Sports Deluxe   

The sports book always seemed like an afterthought in the Hard Rock. A few autographed athletes' jerseys were the only notable sights in the small betting parlor, with its standard-sized TVs and basic light-up board. But that all changed with the addition of Sports Deluxe, a dark, comfy lounge with a theater-style layout, plush leather chairs and six new flat screen monitors mounted above the friendly bartenders. The large U-shaped booths each have personal TVs. The bar is somewhat hidden from the main casino floor, intimate and quieter on the party-all-night weekends despite always being crowded. There's also a pool table, but put your name on the list, as it always seems to be in use. -- David Hofstede