Swanky art deco cocktail lounge elevates the already-luxurious Strip resort….
This past August, I penned a piece extolling the virtues of (and my love for) the Palazzo. Dripping with elegance and style, Venetian‘s high-end sister property offers a contemporary twist on top-tier resorts…and won my award for favorite five-star accommodations.
Now Palazzo has upped the ante with Rosina Cocktail Bar. Adding a page to the latest chapter of Venetian/Palazzo‘s evolution, Rosina builds on the momentum established by The Dorsey this summer. That cocktail lounge, with creations by famed mixologist Sam Ross, has already set a new standard for Venetian‘s lounge offerings.
While The Dorsey is an interesting mixture of old-school vibe (the library and fireplace are especially cozy) with contemporary music and hip DJ’s, Rosina harkens back to an era of sexy glamour and utter sophistication. It’s hard not to be mesmerized by the glossy blacks and shiny golds that make up the jewelry box-like exterior of this cocktail retreat.
Inside, lush chandeliers preside over four maroon-colored banquettes, small cocktail tables with pearl-colored leather chairs and high bar tables with stools in burgundy-covered cushions and backs.
The 65-seat room is intimate, providing for impeccable service and attention to every detail. That includes an original beverage menu which celebrates the classic cocktails of bygone eras.
Upon arriving for a media preview, our party was led towards a glamorous lady posed upon the left side of the bar. This “cocktail fortune teller” asked each of us a few questions before suggesting a particular cocktail to start our evening.
Her recommendation for me was a Dark ‘N Stormy (from the “Shaken Cocktails” list – $18). Crafted from Bermuda rum, lime, fresh ginger and club soda inside a tall glass with a bar of hand-embossed ice, it reminded me of a high-powered Moscow Mule with a lot of sass. Additional shaken cocktails include the Daiquiri, Tom Collins, Presbyterian, Mai Tai and Gimlet.
Dark ‘N Stormy
Mai Tai
Daiquiri
The fortune teller steered my companion towards a Martini from the “Stirred Cocktails” menu (all $18). Made with gin, dry vermouth and either a lemon twist or olive, it was as smooth as it was lovely to look at. Other stirred cocktails include Mint Julep, Manhattan, Old Fashioned and Negroni.
Old Fashioned
Later in the evening, I desired something fizzy. That meant a French ’75 (gin, champagne and lemon) from the “Bubbly” classics list, which also offered an Airmail (rum, honey, lime, champagne) and Jimmie Roosevelt (cognac, green chartreuse, bitters and champagne – all $22).
French ’75
Speaking of bubbly…if you’re out of champagne (four selections from France), there’s an innovative call button within reach. With it, you can have your flute topped off immediately. You won’t want to rush things, though, as the relaxing and elegant atmosphere will have you wondering where the time went.
A curated soundtrack of blues, jazz, soul and classic R & B plays overhead, ensuring that the mood is as classy as the cocktail in your glass. Be sure to ask your server about seasonal and daily specials while you’re there.
If you’re in the mood for wine, you can choose one of five whites from Germany, New Zealand, Italy, France and of course…California. Six red wines are brought in from Italy, California, Washington and this writer’s home of Willamette Valley, Oregon.
Perhaps it’s no accident that Rosina Cocktail Bar is right around the corner from Palazzo Theater. That’s where the stunning Gatsby-era BAZ – A Musical Mash-up performs Tuesday through Sunday at 7 pm. The two compliment each other perfectly, much like Bourbon Room once invited Rock of Ages guests to party on after the show.
You won’t need Gatsby’s tuxedo or Daisy’s sparkling gowns to enjoy a cocktail at Rosina, but it’s most definitely a dress-up atmosphere. So be sure to pack your favorite evening wear and immerse yourself in the shiny beauty of Rosina Cocktail Bar.
Rosina Cocktail Bar is nestled along the east side of Palazzo’s gaming floor. Hours of operation are from 5 pm through 3 am daily. The venue is available to host special events by calling 702.607.1945
Photos: Sammasseur, Anthony Mair, Palazzo Hotel and Casino
VEGAS UNFILTERED BLOG by Sam Novak 