The next step in the rejuvenation of the Palms is the December opening of Scarlet, an intimate cocktail bar from 9Group Las Vegas with a beverage program designed by Francesco Lafranconi, executive director of mixology for Southern Wine and Spirits of Nevada.

With a contemporary speakeasy feel and, of course, lots of red, Scarlet will take over the Palms’ corner casino space, formerly home to the Stuff store, right next to N9NE Steakhouse. 9Group vice president Bronson Olimpieri said in a statement: “Scarlet’s stylish vibe and unmatched offerings from Francesco are unlike anything seen at Palms before.”

Currently a spirits educator for Southern Wine, Lafranconi is one of Vegas’ most notable mixologists. He’s worked at prestigious bars all over the world and won several high-profile cocktail competitions including the Bacardi-Martini Grand Prix World Final, and has received the Bartender Hall of Fame Award from Bartender Magazine and Mixologist of the Year Award from Nightclub and Bar Magazine.

9Group also operates restaurants N9NE Steakhouse and Nove Italiano, and night- and dayclubs Ghostbar, Moon, and the Palms Pool & Bungalows at the casino-resort. Also coming soon to the Palms are ONE Group projects Heraea (a sporty American restaurant and lounge) and Xishi (a pan-Asian restaurant), along with the continued refurbishing of the casino floor and center bar.