9Group manager a part of cool changes at Palms
By Kiko Miyasato
Yassine Lyoubi
Recently, Palms Casino Resort has been undergoing a metamorphosis. And when it is complete, among the many people contributing will have been Yassine Lyoubi. As an executive general manager at 9Group, Lyoubi oversees N9ne Steakhouse, Nove Italiano and Palms’ newest bar, Scarlet. “The Palms is going through some awesome changes right now, and I wanted to be a part of that,” Lyoubi said.
The UNLV hotel management grad oversees Scarlet, a beautiful new space that practices the art of mixology. “The bartenders are really passionate about what they do,” he said. “We wanted to create something new, unique, separate from your average bar. … We created an experience.” And the experience at Scarlet is intimate, sexy and special. The cocktails are carefully constructed using interesting spirits, fresh juices, original infusions and uncommon garnishes. Capacity at Scarlet is unique, too—it seats only seven people, with about 15 fitting comfortably inside. The small space allows for close interaction with the bartender. You might even catch Lyoubi, an experienced bartender, mixing the drinks occasionally.
The Moroccan native, who has lived more than 15 years in Vegas, has no plans to leave anytime soon. “My favorite part of the job is when the doors are open, music’s on, lights are dim and we’re ready to start service. That’s the best part … now the fun takes place.”
Alive & Well
You won’t be able to stop saying “mmmmm” when sipping this cocktail, especially when tasting the sorbet scoop that rests in the center. The Alive & Well is one of the more popular cocktails at Scarlet. Simple and elegant, it’s made with Platino rum, lime sour and a small scoop of grapefruit sorbet (made fresh daily by the Palms’ pastry department). The top of the glass is sprayed liberally with a maraschino cherry mist.
