An Italian Restaurant with a Speakeasy Debuts on the Strip in August

Ambra Italian Kitchen + Bar takes over the former Fiamma space at the MGM Grand, pegging an August debut. One of the biggest highlights? A speakeasy filled with a cocktail bar doling out cocktails such as the 1850 Sazerac, the 1896 Daiquiri, and the 1919 Negroni.

MGM Resorts International corporate mixologist Craig Schoettler created the cocktail menu for Privata, Italian for “private.”

The food side of the menu focuses on Italian dishes meant to share. The lineup includes wagyu meatballs made with Japanese F1 wagyu, king crab involtini stuffed with preserved lemon mascarpone and basil, lobster cavatelli Bolognese, 45-day aged bone-in ribeye Fiorentina, and a chocolate cherry flambé, flamed table side.

The space includes a main bar, where Schoettler emphasizes flavors and ingredients found in Italy. Highlights include: The Devil is in the Details prepared with MGM’s single barrel Cruzan rum, Pineau des Charente, spiced Demerara syrup, coconut water, and Angostura bitters; Senora’s Spritz made with Grey Goose vodka, aperol, soda, and prosecco; and classic gin and vodka martinis with lavish garnishes.

Ambra takes on a look that reminds diners of Milan at dusk, with warm jewel tones and rich earthy hues. A honey-golden onyx countertop creates the visual centerpiece of the space at the bar, while the main dining room features a mix of modern and vintage fixtures. Privata’s intimate space is inspired by luxury Italian sports cars, complete with intricate detailing on sleek leather upholstery.

Facing Morimoto Las Vegas and a short distance from Tom Colicchio’s Craftsteak and Emeril’s New Orleans Fish House, Ambra will be large enough for a maximum occupancy of 392 inside and is working with a initial estimated budget of $1,798,345 for construction costs alone.

Launched in 2004 and shuttered earlier this year, Fiamma’s roomy, open-plan interior was created by the YMS design firm, the same team behind the MGM Grand’s Hakkasan restaurant and nightclub.

• Ambra Replaces Fiamma at the MGM Grand This Summer [ELV]