The Hard Rock Hotel is by far and away, my favorite place to stay, gamble and drink in Las Vegas. The Hard Rock is not on the strip (really not a big problem unless you are some psychotic tourist)and I preferred the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino before it underwent its expansion, more than doubling in size. But it is still a great place that I highly recommend.


Gambling at the Hard Rock

First of all, the casino is small enough to be cozy and intimate and can actually be traversed without getting lost. It is circular and well laid out, with a killer bar in the middle that is often populated by usually (very) pretty people who are more interested in meeting others than gambling. Great classic and hard rock is always playing throughout the casino which is a big plus (if you like that kind of music) over the typical dead silence or constant ringing of slot machines at most casinos. The dealers are very competent and generally friendly, although the pit bosses sometimes have some attitude. The cocktail service is excellent and the drink quality is high. In addition, the scenery for heterosexual men is often very tantilizing -- this place is full of beautiful women (and men).


Staying at the Hard Rock

The guest rooms at the Hard Rock are exceptionally large for a Vegas hotel, with huge, high-quality Sony televisions, a table, large bed, decent sized bathroom and plenty of space throughout the room. The decor is modern and quite pleasing. Having stayed there a couple of times on business and having to eat room service twice while I worked, I was surprised to find the room service food and drink to be absolutely excellent. My only complaint is that the only phone in the room is by the bed, not at the table set up in the room, which makes modem access a bit of a pain. Rooms are usually reasonably priced, except on weekends and average about $150 (they've creeped up a bit recently).


Food at the Hard Rock

Other than room service, I have not eaten that much at the Hard Rock, although I have had dinner once at the Pink Taco (or something like that) and various meals in the everyday "cafe." The food even at the cafe was quite good and not your typical coffee shop fare. I remember an omelette for a late breakfast in the cafe being very satisfying. The Pink Taco was not as impressive and was basically typical Mexican food, although the margaritas were quite excellent. Certainly not bad food, but nothing to rave about.


Service at the Hard Rock

The people at the Hard rock are very nice generally and the service can be described as excellent. No one really gushes over you or anything, but everyone is helpful and polite. Occasionally you run into a little bit of attitude, but that is to be expected at an "in" place like the Hard Rock that caters to a well-to-do crowd.


Miscellaneous

The Hard Rock has some miscellaneous features that are worth commenting on. First of all, if you are a high-roller, the Hard Rock will take care of you quite well and has a generous tracking and comping system. Also, they will extend great services like their bright purple Chevy Suburban limos to you. The pool is great and oh my god are the women hot. A great place to catch up on the sleep you didn't get the previous night by hanging out, resting and having a drink or four by the pool.


Overall

The overall experience at the Hard Rock is one that is exciting and stimulating. I have always had a great time at the Hard Rock and wannabies like The Rio might as well pack up and go home. A very highly recommended destination.



Recommended: Yes