Bye, SLS Las Vegas: Sahara name to return to the Strip

Special for The Republic

After much speculation, it’s official that SLS Las Vegas will be renamed to a version of the property’s original name, Sahara Las Vegas. The Sahara name was in place from 1952 to 2011, when it became SLS and went through a series of ownership changes. The current owner, the Meruelo Group, also owns the Grand Sierra in Reno and is expected to return the resort to a more customer-friendly stance, as opposed to the upscale strategy put in place at SLS. The resort is in the midst of a $100 million renovation that has already transformed the look and travel paths inside the casino.

Ambra at MGM: The Italian restaurant Fiamma has closed at MGM Grand after nearly 15 years. Its replacement is another Italian restaurant called Ambra Italian Kitchen & Bar. The restaurant will join the “hidden room” trend with Privata, touted as a speakeasy that will serve high-end alcohol. Ambra is scheduled to open in August.

Cat’s karaoke: A branch of the famous New Or

leans karaoke bar Cat’s Meow has opened downtown. On the second floor of the Neonopolis complex at the east end of the Fremont Street Experience, the 10,000-square-foot space features a concert-quality sound system, an MC to help out on stage and 40,000 songs in its karaoke library. It’s open from 2 p.m. to 5 a.m. daily and has a two-drink minimum.

Strat renovation: The Strat (formerly the Stratosphere) is in the midst of a $140 million renovation. Targeted areas are the casino floor, including an upgraded sports book; restaurants; and guest rooms. Recently completed were a sports book upgrade and an extensive remodel of the tower’s indoor-outdoor observation deck on the 108th and 109th floors, which introduced the restaurant 108 Eats by James Trees and the bar 108 Drinks.

$2 draft beer: If you’re at The Strat and want a change of pace, check out the Aztec Inn across the street. The little slot house is a bit rough around the edges, but draft beer at the big bar is just $2 around the clock.

Apache Hotel opens: The 81-room boutique Apache Hotel at Binion’s has opened. The rooms feature vintage 1930s furnishings, hardwood floors and stained-glass windows; a new front desk is in the old lobby to check in guests. A quick survey of rates reveals weekdays for $99 and weekends for $199. There’s no resort fee.

Lobster price increase: After one month, the price of the all-you-can-eat lobster buffet at Silverton that runs from 4 to 9 p.m. Fridays has increased by $2 to $39.99 ($37.99 when you show a players card). Still a good deal if you don’t mind the long lines.

Korean BBQ: Chosun Hwaro and Nara Teppan have opened in the Miracle