🍸 Handshake x Hard Shake Pop-Up at Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas
Last night was pure cocktail magic at Hard Shake inside Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas—recently celebrated in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards. For two nights only, the iconic Handshake Speakeasy from Mexico City brought its award-winning craft to the Strip with an intimate, reservation-only pop-up (Sept 12–13, 6–10 PM). As a Vegas local who lives for great bar programs, I couldn’t miss it.
✨ Why this pop-up mattered
Handshake’s menus are known for precision, texture, and surprise—exactly the kind of progressive cocktails that thrive in a refined setting like the Waldorf. The takeover delivered thoughtful builds, polished service, and a vibe that felt like a quick passport stamp to CDMX without leaving Las Vegas Boulevard.
🥂 Featured Handshake creations I tried
- Olive Oil Gimlet — Don Julio Blanco tequila, olive oil apple, rosemary, Lillet Blanc.
Silky and bright with a savory, herbaceous lift; the rosemary finish lingers beautifully. - Once Upon a Time in Oaxaca — Unión mezcal, mint, lemon, absinthe, whey.
Smoke meets freshness; whey adds luxurious body without heaviness—balanced and memorable. - Mini Espresso Martini — Ketel One vodka, cold brew coffee liqueur, coconut water.
Petite, punchy, and clean; coconut water keeps it crisp—perfect between courses. - Cariño — Zacapa 23, lemon juice, Greek yogurt, yellow Chartreuse, vanilla syrup, nutmeg.
Dessert-adjacent in the best way: plush texture, gentle spice, layered sweetness—my surprise favorite.
🌆 Vibe & service
Dim, intimate lighting, a calm luxury soundtrack, and the kind of hospitality that makes time slow down. Even at peak hour, the team kept pacing tight and glassware pristine. It’s the Waldorf—elegance is the baseline.
📌 Quick planning notes
- Where: Hard Shake at Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas
- When: September 12–13, 2025 · 6:00–10:00 PM
- Reservations: Extremely limited—if this collaboration returns, book early
💬 Final sip
Vegas keeps winning with experiences like this—global talent, inventive menus, and hospitality that shines. Thank you @walasvegas for a standout night. If you chase exceptional cocktails, keep Hard Shake on your radar and say yes to any future Handshake takeovers.