“Different” is good when it comes to new Las Vegas attractions, and the Barbie Malibu Cafe, a pop-up concept debuting at Area15 on December 18th, is exactly that.
For those unfamiliar, Area15 is an off-Strip entertainment district, home to an assortment of attractions, ranging from virtual reality and light shows to golf and the popular Omega Mart by Meow Wolf, among others.
For the time being, you can even get there for free from several Strip resorts (Resorts World, NYNY, and Excalibur) via a Zoox driverless robotaxi.
According to the official press release, “The family-friendly pop-up restaurant and roller rink will be inspired by the groovy beachside energy of 1970s Malibu, a time of carefree summer days when Malibu Barbie was first introduced to the world.”
While I, the writer of this, can’t necessarily relate, my 10-year-old daughter is dying to experience some “groovy beachside energy”.
You’ll need a ticket to get in, which will cost $25, but each ticket includes a $10 food credit + a $5 merchandise credit.
Reviews of identical “pop-ups” that have taken place around the country are predominantly upbeat, with positive reviews raving about the environment, photo opportunities, food quality, and kids having a great time.
The handful of negative reviews focused on slow service and elevated menu pricing, which you shouldn’t expect to match the menu board of your local fast food joint. You come to an attraction like this because you’re a fan of the franchise, not because you’re looking to squeeze a meal in on a tight budget.
The Las Vegas menu has yet to be released, but pricing at their recent pop-up in San Diego pegged “Mains” like a Beach Burger, Grilled Cheese, Pancakes, and Salads at around $20.
Sides like Candied Maple Bacon, French Fries, and Roasted Broccoli were $6.
Shareable appetizers like fruit skewers, hummus, and artichoke dip landed in the $10-$15 range.
Desserts are likely the main draw (and Instagrammable AF), with items like a $12 Ice Cream Sundae, $8 cupcakes, $7 cake pops, and a $60 cupcake boat (9 cupcakes served on an actual boat!).
Your kid is going to want the Ice Cream Float, however, which is served in a pink car.
Non-alcoholic beverages cost around $5, beer was $9, wine by the glass $14, and adult cocktails were $18.
Again, we don’t yet have an official menu for the Las Vegas pop-up, but I assume it’ll be in the same ballpark.
Aside from the cafe, there will also be a roller rink with skate rentals priced at just $1 – Those proceeds will be donated to their charity partner, Girls Inc.
In addition to food, drinks & rollerskating, photo opportunities are sure to be abundant, as will be the Barbie-themed merchandise.
Tickets to Barbie Malibu Cafe in Las Vegas aren’t yet available, but you can hop on the waitlist at bucketlisters.com for updates.
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I’m a former software salesman turned Vegas aficionado. While the craps table is my preferred habitat, I pull myself away to explore new attractions, shows, restaurants, and outdoor activities around Las Vegas with the intent of sharing my experiences.
Ultimately, I just want to help folks plan a better trip and save a few bucks in the process.