Batter up! Five fabulous Las Vegas waffles (like Viva Las Elvis) just in time for Waffle Day

If you need an excuse to enjoy a hot waffle served with your favorite topping, thank Sweden -- but plan a trip to Las Vegas to indulge.

Every March 25, after emerging from a long, dark winter, Swedes mark the arrival of spring with an unofficial holiday they call Våffeldagen, or Waffle Day. It’s a time to clear out pantries in search of their beloved, heart-shaped waffle irons.

In Sweden, the crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside treats are traditionally served with jam and lightly whipped cream. In Vegas anything goes, even when it comes to waffles.

Here are five Las Vegas waffles that are anything but the usual batter.

--The Green Tea Waffle at Mozen Bistro at Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas. This Asian-influenced treat is made with Matcha green tea and served with lychee compote and passion fruit crème. Available during Weekend Brunch for $17.

--Foie Gras & Waffles at Andiron Steak & Sea in downtown Summerlin. Head to the suburbs for this unusual appetizer ($20) that comes with huckleberries, watercress and bourbon syrup.

--Chicken ‘n’ Watermelon ‘n’ Waffles at Yardbird Southern Table & Bar at the Venetian. The chef starts with waffles filled with Vermont sharp cheddar before adding fried chicken and spiced watermelon. For toppings, consider bourbon maple syrup or honey hot sauce. They’re on the brunch menu, priced at $36.

--The Banana Nana at Waffle Bar at Grand Bazaar Shops. This mall stall serves “grab-and-go� Liege (Belgian) waffles in five varieties. The Banana Nana ($9.49) is topped with sliced banana, whipped cream and powdered sugar. There’s no additional charge to add caramel, chocolate or raspberry sauce.

--The Viva Las Elvis at Tiabi Coffee & Waffle Bar (3961 S. Maryland Parkway). If you’re familiar with Elvis Presley’s favorite sandwich, you’ll understand why this waffle comes topped with bacon, bananas, honey and peanut butter. It’s priced at $6.99.

If you need another waffle day in your year, mark your calendar for Aug. 24.

That’s National Waffle Day here in America. The date recognizes the first U.S. patent for a stove-top waffle iron, issued in 1869 to Cornelius Swartwout of Troy, N.Y.

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