Robert Montero is the director of VIP services of nightlife and daylife for SLS Las Vegas. This industry veteran has been working in nightlife since 2004 and worked his way up from a promoter at the classic Body English nightclub at the Hard Rock Hotel to his current position with the mega-sbe property at the head of the Strip. He particularly oversees VIP teams for Foxtail Nightclub and Pool Club, The Sayers Club, LUX pool and the newest addition to the family, live music venue, The Foundry. The Nevada local is from the neighboring Henderson, so he definitely has a solid handle on where to go and what to see when you’re in town for a visit. Check out what Montero has to offer up in terms of Vegas experience and expertise.
Where are your favorite tourist destinations on the Strip?
I’ve seen a lot of changes on the Strip through the years but there are a few attractions that I still love. The Volcano at the Mirage, the Bellagio fountains, and walking through the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace or The Shops at Crystals.
What do you suggest for a Vegas newbie to go do on their first trip to the Strip?
Best advice I could give would be to simply start off at one end of the strip and walk down and back. There is so much to see.
Where are the best pregame spots to go to before the club?
The center bar in most hotels is always a pretty happening spot, especially right before everyone heads out to the different nightclubs. As for restaurants, I would have to say Cleo at SLS would be my favorite pregame restaurant. Both the food and service there are amazing. The atmosphere perfectly transitions into a night of partying.
Where are the best late-night food places to go to after the club?
I’m more a fan of skipping the afterhours and getting up early for the pool parties the next day. As for late night food: The Peppermill, Pho Kim Long, and DJK Korean BBQ are all excellent options and I always run into industry friends at these late night.
Who are your favorite resident artists from your club?
I am a huge fan of the old school. Our parties with Method Man and Redman are always exciting for me. They put on a great show and the crowd is always having fun.
Do you have any tips for Vegas newbies for going to the club?
Dress nice and be polite. It’s really that simple. So often people come to the door of a nightclub and don’t understand how far common courtesy will get you. The guys and girls that work those ropes deal with thousands of people a night. A simple please and thank you can go a long way.
What is your favorite show on the Strip?
Live music and concerts from a wide range of genres: from classic rock and hip-hop to modern pop and EDM. It’s one of the reasons I’m so excited about our new venue, The Foundry. We have something for everyone. All of the Cirque shows are great as well. But my favorite show would award would go to Absinthe. I have seen it at least a dozen times it never gets old and take all my friends and family when they want to go out and do something.
How can a Vegas tourist make the most of their stay on the Strip?
Sleep on the plane ride in, party while you are here, and sleep on the plane back.