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Years later, Fontainebleau finally sets opening date on the Las Vegas Strip

FILE - The partially completed Fontainebleau Las Vegas, the blue building on the left, stands along the skyline, Aug. 29, 2017, in Las Vegas.
John Locher
/
AP
FILE - The partially completed Fontainebleau Las Vegas, the blue building on the left, stands along the skyline, Aug. 29, 2017, in Las Vegas.

Eighteen years after it was announced, the Fontainebleau Las Vegas has an opening date. The new, 67-story property has set Dec. 13, 2023 for its grand opening.

When it opens, it will be the tallest occupiable building in Nevada, boasting 3,644 rooms. The Fontainebleau will feature 36 new restaurant concepts, opening through December and early 2024. It will have a 14,000 square-foot fitness center and 55,000 square-foot spa, as well as 96,500 square feet of retail on the first two levels, as well as meeting spaces, gaming and the LIV nightclub with LIV Beach.

Some of the restaurants and bars include:

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  • Komodo: An expansive Mecca to the best of Asian fusion cuisine with plenty of curiosity-piquing cocktails and truly immaculate vibes.
  • Papi Steak: A breathtaking spectacle for the senses, serving stunning steakhouse fare in a world-class nightclub atmosphere.
  • Ito: Exclusive 12-seat omakase counter experience, featuring modern sushi creations using the highest possible quality fish flown in daily from Japan.
  • Chyna Club: Elevated Cantonese cuisine by the renowned founder and creator of Hakkasan, Alan Yau.
  • Cantina Contramar: An authentic Cantina experience from Gabriela Camara, featuring singature dishes and a wide range of Mexican specialties.
  • Mother Wolf: A Hollywood concept from larger-than-life chef Evan Funke, serving Roman Italian classics with a playful twist.
  • The Tavern: American classics served alongside craft brews and panoramic digital screens for truly a immersive sports viewing.
  • Vida: Come as you are to enjoy a robust menu of contemporary American favorites anytime at this casual eatery, open for breakfast and lunch.
  • Promenade: Make every bite an adventure in our lively food hall where eight different venues invite you to explore delectable dishes from all over the world.
  • Kyu Las Vegas: A Miami favorite serving unique interpretations of wood-fired Asian favorites and sushi, complemented by an open kitchen and views of the Las Vegas Strip.
  • Washing Potato: A study in Chinese noodle perfection utilizing black box theater lighting for sense-heightening drama in every bite.
  • La Cote: Indulge in the fresh flavors of France’s vibrant mediterranean coast amidst refreshing poolside breezes.

More bars and restaurants can be found here. Guests can book their stay now for the opening on their website, with rooms averaging $500 per night that weekend.

“For almost 70 years, the Fontainebleau brand has challenged boundaries and expectations,” said Fontainebleau Development Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Jeffrey Soffer in a media statement. “With Fontainebleau Las Vegas, we have transcended aspiration and set the stage for a new era of luxury hospitality defined by innovation, sophistication, and opulence, with an inextricable link to our roots at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach. This building represents a remarkable new chapter in our storied legacy and will be a beacon for those seeking to indulge in the unforgettable.”

But it was no easy journey. The property was initially planned to open in 2008, but the Great Recession led to funding challenges, and construction was halted at 70% complete in 2009.

The property changed hands several times until it landed with Witkoff Group. The Fontainebleau was to be called The Drew, named for Steve Witkoff's son who had died of an OxyContin overdose. While slated to open in 2022, construction was once again halted during the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020.

Soffer, with Fontainebleau Development, bought back the property in 2021.

Kristen DeSilva (she/her) is the audience engagement specialist for Nevada Public Radio. She curates and creates content for knpr.org, our weekly newsletter and social media for Nevada Public Radio and Desert Companion.