Review: Brad Garrett’s Comedy Club on the Las Vegas Strip

Okay, so you are hunting around for some chuckles on the Las Vegas Strip? Well, Brad Garrett’s Comedy Club at the MGM Grand just might be the ticket, or maybe it is a gamble that is really worth taking. See, going to a comedy club is always something of a wild card, and this one is set right in the heart of all that Vegas madness. It is something that you want to find out about before you just go throwing your hard-earned cash around, right?

The Vibe and Atmosphere, Arguably

So, when you step inside Brad Garrett’s Comedy Club, there is almost this feeling, just a very strong feeling of old-school Vegas charm, actually. Think exposed brick, very warm lighting, and photos of comedy legends that are covering the walls. You could say it is kind of got this very intimate setting, actually it has seats that are all relatively close to the stage, which, you know, means there are no really terrible seats in the house. As a matter of fact, you should prepare yourself for feeling like you are right there in the act, really up close and definitely personal.

Basically, what I am saying is that the vibe is something of a winner. Now, if you are thinking about massive, glitzy Vegas productions, maybe look somewhere else. But, really, if you want an authentic comedy club experience, where you feel like you could be in some underground comedy den in New York City or Los Angeles, then this place might be just that for you, like your perfect spot.

The Comedians, Basically

So, let’s be real, it is almost all about who is on the lineup. Okay, Brad Garrett, well, he pops in from time to time, that happens sometimes. And he is super hilarious. But, just so you know, what really matters is the mix of comedians he brings in. There is typically a headliner who is already a pretty seasoned pro, really. And then, you often get a few supporting acts that are either up-and-comers or very funny locals. What it means, actually, is that you can have something of a mixed bag, truly, you could see a comic that’s going to leave you in stitches, and one that has you glancing at your watch just a little. That said, they really do make a point of booking genuinely talented folks, honestly, you know?

The humor tends to veer toward observational and definitely adult-oriented, actually. Don’t come expecting any G-rated material. They can sometimes push those boundaries just a little, I want to be honest, but hey, it is Vegas, so I think you almost kind of knew that was coming, right? Seriously, though, it would be wise to check the lineup and maybe do some research on the comics beforehand if you are quite sensitive or easily offended.

Food and Drinks, Honestly

Okay, so there’s a full bar, of course, because what is a comedy show without it? There’s also the standard range of beers, wines, cocktails, it is a full offering, and they keep those drinks flowing right through the show. Prices, that is where they get you, they are very Vegas-like. Translation: it is more than you would usually spend at your local comedy haunt, really, much more. You might want to do a little pre-gaming before you arrive, just to save some dollars.

Now, there is really no substantial food served, and in most respects you are looking at basic snacks, very much like peanuts or pretzels, for example. The move is definitely to grab a meal elsewhere in the MGM Grand beforehand. There are also loads of good options to pick from, actually, in order to get you all set for the comedy.

The Overall Experience, Obviously

So, here is the thing, if you approach Brad Garrett’s Comedy Club understanding just a little bit what it is — an old-school, intimate comedy experience featuring very capable, but not always superstar, talent — you might walk away pretty darn satisfied. It’s pretty well-run, actually, the staff is friendly, the venue is just comfy, and the laughs are very frequent, not constant, just frequent, that is the right balance. The only real downside? Pretty high prices for drinks, basically, the kind you might fully anticipate in a location like the Vegas Strip.

Ultimately, that value depends on your taste in humor, the lineup for the evening you attend, and definitely how much you are prepared to shell out for a couple of cocktails. Do your homework, take a look at who’s performing, and get ready, if it’s a fit, for something pretty fun. Okay?

For someone who values stand-up with a classic atmosphere, or, conversely, even someone looking to find up-and-coming comedic talents, the club delivers an enjoyable evening. The club’s central location in MGM Grand allows very simple access to other entertainment and dining spots within the hotel both before and after a show, offering great overall convenience and versatility.