I'm used to playing in Atlantic City where the tables are dirty, the room is filthy, and the ambience is stale. Bellagio is like a warm comfortable bed compared to most of the places I've played. The tables are clean and well maintained. Not having cup holders helps keep the tables clean. The chairs are top notch. Being able to rotate and lean back is terrific. The seat padding is great. The air filtration is wonderful as well. No smoke to speak of. Chips are clean and tasteful. Overall, it's a beautiful room and well cared for.
At the lowest limit (4-8) its a great game. I realize that it tightens up at higher levels especially 15-30 and above. But, Bellagio's players are used to throwing down large sums of cash, so why not buy in for a few hundred and play the hottest trend. During the day there are a lot of locals; grinders and rocks. It can be difficult. But, after dinner, even during the week, the game has a lot of action compared to the East Coast. There are usually about 2 newbies per table and 2 additional fish. The grinders leave around 6pm, so 9pm-2am is prime time.
The dealers are quick, friendly, and professional. A few stand out as terrific and in about 50 hours of play over two trips I haven't found anyone below average.
During the day and late night the service can become a little slow with very few waitresses. But, in prime time they are generally fast. Most of the waitresses have implants, which they flaunt, something that I don't like, but they are all friendly and attractive.
This room is run perfectly. Well run lists at low limits that are cleared of dead names regularly. The announcements are clear and loud. Table switches are made with ease.
I don't play for comps so I don't care, but the mid-week poker rate is good if plan to play a lot and want to stay in style.