Haute Secrets: Myron Martin’s Guide to Las Vegas

Photo Credit: Erik Kabik

Myron Martin helped put Las Vegas on the cultural map as the president and CEO of The Smith Center for the Performing Arts. He was part of the team who first imagined how a world-class performing arts center could change the city, and went on to oversee design, construction, fund raising and operations of the performing arts center in Downtown Las Vegas. In the first year alone, the center hosted more than 450 performances in three venues and saw nearly a half-million tickets sold to programs that included “Wicked,” Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and The Cleveland Orchestra as well as headliners including Idina Menzel, Diana Krall and Willie Nelson.

Here he shares some of his best secrets right here in Las Vegas.

Where were you born: Houston, Texas

How long have you lived in Las Vegas: 20 years

Neighborhood: Downtown Las Vegas

Occupation: President and CEO of The Smith Center for the Performing Arts

Favorite Restaurant: The Palm

Best Sushi: Nobu

Best Italian: Bratalian by Carla Pellegrino

Best dessert: Blue Bell Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream

Best place for a romantic date: Recently single. Give me time.

Best Sunday brunch: Giada

Best place for a power business meeting: Veranda

If you have out of town guests, which hotel would you recommend? It depends on my guests — they have different needs and personalities but I’m proud to recommend many great hotels — Las Vegas has the best!

Favorite shopping venue/boutique: B&C Camera

Favorite place to buy jewelry/watches: Tourneau

Best Spa: The Spa at Green Valley Ranch

Favorite Charity Event: Lou Ruvo / Keep Memory Alive

Favorite Cultural Event: Anything at The Smith Center

Favorite Cultural Institution: The Smith Center for the Performing Arts

Best Steakhouse: Oscars

Best Pizza: Metro Pizza

Best Lunch: Triple George

Best Gym/Athletic Facility: 24 Hour Fitness in the Molasky Building

Best Massage: Sometimes you just can’t beat 15 minutes in a chair at the Fashion Show Mall.

Best Limousine/Driving Service: Las Vegas Limousines

Best Museum/Exhibit: Discovery Children’s Museum

Describe Las Vegas in three words: Arts and Entertainment

Favorite historic/legendary place to see or explore: Casa de Shenandoah — gotta love Wayne Newton!

All-around favorite spot in Las Vegas: Cabaret Jazz. It’s like a second home — great people come here to see great talent. It sounds great and feels comfortable.)

Best Aspect of Las Vegas: Great people