Haute Secrets Las Vegas: Magician Mat Franco Shares His Secrets

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!