“The one thing I wish I was aware of from day one, is the existence and support available from the Music Venue Trust and the community of members within it,” says Stephen, who spent six months renovating the dilapidated space that became Bootleg Social before being able to open.

“I think it was a big success. It felt like a real community, and everyone needed this release. The warmth I got from it was the biggest thing,” he said, adding of the health dangers: “I felt like it was a risk, and I acknowledge that. We let people know of the risk before and then we just hoped for the best, I guess.”

A blockbuster nightlife and restaurant deal out of New York City combines two of the biggest hospitality groups with venues across Las Vegas. Tao Group Hospitality acquired Hakkasan Group to create a combined company that operates 61 entertainment dining and nightlife venues in 22 markets across five continents.