Tourism numbers in Las Vegas may be down overall but special events (such as this month’s Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix) are still drawing crowds. And one of the city’s other attractions, the veritable smorgasbord of famous marquee name restaurants, shows no sign of slowing down with new national and international names just added to the mix with others on the cusp of opening.
Carbone Riviera Celebrates Coastal Italian Cuisine
One of the most awaited was Carbone Riviera which opened at The Bellagio on November 7. The newest from the prolific Major Food Group differs from other Carbones around the world, including the original still selling out in New York, in that it’s seafood based, as evidenced by the opulent display of fresh fish at the entrance, a Mediterranean inspired design by famed designer Martin Brudnizki and sea inspired musical cues.
The menu highlights a selection of whole fish grilled over charcoal or roasted Riviera-style, 2 Pound Lobster Fettucine and other “delicacies of the sea” such as Scottish Langoustines and Red Sicilian Prawns. But the Carbone trademark Spicy Rigatoni Vodka is also there plus choices for carnivores with Snake River Farms Gold Label American Wagyu grilled over hardwood charcoal, a massive veal chop and lamb chops. Two terraces decked with olive trees offer a direct view of The Bellagio’s dancing fountain and for special guests, a spin on the restaurant’s 33 foot Riva yacht designed to emulate a jaunt on Lake Como.
Two Elite Steakhouses Open At The Venetian
Over at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas, two esteemed steakhouses opened this fall, adding to a packed lineup at this almost eerily accurate reproduction of Venice that includes Gjelina, HaSalon, Thomas Keller’s Bouchon, CUT by Wolfgang Puck, WAKUDA from famed Japanese chef Tetsuya Wakuda and estiatorio Milos. Simon Kim’s Korean barbecue specialist COTE Vegas opened in October and José Andrés’ Bazaar Meat moved from a smaller space at The Sahara to a new, theatrically designed 20,000 square foot expanse in The Palazzo at The Venetian in September.
Cote’s menu ranges from American Ribeye to Cote Galbi (marinated short rib) with a selection of Japanese A5 Wagyu from various prefectures. But it’s known for The Butcher’s Feast™, a selection of four cuts of USDA Prime and American Wagyu with an array of authentic Korean accompaniments. Bazaar Meat also showcases Japanese Wagyu, Josper grilled Black Angus and creations such as Beef Tenderloin Rossini along with Suckling Pig, Iberico Pork Chops and a range of Spanish delectables including a full scale Jamon Bar.
Sophsticated Indian Cuisine From London
Another international name lands December 3 when Gymkhana the longstanding temple of Indian cuisine in London’s Mayfair opens its first U.S. outpost at ARIA Resort & Casino. Inspired by private clubs in India, the elegant restaurant is bringing favorites from its London menu to Las Vegas including Tandoori Masala Lamb Chops, Chicken Butter Masala, and Venison Biryani. To cater to an American audience, it’s also adding new dishes such as Goan Lobster Curry and beef for the first time in dishes such as Wagyu Keema Naan Beef and Shortrib Pepper Fry.
Award Winning Chef Kwame Onwuachi And Afro-Caribbean Cuisine
Early next year, two other famous names are planning to expand to this desert city. James Beard Award winner Kwame Onwuachi whose restaurants Tatiana by Kwame Onwuachi in New York and Dōgon in Washington DC are celebrated for their inventive mix of Afro-Caribbean flavors is opening Maroon by Kwame Onwuachi, a Caribbean steakhouse, at the SAHARA Las Vegas.
A Celebrity Hangout: Zero Bond
Around the same time, the exclusive, tough to get into private club Zero Bond is schedule to open at Wynn Las Vegas. As Bond Hospitality Group’s Scott Sartiano told The Hollywood Reporter, “Las Vegas is a growing city that has become an international hub with all the sports franchises, art museums and movie studios being built. The unique things that Zero Bond brings to New York are now needed in Las Vegas. It’s not just a place to eat or drink. It’s a place to meet and connect. It’s a community of people—and we are building a community in Las Vegas.”
For the $50,000 Founders Membership one time initiation fee and $7,500 annual dues (including private wine lockers, the ability to make reservations for nonmember guests and the ability to nominate three others for memberships) or $1,000 General Membership one time initiation fee and $2750 annual dues, members will get access to all facilities, concierge services and invitations to all cultural events. One of the facilities will bring another famous New York name to Las Vegas: James Beard Award winner Alfred Portale, longtime Executive Chef and Partner of Gotham Bar & Grill and now Executive Chef and Owner of the modern Italian restaurant Portale, He’ll be curating fine dining menus for the Members Grill, another prime restaurant opening in town.