Rao's

"Rao’s closed after 15 years at Caesars Palace in November." - Susan Stapleton

"Rao's was a beloved Italian restaurant and a Vegas institution. Its closure marked the end of an era at Caesars Palace, and it was known for excellent meals and a vibrant atmosphere." - Susan Stapleton

"Rao's, the legendary Italian restaurant at Caesars Palace, closes after 15 years at the resort on Sunday, November 28. Rao’s was the second outlet for the Italian restaurant with East Harlem roots that opened in 1896. With only four tables and six booths in a space decorated in Christmas lights year-round and Frank Sinatra and Frankie Valli photos on the wall, it was one of the toughest tables to nab, especially after The New York Times gave it three stars in 1977. In Las Vegas, the restaurant keeps the same decor, only far more space than the 40 seats in Harlem, as well as a bocci ball court next to the Garden of the Gods pool complex. Rao’s is known for its meatballs made with ground veal, pork, and beef and Sunday gravy, along with Uncle Vincent’s lemon chicken that’s charcoal broiled and topped with Vincent’s famous lemon sauce, all meant to share." - Susan Stapleton

"A previous Top Chef contestant, Pellegrino’s resume includes Rao’s at Caesars Palace, Bacio at the Tropicana, Meatball Spot at Town Square, Touché in Miami, and California's Majestic Yosemite Hotel." - Bradley Martin

"Rao’s has been serving Italian fare since 1896 in East Harlem, and perhaps most famous for their meatballs. Snag the same dish using the same recipe here in Vegas at the location at Caesars Palace." - Susan Stapleton