Question of the Day 2021-03-16

Of the current Top Ten, which one has been on the list the longest?

We had to go back and take a good look, because three Top Ten values were in contention.

We found that the Mac King Comedy and Magic afternooner first hit the Top Ten in May 2001. It's true that it's not current, but we have no reason to believe that it won't come back, both to Harrah's and the Top Ten, when large-scale entertainment returns after the pandemic is under control. Its hiatus is an aberration, so we include it here for reference. Interestingly, when it was first listed, you could attend the show for $5.95 with a ubiquitous coupon. That was a bargain.

The Ellis Island complete steak dinner showed up in December 1997. At the time, it was a 10-ounce filet-cut cooked-to-order top sirloin, salad, potato, garlic bread, and dinner rolls and it cost only $2.95. There was no arguing with that price, nor with the fact that it was served 24 hours a day. Even the mighty Binion's Horseshoe, with its own $3 steak dinner (which had been raised from $2), didn't dare make it available during prime times (it was strictly a graveyard special).

Finally, you might be surprised to learn that Arizona Charlie's steak and eggs breakfast, number 5 in the current Top Ten, was first listed in July 1995. Believe it or not, it's the exact same meal -- two eggs, a small charbroiled steak or a big hamsteak, hash browns, and toast available 24/7 (at the original Decatur location). Back then, it cost $2.49. Twenty-six years later, it costs $5.99. The meal never abating, the price barely inflating -- all in all, AZ Chaz' breakfast special is a worthy Top Ten value for the most longevity.

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Comments

Adam Cohen Mar-16-2021

Great tips

I found my way to Mac King and to Ellis Island because of the tips on here. I would have thought Ellis Island was older but they are both great deals.  I still go to Mac King especially when I go with people who are new to Vegas and the show always gets laughs.  As for Ellis I do not go as much but do make it out there every few years. I have to ask was this a written-in question or is it one you all created either way I enjoyed it. I have also wondered how people like Mac King are supporting themselves.  I have seen a few like Ronn Lucas are now doing virtual shows for groups.

Christopher Sterbenz Mar-16-2021

Breakfast

The Arizona Charlie's breakfast is a good solid meal, no scrimping. Had it a couple times during my last visit over Christmas.

VegasVic Mar-16-2021

Mac King

King's show is fun.  It's a nice hour break in the afternoon.  Sure he's corny but that's part of the appeal.

Edso Mar-16-2021

Same here, Adam

Knew about the Mac King and Ellis Island deals because of LVA.  Still a great show by Mac King, even when you've seen it a few times, and since my wife and I like playing at the Tuscany, it's a quick stroll over to the Ellis Island for a cheapo dinner.

Luis Mar-16-2021

Breath of fresh air

After a full year of pandemic, after all the price hikes, paid parking, resort fees, de-theming, cancelation of shows, etc, it's realy nice to have good old Mac King still, and Ellis Islands steak special, and Arizona Charlies steak and eggs special, they are just a reminder of what vegas was and should be, fun, and value with all that vegas brings (even if it's not what it used to. Shure I still refuse to park, stay ore gamble in strip places, but it still is fun to be in Vegas

steve crouse Mar-16-2021

great value

I've never been to see Mac King, but I doubt that I could count the times for Ellis Island, and AC specials.

Question of the Day - 16 March 2021

Comments