If the name sounds familiar then you might be a fan of the classic 1993 movie A Bronx Tale. In the movie, Chez Bippy was the bar that the gang frequented; this iteration is MGM Grand’s newest drinking and lounging hot spot.
But just as the bar in the movie was easily spotted on the corner of the Bronx neighborhood, this bar is a little harder to find, hence its speakeasy status. Look for the property’s newest Italian American restaurant, Luchini. The restaurant from Las Vegas nightlife and dining juggernaut The Tao Group is a “restaurant reminiscent of classic red sauce joints found throughout New York City.” Attached to the restaurant is the slice shop, a pizza-by-the-slice, quick-service counter where you can grab a slice to go or sit down at one of the few tables in the back. While you’re sitting in the back, see if you notice three candy vending machines. Behind one of the machines is the secret, Chez Bippy.
One of the machines pushes back to reveal red curtains—and through the curtains is the in-the-know, beautiful, bougie speakeasy. This intimate space houses just a few tables and sofa seating, and a few seats at the bar. The low lighting, marble-topped tables, luxurious fabrics and accessories add to Chez Bippy’s glamour. This is a perfect spot to dress up and sip in style.
The focus at this speakeasy is the specialty cocktails—elevated, impressive presentations that are twists on classic libations that implement Italian-inspired flavors.
Begin with the Fellini, inspired by director Federico Fellini. “The wafting smoke is evocative of Fellini’s ethereal, mystical films he’s known for making,” said Jan Padiernos, director of beverage for Tao Group and the creator of Chez Bippy’s cocktail menu. “This cocktail is a sweet and savory take on the classic Boulevardier cocktail.” It’s a mix of Bulleit bourbon, Campari, Barolo Chinato Cocchi and vanilla-anise tincture that is topped with a pizzelle, a classic Italian cookie. As it is presented tableside, the cocktail’s cover is lifted to reveal a waft of hickory smoke with a hint of cinnamon.
Fans of martinis should order the Martini Classico. The classic cocktail highlights the flavors of Italy with a mix of Absolut Elyx vodka that has been infused with pepperoncinis and then mixed with Dolin dry vermouth and a Castelvetrano olive and caper brine. The cocktail is then served with pepperoncinis, olives and fresh mozzarella on the side. A carafe holds the cocktail and rests on ice to keep it chilled until it is finished.
The Bella Notte is the perfect closure to the evening at Chez Bippy. “It’s an affogato meets an espresso martini,” Padiernos said. “It’s a satisfying conclusion to a beautiful evening, hence the name Bella Notte.” The sweet, delicious mix of Belvedere vodka, Licor 43, Borghetti coffee liqueur, Frangelico and freshly brewed espresso is poured over a scoop of vanilla gelato.
“When you come into Chez Bippy you’re coming into a transformative experience,” Padiernos said. “We have very skilled bartenders equipped to make anything, even off menu. Of course, we’d like guests to enjoy the cocktail menu that we’ve curated for them, but our team is very talented, and they like to express their creativity with cocktails.”
Tips/Insider Knowledge
• The speakeasy features a DJ
• Ask the staff at Luchini how to get inside Chez Bippy
• Try the spritz flight—three flavors for one price
• Ask about the amari program
• Chez Bippy is only open Friday and Saturday nights
MGM Grand, 702.891.7600
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