Post #342033 by Tikinaut on Sun, Nov 4, 2007 4:43 PM

We didn't know what to expect when we arrived at the new Trader Vic's in Las Vegas. From what I've read online the new location was supposed to be a departure from that "old school" look of past days.

Located in front of the new Planet Hollywood Casino and Hotel, the outside of the restaurant is pretty plain. There is no semblance of any A frame, Tiki torches or anything else to make one aware that it's a Polynesian themed restaurant inside. All you see is this huge TV sign when you approach:

To enter the restaurant you need to come in through the mall. To the left is the hostess stand. The cabinet on the right contains various TV collectibles like mugs and glassware. I was told a gift shop would be coming soon. Two large Tiki idols stand guard on either side of the entrance. Shockingly, the gray moai in the center is styrofoam!!! WTF?!

The bar is fashionably modern, but sadly lacks the bling of what you would find in other TV locations. An extremely low Tipsy factor to say the least. All they really had hanging from the ceiling were these fishing floats over the bar. Kind of boring.

There is an upstairs lounge. Unfortunately it wasn't open while we were there. I was told that it features a DJ. I wonder if they play any Martin Denny?

There is an outdoor patio. But again, no Tikis or torches outside. Sadly, it appears that they are trying to attract a younger, more mainstream Paris Hilton wannabe crowd. Although, while we were there, most of the patrons in the restaurant were people in the 40-60 age group. Baby Boomers essentially. Why they aren't marketing to this age group is beyond me? Aren't they the one's with all the money today?

The two large Tiki idols in the main dining area were impressive:

My thoughts? Honestly, I was disappointed. This was supposed to be one of the highlights of our Vegas trip. Being in Sin City I was expecting something impressive. Instead, the place was more disco than Tiki bar/restaurant. Take down the Trader Vic's sign and it could easily be any other restaurant in any city in the USA.

I love Trader Vic's and I really wanted this place to be good. And it pains me to say it was a disappointment. Nevertheless, I hope they take note and put a little more into it as this location deserves to be better.

As a consolation, if you're in Vegas, check out Tahiti Joe's. It's a new Tiki Bar Restaurant located inside the Tahiti Village Resort, which is about two miles south of the main Strip. Good food and drink and an impressive Tipsy factor. A fun and friendly staff too. Definitely worth visiting.