Golden Gai, an intimate drinks destination inspired by the iconic neon-lit alleys of the Golden Gai bar district in Shinjuku, Tokyo, has opened its doors at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas. Developed by 50 Eggs Hospitality Group, Golden Gai blends cultural authenticity with the allure and raw energy of a bold, hidden-world experience where handcrafted cocktails, Michelin-star-quality bites, and curated entertainment converge.
Golden Gai shares the same spirit of precision and artistry that defines its neighbor Wakuda—the internationally celebrated fine-dining Japanese restaurant with locations at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas and in Singapore. Its cocktail menu, developed by beverage director Luis Lopez, reflects Japan’s heritage and profound connection to nature and seasonality—all while emphasizing excellence and balance. Having honed his skills under legendary bartender Sam Ross of New York City’s Attaboy, Lopez brings unmatched expertise and imagination to Golden Gai’s cocktail book, drawing inspiration from the top-rated bars in the world. Every drink on the menu is meticulously concocted, featuring ingredients such as crisp Fuji apples and premium Japanese whisky, bringing guests along for a sensory journey where tradition meets innovation.
Golden Gai also offers one of the most expansive lists of sake, Champagne, and wine in Las Vegas. This collection encompasses a carefully assembled yet broad selection reflecting both global excellence and rare finds.
Golden Gai not only immerses guests in the essence of Tokyo’s underground but also brings the world’s finest drinking experiences to Las Vegas through ongoing pop-ups with the 50 Best Bars in the World. These exclusive collaborations give guests the rare chance to sip on globally celebrated cocktails without leaving the Strip. In addition to these renowned partnerships, Golden Gai hosts pop-ups with producers of premium Japanese spirits, sake, and champagnes, creating a dynamic, rotating beverage program that promises something new with every visit.
To enhance the flavors of Golden Gai’s impeccably crafted cocktails and other libations, guests can indulge in small Japanese handhelds and sumptuous bar bites. Made with the finest ingredients, these craveable delicacies with bold, sought-after flavor twists include handrolls, katsu, wagyu sliders, toasted nuts, house-made chips, Japanese pickles, caviar, and other tempting, bite-sized morsels.
Golden Gai’s indoor-outdoor design draws on the edgy, eclectic essence of the underground nightlife scene that inspired it. Pops of neon light punctuate the darkened interior, which includes just eight tables. On the walls hang contemporary artworks by Shohei Otomo, whose influences range from cyberpunk to anime and create an atmosphere where hospitality meets intrigue and rebellion. Outside, the spacious patio offers more table seating and sweeping views of the world-famous Las Vegas Strip.
With a focus on exclusivity, Golden Gai offers a distinctly energetic environment. With live DJs performing Tuesday through Saturday evenings, the space transforms into a place where elevated cocktails, craveable bites, and culture come together seamlessly. From the neon glow to the pulsing energy of its carefully curated soundscape, Golden Gai feels both familiar and thrillingly unpredictable.
“Golden Gai is a discovery—a place where every element, from the ambiance to the cocktails and entertainment, delivers something unexpected,” said John Kunkel, CEO of 50 Eggs Hospitality Group. “It’s where indulgence meets genuinely elevated cocktail culture, and each visit promises an experience that lingers long after the night ends.”
Golden Gai is located steps inside the Wakuda entry in The Palazzo Lobby at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas at 3325 South Las Vegas Blvd. Golden Gai is open Tuesday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. and Sunday and Monday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. With a limited number of tables, reservations are highly recommended. Guests 21 or older may make reservations online, by calling (702) 665-8592, or emailing Peter Lee at plee@wakudajapanese.com. For more information, go to wakudajapanese.com/golden-gai or follow Golden Gai on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok @GoldenGaiLV.
For more information, visit wakudajapanese.com/golden-gai.
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