Nightlife

Surprisingly great cocktails await in the unlikely off-Strip Tuscany

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Tuscany’s Walking Stick cocktail.

Just east of the Strip on Flamingo Road, the Tuscany is a natural post-shift hang for industry folk. But things are getting more interesting here lately. There’s lively new entertainment in the T-Spot Lounge, and the weeks-old Caffé Bottega comes armed with Stumptown coffee and a killer craft beer selection (read: lots of Belgians).

But I’m looking for a worthwhile cocktail menu, and I find it away from the casino at the lobby’s Piazza Lounge. There are twists on classics and a handful of thoughtful originals, like the aptly described “boozy and contemplative” Walking Stick, its gin and sweet vermouth mingling with cherry liqueur and plum bitters. You can pick a spirit and let the barmen do their thing, or ask about the specials. This night, there was a shockingly smooth white Manhattan with 6-week-old moonshine, and then the Bulleit with Butterfly Wings, with bourbon, blood orange liqueur and bitters, almond syrup and lemon sour. Its brisk pop of nostalgic creamsicle was delicious enough to have another, the exact temptation you want from a great cocktail lounge, no matter where it is.

Tuscany Suites & Casino 255 E. Flamingo Road, 702-893-8933.

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Brock Radke

Brock Radke is an award-winning writer and columnist who currently occupies the role of editor-at-large at Las Vegas Weekly magazine. ...

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