Dinner Before “O”?

Question

I’ve got 7pm tickets to O for a Saturday in late January. Party of 5. Looking for a 5:15 dinner spot within easy walking that won’t break the bank. Like maybe $50pp. The options at Bellagio look pretty over the top. Any recommendations?

Answer

If you're looking for a great spot to have dinner before seeing the "O" show at the Bellagio, but don't want to break the bank, there are several excellent options within walking distance that offer great food at reasonable prices (around $50 per person). Here are a few suggestions:

1. The Buffet at Bellagio

The Buffet at Bellagio is an all-you-can-eat option that’s conveniently located in the Bellagio itself, and it offers a variety of dishes that can easily accommodate your group. While it might be a bit higher-end compared to a typical buffet, it’s still a great value for what you get, and the wide selection will suit all tastes. It's a bit on the higher side of your price range, but you can definitely get a filling and delicious meal.

Key Features: Variety of international cuisines, fresh seafood, and desserts.
Price Range: Around $40-$50 per person depending on the time and day.
Walking Distance: Inside Bellagio, only a few minutes from "O."

2. Mon Ami Gabi (Paris Las Vegas)

Located at Paris Las Vegas, Mon Ami Gabi is a French bistro that serves delicious French classics in a beautiful setting. The outdoor patio has a great view of the Bellagio fountains, making it a nice option for a memorable pre-show dinner. The prices are reasonable, and the food is consistently great.

Key Features: French bistro classics, fantastic view of Bellagio fountains from the patio.
Price Range: Around $30-$50 per person.
Walking Distance: About 5-10 minutes from Bellagio.

3. Amalfi by Bobby Flay (Caesars Palace)

Amalfi offers modern Italian cuisine from celebrity chef Bobby Flay. While it is part of the Caesars Palace complex, it’s just a short walk from the Bellagio. The pasta dishes are a standout, and they offer a variety of seafood and Italian specialties. While this could be a bit of a splurge, you can definitely find options that fit your budget.

Key Features: Delicious Italian cuisine, modern yet cozy atmosphere, great seafood pasta options.
Price Range: Around $35-$50 per person for a full meal.
Walking Distance: About 10-15 minutes from Bellagio.

4. The Cromwell’s Giada (Cromwell Hotel)

Giada's offers Italian-inspired dishes with a beautiful view of the Strip. Known for its famous celebrity chef, Giada De Laurentiis, this restaurant is perfect for an upscale but still affordable dinner. You can enjoy delicious pastas, seafood, and a variety of meat dishes. The ambiance is chic and perfect for an elegant pre-show meal.

Key Features: Modern Italian dishes, great Strip views from the second-floor dining area.
Price Range: Around $40-$50 per person.
Walking Distance: 5-10 minutes from Bellagio.

5. E by José Andrés (The Cosmopolitan)

If you're looking for something a bit unique and adventurous, E by José Andrés is a hidden gem. This avant-garde tasting menu restaurant offers a 20-course experience featuring José Andrés' culinary magic. While it can be on the expensive side, you might find it fits your budget for a special pre-show dinner if you opt for the bar seating and the shorter menu options.

Key Features: Creative, modern tasting menu, unique dining experience.
Price Range: Around $50 per person for the bar seating (limited selection).
Walking Distance: Around 10-15 minutes from Bellagio.

Final Thoughts:

For a pre-show dinner that balances both cost and quality, I’d recommend Mon Ami Gabi or The Buffet at Bellagio. Both offer great food at reasonable prices, with the added bonus of being within close walking distance to "O." If you're looking for something with a more elevated experience, Amalfi or Giada would be wonderful choices, and while they might push the upper limits of your budget, they offer excellent cuisine and a nice atmosphere.

Enjoy the show and have a fantastic dinner!