barMASA is one of the most understated yet elegant restaurants in Las Vegas. If you'd like the inside scoop on this fashionable restaurant -- complete with tidbits like how to dress and where to get the best seat, or what Shaboo provides that the main dining area does not -- please read on.

Reservations are strongly recommended, if not required, and can be made by calling the restaurant directly or clicking the "Make a Reservation Link" on ARIA's website.

barMASA and Shaboo have distinctly different seating arrangements. They are strategically placed so that no matter where you are sitting, you will neither overhear or be overheard by the other diners in the room. Seating is more than generous, as there are both oblong and rectangular tables. Tables for four are in two sizes: There's an oblong table, which is about 53 inches, and a square one, which is about 30 inches for two. Armless chairs were 23 inches wide and upholstered in leather. Additionally, you can dine at the bar, if you so desire, where seating consists of high armless red leather chairs with low backs. Shaboo chairs are similar to the restaurant's chairs, only yellow but just as comfortable.

The atmosphere at Bar Masa is one of subtle elegance. Music plays throughout the dining room. Chef Masa, along with his general manager Keisha Teel and his assistant manager Jerome Dimacali, runs a tight ship. Under their collaborative direction, service is exceptional and seamless. Our server, Bonnie, could not have been more helpful or nice and knowledgeable. Our every desire was anticipated and taken care of at the bat of an eye. Considering the vastness of the room, never did we hear a word of another guest's conversation. The experience was remarkable. Black napkins were provided for those wearing black, while white napkins were the standard. Food was served in boxes marked "B.M." for Bar Masa; they were designed by Chef Masa himself, as were the settings for each course. Although Bar Masa is large and cavernous, Shaboo offers a more intimate experience, with lower ceilings, windows and a generous but cozy feeling. If you're dining at Shaboo, it's important to note that although you can guide your experience, you cannot choose a particular item or preparation; Shaboo offers a prixe fixe omakase ("trust me") menu that changes daily and costs $500.

The restrooms have same-level access as the main dining room and are located off the main entry behind the bar. The rooms are more than generous.

The required dress code is business casual.

Gratis valet parking is available at ARIA Resort & Casino, as is gratis self-parking. There are also multiple cabs available at the hotel, and a tram to travel between CItyCenter properties.

Three-Starred Michelin Chef/Creator Masayoshi Takayama's multiple restaurants have received many acclaims over the years, including a Mobil Five-Star Award, a New York Times four-star review, a Michelin three-star award and a four-star award from the Los Angeles Times. Chef Masa, meanwhile, has been named as one of New York's Top 50 chefs by Travel + Leisure. Furthermore, Richard Bloch, who designed Masa and Bar Masa in New York, recently received a James Beard Foundation design award. Because Bar Masa has just recently opened, it hasn't yet had enough time to garner any awards; we believe the accolades will come soon enough, however.

*Please note that the restaurants featured at TravelsinTaste.com may have changed their personnel, menu, pricing, decor, hours of operation, etc., since our last visit. The competitive and creative nature of the fine dining scene virtually assures that changes will occur on a frequent basis in order to make diners happier, meals more pleasurable and visits more frequent. Given their frequent fluctuations, most restaurants welcome inquiries about their current hours, menu and more.