11/06/09

The Vegas Radar
Yes, This Is What's Out There

Final Table Bash at Dead Man's Hand

The latest poker-themed hard-rock joint—backed by members of Anthrax and Alice in Chains—opens up this weekend with a pair of perfectly balanced events: a show with System of a Down's John Dolmayan on Friday and a World Series of Poker final-table bash with the gamblers of Bluff Magazine Saturday night. Consider the latter testing grounds for your poker face.

411:: Dead Man's Hand at Playground, 3525 W. Russell Rd, 702-673-1700

Off the Strip Poker Tournament

If you didn't make the WSOP final table this year, you can test your skills against poker pros and film stars of the adult persuasion at Vince Neil's $50,000 charity tournament. Potential distractions include a silent memorabilia auction and trying to figure out why you recognize the blonde across the table.

411:: 200 spots, Nov 8, registration 4pm, cards 7pm, Rio, 3700 W. Flamingo Rd, 702-777-7777

Martorano's Meatball Eating Title

The world's best competitive eaters—including current grits title-holder Bob Shoudt and 65-year-old spam champion Rich "The Locust" LeFevre—are descending on Martorano's for a chance at the meatball title. The twist: this is a high-class joint, so they'll have to use utensils.

411:: Nov 8, Martorano's, Rio, 3700 W. Flamingo Rd, 702-777-7777

Topless Ping-Pong Tournament

At the Sapphire Club's scantily clad, frequently topless Ping-Pong tournament, you'll need at least four to a team, including a mandatory member of the fairer sex. (Bikini tops are optional, naturally.) If you need help filling out your roster, they'll happily lend you a Sapphire Girl for the night…for gaming purposes only.

411:: Nov 10, register 6pm, tourney 7pm, Sapphire Las Vegas, 3025 Industrial Rd, 702-796-6000

Golden Nugget's Rush Tower Opens

After months of anticipation, Downtown Vegas's newest piece of skyline is just a couple weeks away from opening its doors, stocked with a new set of guest rooms, a new gaming floor and a 75,000-gallon tropical aquarium just off the lobby. Not to be confused with the new pool…