Key Highlights:
- Type: Upscale modern American restaurant with a hidden speakeasy entrance behind a working pawn shop.
- Location: Second floor of the Boulevard Tower at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas on the Strip.
- Known for: Hidden pawn shop entrance, creative shareable plates, handcrafted cocktails, and a lively atmosphere.
- Worth visiting? Yes. It’s one of the Strip’s most unique dining experiences, combining great food with an energetic nightlife vibe.
- Best for: Date nights, celebrations, bachelor/bachelorette parties, and groups looking for a fun dining experience.
Beauty & Essex is one of the most unique restaurants on the Las Vegas Strip. Located inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, guests enter through a real pawn shop before discovering an elegant dining room hidden behind a secret doorway. Created by Chef Chris Santos and Tao Group Hospitality, the restaurant blends creative American cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and an energetic lounge atmosphere.
Instead of traditional three-course meals, the menu focuses on shareable dishes inspired by global flavors, making it an excellent choice for groups and special occasions.
About Beauty & Essex
Atmosphere
The restaurant features luxurious décor with velvet seating, crystal chandeliers, warm lighting, and a lively soundtrack from the in-house DJ. Despite its upscale setting, the atmosphere remains social and relaxed, making it ideal for celebrations and date nights.
Location
Address: 3708 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
Located on the second floor of the Boulevard Tower inside The Cosmopolitan.
Nearby attractions
- The Chandelier Bar
- Bellagio Fountains
- ARIA Resort & Casino
- Paris Las Vegas
- Planet Hollywood
Menu Highlights
Beauty & Essex specializes in shareable plates rather than traditional entrées.
Signature Dishes
- Grilled Cheese, Smoked Bacon & Tomato Soup Dumplings
- Tuna Poke Wonton Tacos
- Roasted Bone Marrow
- Little French Dips
- Mexican Street Corn Ravioli
- Prime Filet Mignon
- Dry-Aged Bone-In New York Strip
Desserts
Popular desserts include:
- LES NYC Doughnuts
- Seasonal cakes
- Signature dessert platters
Drinks
The cocktail menu features creative house cocktails alongside wine, champagne, and premium spirits.
Popular choices include:
- Emerald Palmer
- Ruby Red Dragon
- Classic martinis and signature cocktails
Prices
Beauty & Essex falls into the upscale dining category.
| Item | Average Price |
|---|---|
| Small Plates | $17–$32 |
| Large Plates | $39–$170 |
| Cocktails | $20–$24 |
A typical dinner for two with several shared dishes and cocktails usually costs $180–$280 before tax and gratuity.
Reservations
Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.
- Book online through OpenTable or The Cosmopolitan dining website.
- Peak dinner times often sell out several weeks in advance.
- Walk-ins are accepted, but wait times can be long.
- The bar offers first-come, first-served seating with the full menu available.
Dress Code
Beauty & Essex follows an upscale casual dress code.
Recommended
- Button-down shirts
- Polo shirts
- Dress pants or dark jeans
- Cocktail dresses
- Fashionable evening wear
Avoid athletic wear, flip-flops, tank tops, hoodies, and beachwear.
Hours
- Sunday–Thursday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Friday–Saturday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Dining Experience
Dining here is lively and interactive. Plates are served as they are prepared, encouraging guests to share multiple dishes throughout the meal. Music from the resident DJ creates a vibrant nightlife atmosphere that becomes more energetic as the evening progresses.
Pros
- Unique hidden pawn shop entrance
- Creative shareable menu
- Excellent cocktails
- Stylish interior
- Great for celebrations and date nights
Cons
- Can be noisy during peak hours
- Shared plates may not suit everyone
- Weekend reservations are difficult to secure
Is It Worth Visiting?
Yes. Beauty & Essex is one of the most memorable restaurants on the Las Vegas Strip. The hidden entrance, stylish décor, creative menu, and lively atmosphere make it a standout choice for visitors looking for more than just a traditional dinner.
Tips Before You Go
- Arrive early to explore the pawn shop entrance.
- Reserve well in advance for weekend evenings.
- Order several small plates to share for the best experience.
- Sit at the bar if you don’t have a reservation.
- Plan dinner before exploring The Cosmopolitan’s nightlife.
FAQs
Is the pawn shop real?
Yes. Guests can browse and purchase jewelry, guitars, watches, and collectibles before entering the hidden restaurant.
What is the most popular dish?
The grilled cheese, smoked bacon, & tomato soup dumplings are the restaurant’s signature item.
Can I visit just for drinks?
Yes. The lounge and bar welcome walk-in guests and serve the full food menu.
Is Beauty & Essex family-friendly?
Families are welcome during dinner hours, although the lively music and nightlife atmosphere make it better suited for adults.
Does Beauty & Essex accept MGM Rewards?
Yes. Guests staying at The Cosmopolitan can earn and redeem eligible MGM Rewards benefits when dining.
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