I am one of the main characters in an upcoming series on a major network that is based on gambling and sports betting. However, I have signed a waiver that says I am not allowed to talk about it in too much detail.
There are many documentaries on Las Vegas and gambling that have been done in the past. In my opinion, most of them have not been very good. I think that is due to either the creative minds behind the show, who wanted to portray Vegas with artistic flair, or they were lacking consultants who really knew the pulse of this gambling town.
For this show, I decided to give the producer and his staff some of my suggestions. I am happy to say that they listened to me on my first one and decided to film an episode in one of the City’s “last of the Mohican” restaurants, Piero’s.
Piero’s Italian Cuisine has been the meeting place for Las Vegas’ high-powered decision-makers for almost 40 years. Top casino executives, mobsters, politicians, captains of industry, the City’s founding families, and even the Rat Pack, put Piero’s on the map as the City’s place to dine and drink. The “who’s who” come for the cuisine, but also frequent the Las Vegas landmark for its secluded dining areas away from prying ears, as well as the discreet staff, who are attentive without being overbearing.
In 1995, the movie Casino, with Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci and Sharon Stone was filmed here. The place hasn’t really changed since then and you can still sit in the same booth where De Niro and Stone filmed their scenes.
A few of my scenes were with owner Freddie Glusman (and one of the voices that direct you in the Mob Museum located downtown). He gave us a tour of his upstairs offices; and brother, all I can tell you is that if these walls could only talk…. 100’s of personalized photos and memorabilia line the walls. Jerry Tarkanian, Moe Dalitz, Tony Spilotro, Fat Tony Salerno, Frank Sinatra, Kirk Kerkorian, Jerry Lewis just to name a few.
Freddie tells us that he was friends with both Colonel Parker and Elvis Presley, and they signed their first contract on a tablecloth at the International, right in front of him. Many of the above-mentioned have dined here multiple times. Whether you have a steak, seafood, or one Piero’s classics, such as garbage caesar salad, or Osso Buco, you simply cannot go wrong in this place. However, be sure you make a reservation because you definitely need it at this staple.
I had dinner with three friends, who are also sports bettors. They were telling their war stories from the weekend. I find it so amazing that they spend so much time with me, yet choose to select most of their own games. This is due to multiple factors, including ego. One of them said that he has been doing his own research for the last two years, rather then the old-fashioned way of reading a newspaper and watching ESPN. I asked him how he has been doing, and he said he “loses a little less this way.” One of my companions actually said “What good is it if I can’t pick my own games and win?”
All I can say is that the worst allergy you can have in life is to money. I personally have no problem listening to someone if they can make me money in the end. Check your ego at the door and get the cash on the way out.
This week’s selections: Arizona/Oregon over 63. Hawaii/Fresno State over 58.
Last week: 2-0
Season: 10-11-1