Beauty & Essex, Winner of “Best Immersive Dining Experience” in Yankee Magazine, Rolls Out a Unique Midweek Happy Hour Exclusively in the Pearl Lounge and Bar offering $10 Signature Small Plates and More
Beauty & Essex, which in addition to Mohegan Sun, has locations on the Las Vegas Strip and in NYC, is excited to launch an all-new happy hour experience featuring a curated menu of signature small plates including favorites like Grilled Shishito Peppers, BBQ Fries, Oven Braised Chicken Meatballs, Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup Dumplings and much more. Offered exclusively in the Beauty & Essex bar and lounge area known as the Pearl Lounge and Bar at Mohegan Sun, Disco Days currently takes place every Tuesday and Wednesday from 5:00pm to 8:00pm. The mid-week happy hour also features selections from one of the region’s most inventive specialty cocktail menus, highlighted by Earl the Pearl, a refreshing blend ofWheatley Vodka, Earl Grey tea, lemon and mint nectar. For more details and to view the Disco Days menu, click HERE.
“Our partnership with Tao Group Hospitality continues to elevate Mohegan Sun’s dining landscape, offering guests two truly distinctive and luxurious experiences in TAO Asian Bistro & Lounge, and Beauty & Essex,” -said Jeff Hamilton, President & GM of Mohegan Sun. “The rollout of Beauty & Essex Disco Days as a midweek social event is a way great way for guests to enjoy some truly delicious signature dishes and one of the Northeast’s premier cocktail programs—all at an incredible value.”
Disco Days Menu | Tuesday & Wednesdays from 5:00pm – 8:00pm
Beauty Elixir (Hendrick’s Gin, La Marca Sparkling, cucumber, and strawberry)
Wine Special: Beauty & Essex Disco Days will also feature half price bottles of wine (under $100) and 25% off bottles of wine $100 or more.
Beauty & Essex, which features a speakeasy influenced hidden entrance through a pawn shop in Mohegan Sun’s Casino of the Sky, is a vibrant restaurant and lounge that opened in early 2025. The venue is also home to the Peacock Dining Room and the Locket Private Dining Room, separated by a screen wall of antique frames. Each of these rooms are inspired by the delicate yet glamorous details of jewelry.
The cuisine, much like the design, is intended to set a new course with unique shareable dishes and twists on classic cocktails. Acclaimed chef and co-creator Chris Santos was one of the pioneers of the small, share plate dining trend that has swept the nation, and with the Beauty & Essex menu, he once again has created waves on the food scene.
Beauty & Essex at Mohegan Sun also offers the Beauty for Two menu on Sunday, Monday & Thursday, where couples can enjoy a special menu and drinks for $99, including dishes like the Gochujang Salmon, Wagyu Steak Tartare, Garganelli and more.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic Southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, two distinct convention centers, an expo center, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan also operates an iGaming division, Mohegan Digital, in Connecticut, Pennsylvania and Ontario, CA providing cutting-edge online gaming solutions to Mohegan’s loyal fan base. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on X and Instagram @mohegansun and view us on YouTube.
Restaurant, Lounge & Pawn Shop, Beauty & Essex, located in Casino of the Sky, Launches a Delicious Weekend Brunch
Every Saturday and Sunday from 10:00am – 2:00pm, Beauty & Essex is joining the great lineup of brunch options across Mohegan Sun. Acclaimed chef and Beauty & Essex co-creator Chris Santos has designed the perfect Beauty & Essex brunch menu, with highlights like Red Velvet Waffles, Chicken n’ Biscuits and the BEC Sandwich Croissant. Reservations are encouraged and can be made HERE.
Full Menu Highlights | Beauty & Essex weekend Brunch
First Course options:Coconut Chia Seed Parfait | Avocado Toast | Seasonal Scones | Ricotta Fritters with raspberry jam
Second Course options: Red Velvet Waffles with cream cheese icing | Roasted Tomato & Basil Frittata | Croque Madame Benedict | Chilaquiles with hand pulled chicken, sunny side up egg, cotija cheese, pickled red onion | Narragansett Bear Battered Fish & Tots | Chicken n’ Biscuits with Nashville hot fried chicken, blue cheese biscuits, house-made pickles | Braised Short Rib Huevos Rancheros with sunny-side up eggs, black beans, cotija | Shrimp & Grits with salsa madre, slow cooked grits, crispy shallots, chili oil | BEC Sandwich Croissant with aged cheddar, double smoked bacon, fresno aioli.
Sides: Double Smoked & Maple Cured Bacon | Breakfast Potatoes with roasted red pepper aioli, chimichurri, sunny-side up egg | BBQ Fries |Seasonal Salad | Dirty Tater Tots with spicy cheese sauce, bacon, scallions, crema
Diners can also take advantage of the Wonder Wheel which arrives with mouth-watering doughnuts, chocolate croissants, madelines and chous chous.
Brunch at Beauty & Essex is available every Saturday and Sunday from 10:00am – 2:00pm. Reservations are encouraged and can be made directly via mohegansun.com/beautyandessex. For larger groups, guests can contact the Special Events team at [email protected].
Mohegan Sun’s latest addition, Beauty & Essex, sets the scene for unique shareable dishes, classic cocktails and delicious brunch options with a twist, all in an upscale speakeasy setting. Beauty & Essex opened during the winter of 2025 and guests can find their way through the Pawn Shop to discover bold flavors, luxe vibes and an unforgettable experience.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN
Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic Southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, two distinct convention centers, an expo center, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on X and Instagram @mohegansun and view us on YouTube.
Tao Group Hospitality’s Iconic Restaurant Opens at Mohegan Sun, Featuring an Immersive Pawn-Shop Entrance and Elevated Dining Experience
UNCASVILLE, CT (February 11, 2025) – Mohegan Sun and Tao Group Hospitality proudly announce the grand opening of Beauty & Essex, a stunning new restaurant and lounge that fuses opulence with intrigue. The highly anticipated dining destination officially opened on Friday, February 7th, 2025, drawing a crowd eager to experience its award-winning cuisine, inventive cocktails, and signature speakeasy vibe.
With an 11,000-square-foot footprint inside Mohegan Sun’s Casino of the Sky, Beauty & Essex seamlessly blends vintage charm with modern luxury. Guests enter through a curated modern-day pawn shop—a signature element of the Beauty & Essex brand—before discovering a multi-room dining event featuring:
Pearl Lounge & Bar – An intimate cocktail haven
Peacock Dining Room – A stunning space with artful design
Locket Private Dining Room – An exclusive setting for private events
“Mohegan Sun has built a reputation for exceptional dining and nightlife, and Beauty & Essex takes it to the next level,” said Jeff Hamilton, President & GM of Mohegan Sun. “In partnership once again with Tao Group Hospitality, we’ve blended top-tier cuisine and craft cocktails, creating an atmosphere unlike anything else on the property. Rockwell Group and JCJ Architecture have done an incredible job bringing this vision to life, ensuring every space – from the pawn shop entrance to the private dining room – feels captivating and inviting. We can’t wait for our guests to experience it.”
A Menu of Elevated Global Flavors
Beauty & Essex, co-founded by celebrity chef Chris Santos, has gained worldwide acclaim for its shareable plates, globally inspired flavors, and immersive dining. The Mohegan Sun location introduces a curated selection of signature dishes and shareables, with highlights like:
Wagyu Steak Tartare with mustard and chive sticky rice
Grilled Double-cut Lambchops with creamy polenta, port wine glaze.
24 oz. Dry-Aged Bone-in Ribeye with Beauty & Essex’s signature roasted garlic & bacon or smoked tomato glaze
Little French Dips with slow-roasted prime sirloin, gruyère cheese, horseradish-garlic aioli, house-made au jus
Gochujang Salmon with black garlic risotto, kimchi slaw, ginger aioli
Oven Braised Chicken Meatballs with whipped ricotta, wild mushrooms, truffle
The restaurant offers a dedicated vegan menu for guests seeking plant-based options, including Miso-Glazed Crispy Eggplant, Wild Mushroom Risotto, Kale & Apple Salad, and more.
“At Beauty & Essex, we take a playful approach to fine dining,” said Chef Chris Santos. “We want our guests to feel like every meal is a discovery—whether it’s a first bite of our famous Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup Dumplings or sipping a craft cocktail that surprises the senses. Opening at Mohegan Sun is a dream, and we’re beyond excited to share this experience with new and returning fans.”
Handcrafted Cocktails & Curated Wine Selections
The beverage program at Beauty & Essex is just as captivating as the cuisine, featuring favorites like:
Beauty Elixir – Bombay Gin, La Marca Sparkling Rosé, cucumber, strawberry
The wine list also features over 20 hand-selected labels, including Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio (Italy) and BenMarco Malbec (Argentina).
A Speakeasy with a Hidden Entrance
At the heart of Beauty & Essex is its pawn shop-inspired entrance, a signature feature that surprises and delights first-time visitors. Curated by Lauren Kaminsky, aka “Gold Girl,” the modern-day pawn shop showcases a stunning collection of vintage treasures, all available for purchase. Guests can browse unique items such as Fender, Ibanez, Gretsch, Gold Tone and D’Angelico guitars, classic Vox amplifiers, retro wall art, vinyl records, and rare jewelry. Among the standout pieces are Beatles memorabilia and other one-of-a-kind collectibles that make for the perfect conversation starters.
Beyond this unexpected retail experience, the restaurant unfolds into a multi-room dining and cocktail haven, where dim lighting, vintage décor, and plush seating create a transportive and unforgettable atmosphere.
A Thrilling New Chapter in Mohegan Sun’s Dining Evolution
Beauty & Essex marks another exciting chapter in Mohegan Sun’s partnership with Tao Group Hospitality, joining the highly successful TAO Asian Bistro & Lounge. As Mohegan Sun continues to expand its dining and nightlife portfolio, Beauty & Essex stands out as a must-visit destination for food lovers, cocktail enthusiasts, and those seeking an unforgettable night out.
Reservations at Beauty & Essex can be made by visiting taogroup.com/venues. For more information and updates on special events planned at Beauty & Essex, guests can visit mohegansun.com.
To view and download additional imagery of Beauty & Essex at Mohegan Sun, click HERE.
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ABOUT JCJ ARCHITECTURE
JCJ Architecture is a forward-thinking and nationally ranked planning, architecture and interior design firm offering comprehensive services to clients in the hospitality, gaming, civic, K12 and higher education sectors. Founded in 1936, the employee-owned firm’s mission is to provide innovative design solutions that enhance the environment, enrich people’s lives and help organizations succeed.
With a long-standing reputation for business acumen and project delivery excellence, JCJ focuses on bringing the qualities of adaptability, integrity, respect and collaboration to a design process that leverages the unique qualities and potential of each project. JCJ collaborates with clients across the United States from offices located in Boston, Hartford, New York City, Phoenix, San Diego, Tulsa, and Las Vegas. For more information, please visit www.jcj.com.
ABOUT TAO GROUP HOSPITALITY
Tao Group Hospitality delivers distinctive culinary and premium entertainment experiences through its portfolio of restaurants, nightclubs, lounges, and daylife venues. Tao Group Hospitality acquired Hakkasan Group in April 2021. The combined company operates over 80 branded locations in over 20 markets across four continents and features a collection of widely recognized hospitality brands. These include TAO, Hakkasan, Crane Club, OMNIA, Marquee, LAVO, Beauty & Essex, Yauatcha, Ling Ling, Cathédrale, Little Sister, The Highlight Room, Sake No Hana, Jewel, and more. Tao Group Hospitality is part of Mohari Hospitality, a global investment firm with a focus in luxury lifestyle and hospitality investments. Learn more at taogroup.com.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN
Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic Southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, two distinct convention centers, an expo center, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on X and Instagram @mohegansun and view us on YouTube.
A new immersive dining destination arrives at Mohegan Sun, marking the property’s second concept developed in partnership with Tao Group Hospitality
UNCASVILLE, CT (January 8, 2025) – Mohegan Sun, one of the world’s leading integrated entertainment resort destinations, has announced that it will open Beauty & Essex in collaboration with Tao Group Hospitality on Friday, February 7, 2025. This restaurant concept, co-created by Chef Chris Santos, will soon offer Mohegan Sun guests a high-caliber dining experience within the property’s Casino of the Sky, next to novelle.
“The addition of Beauty & Essex furthers our partnership with Tao Group Hospitality,” said Jeff Hamilton, President & General Manager of Mohegan Sun. “TAO Asian Bistro & Lounge has set a new standard in the region, and Beauty & Essex will further strengthen Mohegan Sun’s reputation as a top choice for memorable dining experiences.”
The 11,000-square-foot restaurant will feature Tao Group’s signature global cuisine, including popular dishes such as the Grilled Cheese, Smoked Bacon & Tomato Soup Dumplings, Tuna Poke Wonton Tacos, Classic Beef Wellington, Grilled Double Cut Lamb Chops as well as exclusive menu options crafted specifically for Mohegan Sun.
Known for its eclectic menu, speakeasy vibe and sophisticated ambiance, Beauty & Essex has an innovative design that starts in the restaurant’s entrance with a well-curated modern day pawn shop, featuring a collection of vintage jewelry, custom musical instruments, one-of-a-kind art and more, curated by Gold Girl, Lauren Kaminsky. Everything in the shop is available for purchase and each item tells a story, inviting guests to discover luxury in the most unexpected places.
This unique and eloquent venue will also soon celebrate Grand Opening party with special guests, with more details to be shared soon via mohegansun.com
“Beauty & Essex represents an exciting and much anticipated addition to Mohegan Sun’s already impressive dining portfolio and will be our third location overall,” said Ralph Scamardella, Chief Culinary Officer of Tao Group Hospitality. “Our collaboration with Mohegan Sun has been tremendous, and we look forward to further elevating the guest experience with this distinctive concept.”
“As a native to the region, New England holds a special place in my heart, and I’m eager to introduce Beauty & Essex to Mohegan Sun’s guests,” said Chef and Co-creator Chris Santos. “I believe our menu and atmosphere will offer something truly exceptional for visitors.”
The opening of Beauty & Essex, which is now taking reservations, marks a new chapter in Mohegan Sun’s collaboration with Tao Group Hospitality, bringing yet another iconic dining experience to the property. As Mohegan Sun’s dining scene continues to evolve, Beauty & Essex is set to become a highlight for guests seeking premier culinary moments in a unique setting.
Attendees of Mohegan Sun’s 21st Annual Sun Wine and Food Fest will be able to get a first glimpse at Beauty & Essex’s offerings during a special Cocktails & Chandeliers: A Sneak Peek Inside Beauty & Essex. This event will take place from 6:00pm – 7:30pm on Saturday, January 25th, and will feature the world-renowned Chef Chris Santos, delicious apps from the new menu and an open bar offering up popular Beauty & Essex cocktails. Tickets to this event are on-sale now through mohegansun.com/swff. Those who are unable to attend the event can now also make reservations at Beauty & Essex by visiting taogroup.com/venues. For more information and updates on this opening, visit mohegansun.com.
ABOUT TAO GROUP HOSPITALITY: Tao Group Hospitality delivers distinctive culinary and premium entertainment experiences through its portfolio of restaurants, nightclubs, lounges, and daylife venues. Tao Group Hospitality acquired Hakkasan Group in April 2021. The combined company operates over 80 branded locations in over 20 markets across four continents and features a collection of widely recognized hospitality brands. These include TAO, Hakkasan, Crane Club, OMNIA, Marquee, LAVO, Beauty & Essex, Yauatcha, Ling Ling, Cathédrale, Little Sister, The Highlight Room, Sake No Hana, Jewel, and more. Tao Group Hospitality is part of Mohari Hospitality, a global investment firm with a focus in luxury lifestyle and hospitality investments. Learn more at taogroup.com.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN: Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic Southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, two distinct convention centers, an expo center, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on X and Instagram @mohegansun and view us on YouTube.
The new menu, available on Friday’s & Saturday’s, features premium steak cuts (Wagyu Strip, Bone-in Ribeye & more) in three different flights, ranging from $60.00 to $223.00
UNCASVILLE, CT (October 26th, 2018) – The Steaksmanship Series is now available at Mohegan Sun inside the premier steak house in the region, Michael Jordan’s Steak House. The new special menu features “Chef’s Cuts” starting at $60.00, with the top tier, “The Legendary Flight,” checking in at $223.00. The full Steaksmanship Series can be viewed, here and they are sharable amongst couples and groups.
Starting with the Chef’s Cuts for $60.00, restaurant goers can choose either a 12oz Mishama Reserve Domestic Wagyu Strip with Shishito Pepper Au Poivre or a 14oz Linz Heritage Bone-In Cowgirl Ribeye with Balsamic Rosemary Cipollini. The next tier, “Flight 23,” comes in at $160, and features the above two cuts as well as a 6oz Savage Hill Filet Mignon with Foie Gras Butter! The last flight is aptly titled, “Legendary Flight,” as guests will be served all of the above steak cuts alongside Port Clyde Jonah Crab with Smoked Tomato Butter, Georges Bank Scallops Rockefeller and Maine Lobster with Drawn Butter.
The Steaksmanship Series is an over-the-top dining experience providing an opportunity for guests to indulge in the legendary meal. Available on Friday’s and Saturday’s, the elevated menu encompasses the most exclusive and premier cuts for steak lovers, gastronomes and celebratory dinners. The series officially kicks off on Friday, October 26th. This same weekend, Mohegan Sun Arena plays host to comedian Jim Jefferies & Marc Anthony.
ABOUTMOHEGANSUN: Owned by Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to three unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, 2 world-class spas, a golf course, over 90 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @mohegansun, view us on YouTube and find us on Snapchat at username MoheganSun.
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