It seemed too good to be true. When the Tao Group, one of the most successful nightlife companies in Las Vegas history, announced plans to remake the Palms’ Rain space into a massive dayclub and nightclub, it seemed like a hospitality dream team had its final piece. The artful remaking of the Palms also included venues from Clique Hospitality and restaurants from Bobby Flay and Michael Symon.
Suddenly, those plans have changed. Red Rock Resorts, Inc. (Station Casinos) and Tao jointly announced Monday that the deal to create that club and bring New York City’s Vandal restaurant to the Palms has been terminated. No payment will be required by either party, according to the statement. The Tao Group had no further comment, other than that the company “has numerous restaurant and nightlife brands and [is] always considering options for expansion in the [Vegas] market.”
The Palms has confirmed that its club and restaurant plans “are still moving forward with the timeline mentioned,” which means the off-Strip resort plans to open the new venues at the end of the first quarter of 2019. It’s not known whether the Palms will operate those venues or is seeking (or has found) a new partner.