Buffet Ground Rules

So one of my FAVORITE places to visit is a little city in the desert, maybe you've heard of it. It's called Las Vegas. Now, though I recognize everyone is not into slot machines or blackjack, everyone can agree on the importance of a delicious meal. And Vegas is as full of restaurants as the desert is of sand (yes, I just said that).

View of The Strip from Mix Lounge at the Mandalay!

And more specifically than food, Vegas is known for its plethora of buffets. Now, I'm sure you've gone to buffets before in your lifetime. Maybe the Chinese one down the street or some hotel you were staying in had a continental breakfast buffet. However, they do not compare with the MAGNITUDE that is present in Sin City. To that end, I felt compelled to share with you some rules to help you make the most out of your Vegas buffet experience. Because one stomach can only hold so much food, so why waste it?

Bellagio - keeping it classy since 1998

1. Plan the day to go to the buffet with caution: I am a proponent of the breakfast/brunch buffet (vs. dinner). You fill up in the morning and basically are set for the whole day, full and satisfied. I would NOT recommend putting another big meal on this day, or at least wait 10+ hours to eat again. Also expect to want to walk off those extra calories before heading to the pool.
2. Scope it out: Don't just start filling your plate with the first food you see! Check out all of your available options and come up with a game plan. For example: first have an omelette and breakfast meats, then head over for some pasta and Asian food, etc. This way you won't leave with any regrets.
3. Portion control: Yes, that sounds contradictory, as you're about to eat as much as you would on Thanksgiving. However, I mean this in terms of each individual item. Yes, you would normally eat 2 sausage links, but just get 1 so you can have a bite of that delicious-looking pastry later. Also to go along with that...
4. Bring a friend (or 5): This way you can split any item you accidentally got too much of, and won't double-up on some items. This is especially helpful in the dessert course, as there tends to be lots of pastries, making it impossible to eat them all yourself.
5. Be sparing with liquids: I normally drink TONS of water when I eat, but this just makes you feel bloated afterwards, especially with all the carbs you'll consume. This rule does NOT apply to bubbly liquids (so go for that extra mimosa!).
6. Enjoy: You don't eat like this every day, so don't beat yourself up for pigging out. You earned it, you're in VEGAS, BABY!
7. My recommendation? The Wicked Spoon (in the Cosmopolitan) - such an amazing selection, unique foods, and just overall worth every calorie!

Course 1: "Breakfast"

Course 2: MEAT!

Course 3: Miscellaneous

Course 4: Dessert!

Now go forth and EAT - first with your eyes below, then with your stomach on your next trip to "The Big Town" (as my aunt calls it). Hope you hit the jackpot!

Oh, and don't forget to relax!