Rio
3700 W. Flamingo Road
R-J readers just can't get enough of the Rio's fun-in-the-sun atmosphere, although there's a lot less of it now that the Rio remodeling project has eliminated the Beach Cafe's view of bikini-clad babes cavorting by the pool. But the cheery decor extends the Brazilian theme, while the menu (noticeably devoid of price-break specials) covers all the coffee-shop bases, from breakfast and sandwiches to Chinese, Mexican and Italian fare. The Rio squeezed by Palace Station's Iron Horse Cafe to claim its second straight win in this category.
Our Pick: LANAI CAFE
Fremont
200 Fremont St.
If you're yearning for a lunch-hour escape or harbor a late-night luau fantasy, this tropical-tradewinds outpost provides an appropriate setting. In addition to standard coffee shop fare, the Lanai Cafe also boasts a long list of bargain specials -- including a $10.99 steak and lobster tail combo -- and tasty Chinese selections. If you're in a hurry, you can check out the lunchtime "fast basket" specials or the adjacent cafeteria-style snack bar. (Just don't be in too much of a hurry; the Fremont only offers valet parking in their garage.)
