You may think that someone who has spent over a decade of his career behind one of the busiest bars in Las Vegas has seen all there is to see in the world of mixology.
But, whilst Robert Chavez had learned to pour cocktails alongside the industry’s best, and catered to the who’s who of Vegas nightlife, he felt there was still room for evolution in his art.
So, he decided to take his bartending skills on the road.
Drawing on their love of Hollywood glitz and nostalgic glamor, Robert, and his wife Alie, designed, built, and launched Hidden Gem Traveling Bar.
Their mobile bar’s unique shape, vintage accessories, and eye-catching, emerald-green color make it look like it’s rolled right out of America’s Golden Age.
Perhaps it’s appropriate then that they pride themselves on pouring a damn good Old Fashioned!
We reached out to Robert to find out more about how his elegant throwback of a trailer was brought to life.
We cover everything from early inspiration during the COVID pandemic, the biggest challenges he has faced as a new mobile bar owner, and why he's loved taking the party to his clients.
Pour out a classic cocktail (non-alcoholic versions work too) and read on below!
And if you’re looking to add a little Vegas sparkle to your next get together, head over to the Hidden Gem Roll To profile to submit your event details and send a message to Robert and his team.
Robert, thank you for taking the time to speak with us today! First up, what’s your background and what inspired you to start your own mobile bar business?
"I earned my stripes at the legendary Center Bar inside the original Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas.
It was truly the best job I’ve ever had!
I spent 10 years learning from the pros and eventually grew a liking for the craft cocktail and mixology world.
When the pandemic hit, I had no other choice but to keep moving and find work any way possible.
I started bartending for private parties, events - basically whatever I could find.
One day, I was scrolling through my social media and came across someone who had started a mobile bar business using a restored horse trailer.
I was amazed!
I said to myself, “I can do this”!
From then on, the dream of creating Hidden Gem Traveling Bar slowly became a reality."
Very cool. Once you had decided that the mobile bar world was for you, what was the process like buying and building your trailer?
"Originally, we wanted to restore an old horse trailer but ended up realizing that the time, work and resources that it would require was too much for us.
Then it came down to what company could and would build a better bar from scratch.
Once we found the right people, we began to put our vision into reality and honestly designed what we think is one of the best-looking mobile bars in the business.
This was not an easy task!
We are so very proud of what we have accomplished thus far."
I think we can agree on that! Love what you've designed and built.
What have you enjoyed most about running the business? Any favorite milestones or steps of the journey so far?
"The thing we enjoy most, by far, is the reaction we get from our clients when they see our decorated trailer bar and fancy, delicious cocktails.
One of our proudest moments was when we completed our first big event.
It went so smooth and everyone was amazed by the turnout.
It was a total success!"
"This was not an easy task!
We are so very proud of what we have accomplished thus far."
Awesome. What has been your biggest challenge in launching and running your mobile bar business?
"Our biggest challenges are adapting to the waves of slow and busy seasons, and just staying on top of marketing and social media.
Also, squaring away all of the required permits and licenses."
What are your upcoming plans for the business and what are you most looking forward to over the next year?
"My plans are simply to grow and evolve.
I’d love to tackle some big events like festivals and weddings, but I’m in no rush.
I'm taking my time and looking forward to my next upcoming events.
I have a Cinco De Mayo themed event coming up in May and it’s going to be epic!"
We can’t wait to see the photos from that!
Finally, what’s your 2023/24 availability?
"We are open on the 2023/24 books and can’t wait to hear from our next potential clients so please reach out if you're interested in booking our mobile bar!"
Thanks Robert, we appreciate your time and can't wait to follow along with the growth of your business!
Searching for an added touch of class and vintage glamor at your next event?
If you're hosting in Las Vegas, or elsewhere in Nevada, reach out to Hidden Gem Traveling Bar via their Roll To profile here.
It only takes a couple of minutes to submit your event details, discuss your mobile bar package and secure an unforgettable bar service experience!