Italian Restaurant With a Speakeasy Opens on the Strip in Late August

Ambra Italian Kitchen + Bar , the restaurant taking over the former Fiamma space at the MGM Grand, now plans to open on Aug. 26 with a speakeasy dubbed Privata.

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, made table side.

The space includes a main bar, where MGM Resorts International corporate mixologist Craig Schoettler emphasizes flavors and ingredients found in Italy, such as 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.

Once open, Ambra looks like 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 secret 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.

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

• An Italian Restaurant with a Speakeasy Debuts on the Strip in August [ELV]