Las Vegas, the city that never sleeps, has unveiled its latest secret: The Vault at the Bellagio, a cocktail lounge that’s as elusive as it is exclusive. In a city known for its flashy announcements and over-the-top openings, The Vault chooses subtlety, almost whispering its presence. Here’s a peek into this hidden gem that’s rewriting the rulebook of luxury lounges.
The Entrance: A Secret Only For The Knowing
Picture this: you’re strolling through the Bellagio, one of Vegas’ most opulent hotels. Amid the clinking of slot machines and the dazzle of the casino, you find yourself at the casino cage. Nearby, a doorman stands unassumingly. No grand signage, no loud announcement – just a nod, and you’re in. This isn’t your average Vegas bar; this is The Vault, where exclusivity is the name of the game.
The Vault, once a nondescript office for casino hosts, has been transformed into an intimate alcove of luxury. With only 10 tables and a 50-person capacity, including a cozy 8-seat bar, it’s a world away from the bustling Vegas floor. The main parlor keeps the lights low and music at just the right volume without overwhelming the conversation. The décor screams opulence – gold doors, mohair walls, and an overhead light fixture, spanning nearly 9’ wide, showers a constellation of 80 glowing globes over bartenders dressed so suavely they could moonlight as GQ models. They pour and stir artfully, transforming a drink into an event, a performance, an odyssey.
A Symphony of Spirits: The Art of Mixology
The Vault’s drink menu is an ode to the art of cocktail making. Browsing the drink list is like flipping through the pages of a magazine with large photos dominating full pages. Four “Vintage Cocktails” are made with older out-of-circulation spirits curated through auction houses and private collectors. Each one is listed as “MP” for market price. The Captain’s Sidecar, with its 1930s Remy Martin, transports you back to a World War 1 era favoring the romantic story of an American army captain who invented the drink while serving in Paris during the Great War. Or try the Gold Rush Martinez, a gin-based twist on the Manhattan, featuring Beefeater from the 1950s. It’s not just a drink; it’s a journey through history. Craig Schoettler, Executive Director of Beverage, MGM Resorts International points out, “Now more than ever, visitors are looking for experiences when they travel. At The Vault, the cocktail itself becomes the experience. We offer a very special collection of rare and unique spirits from brands throughout the 20th century, which allows guests to “drink history” and understand exactly how a spirit tasted during a specific time period. Once that vintage is gone, it’s gone forever, which means a guest has the opportunity to discover something new each time they visit.”
A Culinary Companion: Indulgence in Every Bite
Food at The Vault isn’t just an afterthought; it’s a carefully crafted companion to the drinks. Petrossian caviars, with their rich and velvety textures, create a symphony of flavors, especially when paired with their homemade potato chips. The Basque Bikini, a contender for the world’s thinnest grilled cheese, is a testament to culinary innovation. And for the meat lovers, the Japanese A5 Wagyu tenderloin, served either as a steak sandwich or nigiri, is a decadent indulgence. Bellagio Vice President of Food & Beverage, Josef Wagner, encapsulates the visitors’ experience perfectly, “Guests find that it satisfies any rare spirit-collector cravings and provides culinary delights for the most sophisticated foodies”.
In a city where the new and the noisy often take the spotlight, The Vault at the Bellagio is a refreshing change. It’s not about the hype; it’s about the experience – discreet, exclusive, and utterly indulgent. It’s a place where the high standards of a true jetsetter are not just met but exceeded. This is not just a bar; it’s a statement – one that says luxury isn’t always about being the loudest in the room; sometimes, it’s about being the best-kept secret. So, if you’re looking for a taste of the high life, away from the public eye, The Vault at the Bellagio awaits. Just remember, it’s a secret worth keeping.