LIFESTYLE REVIEW: RI RA IRISH PUB - LAS VEGAS

A French Film Journalist Enjoys the Luck & Hospitality of the Irish

November 22, 2011

(November 21, 2011 in Las Vegas, Nevada) With over 135 different kinds of whiskey, it would be hard not to crown the Ri Ra Irish Pub at Las Vegas, Mandalay Bay, “King of Good Times,” which is pretty much the Celtic translation of “Ri Ra.” I just had the most amazing kick-ass evening there, and recommend it for a bloody good time.

The entire pub is built with custom-made fixtures salvaged straight from Ireland, from the restored 19th century bar to the mirrors and fine-crafted, colorful decorations. Once you step away from the noise of the Vegas casinos, you enter a different dimension -- a Celtic destination feeling happily possessed by a je ne sais quoi that makes you want to dance all night -- and you will dance all night to rollicking live Irish music. That evening, it was the legendary Derek Warfield and Young Wolfeto.

And the evening’s madness is helped along with pints of good old Guinness draft and a fine Irish Bistro menu, sure to satisfy any “healthy” belly like mine! I recommend their crunchy cabbage with absolutely tender, delicious fish and chips. Or maybe be tempted by the brilliant whiskey garlic mussels followed by “Moors and Bay” – a divine smoked-bacon-wrapped filet with Guinness glazed prawns and thier famous Irish potato cakes.

But whatever you choose, you'd better have a full stomach to compete with me at the bar as we try some the special Irish Whiskey shots! And as the whiskey takes its wonderful warm effect, I challenge you to try to win the heart of one of the charming Irish waitresses!!

Yes, mate, this is the kind of Las Vegas escapade you won’t want to miss. And knowing the pub gets sold out for the Holidays, may I suggest you book your New Year’s Eve party right now. Order me a glass of Bushmills' 16-year-old glass on the rocks, and then let’s do shots of Cadenhead’s Peated single malt. I'll meet you at the bar. Cheers up! Let’s get pissed!

Ri Ra Irish Pub at Mandalay Bay is open 365 days a year and always happy to serve you your new favorite tipple.