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.
Limited-time Spring Pop-up Experience Featuring Handcrafted Cocktails such as Your Grace’s Garden, Moonflower Margarita, and Spring Fever
Mohegan Sun is welcoming the warmer season with The Secret Garden Bar, an immersive spring pop‑up experience open for a limited time from Friday, April 3rd through Sunday, June 14th. Nestled within the Sky Tower Hotel Lobby, this beautifully designed hideaway invites to a world where spring is always in full bloom.
The Secret Garden Bar will feature a curated menu of handcrafted cocktails, seasonal flavors, and visually stunning presentations designed to complement the venue’s immersive décor. Signature cocktails include, but are not limited to, Bonsai & Berries, High Society Spritzer, The Bee Sting, and Mint To Be a Scandal. Each evening, visitors can escape into a lush, atmospheric setting crafted for lingering conversation and unexpected moments. The Secret Garden Bar will be open seven days a week, with hours designed to complement both after‑work relaxation and weekend nightlife:
Sunday – Thursday: 4:00pm – 10:00pm
Friday – Saturday: 3:00pm – Midnight
“The creativity and excitement surrounding our pop‑up bars in Mohegan Sun’s Sky Tower Hotel Lobby continue to generate tremendous buzz, offering guests something fresh, imaginative, and genuinely fun,” said Jeff Hamilton, President & General Manager of Mohegan Sun. “With The Secret Garden Bar, we set out to create a memorable seasonal escape within an inviting social atmosphere—giving guests a place to relax, connect, and enjoy the season of spring.”
To learn more about everything The Secret Garden Bar has to offer, visit mohegansun.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 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.
From Sunday, February 8th – Thursday, February 12th, guests can enjoy prix-fixe menus, dining deals, and unique culinary experiences at Mohegan Sun’s award winning restaurants
Mohegan Sun is thrilled to welcome back Restaurant Week, taking place February 8th–12th. Guests can indulge in specially curated menus, enjoy exclusive dining deals, and experience the very best of Mohegan Sun’s culinary scene. From the Beauty’s Tasting Platter at Beauty & Essex, featuring Little French Dips, Tuna Poke Wonton Tacos, and the iconic Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup Dumplings—to unlimited arcade gaming with any Smash Burger order at GAME ON, Restaurant Week delivers unbeatable flavors and fun across the property.
novelle
Mohegan Sun’s beautiful and refined lounge experience is set to feature a three-course prix fixe experience for $50 per person. It includes an Arugula Salad or Shrimp Cocktail (jumbo shrimp, lemon confit and cocktail sauce) as a starter, followed by either Seared Scallops with carbonara risotto and balsamic reduction or Steak Frites, with grilled sirloin, caramelized onion gorgonzola cream sauce, crispy truffle Parmesan fries and watermelon arugula salad. The dessert option are tasty Cannoli Cones!
TAO Asian Bistro & Lounge
Mohegan Sun’s acclaimed TAO Asian Bistro & Lounge will feature its signature Pu Pu Platter for Restaurant Week, priced at $30. This indulgent assortment includes two pieces of crispy tuna, one piece of satay bass, one piece of chicken satay, one gyoza, and a lollipop wing. Guests can enjoy TAO’s vibrant atmosphere while sampling the perfect curated selection.
Todd English’s Tuscany
The newly refreshed Todd English’s Tuscany invites diners to enjoy a three-course prix fixe menu for $60 per person. The first course offers a choice of Lobster Bisque with fresh-picked Maine lobster, sherry and chives or a Beet & Goat Cheese Salad featuring roasted beets, whipped goat cheese, pistachio crumb, and truffle honey. Entrées include Crispy Skin Salmon with barley risotto, watercress salad, miso coconut glace or a Wagyu Flat Iron Steak served with silk potatoes, grilled asparagus, and veal demi. For dessert, guests can choose between Pistachio Cheesecake or Classic Tiramisu—a sweet finale to an exceptional dining experience.
The Lansdowne Irish Pub & Music House
The Lansdowne Irish Pub & Music House brings bold Irish flavors to Restaurant Week with a lineup of hearty, creative dishes. Guests can enjoy Bratwurst Spring Rolls ($14), featuring bratwurst sausage, caramelized onions, Swiss cheese, and Guinness mustard dipping sauce, or savor Shepherd’s Pie Stuffed Spuds ($16)—crispy potato skins filled with shepherd’s pie and topped with creamy mashed potatoes. Entrée highlights include Irish Honey Glazed Pork Chops ($30) and Jalapeño Apricot Salmon ($32), each paired with flavorful sides for a truly satisfying experience.
The Crafty Slice
For a casual yet delicious option, The Crafty Slice offers its House-Made Pasta Bowl Combo for $16.50, which includes a generous pasta bowl, garlic knots, and a soda. This simple, comforting combination is perfect for guests looking for a quick and flavorful meal during Restaurant Week.
The Shed Restaurant
The Shed Restaurant will feature a three-course prix fixe menu for $35 per person, showcasing classic comfort food with a twist. Starters include Classic Deviled Eggs or Fried Pickles with buttermilk dressing, followed by entrée choices like the Shed Burger—topped with American and Swiss cheese, onion jam, lettuce, tomato and Shed Sauce—or a Chicken Sandwich with habanero honey and pickles. Dessert options include Berries & Cream with vanilla gelato or a Box of Warm Chocolate Chip Cookies, making for a sweet finish to a satisfying meal.
GAME ON
Game On adds an extra layer of fun during Restaurant Week with an unbeatable offer: one free unlimited play game card with the purchase of any Smash Burger. Guests can enjoy a delicious burger and then dive into a full day of arcade gaming—all included with their meal. GAME ON is home to an eight-lane bowling alley, 15 high-definition screens, karaoke, shuffleboard, cornhole, darts, billiard tables, and more than 50 retro and modern arcade games. Its signature Smash Burger is “The Super Smash,” equipped with double angus beef patties smashed over pickle chips, American cheese, crispy fried onions and house-made Smash Sauce.
*The game card is valid for the date of purchase only, and GAME ON is participating in Restaurant Week on Tuesday, February 10th and Thursday, February 12th only.
In total, nearly 20 Mohegan Sun venues are a part of Restaurant Week 2026. For full details, and to learn more about the world-class dining across Mohegan Sun, visit: mohegansun.com/dining
Guests can elevate their drinking experience with a curated collection of fine spirits
Mohegan Sun, home to more than 40 restaurants, bars and lounges is excited to announce the roll out of the Select Barrel Series featuring renowned top-shelf whiskeys, gin, tequila and rum. Many of Mohegan Sun’s most popular attractions like novelle and TAO Asian Bistro & Lounge will be taking part serving up high-end offerings from Elijah Craig, Buffalo Trace Distillery, Woodford Reserve, Breckenridge, Rittenhouse Jack Daniel’s and more. This Barrel Series rolled out this summer and will be updated regularly at mohegansun.com/selectbarrel
“The Select Barrel Series at Mohegan Sun brings a curated collection of spirits to our more than 40 restaurants across the resort, featuring whiskeys, gin, rum and tequila,” -said Chris Greaney, VP of Food & Beverage at Mohegan Sun. “Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or simply looking to savor something excellent, this series promises a memorable experience through exceptional quality and craftsmanship.”
Featured Whiskey
When it comes to whiskey, Mohegan Sun’s Select Barrel Series will offer up only the best. Available at Clay Pipe Cigar Bar, novelle and TAO Asian Bistro & Lounge will be highlights like Breckenridge Bourbon, which is an 86-proof bourbon with a deep honey-amber hue and enticing aromas of butterscotch, candied orange and crisp apple. Another sought after whiskey featured as part of the Select Barrel Series is Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Select and this famous whiskey provides rich caramel notes intertwined with toasted oak and hints of ripe banana. The palate delivers layers of vanilla and warm baking spices, complemented by notes of roasted nuts. One more popular whiskey featured in the Select Barrel Series is Litchfield Bourbon Whiskey which is crafted in Litchfield, Connecticut. Aged in #4 charred barrels, the 92-proof bourbon gives off a beautiful amber hue and releases inviting aromas of vanilla, butterscotch, and a hint of apple. Rich flavors of caramel and vanilla with subtle notes of pepper and cinnamon lead to a smooth, balanced finish on the palate.
In addition to the top-notch selection of whiskeys, Mohegan Sun’s Select Barrel Series also tees up a phenomenal local gin available at Clay Pipe Cigar Bar and novelle. The gin highlighted in this series is Waypoint Barrel Aged Gin which is crafted in Bloomfield, Connecticut. This gin is a 92-proof spirit that bridges the gap between classic gin and aged whiskey and is distilled with juniper, citrus, and lemon verbena. The gin is then rested in oak barrels to add depth and warmth which results in a fresh juniper and citrus aroma with vanilla, caramel, botanical spice, and a hint of lemon verbena.
Featured Rum
When it comes to rum, the Select Barrel Series stays on point with a Cruzan 5-Year-Old Rum. Available at Bobby’s Burger Palace, Clay Pipe Cigar Bar, and novelle, this highlighted rum is an 80-proof blend of rums, aged a minimum of five years in old oak barrels. Light bakery notes with hints of oak and honey are present to the nose with a harmonious blend of rich vanilla wood tones, cherry, and cinnamon, with a smooth caramel finish to the taste. This rum embodies the laid-back spirit of the Caribbean with its balanced profile.
Featured Tequila
The featured tequila in Mohegan Sun’s Select Barrel Series features a single barrel unique expression available at Clay Pipe Cigar Bar and novelle. The tequila highlighted in this series is Corazón Reposado Tequila, by Casa San Matías and aged in Colonel E.H. Taylor bourbon barrels. It’s a distinctive fusion of tequila tradition and bourbon character that is aged for over 10 months. The aroma is a mix of vanilla, butterscotch, and dried fig, with a hint of black pepper. On the palate, notes of caramel, dark spice, gentle oak, and a touch of salinity, provide a smooth finish.
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.
