularly promising, offering a kids’ menu in a casual setting with tons of natural light from its floor-to-ceiling windows. Basic soups, salads and sandwiches are sure to please your picky eaters. Skybox Sports Bar and Grill is another restaurant where families — along with sports junkies — can enjoy an American-style meal of chicken wings, burgers and sandwiches. Even Julian Serrano, which is regarded as one of the more upscale restaurants at ARIA, is a solid option for families. There, world-famous chef Julian Serrano prepares Spanish tapas in a modern yet accessible dining room with red banquettes and chandeliers. Another surprisingly accessible restaurant at the Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star hotel is Sirio Ristorante, a winning Italian spot by the famous Maccioni family, the clan behind such restaurants as Le Cirque. The café section of its menu features classic dishes like lasagna and pizza, and kids and adults alike will have no problem finding something to love. -
6 days agoForbes Travel Guide Inspector answered the question:
What is the gym like at ARIA Resort & Casino?
ARIA Resort & Casino’s gym is ideally positioned for workout motivation — looking out to the hotel’s beautiful pool deck. It’s also well-equipped, offering Cybex treadmills, elliptical machines and exercise bikes, all with their own TV screens. A full range of free weights and weight machines are available, and if you’re looking for a spotter, a team of personal trainers is on call for one-on-one or group sessions. If exercise classes are more your speed, ARIA offers a full range of options, including kettlebell training, Pilates and spinning. After your work out, the striking stone fireplace across the hall is a good place to relax.
Use of the fitness center is included in the hotel’s daily resort fee; if you’re looking to sweat, but not sleep, at ARIA, facility passes are also available for $30 per day or $80 for three days, and include access to the wet areas and meditation rooms in the spa. -
6 days agoForbes Travel Guide Inspector answered the question:
What can I order from the room service menu at ARIA Resort & Casino?
If you’re too tired to venture out of your luxe room at ARIA Resort & Casino to sample fare from one of the many restaurants, don’t fear, the resort offers a stellar room service menu packed with tasty offerings. For breakfast, there’s a variety of things from light bites to egg dishes and sweet treats. There are fruit smoothies, fruit plates, cold cereal and steel-cut Irish oatmeal on the AM menu. Larger dishes include a variety of pancakes, cinnamon swirl French toast, a meat lover’s skillet, huevos rancheros, eggs Benedict, Belgian waffles, omelet and much more. All-day dining has many offerings as well with starters such as soup, shrimp cocktail, caviar, chicken fingers, quesadilla and tacos. There’s a variety of salads and sandwiches such as a BLT, chicken wrap, tuna melt, burger and reuben, too. You can also design your own pizza. Heartier entrees include pasta dishes, roasted chicken breast, fish and chips, rib eye, filet mignon and salmon. There are plenty of desserts and drinks to order, too. -
6 days agoForbes Travel Guide Inspector answered the question:
What are the best things to eat and drink at ARIA Resort & Casino?
With so many different restaurants to choose from at ARIA Resort & Casino, it’s had to narrow it down, but here’s our list of the five best things to eat and drink:
1. Pastries from Jean Philippe. You’ll be drooling over the pastry and candy cases here, and you’ll have a hard time deciding on what to get. Our favorite here though is the chocolate croissant with a sweet honey-like glaze on the top. It’s one of the best sweets we’ve had in Vegas.
2. The buffet. You can’t miss a buffet while in Vegas and ARIA has one of the top smorgasbords with a variety of different foods to fill up your plate.
3. Margaritas at Javier’s. Located just off the casino, Javier’s is a great place to grab a drink. We suggest getting one of their hand-shaken margaritas. Choose from a variety of different tequilas, too. Complement the beverages with an order of chips and salsa.
4. Dinner at Julian Serrano. Try some of chef Julian Serrano’s classic Spanish fare. With various tapas, paellas and ceviches on the menu, you can order a bunch, split them with your table and try them all.
5. Tasting menu at Sage. To get a sampling of what chef Shawn McLain can do, order the four-course $89 tasting menu to get a variety of flavors.
Forbes Travel Guide Inspector
Forbes Travel Guide Inspector
Chicago, IL
Forbes Travel Guide created America's original hospitality Star Rating system in 1958. Since then, its team of incognito inspectors have checked into thousands of hotels, dined at just as many restaurants, and experienced scores of spa treatments to bring you information on the very best places to stay, eat and relax around the world. Throughout Startle, you'll find answers about these Star-Rated and recommended hotels, restaurants and spas, as well as destinations and activities, written and provided by Forbes Travel Guide's team of professional inspectors. It's a dynamic group of men and women who live around the world, have a wide variety of ages, interests and backgrounds, and are united by a passion for travel and a devotion to hunting down the world's most outstanding places.