You could go the traditional route and gift your main squeeze a dozen roses and a heart-shaped box filled with dark chocolates or you could change things up in 2022 and take your date out for an evening at the Las Vegas hidden gem, Ghost Donkey.

Ghost Donkey

Located on the second level of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, if you’re not paying close attention, you might walk right past this modern-day speakeasy. Here’s a hint: Walk inside the 4,600-square-foot Block 16 Urban Food Hall and make your way to the back where you’ll see graffiti on the walls. Keep an eye out for what looks like a turquoise “exit door” with push bar. The white donkey decorated with hot pink, orange, and Benjamin Moore Boca Raton Blue paper parasols on the door gives it away.   

Push open the door and step inside a first come, first serve tequila and mezcal lounge. Snag a seat in the intimate space filled with fiesta lights and tasting flights. Show your date you’re in charge by ordering a couple of cocktails first.

Mushroom Margarita

Try everything from the Mushroom Margarita (this traditional Mexican drink doesn’t get any better than the combo of huitlacoche-infused ilegal Joven mezcal, triple sec, and lava salt) to the Burro Tropical (think passion fruit, tequila, ginger, and rum). Then, put in an order of the white-cheddar-covered-black-truffle-nachos along with the fresh and tasty guacamole and chips. The night has only just begun. 

And now is the point where your significant other tells you how cool you are for planning such a fun outing. Some ungodly amount of cheesy nachos and crispy chips later, you take the evening to another level.

Tequila & Mezcal Tasting Flight

You ask your server for a tasting flight of tequila and mezcal. Unsure of what to choose (Ghost Donkey has a selection of more than 100 tequila and mezcal options), your server will select top favorites for you. Expect three glasses, slices of lime, lemon, cucumber, and oranges, and a variety of salts. Brands such as Tequila Ocho, Tequila Fortaleza, and Bozal Mezcal pack a powerful punch. Sip slow and savor the flavors (think creamy vanilla to wild flowers) with your better half.

El Diable Swizzle

This could be your best Valentine’s Day ever. So raise a glass to love in a lounge. A trip to Ghost Donkey in Las Vegas guarantees a wild ride and a good time. 

www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com/lounges-bars/ghost-donkey