Las Vegas’s Best-Kept Secret? The Strat with $49 Hotel Rooms With Free Perks Just Minutes from the Bellagio & Sphere
In a city where luxury can come with a jaw-dropping price tag and $25 cocktails are just part of the vibe, one iconic Las Vegas resort is doing something rare—turning back the clock.
Just north of the Bellagio fountains and within sight of the dazzling new Sphere, The STRAT Hotel, Casino & Tower is pulling a bold move with its just-announced “Summer of Value” promotion. For those nostalgic for the days when Vegas was a playground for savvy deal-hunters, this might be the hottest (and most unexpected) offer on the Strip.
Yes, You Read That Right: $49 Rooms—All In
Starting June 1, The STRAT is offering midweek stays for just $49 per night—and that includes all taxes and resort fees. Weekend stays? Still a jaw-dropping $99. That alone is enough to stop scrolling. But they didn’t stop there.
“We’re bringing that spirit back this summer with unprecedented rates,” said Skylar Dice, senior vice president and general manager of The STRAT. “With all taxes and resort fees included, plus daily dining credits and admission to The STRAT Tower, this package delivers exceptional value for our guests.”
What You Actually Get: A Breakdown of the “Summer of Value” Deal
Book with the promo code SSOV25 and here’s what’s included:
$25 daily dining credit to use at any of The STRAT’s restaurants or bars—yes, including the famous Top of the World Steakhouse, which slowly rotates 360 degrees atop the tower, offering unmatched panoramic views of the Strip. Other options include PT’s Wings & Sports, the stylish CHĪ Asian Kitchen, and multiple grab-and-go eateries and bars across the property.
Free admission for two to the Observation Deck—the tallest of its kind in the U.S., perched at a dizzying 1,149 feet. It’s the kind of view people come to Vegas to Instagram.
Newly renovated rooms designed with a clean, modern aesthetic—think minimalist comfort meets retro-Vegas flair. These aren’t the tired hotel rooms of yesteryear; many have been refreshed to reflect a more upscale and inviting look.
More Than a Deal: Full-On Vegas Entertainment Without Leaving the Hotel
For thrill-seekers, The STRAT is also home to some of the city’s most extreme adrenaline-pumping rides, dangling right off the side of the tower. SkyJump, Insanity, Big Shot—they’re not for the faint of heart, but they are iconic.
credit Anthony Mair
There’s also Terry Fator live, L.A. Comedy Club, and Atomic Golf, a state-of-the-art golf entertainment venue that blends nightlife with high-tech tee-offs. And let’s not forget the casino itself, which remains a favorite for both locals and visitors looking for a less congested gaming experience.
Why This Deal Hits Differently Right Now
As Las Vegas continues to explode with new luxury properties, mega-resorts, and billion-dollar attractions like the Sphere, many travelers are looking for a return to what made Vegas famous in the first place: unbeatable value, unforgettable experiences, and that unmistakable thrill of feeling like you’ve discovered something just before everyone else does.
The STRAT’s “Summer of Value” package checks all those boxes. For couples looking for a spontaneous getaway, families trying to stretch their summer vacation dollars, or even locals wanting a staycation with sky-high perks, it’s the rare offer that sounds too good to be true—and somehow, isn’t.
Fine Print & Fast Facts
Available June 1 through August 28
Book with code SSOV25
Subject to blackout dates (as always, check the site or call 800-998-6937 for availability)
Free self-parking for all Nevada residents
STRAT “True Locals” program offers additional exclusive discounts
The STRAT might not be the newest resort on the Strip, but this summer, it just might be the smartest.
For more details or to book, visit www.TheSTRAT.com. But if you’re thinking about it, don’t wait—at $49 a night, the odds of these rooms disappearing fast are higher than a blackjack dealer hitting 21.
The Cocktail That Stole the Show on the Las Vegas Strip—And Dylan Efron’s Pouring It Backstage
Forget the casino bars—On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails brought mixology magic to the AMAs at Fontainebleau Las Vegas, and now it’s taking over the Strip.
Las Vegas knows how to party. From the glowing lights of the Bellagio to the edge-of-the-universe spectacle of the Sphere, the Strip is a living, breathing celebration of excess, style, and spectacle. But even in a city famous for flair, one bottled cocktail brand just managed to upstage the biggest night in music.
On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails returned as the official cocktail of the 2025 American Music Awards, which aired live from the dazzling new Fontainebleau Las Vegas on May 26. And let’s just say—this was not your typical lobby bar experience.
Amid star-studded performances and red carpet drama, On The Rocks™ delivered a show-stopping performance of its own, serving up bold, bartender-crafted drinks that were as camera-ready as the celebs sipping them.
Sin City, Meet Your New Signature Serve
As nominees strutted down the red carpet and fans flooded the BleauLive Theater, On The Rocks™ took over the lobby, turning it into a full-blown cocktail lounge where guests could sip high-end classics like the Old Fashioned or Margarita—straight from the bottle, no shaker required.
The buzz wasn’t limited to the bar.
Backstage, Dylan Efron poured up a round of On The Rocks™ Margaritas before clinking glasses with an Old Fashioned. The scene, aired live during the AMAs broadcast, gave audiences a rare behind-the-scenes toast and introduced the brand’s new campaign, “Make it a Cocktail.”
His moment? Casual, stylish, very Vegas—and very much the vibe On The Rocks™ is serving.
Catch the content yourself at @otrcocktails. It’s enough to make you want to swap your casino comp drink for something a little more refined.
Changing the Cocktail Game—Vegas Style
“The American Music Awards are all about celebrating the moments that bring people together—and that’s exactly what On The Rocks™ is created to do,” said Carol Robert, managing director, U.S. ready-to-drink at Suntory Global Spirits.
That quote is more than a soundbite. It’s the heart of the brand’s latest campaign, “Make it a Cocktail,” which premiered during the AMA broadcast.
Instead of saving great cocktails for dinner dates or swanky lounges, the campaign dares you to elevate everyday situations—think: grabbing a Cosmopolitan from your hotel minibar, cracking open a Jalapeño Pineapple Margarita by the pool, or sneaking a Manhattan into your Sphere viewing party.
In a city where everything is larger than life, On The Rocks™ fits right in.
Vegas-Ready Cocktails Without the Wait
Founded in 2015 by a group of restaurateurs and bartenders who wanted to bring premium cocktails to places where mixologists aren’t usually found—airports, festivals, hotel rooms—On The Rocks™ is all about pairing convenience with serious craft.
You’ll find Vegas favorites like:
The Cosmopolitan (hello, Carrie Bradshaw)
The Margarita (classic or jalapeño pineapple twist)
The Espresso Martini (because sleep is optional)
The Blue Hawaiian (poolside perfection)
The Manhattan (for when you’re feeling extra Rat Pack)
There are even limited-edition gems like the Spiced Pear Whiskey Sour and the Lemon Drop Martini, plus sparkling canned options ideal for pool days or pre-gaming before a concert at the Sphere: Sparkling Lime Margarita, Mango & Mint Mojito, and Cucumber & Lemongrass Mule.
This isn’t just convenience—it’s cocktail culture on your terms.
Where to Find It on (and Off) the Strip
Whether you’re staying at the Bellagio, pregaming before a show at The Sphere, or lounging at Resorts World, On The Rocks™ is a vibe you can take anywhere. Available at major retailers and hotel outlets across Las Vegas, it’s never been easier to “make it a cocktail” without waiting for table service or paying nightclub prices.
Check out the full lineup and campaign videos at ontherockscocktails.com or follow them on Instagram at @otrcocktails for exclusive content, new drops, and cocktail inspo.
Bottom line: In a city that never stops celebrating, On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails is the drink that keeps up. Whether you’re walking the Strip, lounging in your suite, or hitting an afterparty in a penthouse, this ready-to-pour cocktail brand brings the mixology—without missing a bea
Las Vegas’s Best-Kept Secret? The Strat with $49 Hotel Rooms With Free Perks Just Minutes from the Bellagio & Sphere
In a city where luxury can come with a jaw-dropping price tag and $25 cocktails are just part of the vibe, one iconic Las Vegas resort is doing something rare—turning back the clock.
Just north of the Bellagio fountains and within sight of the dazzling new Sphere, The STRAT Hotel, Casino & Tower is pulling a bold move with its just-announced “Summer of Value” promotion. For those nostalgic for the days when Vegas was a playground for savvy deal-hunters, this might be the hottest (and most unexpected) offer on the Strip.
Yes, You Read That Right: $49 Rooms—All In
Starting June 1, The STRAT is offering midweek stays for just $49 per night—and that includes all taxes and resort fees. Weekend stays? Still a jaw-dropping $99. That alone is enough to stop scrolling. But they didn’t stop there.
“We’re bringing that spirit back this summer with unprecedented rates,” said Skylar Dice, senior vice president and general manager of The STRAT. “With all taxes and resort fees included, plus daily dining credits and admission to The STRAT Tower, this package delivers exceptional value for our guests.”
What You Actually Get: A Breakdown of the “Summer of Value” Deal
Book with the promo code SSOV25 and here’s what’s included:
$25 daily dining credit to use at any of The STRAT’s restaurants or bars—yes, including the famous Top of the World Steakhouse, which slowly rotates 360 degrees atop the tower, offering unmatched panoramic views of the Strip. Other options include PT’s Wings & Sports, the stylish CHĪ Asian Kitchen, and multiple grab-and-go eateries and bars across the property.
Free admission for two to the Observation Deck—the tallest of its kind in the U.S., perched at a dizzying 1,149 feet. It’s the kind of view people come to Vegas to Instagram.
Newly renovated rooms designed with a clean, modern aesthetic—think minimalist comfort meets retro-Vegas flair. These aren’t the tired hotel rooms of yesteryear; many have been refreshed to reflect a more upscale and inviting look.
More Than a Deal: Full-On Vegas Entertainment Without Leaving the Hotel
For thrill-seekers, The STRAT is also home to some of the city’s most extreme adrenaline-pumping rides, dangling right off the side of the tower. SkyJump, Insanity, Big Shot—they’re not for the faint of heart, but they are iconic.
credit Anthony Mair
There’s also Terry Fator live, L.A. Comedy Club, and Atomic Golf, a state-of-the-art golf entertainment venue that blends nightlife with high-tech tee-offs. And let’s not forget the casino itself, which remains a favorite for both locals and visitors looking for a less congested gaming experience.
Why This Deal Hits Differently Right Now
As Las Vegas continues to explode with new luxury properties, mega-resorts, and billion-dollar attractions like the Sphere, many travelers are looking for a return to what made Vegas famous in the first place: unbeatable value, unforgettable experiences, and that unmistakable thrill of feeling like you’ve discovered something just before everyone else does.
The STRAT’s “Summer of Value” package checks all those boxes. For couples looking for a spontaneous getaway, families trying to stretch their summer vacation dollars, or even locals wanting a staycation with sky-high perks, it’s the rare offer that sounds too good to be true—and somehow, isn’t.
Fine Print & Fast Facts
Available June 1 through August 28
Book with code SSOV25
Subject to blackout dates (as always, check the site or call 800-998-6937 for availability)
Free self-parking for all Nevada residents
STRAT “True Locals” program offers additional exclusive discounts
The STRAT might not be the newest resort on the Strip, but this summer, it just might be the smartest.
For more details or to book, visit www.TheSTRAT.com. But if you’re thinking about it, don’t wait—at $49 a night, the odds of these rooms disappearing fast are higher than a blackjack dealer hitting 21.
David “Big Papi” Ortiz Hits the Vegas Strip with Ozama Rum—A Dominican Spirit Poised to Take Over Sin City
In a city where big personalities, bold flavors, and luxury experiences are the currency of cool, David Ortiz’s latest project might be one of the most exciting new arrivals of the season. The Hall-of-Fame slugger—known to millions as “Big Papi”—has officially stepped into the world of premium spirits with the launch of Ozama Rum, a 100% Dominican-made brand that’s already generating serious buzz from the Bellagio to the Sphere.
More than just another celebrity-backed bottle, Ozama Rum is an unapologetically Dominican creation from top to cork. It’s bold, joyful, and beautifully made—just like its founder. And for a Las Vegas crowd that appreciates authenticity with a side of glamour, it’s hitting all the right notes.
“To me, Ozama isn’t just about rum, it’s about identity, pride, and progress,” said Ortiz. “I wanted to build something that celebrates the energy and soul of my people and shows the world what we’re made of. It’s always been important for me to do things the right way, which is why this labor of love has been one of the most rewarding projects of my career. I can’t wait for people to try it! They say that perfection doesn’t exist, but you can get close to it.”
Ozama Rum: A Spirit With a Story
Named after the Ozama River in the heart of Santo Domingo—where Ortiz spent his childhood swimming, fishing, and crabbing for jaiba—this rum is as personal as it is premium. Every step of production takes place in the Dominican Republic, from sugarcane harvesting to fermentation, distillation, and aging in oak barrels for at least a year. The result? A rum that proudly carries the Ron Dominicano denominación de origen and a flavor profile designed to stand out on the Strip.
Launching in three expressions, Ozama offers something for every level of rum lover:
Ozama Blanco: A platinum-hued stunner with citrus and white pepper aromas, perfect for mixing at poolside cabanas or sipping over ice on a rooftop bar near the Sphere.
Ozama Añejo: A rich, copper-aged rum that delivers smooth layers of chocolate, vanilla, and toffee—ideal for pairing with an indulgent dessert at Lago or Mayfair Supper Club.
Ozama Gran Añejo: The crown jewel. This silky, amber beauty features notes of dates, raisins, honey, and fine wood. It’s made for cigar lounges and exclusive tastings tucked away behind velvet ropes.
Prices range from $25–$40 per 700ml bottle, making Ozama an accessible luxury—whether you’re a Vegas local or visiting for the weekend.
Why Ozama Rum Belongs in Las Vegas
With Vegas emerging as one of the nation’s premier markets for experiential dining and high-end mixology, Ozama Rum arrives at a perfect moment. According to GVR, the global rum market was valued at $11.77 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow by 5.6% annually through 2030. Consumers are looking for authenticity, story, and flavor—and Ozama delivers on all three.
This isn’t just a product—it’s a platform. Ortiz and his team, including Drink2Success CEO Abbott Wolfe, have big plans. “From day one, David had a clear vision to create an ultra-premium rum that feels authentic, vibrant, and undeniably Dominican—it was important to him to spotlight the Dominican Republic and at the same time give back to the community that raised him,” said Wolfe.
That “give back” piece isn’t just PR. Two percent of Ozama’s profits will fund cleanup efforts along the Ozama River and support local Dominican communities. For Vegas consumers—who are increasingly values-driven—this social impact component is another compelling reason to raise a glass.
Available Now: Where to Find Ozama Rum in Las Vegas
Ozama is currently available online at drinkozama.com and is rolling out across the Northeast and Dominican Republic, with expansion to select cities including Las Vegas expected by late summer. Expect to see it on cocktail menus at top Strip lounges, boutique hotel bars, and exclusive VIP events as early as this fall.
Want to be ahead of the curve? Keep an eye out for curated tasting events in partnership with Latin American restaurants, luxury liquor stores, and Vegas nightlife hotspots. Follow @drinkozama on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook to stay updated.
Final Sip: Vegas-Ready and Rooted in Culture
In a city built on spectacle and storytelling, Ozama Rum is more than a new spirit—it’s a cultural moment. Whether you’re unwinding in a Bellagio suite, mixing up cocktails for a private Sphere afterparty, or simply enjoying a quiet pour at home, this Dominican original brings joy, depth, and a taste of Big Papi’s pride.
And if you ask Ortiz, that’s the whole point.
“They say that perfection doesn’t exist,” he said. “But you can get close to it.”
Hailee Steinfeld Launches Angel Margarita: A Premium Ready-to-Drink Margarita Cocktail with Premium Beers Group
In an exciting new collaboration, Academy Award-nominated actress, multi-platinum recording artist, and producerHailee Steinfeld is teaming up with Premium Beers Group, a powerhouse in the Mexican alcohol industry, to bring Angel Margarita to the Las Vegas market.
Angel Margarita is a fresh and vibrant new entry into the world of premium cocktails, and Las Vegas, with its love for unique and high-quality beverages, is the perfect place to debut it. Combining Hailee’s passion for creativity and her flair for high-end experiences with Premium Beers Group’s expertise, Angel Margarita is set to deliver a perfect balance of smooth tequila, zesty lime, and a hint of sweetness, all crafted for those who appreciate a truly elevated margarita experience.
Whether you’re lounging by the pool, enjoying a night out on the Strip, or unwinding at a top-tier Las Vegas bar, Angel Margarita promises to deliver an unforgettable taste. Ready to make its mark in Las Vegas, this cocktail is sure to become a new favorite for those looking to add a touch of celebrity flair to their drink menu.
Hailee Steinfeld falls in love with flavor
Hailee Steinfeld has openly expressed her love for margaritas, often sharing glimpses of her favorite citrusy cocktail on social media. Whether enjoying a classic lime margarita or experimenting with fun flavors like spicy or strawberry, she appreciates the drink’s refreshing and vibrant appeal. Her enthusiasm for margaritas perfectly complements her fun-loving personality, making it a go-to choice for celebrations and casual outings alike.
This premium ready-to-drink margarita cocktail is made with 100% Agave Tequila from the rich soil of Jalisco, Mexico.
Angel Margarita: A Premium Ready-to-Drink Margarita Cocktail
Angel Margarita: A Refreshing New Taste in Las Vegas, Crafted Close to the Agave Fields
Hailee Steinfeld‘s new venture, Angel Margarita, is all about delivering an authentic and refreshing margarita experience, with every can crafted just moments away from the Agave fields themselves. The result? A perfectly balanced, vibrant cocktail that encapsulates the essence of both West Coast style and deep Mexican roots, thanks to Hailee’s collaboration with co-founders Jordi Zindel and Rodrigo Hernandez.
Made with the highest-quality ingredients, Angel Margarita is poised to lead the category with its unwavering commitment to taste and craftsmanship. And Las Vegas, known for its flair and love for innovative drinks, is the perfect place to introduce it.
To kick things off, Angel Margarita will be available in four vibrant and refreshing flavors: Lime, Grapefruit Paloma, Ranch Water, and Wild Berry. Whether you’re sipping it poolside at a resort, enjoying it with friends at a lively bar, or unwinding after a show on the Strip, these flavors are sure to bring a taste of summer and sunshine to your glass.
It’s more than just a drink—it’s an experience. Get ready to indulge in the perfect balance of refreshment, quality, and a touch of celebrity magic. Angel Margarita is here, and it’s ready to make a splash in Las Vegas!
“Margaritas have always been my go-to cocktail,
so making a ready-to-drink version with high-quality ingredients that didn’t compromise on taste was important to me,”
Hailee Steinfeld
co-founder
“After visiting the Blue Agave fields in Jalisco with my partners Jordi and Rodrigo, I was inspired by the region. I am so proud of what we have created together and cannot wait for the world to try Angel Margarita.”
In 2023, premixed cocktails were the fastest-growing spirits category in the US, valued at approximately $2.8 billion, marking a 26.8% increase year over year. Tequila was the second fastest-growing category, valued at $6.5 billion, up 7.9% yearly.
To underscore the excitement and potential of this fast-growing category, Angel Margarita has partnered with Philip Button, Founder and CEO of Seven XV Ventures and Geloso Beverage Group, one of the leading alcohol beverage manufacturers and distributors in North America. With their support, Angel Margarita will begin its launch in Southern California.
“Hailee is the perfect partner to help us share an authentic piece of our culture and redefine the ready-to-drink market through Angel Margarita with a more global audience,” said Jordi Zindel and Rodrigo Hernandez, co-founders at Angel Margarita. “We invite consumers to taste our 100% Agave Tequila premium cocktails and to experience an authentic piece of Mexico in every sip.
Angel Margarita stands out with its high standards of craftsmanship and tradition:
Protected Denomination of Origin sourced and manufactured in Jalisco, Mexico
Expertly crafted high-quality ingredient list featuring 100% Agave Tequila Blanco, a blend of sparkling water, agave syrup, and natural flavors
Each 12 oz can is 6% ABV and is gluten-free
Available in four flavors to start: Lime, Grapefruit Paloma, Ranch Water, and Wild Berry
Retail = $14.99 / 4-pack, $28.99 / 8-pack variety
About Hailee Steinfeld: Academy Award-nominated actress, multi-platinum recording musician, and producer Hailee Steinfeld remains a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry. Her leading performance in the 2016 critically acclaimed film THE EDGE OF SEVENTEEN garnered her two Critics’ Choice Award nominations and a Golden Globe nomination. Her big-screen debut was in 2010 with the Coen Brothers’ film TRUE GRIT, for which she earned an Oscar nomination at only 14 years old. Up next, she will star alongside Michael B. Jordan in Warner Brothers and Ryan Coogler’s latest film, SINNERS. The supernatural action horror-thriller is set to release globally on April 18, 2025.
About Premium Beers Group: With over 3 decades of experience, Premium Beers Group has innovated and revolutionized the alcohol category in Mexico. PBG was the first company in Mexico to import 100% malt beers from Europe and introduce craft beer and non-alcoholic beer. Premium Beers Group is the benchmark for excellence and a leader within the premium alcohol category.
About Geloso Group: A leader in the innovation and development of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, Geloso Group manufactures and distributes premium malt beverages, wines, ciders, beers, and spirits. Geloso Group is a valued supplier and trusted partner recognized for its professionalism and commitment to quality, service, and marketing.
Las Vegas is known for its incredible dining experiences and Amalfi by Bobby Flay at Caesars Palace brings everything Bobby love about the Amalfi Coast to the Las Vegas Strip.
On Friday, June 18, Amalfi by Bobby Flay at Caesars Palace hosted its highly-anticipated grand opening event, welcoming guests to the Amalfi Coast-inspired destination.
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To commemorate the occasion, award-winning chef Bobby Flay was joined by Sean McBurney, Regional President of Caesars Entertainment, as well as Caesars’ CEO Tom Reeg and President and COO Anthony Carano, and business partner Laurence Kretchmer as they toasted with Amalfi Spritzes to the opening of the latest culinary destination.
Award-winning chef Bobby Flay joined by Sean McBurney, Regional President of Caesars Entertainment, as well as Caesars’ CEO Tom Reeg and President and COO Anthony Carano, and business partner Laurence Kretchmer
The event began with remarks from McBurney and Flay, followed by a kabuki drop unveiling the stunning golden-arched front entrance, with a musical performance and toast concluding the moment. In addition to marking the occasion inside the casino, Caesars Palace’s front fountains reflected the celebratory spirit with an Amalfi takeover, as well as the restaurant’s logo brightly projected on the side of the iconic resort.
“Opening Amalfi at Caesars Palace has allowed me to showcase my passion for the Amalfi Coast and the fresh flavors the region is known for,” said Flay.
“Our team has created an incredible experience that brings everything I love about the Amalfi Coast to the Las Vegas Strip, from the various seating areas to the coastal cocktails, to the fresh fish market to all the seasonal flavors we are showcasing on the menu. We have been blown away by the guests’ response already, making me incredibly proud and excited for all that lies ahead.”
Amalfi brings Flay’s admiration for Mediterranean cuisine to life through its rustic elegance and bold, fresh menu.
Dishes range from flavorful and light antipasti such as the Shellfish Fritto Misto with Meyer lemon aioli and pistachio pesto, and Charred Octopus with burnt orange and pancetta, to a robust selection of rich, fresh pasta including the Squid Ink Fettuccine with lobster, shrimp and Fra Diavolo sauce, and chef favorite, Scialatielli with a scampi sauce and basil.
Additionally, the menu offers delectable insalate, carne and contorni selections. To finish on a sweet note, dessert staples include Bobby’s Pistachio Sundae made with pistachio gelato, dark chocolate sauce Amarena cherries, vanilla crema and chopped pistachios, as well as the Lemon, Lemon, Lemon, which consists of cake, custard and crisps, among others.
A focal point of Amalfi is the fresh fish and seafood display, inspired by Amalfi’s coastal mar
A focal point of Amalfi is the fresh fish and seafood display, inspired by Amalfi’s coastal markets and staffed by a knowledgeable fishmonger, who is available to answer any guests’ questions—from where the fish is from, when it arrived in Las Vegas and more. Guests may order a whole fish from the extensive selection including golden snapper, red snapper, black bass, branzino, Carabinero shrimp, among others. Then, the selection is prepared to their choosing of grilled over charcoal or roasted al forno and served with the choices of Meyer lemon and capers, red pepper and Calabrian chile pesto or salsa verde.
An Amalfi Coast escape is not complete without a delectable wine or refreshing spritz in hand. The all-encompassing beverage menu features signature cocktails such as the Amalfi Spritz, which is comprised of Selim Spumante, Cappelletti Aperitivo and soda, and the Limonata, which expertly mixes Bacardi Rum, Limonata soda, lemon and mint, as well as a tantalizing wine list that focuses on the Campania region, and so much more.
From the moment guests enter the destination, they are immediately transported to the Mediterranean as the space creates a scene reminiscent of the Amalfi Coast. Designed by Olivia Jane Design & Interiors, Amalfi features a timeless design with a natural palette and touches of greenery throughout, blended with elements such as organic fabrics, stone, and wood materials, lending depth and a sense of history to the space. With four unique yet cohesive spaces, the restaurant highlights the warmth and special elements of a Mediterranean getaway.
The 30-seat bar and 40-seat lounge area feature a vibrant sunset glow as the venue is framed by a colorful limestone mosaic floor and teak wood beams. The grille/main dining room features heavily textured limestone walls and antique brass as it wraps to showcase the bustling kitchen and towering ceilings with displays of wine from various regions throughout the Amalfi Coast. Seating in the market room creates an atmosphere of being tucked away in a seaside café alongside the marketplace featuring rustic tiled flooring, while a private dining room or fresco room provides the most intimate experience for the perfect respite from the hustle of the restaurant floor.
Amalfi by Bobby Flay at Caesars Palace is open 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Reservations are encouraged. For more information and to make reservations, visit https://www.caesars.com/caesars-palace/restaurants/amalfi.
Love Tasting Bourbons? This Fredericksburg Virginia Bed & Breakfast Might Be Your Dream Visit, Owen King from Ironclad Distillery shares Delicious Details
Ironclad Inn is the first B & B & B – Bed & Breakfast & Bourbon Tasting Room.
Ironclad Inn is the first B & B & B – Bed & Breakfast & Bourbon Tasting Room
Today’s conversation with Distiller Owen King from Ironclad Distillery has been edited for length and clarity. For the full, un-edited conversation, visit our YouTube channel here.
Owen King, Ironclad Distillery
Joe Winger:
A lot of really cool things are happening right now. I want to jump into your tasting room, the distillery, we’ll get into bourbon tastings in a few minutes.
But first and foremost, what’s the most important thing with Ironclad right now for you?
Owen King:
The most important thing about Ironclad for me right now is the same thing it’s always been, trying to make the best bourbon we can.
The other thing is spreading the word about our bed and breakfast; and bourbon. It’s a bed and breakfast in Fredericksburg that when you’re there, you can drink bourbon.
Ironclad’s famous Old Fashioned cocktail
We make a lot of old fashions there and we always have all these leftover oranges. Now the perfect thing is in the morning you have fresh squeezed orange juice from our [leftover] old fashions.
It’s really working double duty now.
Besides that I just love the fact that we can now expand our distillery up to Fredericksburg. So we can have more people try our bourbon and enjoy our bourbon, which is the goal.
Joe Winger:
Getting to know you before you jump into Ironclad, I want to use the word “were”, you were a football player and cooking changed your life.
Tell us more about your cooking. Was there a special dish that enhanced your life?
Owen King:
I’m Italian. So obviously with the Italian genes, we share our love through food. Growing up I cooked a lot.
When I went to college [I cooked]for my teammates. I’d make dinner for everyone. So when we decided to open the bourbon distillery, I figured, I know how to cook. I think I could probably figure out how to make bourbon.
I know flavors. I know how things go well together. I think I have a pretty decent palette.
So putting all those things together to make a great bourbon was the goal.
Food is one of those things where you never stop improving. I feel the same about bourbon.
FlavRReport.com on YouTube
Joe Winger:
Is there a favorite dish?
Owen King:
Breaded chicken cutlets and spaghetti.
That is how it started. Then I was like “I really like cheese.” Maybe I could put cheese in with the breadcrumbs and then do that. Then I started expanding. Chicken Parm. Making my own sauce. Thinking I could add something here to make that better.
It’s the same way I look at bourbon.
Thinking, “I like what this person’s doing. Let me see what they’re doing. I can build off that to make it work on my own.”
Creating my own recipes, going from there, just continually tweaking little things here and there.
We’ll make a 5% difference, maybe a 10% difference.
For most people when we think of bourbon, we don’t always think of Virginia as the first choice. What would surprise us most about coming down to Virginia for a bourbon tasting and staying the night?
Ironclad Distillery
Owen King:
If you’re coming down to Virginia, you have to remember Virginia is the birthplace of American spirits. The first place spirits were made in the new colonies, in the new world, was here in Virginia.
The first corn liquor which would eventually become bourbon, was made in Virginia.
You can also talk about Elijah Craig, who was from Fairfax County, Virginia, before he moved out to Kentucky.
On top of that, Kentucky wasn’t a state until 1793. Evan Williams was doing distillation in 1783, and at that point Kentucky was still Virginia.
The birthplace of bourbon is right here in Virginia.
I’ve been to Kentucky a lot. They talk about the birthplace of bourbon being there in Kentucky.
Maybe the territory it’s in was Kentucky, but it was still Virginia at the time.
Whenever someone comes by, I can tell them the history of actual bourbon, where you’re gonna get the whole story, not just the fantasized story that you get in Kentucky.
Joe Winger:
I’m incredibly glad you just shared that.
Let’s talk about The Ironclad Bed and Breakfast now. The bourbon tasting room, the event space.
Owen King:
We wanted to spread our bourbon out around the state. We’ve always really liked Fredericksburg. It’s a beautiful town. It’s got a ton of history to it.
Nothing goes better with bourbon than a good story.
So we can always tell our history while drinking. So with our bed and breakfast, we looked at what the bigger guys were doing. A lot of them were starting to have these places where you could stay [the night] and get an experience to go along with it.
We really wanted to spread our Ironclad experience.
We have a tasting room. It’s beautifully decorated by my sister. We’ve got a bottle shop where you can pick up pretty much every one of our bourbons that are available. We’ve got a bar so you can try it from our seasonal cocktail menus where we change it five times a year.
We have a winter, a fall, a spring, summer [menu].Then a holiday menu as well.
No matter what time of year you’re there, you’re trying something that’s going to go well seasonally.
Everyone likes seasonal drinks. You don’t want to drink in the fall, what you’d drink in the summer.
We always have an old fashioned and it’s a damn good old fashioned.
Then we also have an event space. We have weddings. We’ve had 50th birthday parties.
Ironclad Inn wedding and special events
We’ve had any event that you want to tie into with our bourbon or just if you want a beautiful event space in a building that was built in 1793 we have that as a great option.
It’s a really cool spot that you can go and see and experience.
It’s something we want to share, our love for bourbon with everyone.
Whether you’re here in Newport News or in Fredericksburg, you’ll get a King family member there to tell you our story and tell you all about our bourbon and show you around.
Ironclad Bottled-in-Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Joe Winger:
Outstanding. Let’s get to the tasty part now. You have several amazing bottles. When someone comes to your tasting room this weekend, what should they be looking forward to?
Owen King:
We do a few bottle releases that are once a year for us. One of my favorites.
A five year, three barrel blend of three 30 gallon barrels. Bottle of Bond.
The history alone is one of my favorite things to talk about. In 1897 the federal government stepped in because there was people dying from drinking bad whiskey.
They stepped in to “certify” everything in there.
“If you bottle it at four years old and at 100 proof, we will claim that this is a bottle and bond bourbon certified” by the federal government that it is safe to drink.
That story alone is one of my favorites of bourbon lore.
We just want to make sure that we do that every year that we can.
It’s absolutely one of my favorite bourbons. It’s our four grain mash bill. 70% corn 10% wheat, 10% rye, 10% malted barley.
So with the corn and the wheat, it adds a nice sweetness to it. But then the rye is there to kind of balance that whole thing out. Before it gets [to be] a very sweet bourbon, it balances out, a little baking spice, maybe even some clove, maybe a little black pepper.
Absolutely delicious. But this is a cast finish, not a flavored bourbon. So we’re not adding maple syrup to it. People who drink it might think it’s going to be super sweet and not going to like it. Because they don’t like maple syrup.
This is my version of drinking maple syrup responsibly and not getting diabetes.
After we empty our barrels, we give them to a maple syrup producer in upstate New York. He’ll age his maple syrup using our bourbon barrels.
By doing that through transference, there’s about a gallon of bourbon stuck in the staves of the wood. So when he puts a new liquid in there, that maple syrup is going to absorb into the wood and that bourbon is going to come back out.
Now his maple syrup is picking up that beautiful bourbon flavor and we are picking up all that maple syrup flavor into the wood.
When he brings those barrels back down to us, we put our aged bourbon back in there and we let him finish in there for about three to six months.
After we take the bourbon out, it’s now got this beautiful, mild sweetness, but it’s got that hint of maple syrup at the end.
I always say, I don’t want it to be maple syrup with a hint of bourbon. I want it to be bourbon with a hint of maple syrup, which I think it absolutely is.
Ironclad Missouri Toasted Oak Cask
Joe Winger:
The maple syrup is so subtle, almost a tertiary flavor to it.
This is a double oak bourbon. With double oaking, what you’re going to do is exactly how it sounds.
You’re going to go from one new charred oak barrel. But instead of a second new charred oak barrel, we’re going to go to a lightly toasted barrel.
So my analogy for this is you’re sitting at a campfire and you’ve got a marshmallow. You’re roasting your marshmallow over the flame and it gets burnt. It catches on fire. So now you’ve got that roasted marshmallow where you’re still gonna eat it because it’s a roasted marshmallow.
So you eat it and it’s still sweet. But it’s got that sort of maybe a bitter acrid note just cause you burnt those sugars. You haven’t toasted them.
Now you take another marshmallow. You’re a little more patient this time. You’re going to stick it down in the coals and you’ll slowly rotate it until you’ve got that perfectly golden brown marshmallow.
When you taste it, it’s now twice as sweet because you just caramelize those sugars as opposed to burning them.
It’s the same with a charred oak barrel to a toasted oak barrel. With that charring of those oaks, you’re gonna you’re still gonna have that sweetness. We’re amplifying that sweetness with the toasting of the oak.
With this one you get those softer vanilla flavors like toasted marshmallow. You get a cookie dough flavor, maybe it’s raw cookie dough without the chocolate chips.
Joe Winger:
That’s amazing. mmIs there an extra bottle when I come down there, I’m in the tasting room, another good bottle we should ask for?
Owen King:
Another one that we have right now that is a very limited run. Very small release is our blueberry mead cask finish.
We give our barrels to a meadery in Williamsburg, Virginia and they make this blueberry honey mead. So now they have this bourbon barrel aged blueberry mead. And when they’re done with them, they give them back to us.
You’re not necessarily overwhelmed with [a] heavy blueberry flavor but it opens up to this really nice fruitiness and then like a fermented honey flavor on the front end.
It’s so unique, but it’s great neat on the rocks.
Joe Winger:
If we come down for the weekend, we visit the distillery in Newport News. What’s a tour like?
Owen King:
If people aren’t the biggest bourbon drinker, I want you to walk away saying, “Okay, I found something that is made with bourbon that I like.”
We are a distillery that only makes bourbon.
I want to make sure that everyone who comes here has something they can enjoy. This isn’t an uppity bourbon bar.
I want someone to come and be able to say, I’m not the biggest bourbon fan. What kind of cocktails do you have?” We always have a cocktail on every single menu that’s open for everyone.
Everyone’s going to love it and whether you’re a big bourbon fan or not. We just really want to be accommodating. We want to be a fun place for everyone to hang out.
We want to tell our story, the history of the Ironclad ships. Go through our distillery tour, we’ll show you that. If you want to know the history of Fredericksburg, or the history of What the bed and breakfast is we’ll tell you that.
Nothing pairs better with bourbon than a good story. And we really care about spreading that word.
Joe Winger:
Whether it’s a romantic getaway, a weekend getaway, why choose your bed and breakfast instead of a hotel?
Owen King:
While we’ve only had it a short time. But we’ve been adding things here and there. You’re going to get a fresh orange juice in the morning, made with the oranges that we used for our old fashions [last night].
We have our barrel aged maple syrup for your pancakes. So you’re going to have that maple syrup with a hint of bourbon.
Ironclad Inn
We really drive home that it’s a bed breakfast and bourbon experience. Get immersed in the bourbon culture. That’s our goal.
Joe Winger:
Any favorite bourbon and food pairings?
Owen King:
Bourbon’s wonderful for food pairings.
We’ve gone from pasta pairings to pizza pairings. Anything that’s fatty is a perfect pairing. Pork belly with a cherry reduction over top of it with one of our bourbons straight
We have this bourbon cream, Buzz’s Bourbon Cream, where it’s made with our small batch bourbon that’s infused with coffee beans, cacao nibs, and vanilla beans. That one over vanilla ice cream is perfection.
You’re adding a little booze, some coffee, a little bit of chocolate.
You take a bite and all of a sudden you had three scoops and it’s gone 30 seconds later.
Joe Winger:
What’s the best way to learn more about Ironclad Distillery and Ironclad Inn?
