The Las Vegas version of Serendipity 3 is like a movie sequel, one that disappoints rather than continues your love for the original.
Once upon a time, John Cusack fell in love with Kate Beckinsdale in movie make-believe at a little whimsical chocolate shop in uptown Manhattan and sent Serendipity 3 into a dizzying spiral of Hollywood fame and public craze.
When I lived in Manhattan 4 years ago, along with hundreds of tourists on a Saturday morning, I waited to experience the fantasy of movie magic and the famed Frozen Hot Chocolate in this fairytale of a chocolate shop/eatery. It was fun for the experience. The chocolate was outstanding and the food was all right.
It is four years later in Vegas, nine years since the movie and long past the 15 minutes given to Serendipity 3. A location of this charming original opens up right in front of Caesars Palace to cater to undiscriminating tourists in their hung-over states. The overblown decor becomes cheesy, not whimsical. The glamorous fair food comes with mediocre quality.
At best, you can say you've been to Serendipity 3. I suggest getting the desserts at the take-out stand rather than waiting for a seat at the restaurant. You'll have a better time seeing the movie again.