Carbone Riviera

Carbone Riviera opened with a wave of publicity by giving the Bellagio fountains its first-ever yacht: the Italian vintage-style Fortuna. Rides are strictly for VIPs, but you can still snap photos of the boat when docked next to the dining room (which is most of the time). It's a dramatic decoration for chef Mario Carbone's latest project, which reinvents the classic Italian supper club with tall ceilings, warm amber lighting and a strong emphasis on seafood.

The kitchen team knows when to let simplicity shine in fresh fish (like dorado, butterflied and grilled over charcoal with lemon and olive oil). They also know when to indulge in dishes like the shrimp parmesan (jumbo Madagascar prawns, buried in mozzarella and tomato sauce in a so-weird-it-works combination). The pastas are perfect for sharing as a middle course, especially the delicate ricotta-filled gnocchi, generously topped with caviar, or the rigatoni, drenched in a spicy vodka sauce. Ultimately, you're here to impress (or be impressed). So don't overlook the wow-factor of the fettuccine, served with a full two pounds of lobster.

Those familiar with the Carbone brand will recognize the thick house-made croutons in the tableside Caesar salad and the Old Fashioned done “Mario’s way” with rum and a splash of bourbon. Here, that signature style meets a seafood-driven menu and lakeside views from both the dining room and the coveted outdoor patio. It’s no wonder content creator Lindsay Stewart (@TheLasVegasFoodie) loves the place for the views.