Las Vegas is not a city known for subtlety. On every corner, tourists can opt for an oversized beer, 2-for-1 cocktails or a giant boozy slushy to hang around their neck. So for a city known for it’s excessive drinking, why is it so hard to find a good cocktails? Sure, the basics can be found, and most are adequate; but for true cocktails creativity, you have to find your way to a little known bar near the old strip.
Velveteen Rabbit is a wonderfully creative craft cocktail and beer bar situated in the heart of the Arts District. Each seasonal cocktail menu is the product of innovation, creativity, and care, boasting of fresh produce and house-made ingredients. Started by two sisters in 2013, the eclectic bar has run a strong cocktail program since day one, and continues to be one of the essential cocktail bars in the city. Beyond the drinks, the space features local art, vintage furniture, and an outdoor patio area with a stage for entertainment. Each Friday and Saturday, DJs play a mix of musical genres from 10p-close.
But the true masterpieces are the cocktails. Seasonal menus feature concoctions like the “Hard Ticket to Hawaii” comprised of hibiscus, cinnamon & cashew fruit rum, pineapple, vanilla honey, turmeric orgeat and tiki bitters. Or if you were looking for something with a bit of a pick-me-up, try the “Fresh Pots!” with fernet branca, vanilla, makers & finders cold brew coffee, coca cola, half & half and a biscotti.
If there’s ever a point where you get sick of the cocktails (which shouldn’t be an issue) they’ve taken care in selecting a range of specialty beers with twelve rotating taps, as well as 18-20 bottled beers.
Is this a bar that requires you to step out of your hotel? Yes. Do you have to flee the comforts of the strip? Yes. But that’s what makes it even more valuable. This is an authentic experience in a town that is chock full of inauthenticity. Cocktail lovers in Las Vegas have no excuse not to come here.
Ale/Sessions 