Las Vegas Influencer Calls Out Theater Over Exorbitant Price for Two Margaritas

Influencer highlights $180 charge for two margaritas at Dolby Live, sparking backlash over price-gouging practices in Sin City

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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A Las Vegas influencer with over 3 million followers called out the Dolby Live theater at the Park MGM for charging a couple $180 for two margaritas. The influencer shared a receipt showing the exorbitant charges, including a $100 'VIP Upsell Cocktails' fee and a $25.85 'administrative fee,' on top of taxes. This sparked a wider discussion about the loss of budget-friendly options and perks for visitors in Las Vegas, as venues increasingly implement fees and upcharges.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing concerns among Las Vegas visitors about the city's shift away from budget-friendly experiences, with venues implementing steep fees and upcharges that price out many travelers. As Las Vegas aims to attract high-end clientele, there are calls to expose and reform these price-gouging practices that make the city less accessible to the average visitor.

The details

According to the influencer, a couple attending a Zayn Malik residency show at Dolby Live were charged $180 for two margaritas. The receipt showed $17.50 for two bottled waters, $100 for the 'VIP Upsell Cocktails,' $25.85 for an 'administrative fee,' and $9.85 in taxes, for a total of $180.78 before tip. The influencer noted that the waitress did not specify the type of margarita being charged, and the VIP section did not include any additional amenities beyond a dedicated server.

  • The incident occurred during a Zayn Malik residency show at Dolby Live in Las Vegas in February 2026.

The players

Jen G.

A Las Vegas influencer with over 3 million followers on social media, who goes by the handle @VegasStarFish.

Dolby Live

A theater located at the Park MGM in Las Vegas, where the incident took place.

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What they’re saying

“This is exactly what turns people away from visiting our city & exposing these antics will help future visitors make informed decisions.”

— Jen G., Las Vegas Influencer (Instagram)

What’s next

The influencer's call-out of the exorbitant pricing at Dolby Live has sparked wider discussions about the need for greater transparency and reform of price-gouging practices in the Las Vegas entertainment industry.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the growing concerns among Las Vegas visitors about the city's shift away from budget-friendly experiences, as venues increasingly implement steep fees and upcharges that price out many travelers. There are calls to expose and reform these practices to make Las Vegas more accessible to the average visitor.