Tessie’s Cocktails & Chords at Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe

Concept Description:

Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe introduces Tessie’s Cocktails & Chords, designed by Celano Design Studio Co., who also designed Caspian’s Cocktails & Caviar at Caesars Palace Las Vegas in late 2024. A new cocktail lounge concept that blends local legend with music and mixology.

The design of Tessie’s Cocktails, the new bar and lounge located in the heart of the casino floor, draws inspiration from the mythical creature said to inhabit the depths of Lake Tahoe, says Vincent Celano, Founder and CEO of Celano Design Studio Co. The firm leading the design of Tessie’s Cocktails aims to create an atmosphere that fosters live music, guest interaction, and the potential for legendary encounters. Working directly with Clique Hospitality’s founder and CEO Andy Massi, who as a legend in hospitality has mastered the art of bringing to life live performance spaces that create immersive and interactive guest experiences. The new concept will offer a playful yet sophisticated ambiance characterized by a rustic refined aesthetic that seamlessly integrates technology with live performance and a creative cocktail program.

Tessie is Lake Tahoe’s legendary lake monster, often compared to the Loch Ness Monster. Sightings date back to the 19th century, with locals and visitors claiming to see a large, serpentine creature gliding through the deep, clear waters. Though never proven, Tessie remains a beloved piece of Tahoe folklore, adding mystery and charm to the lake’s natural beauty.

Tessie’s at Caesars is where live music meets elevated cocktails and the unmistakable spirit of Lake Tahoe. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Sierra Nevadas, Tessie’s brings the energy of a concert venue with the intimacy of a stylish lounge. Sip on expertly crafted drinks while you catch performances from top-tier bands and emerging artists, creating a vibe that’s both laid-back and electric. Whether you’re winding down after a day on the lake or gearing up for a night out, Tessie’s is the ultimate destination for unforgettable nights and incredible sounds.

Project Description:

Tessie’s Cocktail Lounge is an immersive mountain modern hideaway inspired by the legend of Tessie, the mythical serpent said to inhabit the depths of Lake Tahoe. Blending the rustic charm of a vintage ski lodge with contemporary sophistication, the design tells a layered story rooted in nostalgia, craftsmanship, and a deep connection to nature. The space reflects organic mountain modern principles by combining cozy textures with clean lines and refined detailing, says Vincent.

Natural materials ground the experience. When you enter the space, you are greeted by intricate handcrafted signage. White oak plank walls pair with black basalt, aged bronze, brushed brass, worn leather, and hair on hide upholstery. The palette draws from the Tahoe landscape with warm creams, rich browns, and taupes layered against deep blues, soft greens, charcoals, and gold. A monolithic vintage fireplace from 1886 acts as the main focal point and anchors the cozy lounge, while layered seating arrangements of tufted leather sectionals, rustic wood tables, and cowhide rugs create intimate moments for gathering.

At the center of the lounge, a dramatic multi-headed serpent chandelier represents Tessie herself. Illuminated with programmable color changing light, it transitions the atmosphere from a warm, inviting glow during early evening cocktails to a dynamic and theatrical setting as live entertainment begins. A Brunswick triple arch “Empire Bar” from the late-1800’s neoclassical, and handcrafted woodwork, made of mahogany with Corinthian columns, ornate arches, mirrors, and detailed carvings, with leather stools, including two restored horse saddles repurposed as barstools, celebrates Tahoe’s frontier spirit while adding a playful focal point.

Wood clad walls serve as a curated gallery of lodge nostalgia, featuring vintage ski photography, mounted skis, antlers, bear mounts, and old license plates. At the rear, a live performance stage framed in blue velvet drapery and blue leather upholstered panels provides depth and acoustic softness. Custom serpent inspired stage lighting enhances the immersive quality of the space and reinforces the central legend.

The restrooms extend the narrative with a maroon vestibule wrapped in fish inspired photography and centered by a spiked crystal pendant. Inside, a custom plaid wallcovering featuring vintage pin up girls riding fish, including ski themed variations, blends lakeside folklore with retro lodge charm. Tessie’s Cocktail Lounge ultimately captures the romance of mountain life and the mystery of the lake, creating a timeless destination where legend and hospitality meet.

Project Design Team:

Vincent Celano – Founder & CEO
Stephanie Niebler – Partner & Creative Director
John Pearson – Associate, Project Manager / Interior Designer
Elizabeth Klein – Junior Interior Designer
Mark Simpson – Associate Director of Lighting Design

Owner/Developer: Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe
Operator: Clique Hospitality
Architect of Record: Marnell Architecture
General Contractor: Rafael Construction Inc.

Vendors:

Tile Club / Tile Bar / Bedrosians Tile & Stone – Tile
Koroseal / MDC Interior Solutions – Accent Wallcoverings
HD Walls – Custom Restroom Wallcovering
ZF Works / Quality & Co. – Custom Furniture
Kravet / Kovi Fabrics / P/Kaufman Contract – Fabrics
Moore & Giles / Garrett Leather / Barbarossa Leather – Leather
James Dunlop Textiles – Drapery
Delos – Custom Area Rugs
Sapphire – Custom Lighting
Aesthetic Mirror – Vanity Mirror
Eaton Fine Art – Custom Artwork