Hi Kris - I got your PM, but it wouldn't let me reply on the PM for some reason. Yes we are having our In-Suite there. No we haven't asked them specifically if we can have outside catering, I don't think any brides that have an in-suite at any hotel ask them directly if they allow it or not. I think they try to deter you from it of course, because they want you to use their catering. But it's kind of like, those kind of rooms are for parties and such, they have to expect people would have parties etc. in there. I saw a post by someone recently that said how they legally can't do anything about it, I can't remember axactly what she said but it was worded really well and made sense.
Scott at Masterpiece says he has no problems getting food in. I totally agree with you on the location aspect though, and the Hospitality Suite at Aria is bigger than the Vista by almost 400 more sq. ft., those were our deciding factors. And the hotel is new which is kinda nice!
I would feel confident in it, but that's just my opinion:) Good luck deciding!