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Rediscover fine dining at downtown hotels

Like downtown's greatly expanded entertainment offerings created by the opening of The Smith Center for the Performing Arts, Preview Thursday, First Friday and Fremont Street Experience, downtown dining is also on the upswing. Hundreds of people flock downtown nightly to enjoy a variety of shows for every taste. So where do locals go for a nice meal?

According to Mayor Carolyn Goodman, downtown hotels offer many different elegant and delicious options, including several "historic" restaurants worth rediscovering, along with a few new ones that are gaining in popularity.

Downtown3rd, the emerging metropolitan area on Third Street between Stewart and Ogden avenues, is home to Triple George Grill. Regarded as the downtown power lunch place, Triple George is quickly becoming a favorite spot for patrons of The Smith Center.

In fact, Triple George often creates special menus to complement the featured shows at The Smith Center. Its recent "Wicked" menu offered a Dragon Salad, Lobster Sisters (two lobster tails that look and taste very different) and Wizard Wand desserts. According to Seth Schorr, CEO of Fifth Street Gaming and operator of Triple George Grill, theater-themed menus not only attract patrons, they enhance the overall experience for theater-goers.

"Our guests really enjoy these specialized menus," Schorr said. "We have found that they like the theme and appreciate that we get them in and out of the restaurant in time for their show."

Plans for Downtown3rd include additional eateries opening in 2013. Eventually, the area will be home to 18 restaurants and bars, many inside Downtown Grand, the former Lady Luck currently undergoing a total transformation.

Hugo's Cellar at Four Queens has been a downtown romantic staple for more than 30 years. According to Lisa Robinson, director of communications and entertainment at the Four Queens, the quiet, intimate tables make this a perfect date-night spot either before or after the show.

"Our staff works hard to ensure that your experience is a good one," Robinson said. "We greet each lady with a long-stemmed red rose and offer a classic Vegas menu that includes a beautiful table-side tossed salad, an extensive wine list, fine entrees and exquisite desserts including Bananas Foster and Cherries Jubilee. It is a must for a romantic evening."

Oscar's at the Plaza is one of the newest steakhouses in downtown Las Vegas. Officially named Oscar's Beef, Booze and Broads, this restaurant boasts a cool bar reminiscent of the "Mad Men" era, along with interesting drinks to complete the vibe.

"Come in and try a cocktail, grab a delicious steak and enjoy the view overlooking Fremont Street," said former Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman, the restaurant's namesake. "You won't be disappointed."

The El Cortez is home to the Flame restaurant, where on Friday and Saturday nights, fresh, in-season stone crab is flown in for the ultimate seafood experience. The casino's Parlour Bar serves old-fashioned but hip drinks. This premier bar features a wide selection of quality domestic and international beers, liquors and 12 specialty martinis.

Finally, you can't go wrong with two fine dining establishments at the Golden Nugget. The Chart House features an extensive seafood selection, including macadamia-crusted halibut and crab-stuffed shrimp. If a cozy steakhouse is what you desire, the Golden Nugget's Vic & Anthony's is known for perfectly cooked steaks, a nice wine selection and good service.

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