Libertine Social, the forthcoming gastropub and eatery at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, will debut this August with designs from Toronto-based design firm Studio Munge. The venue is inspired by the Venice Beach, California, neighborhood of Abbot Kinney, which chef Shawn McClain, mixologist Tony Abou-Ganim, and principal designer Alessandro Munge explored together after a layover in Los Angeles.
“The eclecticism of Abbot Kinney is what really inspired the idea of Libertine Social,” says McClain. “While exploring the neighborhood, we created this fictional persona of Kyle, who is the soul of the town—both as an entrepreneur and as the host of its social scene. Eventually, Kyle would guide every decision we made while creating the concept and design for Libertine Social.”
Featuring two bars, a dining room, chef’s table, and patio, guests arrive through Voyeur lounge, clad with comfortable furniture, a jukebox, and whimsical artwork. Social Bar anchors the lounge with layers of rich texture and stylish décor such as an antique glass arch above the bar. The open kitchen and chef’s table will be a central hub between the lounge and dining area, which features intimate table arrangements and a collection of personal photos will adorn the walls to inspire guests of past adventures and those yet to come.
“It’s like walking into the loft space of your most stylish friend. You simultaneously feel welcomed and intrigued by your surroundings,” Munge says of the space.
The restaurant’s exterior will be transformed with a large-scale graffiti artwork from street artist Alex Diaz, who will also design an original tag for the outdoor patio. Soft lighting will illuminate the patio to create an atmosphere reminiscent of a rooftop terrace. A food truck-inspired grab-and-go counter will also be available for guests, complete with sidle-up seating and street lamp-inspired lights.
