We asked The LINQ Hotel + Experience concierge Fabyne Thegenus, who has lived in Las Vegas for 11 years, for her favorite Las Vegas attractions, restaurants and more.
Tell me about one of your favorite places to send first-time Vegas visitors.
The High Roller Observation Wheel located at the end of The LINQ Promenade is definitely a great way to start. Known as the world’s tallest observation wheel, the High Roller features 28 glass-enclosed cabins with incredible 360-degree views of the entire valley expanding beyond the Strip to the mountains. Seeing the homes within the community assures guests that there is so much more to the city than just the Las Vegas Strip.
I want to update my Facebook photo. What should I have in the background of my selfie?
The Bellagio Patisserie. The bakery’s fountain is a glass sculpture with liquid chocolate of different shades pouring and cascading within it. It’s definitely a fascinating background for photos and delicious all in one.
Tell me about your favorite hidden gem in Las Vegas.
Casa di Amore is my favorite hidden gem in Las Vegas. This Italian restaurant is located off the Strip and features 1950s-style eatery atmosphere, along with a live band for entertainment and an amazing dance floor.
Where should I eat if I want to celebrate a special occasion?
A great way to start is to find out the type of cuisine you would like to enjoy. I enjoy Picasso at the Bellagio—the beauty of art and food combined makes the dining experience radiant. I recommend patio seating which allows guests to also enjoy the fountains as they dine.
How hard is it to get a reservation while I’m in Las Vegas?
Reservations are always recommended and encouraged if the restaurant offers this service. This allows guests to secure their restaurant experience with great ease.
What’s the most unusual request you’ve had as a concierge?
The most unusual request I received was being asked to be present as a witness at a wedding being held at our Silver Sky Chapel inside The LINQ after just meeting and assisting the guest at the concierge desk. What about the craziest request? I have not yet encountered any crazy requests, but I have met several interesting people from all over the world visiting The LINQ.
Who is your favorite Las Vegas celebrity chef?
Chef Nobu Matsuhisa is a Japanese celebrity chef known for his fusion cuisine that blends traditional Japanese seafood dishes with Peruvian ingredients. Nobu Restaurant & Lounge at Caesars Palace (and Paris Las Vegas) features several of chef Nobu’s incredible signature dishes such as the yellowtail sashimi with jalapeño and squid “pasta,” black cod with miso and rock shrimp tempura. Everything Nobu is of the highest quality and is absolutely amazing.
I want to experience classic Las Vegas. Where do you recommend that I go?
When I think of classic Las Vegas, I think of Eldorado Canyon, Liberace Mansion & Garage, The Mob Museum, Peppermill Fireside Lounge, Battista’s Hole in the Wall, VEGAS! The Show at the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.
Where do you like to do some people-watching in Las Vegas?
Las Vegas allows you to let loose a little more than the norm, so there is never a dull moment on the Strip. There are so many places to experience some crazy but fun people-watching. The Grand Bazaar Shops at Horseshoe Las Vegas, The LINQ Promenade and Roman Plaza at Caesars Palace have great open-air people-watching as millions of guests travel to experience them each year. Guests can sit outside, eat, drink and people-watch all day long.
What tips do you give first-timers?
Make good use of the concierge department provided at your hotel. The concierge team serves as an ambassador to all experiences in Las Vegas and assists guests in creating the best vacation possible.
Describe your perfect evening out in Las Vegas.
A perfect evening in Las Vegas for me is being able to go out dancing. I am from the islands of Haiti, so I can dance to Latin, reggae and Afro beat music all night long. One great venue on the Strip is Brooklyn Bowl Las Vegas at The LINQ Promenade, where locals and tourists go for a nightly eclectic blend of live music with 32 bowling lanes, six bars and comfort food.
