Italian Cuisine Experiences Are More Popular Than Ever

Italian cuisine experiences continue to gain in popularity. Italian cuisine is often considered the best in the world. Italians are definitely very proud of this. Therefore, it is a strong identifying symbol for the country of Italy. Furthermore, Italian cuisine experiences are quite popular and are now a growing tourist attraction.

The latest Report on Italian Food and Wine Tourism cites that the number of Italians who made a trip with food and wine as the primary reason keeps rising. It is 58% in 2023 and compares to only 21% in 2016. The current value of foodie travelers is an estimate of 9.6 million people. About 1 in 3 Italian tourists have a larger budget for the purchase of food and wine tourism offers, than in 2022.

Across Italy, travelers will find unique flavors and numerous culinary traditions. For example, some are famous and loved by people around the world. Italians feel the regions of Sicily, Emilia-Romagna and Campania offer the best food and wine. Plus, the most popular cities are Naples, Bologna and Rome.

Italian Cuisine Experiences for Travelers

Additionally, there are many other regions to try Italian cuisine experiences. Each offers traditional foods and dishes. Interestingly, meals are prepared with recipes handed down from one generation to the next. From Tuscany to Puglia, from Piedmont to Calabria, from Veneto to Liguria, from Marche to Abruzzo, up to Friuli Venezia Giulia and Trentino Alto Adige. The choices for Italian cuisine experiences are endless.

Italian cuisine experiences

The best way to tour Italy and discover Italian culinary excellence is travelling by train. There are hundreds of daily connections provided by Trenitalia. As a result, every part of the country can be reached in a quick, comfortable and sustainable manner.

Be sure to see the people and places that celebrate Itay’s culinary heritage. Immerse yourself in Italy’s numerous food, wine, culture and of course cooking experiences. For example, a truly memorable Italian cuisine experience is a stay in Tuscany.

Take in the local sights and amazing views of the Tuscan mountains. It is a relaxing environment that allows you to absorb the local traditions. You can visit nearby vineyards and explore quant and historical villages. For example, visit Chianti for Tuscan wines and Montepulciano for the area’s incredible red wines. Plus, see San Gimignano and try their famous white wines.

Of course, cooking classes are a must. Try making traditional Tuscan dishes, covering your main meals to delicious desserts. Enjoy the amazing tastes of Tuscan flavors at a variety of local restaurants.

You will quickly notice that each region of Italy boasts incredible food and wine choices to discover. There isn’t a better way to appreciate these traditional products than to taste them where they are produced. Only then, can you appreciate the unique experiences to the fullest.

The Life of Luxury can you help you plan and book your unforgettable trip to Italy. We work with True Italian Experience to provide the best Italy has to offer.

We hope you enjoy reading about the popularity of Italian cuisine experiences. Plana trip to Italy and the discover the many Italian food and wine traditions.



Ultimate Dining Experience at Ling Ling Mexico City

Last November, the official opening of Ling Ling Mexico City celebrated an incredible evening with a chef-led, multi-course extravaganza for Mexico City’s tastemakers. Ling Ling’s design combines its unique personality and energy with CDMX’s local identity and a versatile atmosphere. As a result, it encourages restaurant guests to extend the fine dining experience beyond the typical restaurant outing.

It does not matter if it’s day or night, guests can simply relax and enjoy one of the most breathtaking views in all of Mexico City. Visitors will discover how through vegetation and light, a space full of character and texture can morph from day to dusk to evening. Enjoy the kilometer-long Terraza, as it provides a romantic location for couples to celebrate intimate milestones. Plus, you will also take in a view of the city, which literally bleeds into the horizon.

Atrium

The Ling Ling Mexico City Atrium is the true heart of the space. You will find it filled with lush vegetation, triple-height ceilings, and theatrical lighting. Hence, it creates the ideal dining atmosphere for great moments to happen, from 56 floors above.

Ling Ling is a unique destination lounge and dining experience by Hakkasan. Their restaurants all feature Asian-inspired dishes. Therefore, they are meant to be shared. The restaurant offer diners an extensive drinks menu, exquisite dining space and high-energy soundtrack. Immerse yourself in an unbelievable, VIP dining experience. Ling Ling is designed to evolve and morph from drinking to dining to dancing. Cheers to that!

Ling Ling Mexico City restaurant

Meal Menu

When it is time to order from the Ling Ling menu, guests enjoy a gastronomic experience inspired by Izakaya. This concept became popular in the East, where food accompanies drinks. Plus, Ling Ling Mexico City’s menu features Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese, and Korean influences. Hence, without leaving aside the Cantonese origins of Hakkasan that are present in every course.

Artwork

Overlooking Ling Ling Mexico City’s Atrium dining area, is a larger-than-life original work-of-art mural. It was hand-painted by Mexican artist Paola Delfín. The painting is named ‘Guardian of Nature’ and inspired by Xochitl the goddess of beauty, flowers, and love. As a result, this stunning mural represents the importance of diversity and a fusion of Asian and Mexican cultures.

The main elements in the mural are agave and lotus flowers. Of course, plants are of great importance both socially and spiritually for both cultures. These elements surround the main character. As displayed as a protector of nature, it accompanies restaurant diners to enjoy this small natural oasis. A soothing mural, in the middle of the bustling metropolis of Mexico City.

Ling Ling Mexico City

This new and popular restaurant is located in one of the most emblematic areas of the city, Paseo de la Reforma. Ling Ling Mexico City can be found in the same building that houses Ritz-Carlton Mexico City. Therefore, you are just steps from the Diana Cazadora Fountain and the Angel of Independence. The restaurant offers impressive 360-degree views from the top floor of a 58-story skyscraper.

Ling Ling Mexico City is open daily for both lunch and dinner:
Monday and Tuesday, 1:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Wednesday to Saturday, 1:00 pm – 12:00 am
Sunday, 1:00 pm -10:00 pm

The Life of Luxury features the best luxury destinations around the world. We hope you will able to enjoy a fine dining experience at the new Ling Ling Mexico City restaurant.

Photo: Ling Ling Mexico City




Fine Dining Portfolio at the Luxurious Wynn Las Vegas

Las Vegas is known for popular sayings like “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas” and “Sin City”. In addition, Las Vegas is also known for its numerous fine dining options. The Wynn Las Vegas currently offers eight fine dining options, including several world class restaurants.

You can find Wynn Las Vegas at the northern end of the world famous, Las Vegas Strip. Although, some feel that this modern luxury hotel is somewhat far from the Vegas Strip action. But it’s spectacular and for foodies, a true delight for your taste buds.

Wynn Las Vegas is a huge resort complex that consists of two, side by side hotel casino resorts. The first is the Wynn and the other is the Wynn Encore. Therefore, they both provide Vegas visitors, luxury air-conditioned rooms. All rooms and suites feature posh interiors with large flat-screen TVs and marble bathrooms. Plus, enjoy gorgeous Vegas Strip and mountain views.

Wynn Las Vegas is proud to have won more awards for their restaurants, than any other resort found in North America. The eight current, fine dining restaurants include – Cipriani, Costa Di Mare, Lakeside, Mizumi, Sinatra, SW Steakhouse, Tableau and Wing Lei. In March, Elio will become the 9th fine dining restaurant at Wynn Las Vegas.

Wynn Las Vegas introduced a new level of luxury to the world when it opened on April 28, 2005 and it has continued to exceed hospitality standards ever since. As a result, an integral component to the resort’s success is the award-winning dining portfolio. Wing Lei is the first Chinese restaurant in the country to be awarded a Michelin Star and the only Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Chinese restaurant in North America.

In addition to Wing Lei, the resort’s fine dining portfolio also includes Costa di Mare, Lakeside, Mizumi, Sinatra and SW Steakhouse. That’s a total of Six Forbes Four Star restaurants for guests to experience. This fact definitely makes Wynn the ultimate dining destination in all of Las Vegas.

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Wynn’s Fine Dining Portfolio includes:

Wynn Las Vegas - Mizumi restaurant

Mizumi (photo above) – Looking out over private Japanese gardens surrounding an idyllic koi pond with a 90-foot waterfall. Mizumi takes an innovative approach to Japanese cuisine with a robatayaki bar, teppanyaki room and ocean-fresh sushi and sashimi.

Wing Lei – The first Chinese restaurant in North America to earn a Michelin star. Wing Lei serves Cantonese, Shanghai and Szechuan flavors, featuring delicacies. Try tableside-carved Imperial Peking duck and wok-fried Maine lobster under the leadership of Chef Ming Yu.

Sinatra – Paying tribute to the iconic singer, Sinatra serves sophisticated riffs on classic Italian cooking. Choose from spaghetti and clams and osso buco, surrounded by mementos and swinging music.

Costa di Mare – Chef Mark LoRusso creates authentic Italian coastal cuisine with seasonal fish and shellfish flown in daily from Italy. Be delighted with Venetian soft-shell moleche, red shrimp from Naples and sea urchin from Sicily.

Lakeside – Hawaiian seafood (line-caught by family fishermen in Hana, flown to Wynn and served fresher than even restaurants in Maui). The food is prepared by Chef David Walzog, alongside an exotic variety of oven-roasted lobster and crab and aged prime steak.

SW Steakhouse – Steaks are the star at Chef David Walzog’s award-winning steakhouse. Think A5 Japanese Wagyu, dry-aged tomahawk chops and a chile-rubbed double rib eye. Enjoy popular main courses such as pan roasted sea scallops with English pea risotto and black truffle sauce.

For more information about all of the fine dining restaurant options at Wynn Las Vegas, please visit: https://www.wynnlasvegas.com/dining

The Life of Luxury can help you plan and book all your Las Vegas vacation reservations. From concerts, stage shows, attractions, sporting events and much more. Let our luxury concierge specialists help make your dream Las Vegas getaway a memorable one.

Wynn Las Vegas is nirvana for those who desire the perfect fine dining experience. Return soon to follow our luxury blog and read about the bet in luxury travel.

Photo: Wynn Las Vegas




Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appétit – 10th Anniversary Celebration

Bon Appétit is the number one and award-winning, food lifestyle brand that covers the popular and trendy topic of food. Las Vegas welcomes the 10th Anniversary of Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appétit.

This year’s event will be held several of the top, luxury resorts in Las Vegas – Caesars Palace, The Venetian, The Cromwell and The Palazzo. It will run between April 28 and May 1. If you plan to attend, you better hurry. There are only a limited number of tickets available.

Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appétit is a fun-filled event and attendees have the unique opportunity to enjoy a VIP experience with some of the top food chefs in the world. There are intimate events with a personal touch and mega events filled with excitement and fanfare.

Just a few of the highlights of this year’s show include: at The Venetian and Steakhouse Redux with Michael Mina at Golden Steer – the only-in-Vegas Dinner on the Strip plus attend Dine in the Dark: A Sensory Lunch to be held at Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace. Get the chance to meet and mingle with many of the top, celebrity chefs and mixologists, including: Emeril Lagasse, Nobu Matsuhisa, Gordon Ramsay, Guy Savoy, Daniel Boulud and Giada De Laurentiis to name a few.

Here is a list of some of the most notable events you can attend at Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appétit.

The Venetian
* Dinner on the Strip
(Thursday, April 28)
Dine with the incredible, surrounding atmosphere of Las Vegas Boulevard and towering Sin City resorts. Celebrity chefs Emeril Lagasse, Daniel Boulud, Olivier Dubreuil, Kim Canteenwalla, and David Werly will prepare a multi-course dining adventure. What an experience! It’s a one-of-kind, fine dining evening event like no other. Enjoy great tasting food, wines and cocktails.

* Brunch & Bubbles at the Boss’ House (Saturday, April 30)
Brunch it up VIP style at Buddy V’s Ristorante at The Venetian. This awsome Italian food event will be hosted by the operating partners of “Cake Boss” Buddy Valastro – the famous husband and wife team of Chef Kim Canteenwalla and restaurateur Elizabeth Blau. Enjoy classic, brunch favorites, in addition to seafood stations, bottomless bubbles, a caviar ice bar, a Bloody Mary bar, and a tempting dessert display.

* Southern Hospitality: Beers, Bourbons & Bites at Yardbird (Saturday, April 30)
Enjoy this ideal, Southern-infused happy hour. Sample a selection of bourbons, beers and snacks. This event will be hosted by Yardbird Southern Table & Bar. Pair your drinks with tasty hors d’oeuvres.

Caesars Palace
* Dine in the Dark: A Sensory Lunch at Bacchanal Buffet
(Friday, April 29)
A lunch that’s hosted at popular Bacchanal Buffet. This restaurant has been named by USA Today as the number 1 buffet in all of Las Vegas. Your culinary journey will have your taste buds tingling with anticipation. What makes this foodie event so intriguing is each lunch guest will be actually blindfolded. Once seated in a private dining room, feast on a delicious menu full of Bacchanal signature dishes. You don’t want to miss this one.

* Tamales and Tequila: A Tour of the Latin World (Saturday, April 30)
If you are a Chase Sapphire® and Chase Sapphire Preferred® card member, it’s time to rejoice. Try Mexican food from around the world over lunch. Dishes will be prepared by Chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken. Also try unique cocktails and paired wines.

* Master Series: Dinner and a Show with MR CHOW (Thursday, April 28)
International chef MR CHOW, who has a restaurant at Caesars Palace will be creating delightful, Beijing cuisine dishes for you. Enjoy great food and a theatrical dining experience. Imagine feasting on a succulent, the Beijing Duck? Yum!

Off the Vegas Strip
* The Ultimate Comforts & Classics Affair
(Downtown Container Park) – (Saturday, April 30)
This Las Vegas hot spot is becoming extremely popular for a great dining experience. Enjoy various foods such as – burgers, birds, and various comfort classics. Discover the proper pairing options with beer, champagne and craft cocktails. Be treated to sampling the limited edition Crackle Burger.

* Steakhouse Redux: Michael Mina x Golden Steer (Saturday, April 30)
Super Chef Michael Mina teams with chefs from Golden Steer Steakhouse. They will create awesome, steakhouse dishes. The iconic Golden Steer Steakhouse is named the oldest steakhouse in Las Vegas. It opened back in 1958. Enjoy live music and a fabulous, four-course lunch.

This 10th Anniversary Celebration of Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appétit should be a monumental event in Sin City. Foodies should planning to attend and partake in an incredible VIP experience. Great food and drinks and popular chefs – this event has it all! While in Las Vegas, be sure to attend one of the fabulous stage shows. Vegas is a 24 hour destination of sights and sounds that everyone must try once in their life.

Contact us immediaitely if you are interested in attending the upcoming Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appétit. Return again soon and follow our luxury blog. We love sharing the best in luxury travel and culinary news.

Photo: Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appetit




Enjoy Unforgettable, Interactive Gourmet Experiences in Las Vegas

Fine dining in Las Vegas has now elevated its foodie game from simply formal restaurant sit-downs to unforgettable, interactive gourmet experiences!

For years, Las Vegas was known for mainly offering only gambling and raunchy shows. But time has changed all that and today Las Vegas is a mega entertainment capital with glitzy resort casinos, 24×7 gaming action, incredible stage shows and world-class dining.

Three of Las Vegas’ most iconic resorts – Bellagio, Monte Carlo and Mandalay Bay are now offering amazing dining activities that prove to be the highlight for any foodie vacation.

Quickly growing as a new hot trend, we want to share several exciting examples of experiential foodie activities that you don’t want to miss while in Las Vegas:

* VIP Private Cooking Lesson at Mandalay Bay’s Aureole:
M life members can learn to cook in the style of celebrity chef Charlie Palmer through an exclusive package that includes a private cooking lesson with Aureole Executive Chef Vincent Pouessel at Mandalay Bay, a multi-course lunch with wine pairings and a tour of Aureole’s famous Wine Tower. This M life Moment is available to loyal members of the Platinum Tier and higher.

* Bellagio’s An Executive Chef’s Culinary Classroom:
Instead of just taking home leftovers, tourists can now order Las Vegas’ award-winning culinary skills to-go at Bellagio’s new An Executive Chef’s Culinary Classroom. Executive Chef Edmund Wong shares his cooking secrets as he personally instructs up to 15 guests through the preparation of a three-course meal inside the state-of-the-art Tuscany Kitchen. The newly trained chefs get to enjoy the fruits of their labor as they indulge in the cuisine they made during an intimate food and wine pairing dinner.

* Cicerone Dinners at Mandalay Bay:
Nevada’s first female cicerone, Sarah Johnson, is enlightening fine-dining connoisseurs about the versatility beer can offer to a high-end meal through her series of beer pairing dinners across Mandalay Bay’s acclaimed restaurants such as Fleur by Hubert Keller.. During the dinners, Johnson walks guests through her five-course beer-pairing menu that complements the restaurants’ celebrated cuisine.

* Art & Wine – A Perfect Pairing at Bellagio:
An innovative night combining the culinary and visual arts, guests enjoy Bellagio’s award-winning wine collection paired with art from “Warhol Out West,” the largest Andy Warhol collection ever exhibited in Las Vegas. Hosted by Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art Director Tarissa Tiberti and Master Sommelier Jason Smith, Art & Wine nights take place the first Wednesday of every month.

* Gus’ Beer & Bites Dinner Series at Monte Carlo:
The Pub at Monte Carlo recently premiered its monthly Beer & Bites dinner series, which pairs a renowned brewery with Executive Chef Tim Radigan’s upscale take on pub-style eats for a fun and lively dinner. The Pub will welcome famed Boston Beer Company Wednesday, August 28 to feature its 2013 Sam Adams collection for a unique dining experience.

* Mixology Training & Tasting at Monte Carlo:
As part of MGM Resorts’ loyalty rewards program M life<http://www.mlife.com/>, Monte Carlo’s Director of Beverage Michael MacDonnell teaches small groups of guests the fine art and history of mixology in a two-hour tasting session at the classic-cocktail-driven Hit Bar & Lounge. This M life Moment is available to all members; M life is free to join.

* Bellagio’s Epicurean Epicenter:
During this special event, guests fill the high-tech Tuscany Kitchen to interact with one of Bellagio’s celebrated chefs such as Todd English and Jean-Georges Vongerichten as they cook a multicourse meal paired with wines provided from a world-class vineyard. Differentiating from other pairing dinners, at Epicurean Epicenter the showcased wines are selected first. Then, one of Bellagio’s talented chefs creates innovative dishes to complement the beverage resulting in outstanding flavor combinations. On Saturday, July 6, Epicurean Epicenter brings back the popular “Beer & BBQ Secrets” dinner where Bellagio Executive Chef Edmond Wong demonstrates the secrets behind gourmet barbecuing along with immaculate beer pairings.

If you would like additional information about these new interactive gourmet experiences or ready to book your travel reservation to Las Vegas, please contact The Life of Luxury using the below form:




Andrea’s To Open at Encore Las Vegas

Andrea's restaurant - Encore Las Vegas
Andrea’s – Encore Las Vegas

The incredible Encore Las Vegas is a luxury resort, casino and hotel found on the world famous Las Vegas Strip. The resort is connected to the Wynn Las Vegas, which are both owned by Wynn Resorts Limited, lead by wealthy casino developer Steve Wynn.

Set to open on December 28, Andrea’s restaurant will be a unique new dining concept in Encore at Wynn Las Vegas. This “vibe dining” concept restaurant aims to cater to Wynn Las Vegas’ vibrant nightlife scene.

Las Vegas offers a variety of culinary choices, but Andrea’s is expected to really raise the bar in Sin City. What will make Andrea’s unique is it combines both a restaurant and nightlife experience into a single environment.

Upon it’s grand opening next month, Andrea’s now completes the massive Encore Beach Club and Surrender Nightclub entertainment complex. This upscale restaurant will become the initial Wynn Las Vegas restaurant to be completely integrated into a nightclub.

President of Wynn Las Vegas and Encore, Marilyn Spiegel was quoted, “We are delighted to add another distinctive concept to our collection of dining experiences. Andrea’s will launch a new era in nightlife with a combination of culinary excellence, legendary Wynn design and the energy of Surrender Nightclub.”

Andrea’s will be enclosed from view of the casino floor. The 6,194-square-foot fine dining restaurant will feature a spacious and inviting lounge conducive to socializing, a step-up dining area designed for diners to see and be seen, hexagon tables for larger groups, intimate private dining enclaves, and a 2,100-square-foot terrace overlooking Surrender Nightclub’s panoramic outdoor space.

Seating will accommodate 155 people in the impressive dining room. Andrea’s will embrace a contemporary style of dining that is more fluid and less formatted than the traditional three-course model.

It doesn’t matter whether you dine, but fine diners will receive a sensory immersion of exotic Asian-inspired flavors, imaginative cocktails, high-end service and mood enhancing sounds set in a sexy atmosphere.

Your Andrea’s dining experience will be delivered from a steady stream of Asian cuisine including: sizzling
platters of expertly prepared meats, seafood and noodles and sushi and dim sum. The sharable dishes can be enjoyed with sublime cocktails, many named after the resort’s world-famous resident DJs.

Andrea’s at Encore Las Vegas will be open 7 nights a week between 5 p.m. and 2 a.m. For more information or to make reservations, please call 702-770-DINE (3463) or visit www.wynnlasvegas.com




Vegas Uncork’d – Amazing Four-Day Culinary Festival in Las Vegas

Vegas Uncork'd celebrity chefs
Vegas Uncork’d

Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appetit will be back in Las Vegas for its sixth year, featuring a star studded line up of celebrity chefs and cooking events.

This year’s Vegas Uncork’d event will be held May 10-13. This incredible four-day festival gathers culinary icons along with dozens of events from cocktail competitions that overlook the remarkable Bellagio fountains. Also enjoy a celebrity chef poker tournament at the new and stylish Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.

Las Vegas is known for its fine dining and home to world-famous chefs like Wolfgang Puck, Bobby Flay, Michael Mina, Todd English, Jose Andres, Rick Moonen, and many more.

Below is a list of some of the amazing events scheduled at this year’s Vegas Uncork’d

Wine & Cocktails

· Mix-Off, Friday, May 11: Overlooking The Fountains of Bellagio, guests enjoy a dynamic cocktail competition featuring Bellagio Master Mixologist Matt Myers, Hyde Bellagio Mixologist Jose Zepeda, Akira Back and other cocktail talent from across the country. Sample each cocktail and vote for your favorite during a tasting hosted by Restaurant & Drinks Editor Andrew Knowlton. Small bites from Executive Chef Roy Ellamar of Sensi accompany the cocktail extravaganza.

· Sip, Swirl & Select Like a Sommelier, Friday, May 11: During this blind tasting led by Jason Smith, David Lynch, and Raj Parr, attendees learn to taste like a sommelier when they test their taste buds with a high-quality, moderately priced wine vs. a “break-the-bank” bottle. Tuscany Kitchen hosts this grape-laden duel. May the best palate win!

· Unusual Pairings, Friday, May 11: Guests will learn how to find accessibly priced wine to pair with elevated menus with the best 20 bottles under $20. Learn about best bargain buys under $20 with Dave Lynch and Mina Group Wine Director Raj Parr at STRIPSTEAK with a special menu of bites paired by chef Michael Mina.

· My Favorite Things, Friday, May 11: At Bellagio, Chef Michael Mina and Sommeliers Raj Parr and Jason Smith, MS, discuss their “favorites” and host a sampling of unique wines, extravagant cocktails and the most memorable fare ever tasted (and created).

· Kings of Cabernet, Saturday, May 12: Bellagio Wine Director and Master Sommelier Jason Smith and Bon Appétit Contributing Wine Editor Dave Lynch are joined by three of the world’s best winemakers, including Andy Erickson, for a round-table discussion and tasting of their top Cabernet Sauvignons. Get the scoop on all that goes into making world-class wine, from the soil to the very first sip. In a setting overlooking The Fountains of Bellagio, wine connoisseurs and novices alike will be able to appreciate this experience.

· Uptown Downtown, Saturday, May 12: From Chandelier Bar, Vesper Bar, and other hot spots at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas play host to Bon Appétit Editor in Chief Adam Rapoport, nationally renowned restaurateur Scott Conant, Cosmopolitan mixologist Mariena Mercer, and you for an afternoon of cocktails and cuisine.

 Nightlife & Special Events

· VIP Saber-Off, Thursday, May 10: Caesars Palace hosts all chefs at this year’s VIP Champagne Saber-Off.

· Follow That Food Truck, Thursday, May 10: Mingle with renowned chefs such as Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Todd English, Michal Mina and Julian Serrano and enjoy live music from restaurateur Joe Bastianich at this exciting Bellagio event. Confirmed Food Trucks include fukuburger, Red Neck Kitchen and Rusty Pickle.

· Celebrity Chef Poker Tournament, Friday, May 11: The pool at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas will be the hub for a world-class celebrity chef poker tournament with live performances, flavorful dishes and delightful drinks. A specialty menu of handrolls and more from Blue Ribbon Sushi and specialty cocktails from David Myers’ 18A cocktail program will be featured.

· Grand Tasting, Friday, May 11: Sixty restaurants participate in this ultimate outdoor culinary experience at Caesars Palace’s Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis.

· After-Hours, the Remix, Saturday, May 12: Chef Alain Ducasse is joined by chef Hubert Keller and Mandalay Bay executive pastry chef and master chocolatier Vincent Pilon for a late-night party at Mix, the rooftop lounge at Mandalay Bay.

· Surfside Beach Clambake, Saturday, May 12: Along the waves of the Mandalay Bay Beach, guests will enjoy live   music, cocktails, and fresh seafood. Chefs Charlie Palmer, Rick Moonen Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger will dish out their unique twist on this family-style American Classic as attendees pull up a seat at the long communal tables located under the stars.  

Interactive Sessions

· Too-Hot Tamales Live Demonstration, Friday, May 11: Hosted by Bon Appétit editor in chief Adam Rapoport, chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger prepare a four-course menu with tequila pairings at Mandalay Bay’s Border Grill.

· Paella Lunch with José Andrés, Friday, May 11: One of the restaurant industry’s most captivating personalities, José Andrés lets loose with a live demo on how to make one of Spain’s signature dishes. He’ll prepare it on a wood-fired paella grill—the only one of its kind in the U.S.—at Jaleo in the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.

· Master Pastry with Francois Payard, Saturday, May 12: Chef François Payard welcomes you into Payard Patisserie & Bistro for an insider demonstration. Guests will be privy to techniques and skills as shared by one of the world’s most renowned pastry makers.

· Chronicles of a Couple That Cooks Together, Saturday, May 12: Q&A lunch with renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten and his wife, Marja, host of Kimchi Chronicles on PBS. Before delving into your meal, Jean-Georges and Marja will elaborate on each course as Bon Appétit Editor in Chief Adam Rapoport chats with the famous culinary couple now cooking together.

· At the Fish Market with Costas Spiliadis, Saturday, May 12: Join chef Spiliadis at the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas as he shares his secrets to selecting the highest-quality fish at the market, secrets on making fish at home, and healthful eating through the Mediterranean diet.

 Specialty Dinners

· Master Series Dinner with the Pellegrino Family: Rao’s Italian Feast, Thursday May 10: Tables will be turned as the Pellegrino family invites you to join them at their famed restaurant. Be treated to a multi-course extravaganza featuring Rao’s southern Neapolitan dishes served family-style.

· Master Series Dinner: Dinnertime Decadence with Guy Savoy, Thursday May 10: Secure your place at this exclusive multi-course dinner with internationally renowned chef and restaurateur Guy Savoy. Indulge in what promises to be the ultimate experience in refined dining, complete with wine pairings.

· Master Series Dinner: French Elegance with Francois Payard, Thursday May 10: Be transported to an authentic dining experience reminiscent of a charming Paris café at award-winning chef Francois Payard’s charming bistro. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere with first-class service and traditional savory and sweet French fare.

· Master Series Dinner: Spices of Life with Bobby Flay, Thursday, May 10: Awaken your taste buds as things heat up with an evening of bold flavors and signature Southwestern cooking from chef Bobby Flay at Mesa Grill.

· Master Series Dinner with Michel Richard, Thursday, May 10: Caesars Palace adds a new restaurant to its Master Series dinners—Central, helmed by renowned chef Michel Richard and his James Beard Award–winning staff.

· The Nature of A Good Party with Alain Ducasse, Saturday, May 12: Chef Alain Ducasse hosts a new eXperience at miX at Mandalay Bay that includes champagne with the Chef, a five-course special menu with wine pairing and a signed copy of the Chef’s latest cookbook “Nature: Simple, Healthy, and Good” © Rizzoli.

Brunch

· Rao’s Family Affair: Italian Brunch with the Pellegrinos, Sunday, May 13: The Pellegrinos host a backyard BBQ on the patio of Rao’s Las Vegas as only they can. Enjoy refreshing Italian cocktails and savory dishes offered as an exclusive preview to their soon-to-be released cookbook, Rao’s on the Grill.

· Sparkling Brunch with Guy Savoy, Sunday, May 13: Don’t just treat your mother; spoil her with an unforgettable experience at the elegant Restaurant Guy Savoy. World-renowned French chef Guy Savoy will create a special menu in honor of Mother’s Day.

· Steak & Eggs with Charlie Palmer, Sunday May 13: Recover from a fun-filled weekend and enjoy Mother’s Day with a hardy Steak & Eggs Brunch at Aureole. Chef Charlie Palmer, Aureole Executive Chef, Vincent Pouessel and Mandalay Bay Executive Pastry Chef and Master Chocolatier, Vincent Pilon will put on an extravagant brunch paired with sparkling wine options provided by Christophe Tassan MOF Sommelier and Mandalay Bay Wine Director.




Edgewood Terrace Restaurant

On the South Shore of Lake Tahoe is where you will find most of the casinos and larger resorts, as well as more in the way of nightlife and entertainment. There are plenty of great restaurants both inside and outside of the casinos, and just as on the North Shore, the choices are varied and there is something for all tastes.

In Stateline, Nevada, the Edgewood Terrace Restaurant sits overlooking Lake Tahoe from the Edgewood Golf Course clubhouse, and offers casual elegance in truly breathtaking surroundings. offers a spectacular setting for an intimate meal or a sizable gathering.


The menu is superb and the view is one of the best around. Edgewood is a great choice for a special occasion or a romantic dinner for two, or perhaps lunch after a morning enjoying one of the most scenic games of golf you will ever play!




Proper Fine Dining Restaurant Etiquette

Fine dining restaurant etiquette

The practice of using proper restaurant etiquette may seem like something that we all should know, however, there are many etiquette practices we can often forget or even worse … sadly ignore.

Dining out at a fine restaurant may not be typical for many people, it’s important that you brush up on your restaurant etiquette to ensure the dining experience is enjoyable for you, your guests, and the restaurant staff.

The following are a number helpful tips for proper fine dining restaurant etiquette:

Proper Manners: Maintaining good manners is essential when dining at a restaurant. For instance, when you are eating use proper eating practices. Do not put too much food in your mouth as you will end up chewing with your mouth open. Do not talk while you are eating or make annoying chewing sounds. Always use utensils and avoid picking up food with your hands.

Don’t dip bread in soups or other liquids. Don’t put your elbows on the table. When you are finished your meal, do not push the plate to the middle of the table for others to see while they are eating. Eat at the same rate as your guests. Once you have finished eating your meal, place your cutlery close together on your plate. This tells the staff that you are finished and they will remove the plate. As well, turn off your cell phone before sitting down to eat.

Dress Code: It is important to dress for the type of restaurant you will be attending. Fine dining restaurants normally have a strict dress code. If you are not sure about the type of restaurant, call ahead and ask.

Restaurant Staff: Do not treat restaurant staff like they are servants. Restaurant staff make minimum wage and they work very hard. If you are unhappy with your meal, don’t take your anger out on the staff. Be courteous and ask if they can take the meal back. Having a good relationship with the staff will make your dining experience much more pleasant. As well, it is important to leave a tip of at least 15%. Servers make most of their money from tips because their hourly wage is so low.

Communication: Courteous and clear communication is an important part of the dining experience. The restaurant staff cannot read your mind so it is important to clearly communicate your needs and any concerns. You should always be polite. Keep an eye on all of your guests to ensure that they have not been forgotten by the restaurant staff. If they are, call the server to your table. When communicating with guests, avoid sensitive topics. Engage in conversation with the guests equally.

Meal Payment: If you are expecting your guests to pay, make sure you have discreetly discussed this with them before going to the restaurant. If there is a host paying, don’t pick the most expensive meal and dont eat or drink too much. Don’t sit around for hours drinking and talking. You will just be taking the table away from paying customers which hurts the restaurant. If you are the person who is paying for the dinner, don’t tell your guests how much it cost.

Dining in a fine restaurant is a relaxing, fun, and an easy way to have a meal. It is important to remember that there are different etiquette rules to follow than when having dinner at home. A little common sense and practicing simple etiquette techniques will ensure a great dining experience.