When Lisa Vanderpump sets her sights on something, it’s never ordinary... it’s extravagant, theatrical, and dripping in elegance. From her reign on TV to her empire in hospitality and philanthropy, she has built a reputation for turning restaurants into experiences, cocktails into art, and parties into cultural touchpoints. Now, she’s bringing her signature magic to the desert with Wolf by Vanderpump at Caesars Republic Scottsdale.
The name itself is powerful, primal, and irresistible- just like its creator. We connected with Lisa to talk all things WOLF: the story behind the name, the design secrets, the decadent cocktails, and what guests can expect when they step inside her newest kingdom.
What drew you to Scottsdale?
LV: “We’ve developed an incredibly close working relationship with Caesars Entertainment, so when they launched Caesars Republic with HCW in Scottsdale, we were immediately intrigued! After spending time in the beautiful city of Scottsdale, I noticed a youthful energy; it's a vibrant destination and it felt like a really natural fit for a Vanderpump Bar and Restaurant. The hotel is also gorgeous also had the mascot of a female WOLF, which felt a bit like kismet!”
What’s the story behind the name WOLF?
LV: “WOLF is a family name and my grandson Teddy’s middle name! The WOLF is strong, powerful and bold, and the design of our Lake Tahoe location came to life in my mind soon after he was born. We wanted to create something that really felt indigenous to the Lake Tahoe area and Wolf was the perfect name.”
Can you give us a taste of what guests can expect from the WOLF experience?
LV: “WOLF Scottsdale is going to be something bold, strong, sexy and unique. Similar to its sister location in Lake Tahoe, WOLF will be an epic statement from the moment you walk through its doors. We will infuse the signature design with elements that are specific to the Scottsdale area, and the immense, graphic background of the desert and mountains will be sure to make for some stunning visuals.”
Will we see a signature Lisa Vanderpump cocktail on the menu?
LV: “Our cocktail menus are extensive, and yes, there are absolutely some of my favorites! We will definitely feature my signature drinks like the Giggy Tonic! Our cocktail programs always have the experience begin with your eyes, even before you take a sip, so expect stunning glassware and innovative garnishes… followed by some decadent flavors!”
How involved were you in the concept, decor, and menu?
LV: “For all of our locations, I dream up the design and the concept, and then work with my design partner Nick Alain to fully conceptualize the décor and layout. Vanderpump Alain is a 50-50 partnership and we work closely together to create things that are unique and bespoke. Every element of our restaurants from the lighting to the tables to the trees are made in our factories; everything is custom and unique. As far as the cocktail and food menus, I work closely with my daughter Pandora to create things that are very specific to each of our themes.”
WOLF is your first concept outside California and Nevada… does this feel like the beginning of a new era?
LV: “This year does feel like a bit of a new era, branching out into Scottsdale and opening The Vanderpump Hotel in Vegas!”
You’ve launched more restaurants than most people have had dinner dates. What’s something you’ve learned about hospitality?
LV: “If you tune into any of my television shows, you’ll know I am constantly surprised on a daily basis! Just when you think you know it all, people surprise you. I always say that we’ve seen everything, but I’ve been used to them leaving and going to bed after they see us… now with opening the hotel, they’re going to be sleeping with us too! So I am sure I’m going to experience a whole new level of surprise soon!”
From Vanderpump Dogs to WOLF, how do you decide which projects feel right?
LV: “To me, it’s all about authenticity. I have come to a point in my life where I don’t want to work on something I am not passionate about, so if it doesn’t feel like something I want to devote my time to, we won’t do it. Our family business is just that- run by family- there are only 4 of us working on our projects... no assistants, no employees, so if we aren’t passionate about it, we just won’t do it. However, opportunity is a huge factor as well, and I am so appreciative of our relationship with Caesars Entertainment.”
You’ve hosted some of the most outrageous Bravo dinner parties. What’s your secret to keeping things elegant when the table’s on fire?
LV: “Well, nothing will save some of those Housewives dinners! But in general, I think the host of an event needs to keep a cool head, and always be prepared for things to go wrong. Have a few conversation starters that can effortlessly change the tide of a conversation; be prepared to pull some hot-heads to the kitchen to ‘help you clean up or make a cocktail;’ and if everything looks like it’s actually falling apart… run! But there are a few subjects best to avoid at dinner: politics, religion, and other people’s children.”
Will WOLF have any hidden menu items for diehard fans?
LV: “You know our restaurants always have a few tidbits that will satisfy your Vanderpump cravings! You’ll be sure to find our Signature Goat Cheese Balls! In every restaurant, we endeavor to put things on that are irresistible; our pull apart bread at Wolf, our truffle baguette at Paris…”
What’s your favorite indulgence that you never apologize for?
LV: “Chocolate. There’s nothing I love more than chocolate!”
You’ve built empires in hospitality, television, and philanthropy. What’s grounded you through all of it?
LV: “Probably the hospitality industry itself, my work ethic, and my family. It’s hard to have an ego when you’re on a construction site or sitting next to a table critiquing the experience at your restaurant. And no matter how successful our brands have been, we are up at 6am every day back to work to see what we can do to make them better. And, my family is English... with the inherent English sarcasm… so they’ll take you down a peg or two! My husband – he always tells me, hey, settle down, when I get carried away.”
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“You know our restaurants always have a few tidbits that will satisfy your Vanderpump cravings!"