Since opening 5 years ago, the Cosmopolitan has been one of the best places in Las Vegas to gather for a drink or three. Already boasting a trio of popular lounges (Bond, Chandelier, and Vesper) the latest change, in the center of the casino floor, sees the Cosmo upping the ante with CliQue taking over the space formerly occupied by Book & Stage.
Photo Courtesy of Clique Hospitality
CliQue Bar & Lounge is brought to you by Clique Hospitality which was founded by Andy Masi, the former Light Group founder and CEO. Light Group worked with both nightclubs and restaurants and Clique Hospitality will look to do the same. Offering an upscale and low-key environment, Clique combines delicious cocktails and an atmosphere that you might expect from an upscale bar with table snacks worthy of a fine dining restaurant.
After sampling a few signature cocktails, there was one that clearly stood out from the others on the menu. Blackbeard’s Delight ($18) includes Bulleit bourbon, blackberry, lemon mint and ginger beer. It was both delicious and refreshing. The drink was precisely crafted by Viviana who was making similarly elaborate cocktails in a flash all night.
Cocktails & Fried Oreos at CliQue
The real surprise of the evening at CliQue were the snacks. While there are plenty of fancy finger foods made gourmet style, there was nothing like the chef’s gourmet take on Fried Oreos ($9). The actual Fried Oreos were so good that they didn’t need the vanilla Anglaise dipping sauce that accompanied the order. The Fried Oreos were a fantastic compliment to the signature cocktails.
The overall experience at CliQue was fantastic and there is even consideration for the gamblers at the Cosmopolitan. Even though CliQue is a fancy schmancy lounge there are 5 bartop video poker machines, something you might not typically expect. Sadly, the Signature Cocktails are not offered as comps when playing video poker. You’ll have to “settle” for regular drinks like Grey Goose and soda or beer while slamming away at the games.
There may be some sticker shock when looking at the prices at CliQue but there really shouldn’t be. This is a high-end lounge at one of the hottest hotels on the Strip and should be in the running for a spot on Top 10 Vegas’ list of the best lounges in Las Vegas. If you’re okay spending $18 on a delicious cocktail made with precision and care, then you’ll probably be okay with paying $9 for a gourmet version of Fried Oreos. CliQue Bar & Lounge is open daily, 3pm – 3am.
CliQue Bar & Lounge: The Cosmopolitan, 3708 S Las Vegas Blvd., (702) 489-2129 cliquelv.com
