Attention, pizza lovers and thrill-seekers! This Halloween season, prepare for a wickedly delicious invasion as the globally renowned Black Lagoon pop-up experience possesses Evel Pie on Fremont Street. From October 4th to November 1st, our beloved pizza joint will transform into a hauntingly hip cocktail bar, serving up spine-tingling spirits alongside their legendary slices.
A Slice of Vegas History
Before we dive into the spooky takeover, let’s take a moment to appreciate the unique charm of Evel Pie. Created by Evel Knievel‘s estate and his son, Kelly, this isn’t your average pizza parlor. It’s a lively homage to the daredevil’s Las Vegas legacy, with a motto that perfectly captures his spirit: “Live hard, ride fast, eat pizza.”
Step inside, and you’re transported to a 1970s wonderland. A life-size statue of Evel Knievel himself greets you, while vintage pinball machines and a classic Schwinn Stingray bicycle add to the retro ambiance. The walls are adorned with memorabilia, including old family photos provided by Kelly Knievel, offering a personal glimpse into the life of America’s most famous daredevil.
A Devilishly Good Time
Now, imagine this nostalgic paradise getting a macabre makeover. Evel Pie‘s chef, Richard Verhagen, can barely contain his excitement about this first-ever takeover. “October is already our busiest month,” he confides with a mischievous grin. “This just adds another layer of fun to the madness.”
Evel Pie‘s already eclectic decor is getting a ghoulish makeover, with the Black Lagoon team unleashing their ghastly creativity. Verhagen promises they’re going to “make it look really, really, really swanky and spooky.” (We’re betting on at least one skeleton doing a death-defying motorcycle stunt.)
Potions and Pizzas
But the real magic happens behind the bar. Black Lagoon’s co-founders and cocktail conjurers, Kelsey Ramage and Erin Hayes, have crafted a menu of libations that would make even the Addams Family raise an eyebrow.
Prepare your taste buds for concoctions like:
- Nosferatu’s Rise: A blood-red blend of coconut oil-washed whiskey, sherry, and cinnamon that’ll have you saying, “I vant to drink your cocktail!”
- Hex Appeal: A bewitching potion of gin, honeydew, and absinthe that’s sure to cast a spell on your senses.
- Memento Mori: A smoky, caffeinated reminder of your mortality (but in a fun way!) with mezcal, coffee liqueur, and a dash of banana for good measure.
For those keeping it tame, there’s even a non-alcoholic drink called Blood Lust that promises all the flavor without the bite.
Verhagen admits this cocktail wizardry is a bit of a departure for Evel Pie. “We’re more of a beer and shot kind of place,” he chuckles. But with the help of master mixologist Adam Rains from sister establishment Golden Tiki, they’re ready to embrace their inner mad scientists.
A Slice of Halloween Heaven
Of course, it wouldn’t be Evel Pie without some themed pizza action. While the details are still under wraps, Verhagen hints at a special Halloween pie that’ll tie into their monthly charity program. We’re secretly hoping for a “Zombie Meatlovers” or maybe a “Ghostpepper and Ghouda” specialty.
When asked about his own Halloween plans, the ever-mysterious Verhagen simply replied, “I always like to say I’m an operative for the CIA. I look just like everybody else.” (Note to self: Be suspicious of any mild-mannered chefs in the vicinity.)
A Required Haunt
Eric Gladstone, Evel Pie’s publicist and generalissimo at The Feast of Friends, sums it up best: “People can be assured that with both Evel Pie and Black Lagoon involved, it’s going to be a required stop during Halloween season!”
So, whether you’re a local looking to spice up your October nights or a tourist seeking the ultimate Vegas Halloween experience, make sure to swing by Evel Pie. Just remember: eat, drink, and be scary – but please, haunt responsibly.
