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Bellagio Continues to Shine as Only Hotel in the Country with Two Five Diamond Restaurants

LAS VEGAS - For the sixth consecutive year, Bellagio has received AAA's prestigious Five Diamond Award as did Julian Serrano's renowned restaurant, Picasso. Additionally, Le Cirque received the distinction for the fourth consecutive year, making Bellagio once again the only hotel in the United States to be home to two AAA Five Diamond restaurants.

"These AAA distinctions are a tremendous honor and recognize the commitment each of our employees makes every day,? said William P. McBeath, president and COO of Bellagio. "We consistently strive to maintain the highest level of quality for our guests. Recognitions such as AAA's tell us that we are succeeding in that area."

Picasso and Le Cirque are among only four restaurants in Las Vegas to earn this coveted award. With many of the finest restaurants in the world located in Las Vegas, this honor substantiates these restaurants' tremendous achievements.

Julian Serrano, executive chef at Picasso, said, "To receive this prestigious award for six consecutive years is a great honor and reaffirms to our team that we are successful in creating an exceptional dining experience."

The regions of France and Spain where Picasso spent much of his life inspire Chef Serrano's exceptional Mediterranean cuisine. Picasso masterpieces, as well as a collection of his charming ceramic pieces, further delight the senses of diners enjoying the Picasso experience.

Created by Sirio Maccioni, known as the world's most charismatic restaurateur, Le Cirque invites guests to indulge and relish world-class wines, haute cuisine and luxurious service in an intimate setting. Le Cirque's opulent dining room is complemented by a breathtaking panoramic view of Bellagio's lake.

Mario Maccioni, creator of Le Cirque, said, "At Le Cirque, our goal is to provide a memorable experience for every guest who comes through our doors. We are thrilled to receive this award once again."

Michael Geeser, spokesperson for AAA Nevada, said, "In attaining multiple Five Diamond Awards, Bellagio, Picasso and Le Cirque have been able to show they can provide the highest level of service while maintaining that level on a consistent basis. High-level service and consistency are hallmarks of Five Diamond properties and Bellagio embodies it. They've also elevated Las Vegas' reputation as one of the premier destinations in the world."

AAA evaluated more than 60,000 hotels and dining establishments across the United States, Canada, Caribbean and Mexico throughout a 12-month period. Of those, only 93 resorts and 58 restaurants earned the highly coveted AAA Five Diamond rating for 2007.

To be considered for AAA rating and approval, restaurants and lodgings undergo a thorough evaluation by full-time, trained, professional tourism editors. Five Diamond establishments go through a much more extensive review. The entire experience, from arrival through departure, is taken into account.