Keep eyes on the tigers as big cats return to show

The new Dirk Arthur Wild Illusions at the Riviera brings something back to the Strip that’s been missing for several years: tigers. The show uses live tigers and other big cats in several segments, a practice that used to be common but had been all but discontinued in recent years.

This is a fun show featuring "big magic," with cars and helicopters, along with those tigers, disappearing and appearing out of nowhere. Tickets are priced below $50, and discount options are available from several sources, including the half-price ticket booths.

Not so fast: Correcting an error in this column last week, The Park at New York-New York/Monte Carlo is scheduled to open in spring 2016 at the same time as the adjacent MRI/AEG sports arena, rather than at the end of this year.

Shake Shack: Speaking of NY-NY, the New York-based Shake Shack has opened on the Strip in front of the casino. It’s the first West Coast location for the chain famous for its burgers, flat-top dogs and freshly made frozen custard.

MBay HH: Mandalay Bay’s rm Seafood has a revamped happy hour featuring $2 oysters on the half shell, littleneck clams and mussels; $4 gulf shrimp; and $7 sushi rolls, along with $3 domestic drafts and $7 well drinks, wines and specialty cocktails. It runs daily from 3 to 6 p.m.

Super coupons: The Las Vegas Advisor Member Rewards Book is now available, featuring 133 discount offers on dining, shows, and gambling, good throughout 2015. It’s the best of its kind for Las Vegas and comes with LVA membership that starts at $37. Check it out at LasVegasAdvisor.com.

QUESTION: The Pasta Pirate that closed last year at the California was one of my favorite restaurants. Is a replacement planned?

ANSWER: Signs are up at the former Pasta Pirate location indicating that the replacement restaurant will be the California Noodle House, though an opening date isn’t provided. Another sign says that "Pasta Pirate favorites" are now being served at the Redwood Bar & Grill.

For more information about Las Vegas shows, buffets, coupons and good deals, go to www.LasVegasAdvisor.com.