It was the movie For Love or Money starring Michael J. Fox that inspired Eli Micaiah to move to Las Vegas more than 20 years ago. “I wanted to be that guy,” he says. “Have those connections, be able to make things happen.” While the movie featured the hospitality world in New York, it was in Vegas that Micaiah made his mark. He helped open the iconic Tao restaurant and nightclub at The Venetian Resort and served as the general manager of Tao Beach; then consulted in the food and beverage industry in Vegas and other cities. For the past three years, Micaiah has been back on the Strip as the general manager for Happy Camper and neighboring restaurant El Segundo Sol, both at FSLV—Fashion Show Las Vegas.

“I walk into a different environment every second of every day—it’s fun,” he says. “I float back and forth between the two spots. El Segundo Sol has those Tulum vibes with house-made Mexican food, and Happy Camper is a sports bar-ish, just a great time-type place; you walk in here and can’t help but smile.”

It’s that good-time hospitality that Micaiah and his staff provide to their guests. As he was coming up in the industry, his mentors taught him the importance of putting your best foot forward and connecting with guests, and in turn Micaiah has become the mentor to the next generation.

“I love to watch people grow,” he says. “I love to watch them come up in the industry and be a small part of that. … Vegas is best in hospitality; other cities have nothing on Vegas.”

Photo by: Christopher DeVargas

Libation: Chalice of Aperol Spritz

“It looks like you’re a queen or king walking around with the Chalice of Aperol Spritz,” Micaiah says. The popular specialty cocktail is made with Giuliana prosecco, Aperol and soda.

Benefit: Don’t miss happy hour from 3-6 p.m. Mon.-Thurs., with food, beer, wine and cocktail options for $11 and under.

FSLV—Fashion Show Las Vegas. happycamper.pizza, elsegundosol.com

Feel like a true Vegas insider with the free Vegas2Go app! Discover the best of Las Vegas—right at your fingertips. From must-try restaurants and top shows to nightlife, attractions, and offers, Vegas2Go puts the city’s hottest experiences in the palm of your hand. Download for free on either the Apple Store or Google Play Store today.