Every year I look forward to The Rental Show. It is the one time a year that all of my rental friends are in one place. We visit on the show floor, talk about new

Crabbe

equipment, discuss what is working or not working in our business, and update each other on the year.

The best conversations often happen at dinner. I visit Las Vegas twice a year and recently did a bit of gastronomical research to offer some dining advice for this coming show. There is such an abundance of food choices in Las Vegas that will satisfy every taste and budget. If you don’t want to leave the Mandalay Bay or Luxor area you will find many choices within a short walking distance. Some of my favorites to consider in Mandalay Bay and Mandalay Place include:

• The China Grill. Great Asian fusion. Average check is $45. 702-632-7777.
• Border Grill. Southwestern cuisine. Be sure to try the marinated skirt steak. $45 per person average. 702-632-7403.
• RM Seafood. Eat downstairs for the raw bar and chowder. $40 per person. 702-632-9300.
• The Burger Bar. A must-stop for a meal for me every visit to Las Vegas. $25 per person. 702-632-9364.

If variety is your game, Las Vegas does it best. If you like Asian food, then go to the Lotus of Siam at 953 E. Sahara Ave., Suite A5. This is the very best I have ever experienced. The restaurant is off the Strip and prices range from $25 to $30 per person. 702-735-3033.

For a great steak there a many choices, but I highly recommend Gallagher’s in the New York-New York hotel. Chris Hernandez is the manager and Paul Grogan is the most experienced and personable waiter for the best service. Tell them I sent you and order the New York strip steak, which is their specialty. Average price is around $55 per person.

Another favorite is the Capital Grill. Here you will have the best overall experience of a beautiful dining room, service and fabulous food. Steve Palermo, the managing partner, is a great host. Ask for Eric Dodd as your waiter and let him know you are a friend of mine. If you meet both Paul and Eric on this trip, you will leave Las Vegas a winner.

For breakfast, you should not miss Bouchon in the Venetian Hotel. Breakfast is served from 7 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. I have brought many friends there and suggest ordering the waffle with banana and walnuts. It’s like biting into a sweet cloud. Once you try it, you will always make it a point to visit Bouchon on every visit to Las Vegas. 702-414-6200.

As with any convention city, call ahead for reservations, I make my reservations at least two weeks before I arrive to be sure to get the best time.

If you have any questions, suggestions or hints of your own, send me an e-mail at jcrabbe@vttent.com. I hope to see you there. Bon appétit and viva Las Vegas.