One taste of the simple, sunshine-colored cocktail called Let’s Elope lets you know the Dorsey is something special. Acclaimed barman Sam Ross’ menu lists it among Light & Bright offerings, and that couldn’t be a more accurate description of this beautiful combination of gin, lime, orgeat almond syrup and the unlikely ingredient of fresh cantaloupe.
Let’s Elope is only a starting point at the Dorsey, the energetic 4,500-square-foot space that opened last week at the Venetian, giving the megaresort the one F&B puzzle piece it lacked—a sexy cocktail bar, that perfect meeting point before a night that could go on to include a memorable meal, show or nightclub experience. But the Dorsey is so cool and comfortable, you might not want to leave.
Other cocktail standouts on our first tasting include the smoky, buzzy Caballo Blanco, with tequila, mezcal, pineapple and ginger; the classic Penicillin, a blend of Scotch, lemon, ginger and honey; and the Harajuku, which mixes Japanese whiskey and chocolate bitters with Gran Classico amaro and the red wine-based apertíf Byrrh Quinquina. There are Champagne cocktails, punches for groups served in copper flamingos, carefully curated craft beers and drinks spiked with cold-brewed coffee, too. It’ll take quite a few visits to make all the necessary discoveries and establish new favorites at the Dorsey. Good thing we’re going to be here a lot. The Dorsey at the Venetian, 866-659-9643; daily 2 p.m.-4 a.m.