The numbers for gambling win and visitation in 2008 are in, and the results bear out what most already knew — Las Vegas had a tough 2008. In fact, it was the worst ever in terms of year-over-year comparisons. Statewide, the gambling win was down 9.7 percent from 2007, only the third time in 53 years that the win has decreased and the biggest percentage drop ever. It was worse on the Las Vegas Strip, where the win was down 10.6 percent. More troubling was a 4.4 percent decline in visitation to Las Vegas; the total fell from 2007's record 39.2 million to 37.5 million, the lowest number of visitors since 2004.

STRIKE FORCE: One positive on the road to economic recovery is the five-month-long U.S. Bowling Congress Open Championships, which kicked off in Las Vegas last week. The tournament is being held on lanes recently constructed inside an exhibition hall in the North Las Vegas Cashman Field complex, which is where the Las Vegas 51s baseball team plays. The event is expected to draw 85,000 bowlers and 240,000 spectators.

YUMMY: Information has been released on the restaurant lineup for M Resort, which opens March 1. M will debut with nine restaurants, including Marinelli's (Italian), Terzetto (steak & seafood with an oyster bar), Veloce Cibo (appetizers & sushi), Piazza Grille (Mediterranean), and a 24-hour coffee shop.

Q: With so many outstanding restaurants now located in Las Vegas, which is considered the best of the best?

Only one restaurant in Las Vegas has received the triple crown of eatery accolades — AAA 5 Stars, Mobil 5 Stars, and Michelin 3 Stars. It's Joel Robuchon at MGM Grand.

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