Tony Arnone, Head Mixologist at The Barbershop Cuts & Cocktails, Bringing Bands, Beards, and Booze Together

The Barbershop Cuts & Cocktails at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas combines old-world barbering with a speakeasy-inspired cocktail experience.

Additional photos by David J. Crewe

Andy Masi, founder of Clique Hospitality, spearheaded the original idea and opened it in 2019, as a nod to the underground Prohibition-era speakeasies.

“It’s like stepping into a time machine, where top-notch grooming meets a killer cocktail program,” explained Paul Edgar, Senior Marketing Director.

The concept draws inspiration from the 1920s, blending classic whiskey culture with exclusivity. The Barbershop achieves excellence in both grooming and mixology by focusing on top-tier talent.

“We hire the best of the best—people who are pros at their craft,” noted Dave Severino, Director of Operations.

Staff regularly attend masterclasses in barbering and spirits to ensure they remain up-to-date on current trends. This relentless pursuit of quality is central to the venue’s identity, providing guests with unforgettable experiences, whether through a close shave or an expertly crafted cocktail.

Live music also plays a pivotal role in creating the venue’s atmosphere.

“Every night, we’ve got a live band, and the vibe shifts depending on the night of the week,” Edgar shared.

These themed nights include Sunday crowd-sourced setlists, “Faded Karaoke” on Tuesdays, and “Wild West Wednesday,” which mixes rock and country. The intimate speakeasy setting enhances the feeling of attending a private concert, making each night a unique experience for guests.

Whiskey is at the heart of The Barbershop’s cocktail menu, crafted by lead mixologist Tony Arnone. Signature cocktails, like the Mustache Ride, featuring Teeling Irish whiskey and Guinness, and the Six String Sling, served with a guitar-shaped ice cube, embody the venue’s rock ‘n’ roll spirit, no pun intended. The Bonnie + Clyde, a Bulleit rye cocktail served in a signed souvenir flask, reflects its blend of romance and memorabilia. The Barbershop’s intimate, secretive vibe has attracted numerous celebrities, with surprise performances by stars like Rod Stewart, Bruno Mars, and Anderson Paak. Guests such as Megan Fox and Simone Biles have added to the venue’s allure.

Embracing its Las Vegas roots, The Barbershop epitomizes the city’s blend of glamour and unpredictability. “Where else can you get a sharp cut and then catch a rock show, all in the same spot?” The Barbershop delivers a quintessential Vegas experience, making it a standout in the nightlife scene.