Thursday, October 7th, 2021 (8:50 am)
Rao’s at Caesars Palace announced on Wednesday that it will be permanently closed on November 28th. The legendary Italian restaurant, which was born in East Harlem, New York City, originally expanded on its Las Vegas Strip in December 2006.
A statement by co-owners Frank Pellegrino Jr. and Ron Straci stated that a future Las Vegas restaurant may be in the works: “When we opened Rao’s Caesars Palace, we weren’t sure how it would affect all of our lives. Almost 15 years later, as we prepare to close these doors one last time, we are filled with a myriad of emotions and will always look back and cherish the memories made within these walls. We are very excited to see the possibilities of what lies ahead. ”
Known for its homely cuisine like Sunday sauce, giant meatballs, and lemon chicken, Rao’s at Caesars Palace is located near the resort’s pool and bacchanal buffet. Reservations can be made at OpenTable.
“It is a rare achievement to have a restaurant on the Las Vegas Strip open for 15 years,” said Sean McBurney, regional president of Caesars Entertainment. “We will always be grateful to Frank Pellegrino Sr., Frank Pellegrino Jr. and Ron Straci for their partnership to bring their legendary brand closer to our guests.”
The New York flagship restaurant opened in 1896 and became one of the toughest reservations in the country according to a 1977 New York Times review. The company has expanded over the years to include a few restaurants and a retail line selling premium pasta sauces and other groceries.
Brock Radke is an award-winning writer who has documented life in Las Vegas for more than 20 years.
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