Photo Credit: Christopher DeVargas
Magician Mat Franco won the ninth season of “America’s Got Talent,” beating out hundreds of thousands of acts to become the first and only magician in history to win the show, including the $1 million prize. Now he celebrates his second year in Las Vegas with the theater he perform in at The Linq being renamed in his honor. “Mat Franco — Magic Reinvented Nightly” brings his nearly decade-long career as a professional magician to the stage. For tickets, head to MatFranco.com, He performs Thursday through Tuesday at 7 p.m., with a 4 p.m. matinee performance on Saturday for $59. Here he shares some of his favorite places in Las Vegas.
Where were you born: Johnston, Rhode Island
How long have you lived in Las Vegas: Two years
Neighborhood: Summerlin
Occupation: Magician
Favorite Restaurant: VegeNation
Best Sushi: Nobu
Best Italian: Carbone at Aria
Best dessert: Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream
Best place for a romantic date: Eiffel Tower Restaurant
Best Sunday brunch: Terrace Pointe Cafe at the Wynn
Best place for a power business meeting: Joe’s Seafood and Crab at Caesar’s Palace
If you have out of town guests, which hotel would you recommend? The Linq Hotel & Casino of course… I’m biased ;)
Favorite shopping venue/boutique: Downtown Summerlin
Favorite place to buy jewelry/watches: Fashion Show Mall
Best Spa: Mandarin Oriental
Favorite Charity Event: Each year I team up with Petco and radio station Sunny 106.5 to coordinate a supply and money drive benefiting the Animal Foundation, Nevada’s largest animal shelter.
Favorite Cultural Event: “First Friday” Downtown Las Vegas
Favorite Cultural Institution: The Mob Museum in Downtown Las Vegas
Best Steakhouse: I tend to stick to veggies.
Best Pizza: Evel Pie in Downtown Las Vegas
Best Lunch: Leoné Café
Best Gym/Athletic Facility: Lifetime Fitness or David Barton
Best Massage: Mandarin Oriental Spa
Best Limousine/Driving Service: Earth Limos
Best Museum/Exhibit: The Neon Museum
Describe your city in three words: Disney for adults
Favorite historic/legendary place to see or explore: Red Rock National Conservation Area
All-around favorite spot in Las Vegas: My theater at The Linq, it’s like my home away from home.
Best Aspect of Las Vegas: There is something for everyone… and whatever that may be… it’s probably available 24 hours a day!
