Tucked away behind an unassuming pawn shop facade on Level 3 of The Cosmopolitan, Beauty & Essex delivers one of the most intriguing dining experiences on the Las Vegas Strip. This NYC transplant, helmed by Chef Chris Santos and TAO Group, masterfully blends Lower East Side edge with Vegas glamour. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a shimmering, chandelier-adorned space that feels simultaneously luxurious and intimate. The menu features an eclectic mix of shareable plates, from truffle-infused pasta to inventive takes on classic comfort foods, with each dish showcasing Chef Santos’s creative flair. Beauty & Essex’s bold approach has made it not only a standout on the Strip but also a significant influence on the evolving downtown Las Vegas food scene, bridging the gap between edgy innovation and timeless sophistication.

Ambiance & Design

The moment you step through the pawn shop entrance, you’re transported into a world of sophisticated luxury. The dimly lit dining rooms are designed like jewel boxes, creating an intimate atmosphere perfect for both date nights and group celebrations. The attention to detail in the decor – from the ornate light fixtures to the thoughtfully designed seating areas – sets the stage for what’s to come.

 

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The Menu Experience

During our visit, we sampled a diverse selection of dishes that showcased the kitchen’s versatility. The Spaghettini ($26) arrived with a perfectly runny sunny-side-up egg, creating a silky sauce when mixed with the zucchini, lemon, and parsley pesto. The presentation was elegant yet approachable.

The Brown Butter Scallops ($39) were a standout, perfectly seared and paired with a velvety butternut purée. The apple slaw provided a fresh contrast, while the shimeji mushrooms added an earthy depth. The preserved lemon vinaigrette tied everything together beautifully.

The Gochujang Salmon ($39) demonstrated the kitchen’s ability to blend flavors expertly. The fish was cooked to perfection, its spicy-sweet glaze complemented by the black garlic risotto. The kimchi slaw added a necessary punch of acidity and crunch.

Small Plates That Shine

The Crispy Tofu ($18) surprised us with its complex flavors. The glass noodle salad underneath provided a light, refreshing base, while the shoyu glaze gave the dish a wonderful umami note. The Crispy Panko Vidalia Onion Rings ($15) weren’t your standard side – the miso honey mustard and sambal ketchup elevated them to something special.

Service & Cocktails

The service matched the sophistication of the space, with staff showing impressive knowledge of both the menu and wine list. The cocktail program deserves special mention, particularly during their happy hour (Wednesday and Thursday, 6PM-7PM at the bar).

Final Verdict

Beauty & Essex successfully delivers on both style and substance. While prices reflect its Strip location, the quality of food, service, and ambiance justify the investment. It’s an ideal choice for special occasions or when you’re looking to impress out-of-town guests.

Essential Information

Hours:

Monday-Thursday: 5PM-10:30PM
Friday: 5PM-11:30PM
Saturday: 4PM-10PM
Sunday: 5PM-10:30PM

Contact:

Reservations: 702.737.0707
Large Groups (13+): 877.551.7776