HotelChatter

Here’s a quick rundown of the resort’s vital stats:

Location: Not exactly central, but not too far away either. Technically located in Henderson, Nev., about a 10-12 minute drive south on Interstate 15 from the Mandalay Bay end of the Las Vegas Strip. Exit at St. Rose Parkway and you’re practically in the parking lot.

Décor: Loft-style architecture + hotel-casino = something truly different for the Vegas resort landscape. M is arguably the most interesting property layout to arise on the scene since the opening of THEhotel at Mandalay Bay in 2003. M, like THEhotel, also incorporates fine art into the décor; approximately 300 individually curated pieces hang throughout the property.

Views: Would love to see them during the day, but the nighttime vistas, over the Green Valley Ranch-esque pool immediately and the Las Vegas Strip beyond, are winning. Lots of patio space (outside the restaurants, the high limit gaming salon, etc.) take advantage of the favorable, southwest-valley vantage point.

Food & Drink: The options seem plentiful and the atmosphere enticing. Just a few impressions: The buffet is large and circular and its much-touted “studio-style” open-kitchen preparation looks like something we’ve seen before rather than a first-ever for Vegas. But complimentary wine and beer sets it apart quite effectively. Babycakes is a darling little pastry-and-gelato shop and seemed to command the longest line last night. Downstairs, the whimsically named Hostile Grape offers self-pour wines via a prepaid card system. (Sounds clever and dangerous – we like it!) It’s conceivable that M will easily become a night-out mainstay for Las Vegas and Henderson locals.

Price: Prices for the resort rooms still clock in at just under $100 for the first full weekend of operation (March 6-8). Dining and other amenities at the resort, including a spa, can generally be expected to be priced somewhat lower than comparable Strip offerings. The emphasis property-wide is on value, however, not low prices, so guests may reasonably anticipate feeling like they’re getting their money’s worth.

Photo Credit: Erika Pope