Beefy team evicts couple from Beso
A manager at the restaurant called it "shock and awe."
It was a textbook operation: A beefy six-man private security team rushed into Eva Longoria Parker's Beso restaurant during Cinco de Mayo festivities Wednesday and removed two operating partners -- a husband and wife -- after they were served with legal papers by Longoria Parker's attorney.
It took less than 10 minutes. The security team, made up of former federal and Las Vegas police officers, accompanied Longoria Parker's attorney, who served the papers about 3 p.m.
In a statement from Longoria Parker and her business partner, the operation was taken to resolve "a disagreement between the partners." A source said the move was made after "irregularities" surfaced recently.
The release added that "a thorough investigation has been conducted in coordination with CityCenter and immediate action has taken place to rectify the situation to the satisfaction of all parties involved. Both Beso and Eve are open for business as usual."
The unidentified couple is barred from returning to the Latin steakhouse that opened on New Year's Eve featuring celebrity chef Todd English.
My sources described the man who was escorted out as "a bully" and a "hothead" who reportedly tossed champagne bottles at a chef.
The man was served with a restraining order that bars him from the restaurant and club, the company's executive offices and contact with staff. His wife faces trespassing charges if she returns, a source said.
THE SCENE AND HEARD
Billionaire Phil Ruffin apparently isn't done shopping for Las Vegas resorts. I checked out a rumor that Ruffin, who purchased Treasure Island from MGM Mirage for $775 million, has his eyes on The Mirage. "According to my boss, Mr. Kerkorian has no plans to sell anything right now," said Michelle Knoll, Treasure Island's vice president for advertising and public relations. Kirk Kerkorian is the majority shareholder at MGM Mirage. ...
"Comedy Pet Theater" headliner Greg Popovich underwent emergency stomach surgery Friday, forcing his V Theater show (Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort) to be canceled through at least May 27. ...
A "Splash" reunion is scheduled for June 27 at The Range Steak House at Harrah's Hotel. For more information: e-mail Suzan Hiett at suzan4668@gmail.com.
SIGHTINGS
On the red carpet at the Vegas Uncork'd Grand Tasting on Friday: U.S. Olympic skater Johnny Weir, actress Laura Prepon and Las Vegas headliners Rick Faugno of "Jersey Boys," Frank Marino of "Divas Las Vegas," Chazz Palminteri of "A Bronx Tale," and Rita Rudner. ... Ludacris, Chad Kroeger from Nickelback and Zakk Wylde, Ozzy Osbourne's guitarist, shooting a video on Wednesday with the new band My Darkest Days, at Vanity nightclub and Skybar at the Hard Rock Hotel . The song is titled "Porn Star Dancer." ... Reigning Miss USA Kristen Dalton, receiving a tour of Eiffel Tower restaurant (Paris Las Vegas) on Friday by chef John Joho, who hosted her lunch. ... "Peepshow" star Holly Madison, hosting a 21st birthday bash Thursday night for her "Holly's World" co-star Angel Porrino at Tao in The Venetian. At another table: Palminteri, with actor Billy Baldwin and producer Trent Othick. Joe Piscopo attended Palminteri's show. ... Donny Davis, one of Jeff Beacher's little people, subbed for Chuy , Chelsea Handler's sidekick on her late-night talk-show "Chelsea Lately" on Thursday.
THE PUNCH LINE
"Now the only ticking time bomb in New York City is Naomi Campbell." -- David Letterman
Norm Clarke can be reached at (702) 383-0244 or norm@reviewjournal.com. Find additional sightings and more online at www.normclarke.com.
