Nocturno Cocktail Bar Opens in Las Vegas Arts District

Categories: Business NewsEntertainmentLifestyleNewsRestaurant

The inviting interior of Nocturno cocktail bar, perfect for an intimate night out.

News Summary

The Nocturno cocktail bar has officially opened in the Las Vegas Arts District, co-founded by Chef D.J. Flores and hospitality expert Aaron Cappello. Designed to create an intimate cocktail experience, Nocturno features a curated cocktail menu and inventive small plates. The bar also aims to deliver a unique ambiance reminiscent of classic cocktail bars found in Mexico City, enhancing the local nightlife scene. With a focus on creativity and guest experience, Nocturno is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for food and drink enthusiasts.

Las Vegas – A new cocktail bar named Nocturno has officially opened its doors in the vibrant Arts District of downtown Las Vegas. Co-founded by renowned Chef D.J. Flores and hospitality expert Aaron Cappello, Nocturno aims to create an intimate setting reminiscent of classic cocktail bars, infusing a touch of cinematic flair into the bar-going experience.

The establishment is strategically located at 1017 S. First St., Suite 180, and marks the inaugural venture of Nivel Hospitality Group. Flores, who also owns the highly-acclaimed Mexican restaurant Milpa, brings his culinary expertise to the bar, having previously received accolades such as a Top 100 nod in the Las Vegas Review-Journal in 2024 and two nominations for the prestigious James Beard Award.

Leading the bar’s operations is Luis “Lu” Lopez, who serves as the bar director. Lopez boasts previous leadership experience at The Venetian and has gained recognition from World’s 50 Best Bars. His expertise promises to significantly enhance Nocturno’s offerings, ensuring a high level of service and creativity in cocktail preparation.

Cocktail and Culinary Offerings

Nocturno’s cocktail menu is thoughtfully curated, organized by flavor profile. Patrons can expect a creative selection that includes popular classics like Pisco Sour and Dark ’n’ Stormy, alongside unique non-alcoholic options such as Brazilian Lemonade. The bar prides itself on crafting all syrups and mixers in-house, reinforcing its commitment to quality and flavor.

In addition to cocktails, Nocturno offers a menu of innovative small plates. Standout items include pork trotter croquettes and other dishes that showcase Flores’ culinary skills beyond traditional Mexican cuisine. The focus is on providing an engaging environment that encourages patrons to indulge in long conversations while enjoying expertly crafted drinks and delicious bites.

A Unique Experience

Nocturno seeks to recreate the ambiance of notable cocktail bars found in Mexico City, infusing the local scene with a fine-dining approach to cocktails. The bar’s design reflects this vision, featuring dimly lit spaces that invite patrons to unwind and savor their experiences. Each cocktail is prepared with precision techniques, and the use of frosty coupes and house-made ingredients enhances the overall flavor profiles.

Guests can also expect a personalized experience, with bartenders taking time to interact with customers and craft cocktails tailored to individual tastes. This approach sets Nocturno apart from other venues in the Arts District, where reservations are recommended to secure seating, fostering a more intimate atmosphere.

Successful Opening Week

The opening week of Nocturno has already established it as one of Las Vegas’s most compelling new bars. The initial events and the enthusiastic reception from patrons have set a promising tone for the future. With a focus on guest experience and a deep-rooted passion for the art of cocktail creation, Nocturno is poised to become a staple in the Las Vegas nightlife scene.

As Nocturno settles into its place within the community, it continues to build on its mission of delivering exceptional drinks and immersive experiences. This endeavor not only enhances the diverse offerings of the Arts District but also highlights the growing trend of cocktail culture in Las Vegas.

Food and drink enthusiasts, as well as those simply looking for a unique night out, are encouraged to explore Nocturno and savor the blend of innovative mixology and culinary creativity that it proudly presents.