11/20/06

A chocolate and ice cream sanctuary amidst the mayhem...

by freebie_grabber

If you can brave the long walk, the crowds, the noise, the filth, the escort service flyers, and 90-decibel music, then you owe it to yourself to make a stop in Ghirardelli. It's tucked into the back corner of a little plaza (largely consisting of souvenir shops, knick-knack huts and a karaoke stage) beside the Imperial Palace on the strip. Place your order at the front counter and then relax at a table -- the staff will bring your treats directly to you. Enjoy a few free samples while you wait. I recommend the banana split sundae, but substitute caramel topping for pineapple. Their ice cream and chocolate is so good, you'll almost forget that you're sitting directly next door to the world's worst karaoke -- you can hear it thudding through the walls as you eat. Brave groups of hungry people can attempt to finish their ~$25 "Earthquake"!

• Pros: Yummy!
• Cons: Prepare yourself for the noise from next door...