food festivals Archives

2019 New York City Wine & Food Festival: lineup announced

June 3, 2019

Chef Marcus Samuelsson at the 2018 New York City Wine & Food Festival. (Photo by Rob Kim/Getty Images for NYCWFF)

The following is a press release from Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine & Food Festival:

The Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine & Food Festival presented by Capital One (NYCWFF) returns for its 12^th annual edition this Fall, taking over the Big Apple October 10 – 13, 2019. With more than 80 events taking place at locations throughout the city, 100% of the net proceeds from the Festival support its mission to EAT. DRINK. END HUNGER. with Food Bank For New York City and No Kid Hungry^®. This year’s program highlights a mix of tastings, dinners, brunches, late-night parties and more; accented by a returning selection of family-friendly offerings to keep fans of all ages engaged throughout the weekend.

Mark the calendar: Capital One cardholders will enjoy exclusive presale access to tickets for all NYCWFF events from June 10 – 23. Capital One cardholders will also have access to purchase tickets for the following cardholder-only events while they are available:

Dinner hosted by Jean-Georges Vongerichten on Thursday, October 10
Dinner hosted by Hugh Acheson and Michael Anthony on Friday, October 11
DŌ, Cookie Dough Confections Master Class hosted by Kristen Tomlan on Saturday, October 12
Dinner hosted by Michelle Bernstein and Sarah Steffan on Saturday, October 12
Master Sushi Rolling Class hosted by Masaharu Morimoto on Sunday, October 13

In addition to this, during NYCWFF Capital One cardholders can take advantage of priority and early entry, reserved seating, exclusive discounts and more at select events. Ticket sales open to the general public on June 24.

This year, the Festival’s signature evening, large-format tasting events move to Hudson River Park’s Pier 97, and include the following line-up of new and returning themes:

One of America’s most beloved morning show personalities has gathered his whole crew to kick-off the weekend at Elvis Duran’s Taste of New York hosted by Elvis Duran & the Z100 Morning Show on Thursday, October 10, celebrating his favorite New York City restaurants and the launch of his first book Where Do I Begin?: Stories from a Life Lived Out Loud (Atria Books, October 2019).
Friday, October 11 marks the return of the Blue Moon Burger Bash presented by Pat LaFrieda Meats hosted by Rachael Ray, the iconic battle of burgers that will also commemorate the release of Rachael Ray 50: Memories and Meals from a Sweet and Savory Life: A Cookbook (Ballantine Books, October 2019).
A carnivorous dreamland awaits fans at the Titans of BBQ presented by Pat LaFrieda Meats hosted by Dario Cecchini, Michael Symon and Pat LaFrieda on Saturday, October 12.
The Festival will close-out with a Sunday Brunch hosted by Marc Murphy & Devour Power on October 13.

A highly decorated roster of chefs anchors the line-up for the Festival’s intimate, wine-driven Bank of America Dinner Series. This includes celebrated talent and personalities such as Elena Arzak, Daniel Boulud, Action Bronson, Scott Conant, Hélèn Darroze, Rocco DiSpirito, Marc Forgione, Stephanie Izard, Angie Mar, Marcus Samuelsson, Fabio Trabocchi, Michael Voltaggio, Jonathan Waxman, Michael White, among others. Plus, interactive learning experiences in highly specialized areas return with a variety of master classes set to take place, including macarons hosted by Ladurée, cocktails hosted by Broken Shaker, pizza hosted by Pizza Loves Emily, Israeli kitchen staples hosted by Adeena Sussman, and more. Night owls will relish in the variety of late-night soirées this year, kicking off at A Night at José Andrés’s Mercado Little Spain and continuing throughout the weekend at Flashback Friday hosted by Rev Run with special appearance by Angela Yee, Tacos & Tequila hosted by Rick Bayless, RockTails hosted by Robert Irvine, Sweets ‘n Beats hosted by Buddy Valastro, and Tiki Showdown hosted by Anne Burrell.

Fans of any age are welcome to take part in the Festival during its family-friendly events, which include:

Master Class hosted by Alex Guarnaschelli and her daughter Chef Ava
Family Ice Cream Fun-dae presented by Loacker hosted by Duff Goldman
The Ultimate Pizza Party presented by Saputo hosted by Jeff Mauro
Italian Sunday Supper hosted by Giada De Laurentiis
The Culinary Demonstrations Only ticket option at the Festival’s signature Grand Tasting presented by ShopRite featuring Culinary Demonstrations presented by Capital One^® on Saturday, October 12 and Sunday, October 13 at Pier 94.

An array of brunches and happy hour-style affairs complement the Festival’s already robust event offerings. These include a mix of fan-favorite staples and newly debuted selections, like: Aperitivo hosted by Katie Lee sponsored by Liquor.com, Farmer’s Market Brunch hosted by Geoffrey Zakarian, Drag Brunch hosted by Ross Mathews, Dumplings Around the World hosted by Molly Yeh, Broadway Tastes, Oyster Bash hosted by Josh Capon, Sandwich Showdown hosted by Adam Richman, and Rooftop Rosé hosted by Valerie Bertinelli.

The complete program of events for NYCWFF is now available online at nycwff.org. Stay up to date by following the conversation all year long on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter using @NYCWFF/#NYCWFF.

About the

Mark the calendar: Capital One cardholders will enjoy exclusive presale access to tickets for all NYCWFF events from June 10 – 23. Capital One cardholders will also have access to purchase tickets for the following cardholder-only events while they are available:

Dinner hosted by Jean-Georges Vongerichten on Thursday, October 10
Dinner hosted by Hugh Acheson and Michael Anthony on Friday, October 11
DŌ, Cookie Dough Confections Master Class hosted by Kristen Tomlan on Saturday, October 12
Dinner hosted by Michelle Bernstein and Sarah Steffan on Saturday, October 12
Master Sushi Rolling Class hosted by Masaharu Morimoto on Sunday, October 13

This year, the Festival’s signature evening, large-format tasting events move to Hudson River Park’s Pier 97, and include the following line-up of new and returning themes:

One of America’s most beloved morning show personalities has gathered his whole crew to kick-off the weekend at Elvis Duran’s Taste of New York hosted by Elvis Duran & the Z100 Morning Show on Thursday, October 10, celebrating his favorite New York City restaurants and the launch of his first book Where Do I Begin?: Stories from a Life Lived Out Loud (Atria Books, October 2019).
Friday, October 11 marks the return of the Blue Moon Burger Bash presented by Pat LaFrieda Meats hosted by Rachael Ray, the iconic battle of burgers that will also commemorate the release of Rachael Ray 50: Memories and Meals from a Sweet and Savory Life: A Cookbook (Ballantine Books, October 2019).
A carnivorous dreamland awaits fans at the Titans of BBQ presented by Pat LaFrieda Meats hosted by Dario Cecchini, Michael Symon and Pat LaFrieda on Saturday, October 12.
The Festival will close-out with a Sunday Brunch hosted by Marc Murphy & Devour Power on October 13.

Fans of any age are welcome to take part in the Festival during its family-friendly events, which include:

Master Class hosted by Alex Guarnaschelli and her daughter Chef Ava
Family Ice Cream Fun-dae presented by Loacker hosted by Duff Goldman
The Ultimate Pizza Party presented by Saputo hosted by Jeff Mauro
Italian Sunday Supper hosted by Giada De Laurentiis
The Culinary Demonstrations Only ticket option at the Festival’s signature Grand Tasting presented by ShopRite featuring Culinary Demonstrations presented by Capital One^® on Saturday, October 12 and Sunday, October 13 at Pier 94.

The complete program of events for NYCWFF is now available online at nycwff.org. Stay up to date by following the conversation all year long on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter using @NYCWFF/#NYCWFF.

About the Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine & Food Festival presented by Capital One

The Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine & Food Festival presented by Capital One is hosted by and benefits Food Bank For New York City and the No Kid Hungry^® campaign, with 100% of the Festival’s net proceeds helping fight hunger. The Festival has raised more than $12 million to date for these hunger-relief organizations. Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits is the exclusive provider of wine and spirits at the Festival. In September 2018, BizBash named the Festival the #3 Food & Restaurant Industry event in the United States for the sixth year in a row. More information on the Festival can be found at nycwff.org.

Museum of Ice Cream celebrates National Ice Cream Day with ‘ultimate ice cream social’ in Los Angeles

June 28, 2018

The following is a press release from Museum of Ice Cream:

In honor of their debut ice cream launch at Target on July 8th, Museum of Ice Cream is hosting the ultimate ‘ice cream social’ on July 15th, National Ice Cream Day. Hosted at Los Angeles State Historic Park, Museum of Ice Cream’s massive ice cream affair will include live entertainment, immersive games, interactive art installations and of course, lots of ice cream.

Over 2,000 guests are expected to gather in honor of Museum of Ice Cream’s favorite holiday, donning a whimsical dress code of exclusively pink and white. Guests will be invited to indulge in Museum of Ice Cream’s signature flavors, sharing pints, and exploring the toppings bar in a picnic-style afternoon. If that wasn’t sweet enough, there will be a live performance by a top performing artist – soon to be announced! Last but not least, Museum of Ice Cream will be hosting ice cream socials at The Pint Shop in New York City and Museum of Ice Cream San Francisco that same day!

Over the past year, Museum of Ice Cream has cultivated its new line of ice cream, which is sourced from the highest quality ingredients and embodies the brand’s lively and imaginative spirit. The seven inaugural flavors include: Piñata, Sprinkle Pool, Vanillionaire, Chocolate Crush, Cherrylicious, Churro Churro, and Nana Banana.

Since its launch in 2016, Museum of Ice Cream has created a global community through the irresistible and universal language of ice cream. The brand has an infectious optimism at its core which promotes creativity, fun, and inclusivity. Founder and Creative Director Maryellis Bunnbelieves that sharing ice cream is a powerful way to spread hope and happiness across cultures.

“National Ice Cream Day is a celebration of everything we love and ties to our mission of igniting the world through imagination and creativity,” said Bunn. “Ice cream sees no barriers – it is a transportive and universal symbol of community and connectivity through its shared language of positivity. As an experience-first brand, we see no better way to introduce the country to our ice cream than with a record breaking, immersive ice cream social on our favorite holiday.”

Mark your calendars! Tickets for all 3 locations go on sale on July 2 at 11 AM Pacific / 2 PMEastern and are available for purchase at museumoficecream.com. Tickets are $38 per person. Dress code: pink and white!

MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM
Museum of Ice Cream transforms ideas into spaces that provoke imagination. The Museum is designed to be a culturally inclusive environment and community, while inspiring human emotion and creativity. Stay tuned, Museum of Ice Cream will be making exciting announcements in the coming months! Follow along @museumoficecream(#museumoficecream), and sign up on the website for first word!

2018 New York City Wine and Food Festival: celebrity appearances, programming lineup announced

May 23, 2018

The following is a press release from Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine and Food Festival:

The 11th annual Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine & Food Festival presented by Capital One (NYCWFF) returns to EAT. DRINK. END HUNGER. October 11 – 14, 2018. With more than 70 events taking place at locations across New York, 100% of the net proceeds benefit hunger-relief organizations No Kid Hungry^® and Food Bank For New York City. While the complete schedule of events will be unveiled online at nycwff.org on Wednesday, June 6, and the Capital One Cardholder pre-sale begins on Monday, June 18, several highly anticipated dinners, signature tastings, hands-on classes, late-night parties and more are already set for the 2018 Festival.

The line-up of events taking place on the Festival’s signature Pier 92 rooftop overlooking the Hudson River features of mix of fan-favorite classics and brand-new fêtes, including:

A kick-off supporting the Me Too Movement on Thursday, October 11 at Me Too at the Table hosted by Tarana Burke: A Celebration of Women In & Out of the Kitchen
The return of the always popular Blue Moon Burger Bash presented by Pat LaFrieda Meats hosted by Rachael Ray
A featured soirée to celebrate the 25^th birthday of Food Network, hosted by Alton Brown, Giada De Laurentiis, Bobby Flay and Ina Garten
The family-friendly Coca-Cola Backyard BBQ presented by National Beef and Pat LaFrieda Meats hosted by “Salt Bae” Nusret Gökçe & Jean-Georges Vongerichten

More intimate dinner experiences with renowned and critically-acclaimed chefs offer passionate gourmands the opportunity to get up-close-and-personal with some of the world’s best cuisine. This includes featured collaborations as part of the Bank of America Dinner Series presented by the Wall Street Journal with: Andrew Zimmern and David Shim; Suzanne Cupps, Beverly Kim and Johnny Clark; Marc Forgione, Frank DeCarlo and Mads Refslund; Tommaso De Simone and Marc Murphy; Michael Solomonov and Meir Adoni; Scott Conant and Michael Voltaggio; Dan Kluger and Michael Schwartz; Martha Stewart and Mark Strausman; Timon Balloo and Emeril Lagasse; Alex Guarnaschelli and Zak Stern; Michael Lomonaco and Pat LaFrieda; Georgette Farkas and Laetitia Rouabah; among others. Other iconic chefs from New York City who will host unique dining events during the Festival weekend include Joël Robuchon, Marcus Samuelsson and David Bouley; plus a Café Boulud 20^th anniversary dinner hosted by Daniel Boulud and a special Benoit 10^th anniversary dinner hosted by Alain Ducasse.

New parties like 90’s Flashback Friday hosted by Rev Run, Breakfast Pajama Party, Drag Brunch hosted by Countess Luann de Lesseps, On The Rocks: Cocktails and Cool Bites hosted by Ted Allen, All About Cake hosted by Christina Tosi of Milk Bar, Hair of the Dog Brunch hosted by Anne Burrell, and more are accented by several events that are back by popular demand, including:

Chelsea Night Market hosted by top-rated radio host Elvis Duran and popular morning television personality Rosanna Scotto
Tacos & Tequila hosted by Aarón Sánchez
Aperitivo! hosted by Debi Mazar & Gabriele Corcos
Rock & Roll Sushi hosted by Masaharu Morimoto
Farmer’s Market Brunch hosted by Geoffrey Zakarian
Family Ice Cream Fun-dae hosted by Duff Goldman
Pigs & Pours hosted by Robert Irvine
Broadway Tastes hosted by David Burtka & Neil Patrick Harris
Rooftop Rosé at The Top of The Standard hosted by Katie Lee
. . . and more!

SAVE THE DATE: New presenting sponsor and official credit card partner Capital One will give cardholders the opportunity to get exclusive access and ticket benefits during the Capital One Cardholder pre-sale June 18 – 24. Tickets can be purchased online at nycwff.org or by calling (800) 764-8773. General ticket sales begin on Monday, June 25. Stay up to date by following the action on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @NYCWFF/#NYCWFF.

Between NYCWFF and its sister Festival, Food Network & Cooking Channel South Beach Wine & Food Festival (SOBEWFF ^®), which takes place each February in Miami, Florida, more than $39 million has been raised to benefit the respective charities for each Festival. Beyond the funds raised, both Festivals draw attention to the vibrant dining culture in their respective cities, provide economic stimulus in their communities and serve as an invaluable platform to drive awareness, engaging and inspiring people to get involved in philanthropic activities.

About the Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine & Food Festival presented by Capital One

The Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine & Food Festival presented by Capital One is hosted by and benefits the No Kid Hungry^® campaign and Food Bank For New York City, with 100% of the Festival’s net proceeds helping fight hunger. The Festival has raised more than $11 million to date for these hunger-relief organizations. Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits is the exclusive provider of wine and spirits at the Festival. In September 2017, BizBash named the Festival the #3 Food & Restaurant Industry event in the United States for the fifth year in a row. More information on the Festival can be found at nycwff.org.

About No Kid Hungry^®

No child should go hungry in America, but 1 in 5 kids will face hunger this year. Using proven, practical solutions, No Kid Hungry is ending childhood hunger today by ensuring that kids start the day with a nutritious breakfast and families learn the skills they need to shop and cook on a budget. When we all work together, we can make sure kids get the healthy food they need. No Kid Hungry is a campaign of national anti-hunger organization Share Our Strength. Join us at NoKidHungry.org.

About Food Bank For New York City

For 35 years, Food Bank For New York City has been the city’s major hunger-relief organization working to end hunger throughout the five boroughs. Nearly one in five New Yorkers relies on Food Bank for food and other resources. Food Bank takes a strategic, multifaceted approach that provides meals and builds capacity in the neediest communities, while raising awareness and engagement among all New Yorkers. Through its network of more than 1,000 charities and schools citywide, Food Bank provides food for nearly 63 million free meals for New Yorkers in need. Food Bank For New York City’s income support services, including food stamps (also known as SNAP) and free tax assistance for the working poor, put more than $110 million each year into the pockets of New Yorkers, helping them to afford food and achieve greater dignity and independence. In addition, Food Bank’s nutrition education programs and services empower more than 50,000 children, teens and adults to sustain a healthy diet on a low budget. Working toward long-term solutions to food poverty, Food Bank develops policy and conducts research to inform community and government efforts. To learn more about how you can help, please visit foodbanknyc.org.

2018 Vegas Uncork’d: Masaharu Morimoto leads opening ceremony

May 11, 2018

The following is a press release from Vegas Uncork’d:

The 12th annual Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appétit, presented by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority and Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits of Nevada, began with a pop on May 10, as some of the biggest names in the culinary world united in Las Vegas for a weekend of festivities at Bellagio, Caesars Palace, The Cromwell, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, Mandalay Bay, MGM Resorts’ The Park, The Venetian and The Palazzo Las Vegas. Joined by more than 20 legendary chefs including Guy Savoy, Shawn McClain , Timon Balloo and Stephen Hopcraft, chef Masaharu Morimoto ceremoniously sabered a bottle of Prosecco at The Park, MGM Resorts International’s outdoor dining and entertainment district.

Joined by Mark Shunock, In-Arena Host of the NHL’s Vegas Golden Knights, Cathy Tull, Chief Marketing Officer for Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, Joseph Phillips, Master Sommelier and Director of Wine Education for Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits and Anthony Olheiser, Executive Director of MGM Resorts International’s The Park, Adam Rapoport, Editor in Chief of Bon Appétit, raised a toast, welcoming the group and thanking the chefs for their continued support of Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appétit over the years. For the first time ever, the ceremonial saber off was open to the public, and attendees enjoyed small bites and cocktails from The Park restaurants as well as a variety of interactive games, including shooting hoops with members of Las Vegas’ newest professional sports team, the WNBA’s Las Vegas Aces.

Recognized as one of the country’s top food, wine and spirits festivals, the star-studded weekend welcomes returning favorites such as Bobby Flay, Giada De Laurentiis, Gordon Ramsay, Guy Savoy, Julian Serrano, Lorena Garcia, Masaharu Morimoto, Michael Mina, Nobu Matsuhisa and Stephen Hopcraft among others, for what is sure to be an unforgettable culinary indulgence. New this year, guests can kick it late night at Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer at The Venetian and get up close and personal with chefs Susan Feniger, Christina Tosi, and Elizabeth Blau for a lunch celebrating all things female at Border Grill in The Forum Shops. Additionally, guests who want to sample a bit of everything can still purchase tickets to The Grand Tasting at Caesars Palace, where they can mix and mingle with more than 50 award-winning chefs and mixologists at the luxurious Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis at Caesars Palace.

Giada De Laurentiis and Gordon Ramsay at Vegas Uncork’d 2016. (Photo by Isaac Brekken/Getty Images for Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appétit)

Events with limited tickets still available include:

Caesars Palace

Top Shelf: The Grand Tasting, Friday, May 11: For the first time, guests can take advantage of a prestigious Top Shelf experience at The Grand Tasting. Lucky event attendees will have a chance to sample the best bar program Vegas has to offer with four dedicated top shelf bars showcasing premium wine, cocktails, and beer. Along with these sensational sips, guests will sample light bites from the chefs of Caesars Palace. Hosted at the Bacchus Pool, you’ll spend the evening indulging and mingling with Caesar and Cleopatra while relaxing in the VIP cabanas.
The Grand Tasting, Friday, May 11: The Grand Tasting is the signature event of Vegas Uncork’d, where over 2,500 food enthusiasts enjoy a tantalizing variety of signature dishes prepared by some of the world’s most renowned chefs. The dramatic five-acre Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis at Caesars Palace will feature more than 50 award-winning chefs and over 100 of the best wines and spirits from around the world. EARLY ACCESS: A limited number of tickets are available for early admission.
Master Series: Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill Craft Beer Tasting, Saturday, May 12: Join multi Michelin star award-winning chef Gordon Ramsay and brewmasters for an epic beer tasting event at Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill. With an incredible beer selection from Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., Big Dog’s Brewing Company and more., guests will be treated to a variety of different styles to sample, along with small bites, interactive games and pairing tips from the experts. This event will be a beer lover’s dream! Insider tip—Ramsay’s favorite beer is Innis & Gunn.
Master Series: Women’s Power Lunch, Saturday, May 12: This lunch is unlike anything you’ve experienced before! Get up close and personal with chefs Susan Feniger, Christina Tosi, and Elizabeth Blau at Border Grill in The Forum Shops for a lunch celebrating all things female! Guests will indulge in a delicious meal prepared by a team of all-women chefs, sip on curated wines from female winemakers, and indulge in tastings of top-shelf tequila from a women-owned distillery in this first-ever event at Vegas Uncork’d.
Rao’s Italian Brunch with The Rao’s Family, Sunday, May 13: Transport yourself to Southern Italy at this intimate afternoon affair at Rao’s Restaurant. You’ll join owners Frank Pellegrino Jr.and Ron Straci to celebrate Mother’s Day for a true Rao’s family-style event. Enjoy a seasonally inspired multi-course brunch featuring authentic family recipes and unique cocktails in honor of the occasion.

The Cromwell

Brunch at GIADA: A Toast to Mother’s Day, Saturday, May 12: Join chef Giada De Laurentiisand her family, including her daughter Jade, for a special pre-Mother’s Day brunch at her award-winning namesake restaurant. Guests can treat the most important women in their lives to a delightful brunch menu highlighting Giada’s California-inspired Italian cuisine while indulging in limitless mimosas, live entertainment, and more with the Emmy Award-winning and New York Times best-selling celebrity chef.

Bryan Voltaggio and Michael Voltaggio (Photo by Paul Trantow/Bravo)

MGM Resorts International

Picnic at The Park with Masaharu Morimoto, the Voltaggio Brothers, Graham Elliot, Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Michael Mina, Julian Serrano, Shawn McClain, Roy Ellamar & More, Saturday, May 12: Enjoy the second annual Picnic at The Park, Vegas style! Featuring live music and some of MGM Resorts’ most notable chefs including Masaharu Morimoto, the Voltaggio Brothers, Graham Elliot, Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Michael Mina, Julian Serrano, Shawn McClain, and Roy Ellamar, Picnic at The Park will offer creative twists on classic al fresco dining perfectly paired with wine curated by Master Sommelier Jason Smith, cocktails by Mixologist Craig Schoettler and a variety of beer. Located on the Las Vegas Strip, this outdoor dining and entertainment district provides an ideal backdrop for you to enjoy a fun, interactive afternoon picnicking with celebrated chefs.
Vodka & Caviar Happy Hour with Modern Mixologist Tony Abou-Ganim, Saturday, May 12:Join Modern Mixologist Tony Abou-Ganim and indulge in one of the world’s most revered food and drink pairings, vodka and caviar. Learn all about this decadent luxury and discover why vodka is caviar’s perfect companion. You’ll discover the different types of caviar available today through a selection of sustainable, farm-raised sturgeon and taste why different styles of vodka produce different pairings. Not all vodkas are created the same. A beautiful mother of pearl spoon delivers the caviar pearls followed by an icy sip of frozen vodka to reveal one of life’s greatest pleasures!

The Venetian and The Palazzo Las Vegas

A CUT Above the Rest: The Ultimate Steak & Eggs Breakfast at CUT by Wolfgang Puck, Friday, May 11: For the first time ever, the award-winning CUT by Wolfgang Puck will prepare an exclusive steak and eggs breakfast—only for guests at Vegas Uncork’d. This memorable meal will showcase Wolfgang’s philosophy of offering only the finest selections of beef, cooked simply and presented beautifully. Your breakfast will be served alongside premium brunch cocktails and a selection of wines to enjoy.
Burgers & Beats at Black Tap with Chef/Owner Joe Isidori, Saturday, May 12: Kick it late night at Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer for a night of burgers, beats, and of course, shakes. Join Chef/Owner Joe Isidori and chow down on Black Tap’s award-winning craft burgers, and for one-time-only, create your very own CrazyShake™ milkshake. With a curated list of specialty “Vegas Uncork’d” ingredients, guests can let their imagination and taste buds go wild with a custom shake. For those ready to show their talents, there’ll be a lip-sync battle to wow the crowds with your favorite 80s pop and 90s hip hop, including special prizes! Attendees will sample mouthwatering snacks, burgers, and signature cocktails with a live DJ spinning tunes to keep the vibes pumping.
Chica “Mom-Mosa Brunch” with Chef Lorena Garcia, Sunday, May 13: Join Chef Lorena Garciato celebrate the one-year anniversary of CHICA at The Venetian. This special day will feature a stunning celebration of Latin American flavors, influences and hospitality, reimagined in her distinct global style. This lively brunch event is the perfect way to celebrate Mom or the favorite women in your life, with a variety of Chef Lorena’s favorite dishes served alongside festive brunch cocktails.

2018 Music City Food + Wine Festival: Kings of Leon, Andrew Zimmern, Marcus Samuelsson among celebrity lineup

May 10, 2018

Andrew Zimmern (Photo courtesy of Renaissance Hotels)

The following is a press release from Music City Food + Wine Festival:

GRAMMY-Award winning artists Kings of Leon, James Beard Foundation Award-winning chef Jonathan Waxman, Vector Management’s Ken Levitan and Andy Mendelsohn, and C3 Presents are pleased to announce the fifth annual Music City Food + Wine Festival, September 15-17, 2017, offering expanded festival programming, including the addition of a Friday Night Grand Taste Pavilion, more chefs than ever before at Saturday Night’s Harvest Night, the return of Pappy Hour and the brand-new Sunday Gospel Brunch. Tickets go on sale May 10, 2017, 10:00 a.m. CST, at http://www.musiccityfoodandwinefestival.com/tickets

“Nashville’s reputation as a destination for music lovers is fast being challenged by our status as a premier foodie destination in the Southeast,” says Mayor Megan Barry. “The Music City Food + Wine Festival will highlight some of our amazing chefs and restaurateurs who are defining Southern cuisine and showing that Nashville is the place to be for talented and creative individuals looking to show off their skills.”

“The Music City Food + Wine Festival has grown in stature and quality in lock-step with Nashville’sculinary scene,” says Butch Spyridon, President/CEO of Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp. “The two are inextricably tied to each other and our success as a destination. Great food, music, and fun sums up the event and the city.”

“It’s that time of year again when we celebrate all things food, wine and dance in the best city in America,” says Kings of Leon’s Nathan Followill, festival partner. “There are some big changes in store this year so don’t miss out. See you in September!”

Music City Food + Wine Festival brings together stars of Nashville’s culinary scene with acclaimed regional and national chefs, wine and spirits experts. Located in the heart of downtown Nashville, Festival programming will include the Grand Taste Pavilion, held at Bicentennial Capitol State Mall Park on Friday, September 15, from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m., and Saturday, September 16, from 11:00 a.m.– 4:00 p.m. The Grand Taste Pavilion will offer interactive cooking demonstrations, engaging panel discussions, intimate Tasting Sessions, a dynamic line-up of more than 20 local chefs a day preparing signature dishes in the Chef Showcase, Book Signings and more: www.musiccityfoodandwinefestival.com

The Grand Taste Pavilion will also offer food, wine and cocktail samples from more than 80 local and regional artisans and feature celebrated pitmaster Pat Martin, who will once again host Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint and Friends, featuring an all-star line-up of chefs, beverage pros and fellow pitmasters from around the country that will smoke and grill meats and veggies in an interactive, live-fire barbeque feast on festival grounds.

Back by popular demand, Music City Food + Wine Festival is proud to host Pappy Hour at the Grand Taste Pavilion on Saturday, September 16. This bourbon tasting will be led by Preston Van Winkle of Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery, great grandson of iconic bourbon maker Julian P. “Pappy” Van Winkle. More information on how to attend Pappy Hour will be announced this summer.

“Nashville is home to some of the world’s best musicians, chefs and restaurants, and we’re proud to bring them together over the course of the Music City Food + Wine weekend,” says festival co-founder Ken Levitan, Vector Management. “We’re thrilled to expand the Festival to include Friday night’s Grand Taste and Sunday’s Gospel Brunch, and look forward to a fun and delicious fifth year!”

Harvest Night:

On Saturday, September 16, Walk of Fame Park (4^th Avenue South) will be home to Harvest Night, which will feature more chefs than ever before, with a musical tribute from award-winning steel pedal guitarist Robert Randolph who will bring the Funk to downtown Nashville. Festivalgoers can enjoy signature dishes from nearly 20 of Nashville and the country’s most acclaimed chefs. Food will be served from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m., with Robert Randolph’s live performance from 8:00 – 9:30 p.m. Harvest Night chefs are scheduled to include: Hugh Acheson (Five & Ten, The National, Empire State South, The Florence, Spiller Park); Jimmy Bannos (Heaven on Seven, Juicy – O); Jimmy Bannos Jr. (The Purple Pig); John Besh (Marsh House, L.A. Jackson, Killebrew); Matt Bolus (The 404 Kitchen); Sean Brock (McCrady’s, McCrady’s Tavern, Husk, Minero); Maneet Chauhan (Chauhan Ale& Masala House); Drew Curren (Elm Restaurant Group); Cassidee Dabney (The Barn at Blackberry Farm); Susan Feniger (Border Grill); Joseph Lenn (J.C. Holdway); Tim Love (Lonesome Dove Western Bistro, Woodshed Smokehouse, Queenie’s Steakhouse, Love Shack, White Elephant Saloon); Marcus Samuelsson (Marcus Samuelsson Group); Alon Shaya (Domenica, Pizza Domenica, Shaya); Jonathan Waxman (Adele’s, Bajo Sexto, Barbuto, Brezza Cucina, Jams, Waxman’s SF); Tandy Wilson (City House) and Andrew Zimmern (Andrew Zimmern’s Canteen).

Gospel Brunch:

On Sunday, September 17, join an acclaimed line-up of chefs as they prepare Southern brunch favorites set to a spirited live gospel performance from Gayle Mayes for Music City Food + Wine’s first-ever Gospel Brunch held at Walk of Fame Park. Some of Tennessee’s most beloved chefs will serve signature dishes paired with eye-opening cocktails, wine and coffee, including Tim Love (Back Dough); Joshua Simpson (Proper Bagel); Levon Wallace (Gray & Dudley); Karl Worley (Biscuit Love Brunch) and many more special guests to be announced.

Chef Showcase:

Featuring different chefs and restaurants on Friday, September 15, and Saturday, September 16, the Chef Showcase in the Grand Taste Pavilion at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park (600 James Robertson Pkwy) will give attendees the opportunity to meet some of the city’s top chefs, while sampling dishes from a diverse line-up of restaurants. Chef Showcase will feature some of Nashville’s most beloved chefs and restaurants, including Adeles; Bajo Sexto Taco Lounge; Jessica Benefield & Trey Burnette (Two Ten Jack); Kristin Beringson (Silo); Carey Bringle (Peg Leg Porker); Chris Carter & James Peisker (Porter Road Butcher); Brandon Chavannes (Moto Cucina + Enoteca); Trey Cioccia (The Farm House); RJ Cooper (Henley); Crystal De Luna-Bogan (The Grilled Cheesrie); Nathan Duensing (Marsh House); Matt Farley (Fin & Pearl); Jay Flatley (Tavern); Brandon Frohne(Hollar and Dash Biscuit House); Tony Galzin (Nicky’s Coal Fired); Sarah Gavigan (Otaku South); Daniel Herget (Little Octopus); Nick Hertel (Merchants); Hal M. Holden Bache (Lockland Table); Jess Lambert (etc Restaurant); Brian Lea (Le Sel); Daniel Lindley (5^th & Taylor); Andrew Little(Josephine, Prima Nashville); Margot McCormack (Margot Café & Marche); Deb Paquette (Etch Restaurant); Kyle Patterson (Sinema Nashville); Nick Pellegrino (Mangia Nashville); Giovanni Pianto (Giovanni Ristorante); Andrew Rodriguez (Pinewood Social); Jesse Rossbach (Lonesome Dove Knoxville); Tyler Saracino (Americano); Nina Sayasack (Thai Esane); David Tieman (Five Points Pizza); Jason Zygmont (The Treehouse) and more. The Chef Showcase schedule will be announced this summer.

Cooking Demonstrations & Book Signings:

Throughout the weekend at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, attendees will have the opportunity to get up close and personal as chefs lead interactive and informative cooking demonstrations, including: Hugh Acheson; Jimmy Bannos & Jimmy Bannos Jr.; John Besh; Susan Feniger; Tim Love; Marcus Samuelsson; Jonathan Waxman and Andrew Zimmern. Check www.musiccityfoodandwinefestival.com this summer for the book signing schedule and more information on the cooking demonstrations.

Panel Discussions & Tasting Sessions:

Listen in as the festival’s chefs, wine & spirits experts engage in dynamic conversations during a series of intimate Tasting Sessions and Panel Discussions about hilarious disasters in the kitchen, your favorite chef’s go-to desert island ingredients, party playlists and more. Stay tuned for panelist and moderator announcements.

Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint and Friends:

Back by popular demand, Music City Food + Wine Festival is pleased to announce that Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint and Friends will once again return with an all-star line-up of chefs and pitmasters from across the country, to be announced this summer. Celebrated pitmaster Pat Martin will be joined by a host of decorated chef friends to cook and serve an interactive, live-fire barbeque and grilling fest on festival grounds at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park on Friday night and Saturday.

Tickets & More Information:

Music City Food + Wine Festival ticket options include an All-In Ticket, as well as Friday Evening Ticket, Saturday Ticket, Harvest Night Ticket, and Sunday Gospel Brunch Ticket. All attendees must be 21 years of age or older.

The All-In Ticket ($525 per person) enables guests to experience the full weekend of Music City Food + Wine Festival programming, including Friday evening and Saturday festival access; the Grand Taste Pavilion’s cooking demos and panel discussions with local and national chefs, wine & spirits experts, and sommeliers; more than 80 beer, wine, cocktail, and culinary tastings; access to Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint and Friends; and access to Saturday’s Harvest Night.

The Friday Evening Ticket ($165 per person) includes single-day access to Friday, September 15festival programming at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, including the Grand Taste Pavilion’s cooking demos and panel discussions with local and national chefs, wine & spirits experts, and sommeliers; more than 80 beer, wine, cocktail, and culinary tastings; and access to Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint and Friends.

The Saturday Ticket ($165 per person) includes single-day access to Saturday, September 16 festival programming at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, including the Grand Taste Pavilion’s cooking demos and panel discussions with local and national chefs, wine & spirits experts, and sommeliers; more than 80 beer, wine, cocktail, and culinary tastings; and access to Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint and Friends.

Harvest Night Ticket ($275 per person) is available as a stand-alone ticket option for Saturday evening, September 16. Located at the Walk of Fame Park in downtown Nashville, Harvest Night brings together signature dishes from nearly 20 world-renowned chefs from Nashville and across the country with a live musical performance from award-winning steel pedal guitarist Robert Randolph. Mix and mingle with the nation’s brightest culinary stars and enjoy their best dishes.

We’ve given Gospel Brunch ($85 per person) its own day on Sunday, September 17, and tapped a stellar lineup of chefs to prepare their Sunday best for you at Walk of Fame Park: Southern classics, creative brunch fare, and everything in between. Get a jump-start on your day with eye-opening cocktails, wine, coffee, and a spirited live gospel brunch performance.

Music City Food + Wine is generously sponsored by: FOOD + WINE, Nashville Convention + Visitors Bureau, KitchenAid and Barilla.

About Music City Food + Wine Festival:

Music City Food + Wine Festival is produced by GRAMMY-award winning artists (and Nashvilleresidents) Kings of Leon, world-renowned chef Jonathan Waxman, Vector Management’s Ken Levitan and Andy Mendelsohn, and Austin-based C3 Presents — producer of Austin City Limits Music Festival, Lollapalooza, Austin Food + Wine Festival and Chicago Food + Wine Festival.

About FOOD & WINE:

FOOD & WINE is the ultimate authority on the best of what’s new in food, drink, travel, design & entertaining. Our insider intelligence can be found in every issue of the magazine, on foodandwine.com, across our social media platforms and at events like the world-famous FOOD & WINE Classic in Aspen. No matter what the medium, FOOD & WINE is the go-to-guide for adventurous epicureans, and a leader in our category.

2018 Venice Food & Wine Festival: talent lineup announced

April 17, 2018

The following is a press release from Marriott International:

JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts and FOOD & WINE are thrilled to announce the addition of notable talent for the inaugural Venice Food & Wine Festival in Venice, Italy, including award-winning singer and songwriter Emeli Sandé, who will headline the festival’s grand finale concert. Culinary legends, Michelin-starred Chef Missy Robbins, food artist, baker and owner of Flour Shop Amirah Kassem, and Chef and Food Stylist Camille Becerra, have also joined the impressive roster of celebrated and established epicureans.

Tickets are available to the highly-anticipated Venice Food & Wine Festival, which will take place at JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa from May 3-6. Hosted by FOOD & WINE Editor-in-Chief Hunter Lewis, the festival will join celebrity chefs, renowned winemakers, and epicurean insiders for a spectacular three-day weekend showcasing the finest Italian cuisines, wines, and spirits, with a focus on local Veneto traditions and the magnetism of the Venetian islands. Guests will have personal access to internationally-celebrated chefs and wine and spirits experts including:

Michelin-starred chef Giancarlo Perbellini and chef Federico Belluco of JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa’s Michelin-starred Dopolavoro restaurant
James Beard Award-winning celebrity chef, author, restaurateur and 2004 FOOD & WINE Best New Chef Scott Conant
Michelin-starred chef and owner of Lilia Missy Robbins
Food artist, baker and owner of Flour Shop Amirah Kassem
2002 FOOD & WINE Best New Chef and James Beard Award-winning chef and restaurateur Fabio Trabocchi
James Beard Award-winning chef Jonathan Waxman
Chef and food stylist Camille Becerra
James Beard Award-winning chef Melissa Kelly
Award-winning Italian chef Caterina Ceraudo
Co-owner and beverage director of Spirited Award-winning 2017 Best American Cocktail Bar Columbia Room and 2016 FOOD & WINE Best New Mixologist JP Fetherston
Wine expert Anthony Giglio
FOOD & WINE’s Executive Wine Editor Ray Isle
FOOD & WINE’s Editor-in-Chief Hunter Lewis

With leading sponsors such as illy caffè, Barilla, San Pellegrino, Aromatherapy Associates and Electrolux, Venice Food & Wine will feature enriching gastronomic experiences including: ‘Mercado di Rialto,’ a market-themed lunch with live music and lawn games; ‘The Feed,’ a lunch experience inclusive of Instagram and photography tips; ‘Saluti After Dark,’ a daily after hours party with crafted cocktails accompanied by whimsical Flour Shop treats and live music at Rose Bar; ‘Bocce & Bubbles’ tournament and al fresco lunch at the Villa; ‘Michelin-Starred Masters’ dinner party; ‘Curds & Whey’ ricotta-making demonstration; ‘Grown in Veneto’ farm-to-fork dinner; ‘Summertime Risotto & Spritz’ demonstration; ‘The Invention of Italian Cocktails,’ mastering the art of making the perfect cocktail; and interactive culinary workshops led by notable culinary personalities at Sapori Cooking Academy.

“Venice Food & Wine’s newest talent additions will bring an exciting dynamic to our distinguished roster of culinary figures. We are thrilled to showcase the craft of these internationally-acclaimed personalities so all of the festival attendees can experience The JW Treatment,” said Mitzi Gaskins, Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts. “Through JW Marriott’s exclusive partnership with FOOD & WINE, the festival will highlight modern Italian cuisine with the magical JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa as the backdrop.”

Tickets to the Venice Food & Wine Festival are available online and can be purchased by visiting www.jwvenicefoodandwine.com. JW Marriott would also like to thank additional sponsors including Agroittica, Domori, Ferrari, Steelite International, and Umana along with our many festival participants.

About JW Marriott

JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio and consists of beautiful properties and distinctive resort locations around the world. These elegant hotels cater to sophisticated, self-assured travelers seeking The JW Treatment™ – the brand’s philosophy that true luxury is created by people who are passionate about what they do. JW hotels offer crafted experiences that bring to life the brand’s commitment to highly choreographed, anticipatory service and modern residential design, allowing guests to pursue their passions and leave even more fulfilled than when they arrived. Today there are nearly 80 JW Marriott hotels in over 25 countries and territories. JW Marriott is proud to participate in the industry’s award-winning loyalty program, Marriott Rewards® which includes The Ritz-Carlton Rewards®. Members can now link accounts with Starwood Preferred Guest® at members.marriott.com for instant elite status matching and unlimited points transfer. Visit JW Marriott online, and on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

About FOOD & WINE

FOOD & WINE is the ultimate authority on the best of what’s new in food, drink, travel, design and entertaining. FOOD & WINE has an extensive social media following on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Tumblr and Snapchat. FOOD & WINE includes a monthly magazine in print and digital; a website, foodandwine.com; a books division; plus newsletters, clubs, events, dinnerware, cookware and a restaurant partnership, Chefs Club by FOOD & WINE. At Food & Wine, we inspire and empower our wine and food obsessed community to eat, drink, entertain, and travel better—every day and everywhere.

2018 Vegas Uncork’d: celebrity chefs, programming schedule announced

February 6, 2018

The country’s leading food, wine and spirits festival, Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appétit returns May 10–13 with an extraordinary lineup of world-renowned chefs, master sommeliers and cutting-edge mixologists from Caesars Palace, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, The Cromwell, MGM Resorts International, The Venetian and The Palazzo Las Vegas. Continuing its tradition of bringing the world’s most iconic chefs together in one destination, the 12th annual epicurean affair will feature fan favorites, such as Bobby Flay, Giada De Laurentiis, Gordon Ramsay, Guy Savoy, Julian Serrano, Lorena Garcia, Masaharu Morimoto, Michael Mina, Nobu Matsuhisa, Stephen Hopcraft and more. Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits of Nevada will return as the official distributor for the festivities.

“Las Vegas continues to redefine epicurean excellence by offering the most comprehensive collection of distinguished restaurants, chefs and master sommeliers,” said Cathy Tull, senior vice president of marketing for Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Bon Appétit and look forward to providing our guests with unforgettable experiences alongside the world’s most sought-after chefs.”

Recently named one of the top Food and Restaurant Industry Events in BizBash’s 2017 roundup of Top 100 Events in the United States, Vegas Uncork’d continues to evolve, offering a wide range of cocktail-focused events, interactive experiences and extravagant soirees, including the Grand Tasting at Caesars Palace and Picnic at The Park, MGM Resorts’ outdoor dining and entertainment district. Attendees also can expect to see exciting new programming, such as Gordon Ramsay HELL’S KITCHEN at Caesars Palace, Sunset Clambake at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, Raise a Glass to the Past: A Speakeasy Tasting and Distillery Tour at The Mob Museum, Chica “Mom-Mosa Brunch” with Chef Lorena Garcia and This Is How We Do It: The Cake Boss and Lisa Valastro Demoand Lunch at The Venetian and A CUT Above the Rest: The Ultimate Steak & Eggs Breakfast at CUT by Wolfgang Puck at The Palazzo Las Vegas.

“Las Vegas is a culinary lover’s dream come true. We are thrilled to return this spring to showcase the finest food and beverage the city has to offer,” said Adam Rapoport, Bon Appétit editor in chief. “With exquisite programming featuring new restaurants and interactive experiences, this year’s Vegas Uncork’d will be unlike any other.”

Event tickets are on sale now for featured programming.

Gordon Ramsay at the site of the first Hell’s Kitchen restaurant at Caesars Palace Las Vegas. (Photo by Erik Kabik Photography/ Erikkabik.com)

New and notable:

Master Series: An Anniversary Celebration at Nobu (Caesars Palace), Thursday, May 10: Journey inside legendary Japanese chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s expansive Las Vegas destination restaurant to celebrate five successful years of one of the largest Nobu restaurants in the world inside his first Nobu Hotel. Born in Japan, Chef Matsuhisa has used his travels around the globe to create both authentic and inventive Japanese-fusion cuisine. Lucky guests will have the chance to sample a wide variety of dishes and multiple live action stations.
Master Series: Gordon Ramsay HELL’S KITCHEN (Caesars Palace), Thursday, May 10: Join multi Michelin star award-winning chef Gordon Ramsay at his newest restaurant, HELL’S KITCHEN at Caesars Palace. Inspired by the globally-popular FOX television show, Gordon Ramsay HELL’S KITCHEN provides guests a dining experience unlike any other. Guests will get to experience signature dishes seen on the show, including Ramsay’s famous Beef Wellington, paired with carefully crafted cocktails. With the blue and red kitchen as the focal point of the restaurant, guests will have a front row seat to the action and may even see a few HELL’S KITCHEN familiar faces. VIP EXPERIENCE: Guests will have the opportunity for a meet and greet with Chef Gordon Ramsay at the main event, featuring passed hors d’oeuvres and specialty cocktails. Guests will then gain preferred seating at special chef’s table seating right by the open kitchen at the restaurant.
Master Series: Rao’s Remembers Frank Sr. (Caesars Palace), Thursday, May 10: Rao’s has stood the test of time and is still widely regarded as one of the hardest reservations to land. Hosted by Rao’s owners Frank Pellegrino Jr. and Ron Straci, this dinner invites guests to remember the late Frank Pellegrino Sr. The evening will celebrate his life and feature some of Frank Sr.’s favorite dishes from time-honored Italian staples to classics that are uniquely Rao’s like their famous lemon chicken. Don’t miss the chance to celebrate his legacy at this special event with the Rao’s family.
Sunset Clambake at The Cosmopolitan (Boulevard Pool), Thursday, May 10: As the sun goes down high above Las Vegas Boulevard, enjoy a one-of-a-kind seafood boil, at The Cosmopolitan’s rooftop Boulevard Pool. Dine on fresh lobster, shrimp, crab and of course, clams served family style with endless sides and spirits. A live band will perform while guests are invited to compete in backyard games.
The Chefs of Thomas Keller Present a French Soiree (The Venetian Las Vegas), Thursday, May 10: Thomas Keller’s chefs from his award-winning restaurants Ad Hoc and Bouchon will host a night of food, wine, and fun at Bouchon. Guests will indulge in supreme culinary bites followed by a four-course dinner paired with celebrated wines from California.
A CUT Above the Rest: The Ultimate Steak & Eggs Breakfast at CUT by Wolfgang Puck (The Palazzo Las Vegas), Friday, May 11: For the first time ever, the award-winning CUT by Wolfgang Puck will prepare an exclusive steak and eggs breakfast—only for guests at Vegas Uncork’d. This memorable meal will showcase Wolfgang’s philosophy of offering only the finest selections of beef, cooked simply and presented beautifully. Your breakfast will be served alongside premium brunch cocktails and a selection of wines to enjoy.
Coffee & Cake with Giada (Caesars Palace), Friday, May 11: Be one of the very first to celebrate all things coffee at Pronto by Giada, the brand new fast-casual restaurant from Giada De Laurentiis. Guests will enjoy a coffee tasting and education from bean to brew with the experts from Counter Culture Coffee. Along with tasty small bites, including cake, that showcase Giada’s signature cuisine—Italian with a Californian twist.
This Is How We Do It: The Cake Boss and Lisa Valastro Demo and Lunch (The Venetian Las Vegas) Friday May 11: Buddy “Cake Boss” Valastro will be joined by his wife Lisa for a mouthwatering lunch and cake demo at Buddy’s restaurant at The Venetian. Guests will have an opportunity to mingle with Buddy and Lisa and sample some of her own recipes that have appeared in both Buddy’s wildly successful and critically-acclaimed cookbooks, as well as on the menus at Buddy V’s Ristorante. The dynamic duo will then lead a specialty cake decorating demo so guests can learn how to be their own “Cake Boss” at home.
BEHIND THE BAR: Learn the Craft of Cocktailing with the Masters of the Bar at The Venetian & The Palazzo (The Venetian Las Vegas), Saturday, May 12: Cocktail enthusiasts will have the chance to test their talents behind the bar with the master barmen and women of The Venetian & The Palazzo. Juyoung Kang of The Dorsey at The Venetian & Evan Hosaka of Rosina at The Palazzo, will educate and guide guests through the history and relevance of specific spirits, as well as classic and original cocktails. Guests will also get an in-depth, step-by-step demonstration of the cocktails before they step behind the bar to show off their own skills. Guests will also be treated to a reception in their honor with lite bites to enjoy alongside their libation creations and a special parting gift to keep their new-found expertise going at their home bar.
CrazyShake Master: The Black Tap Epic Milkshake Make-Off (The Venetian Las Vegas), Saturday, May 12: Kids (and kids at heart) can join the Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer team for an epic milkshake “make-off” where you can create your own twist on their world-renowned (and Instagram-famous) CrazyShake™. Use your imagination and let your taste buds go wild for your chance at a spot on their menu with the winning creation! This event is appropriate for young chefs who are older than 10.
Master Series: Gordon Ramsay Pub Reception & Beer Tasting (Caesars Palace), Saturday, May 12: Join multi Michelin star award-winning chef Gordon Ramsay and brewmasters for an epic beer tasting event at Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill. With an incredible beer selection, guests will be treated to a variety of different styles to sample, along with small bites, and pairing tips from the experts. This event will be a beer lover’s dream! Insider tip—Ramsay’s favorite beer is Innis & Gunn.
Master Series: Old Homestead’s Private Selection Bourbon Dinner, Featuring Pappy Van Winkle (Caesars Palace), Saturday, May 12: Join the team at Old Homestead Steakhouse for a whiskey tasting like none other. Guests will have the chance to taste some of the best and rarest bourbons in the world—including the extremely exclusive Pappy Van Winkle. Paired with delicious culinary offerings from the Old Homestead menu—this will be an evening to remember for whiskey and steak connoisseurs alike.
Master Series: Women’s Power Lunch (Caesars Palace), Saturday, May 12: This lunch is unlike anything you’ve experienced before! Get up close and personal with chefs Susan Feniger, Christina Tosi, and Elizabeth Blau at Border Grill in The Forum Shops for a lunch celebrating all things female! Guests will indulge in a delicious meal prepared by a team of all-women chefs, sip on curated wines from female winemakers, and indulge in tastings of top-shelf tequila from a women-owned distillery in this first-ever event at Vegas Uncork’d.
Raise a Glass to the Past: A Speakeasy Tasting and Distillery Tour (The Mob Museum), Saturday, May 12: Step back into the years of Prohibition for a tasting and tour at The Underground, The Mob Museum’s brand-new speakeasy and distillery. Guests will taste a variety of Prohibition-era cocktails, moonshine from the Museum’s own on-site distillery, and delicious passed appetizers while listening to live jazz, exploring eye-opening exhibits and learning inside stories from expert educators.
Sip of the Culinary Empire with Phil Park (Caesars Palace), Saturday, May 12: Join Director of Wine, Phil Park, for a guided wine tour through the culinary gems inside Caesars Palace. Guests will enjoy specially curated wines and bites from Restaurant Guy Savoy, Mesa Grill, MR CHOW and more. This event is a unique opportunity to sample the best of Caesars Palace under one roof!
The Thrill of the Grill with Chef Timon Balloo (The Venetian Las Vegas), Saturday, May 12: In this live demo and tasting, Chef-Partner Timon Balloo of SUGARCANE raw bar grill will be showing guests the wide range of techniques and approaches to cooking on a grill. As one of the three kitchens of SUGARCANE raw bar grill, the open fire grill is inspired by the timeless tradition of cooking over a blazing fresh fire—the center of the culinary celebration for ages. Join us to continue this tradition and learn the wondrous depth of flavors and practices of the grill.
Brunch with Bobby Flay: Gato Comes To Vegas (Caesars Palace), Sunday, May 13: This Mother’s Day, treat the special women in your life to an intimate brunch hosted by celebrity chef Bobby Flay. For the first time ever, Bobby will prepare exclusive dishes from his NYC restaurant Gato in Las Vegas in his Mesa Grill kitchen. Guests will enjoy a variety of his signature Spanish-inspired dishes paired with curated wines and brunch cocktails.
Chica “Mom-Mosa Brunch” with Chef Lorena Garcia (The Venetian Las Vegas), Sunday, May 13: Join Chef Lorena Garcia to celebrate the one-year anniversary of CHICA at The Venetian. This special day will feature a stunning celebration of Latin American flavors, influences and hospitality, reimagined in her distinct global style. This lively brunch event is the perfect way to celebrate Mom or the favorite women in your life, with a variety of Chef Lorena’s favorite dishes served alongside festive brunch cocktails.

Nobu Matsuhisa (Photo courtesy of Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appetit)

Returning favorites include:

Tacos, Tequila & Salsa Fiesta with Susan Feniger (Caesars Palace), Thursday, May 10: The perfect event for tequila and taco lovers alike, or anyone who loves a good time. Join Too Hot Tamale and celebrity chef Susan Feniger for an exhilarating evening at Border Grill and enjoy tasty tacos, top-shelf tequila cocktails, and a salsa dance lesson to get everyone moving on the dance floor!
The Beauty of Sushi with Chef Nobu Matsuhisa (Caesars Palace), Friday, May 11: Journey inside legendary Japanese chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s expansive Las Vegas destination restaurant for a rare opportunity to hear about the philosophy of sushi making from one of the world’s foremost artisans and restaurateurs. Born in Japan, Chef Matsuhisa has used his travels around the globe to create both authentic and inventive Japanese-fusion cuisine. This signature event will give you the chance to see Nobu’s sushi making in action while also sipping premier sake. Discover his inventive “Nobu Style” that fuses classic sushi-making techniques with unique ingredients.
The Grand Tasting (Caesars Palace), Friday, May 11: The Grand Tasting is the signature event of Vegas Uncork’d, where over 2,500 food enthusiasts enjoy a tantalizing variety of signature dishes prepared by some of the world’s most renowned chefs. The dramatic five-acre Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis at Caesars Palace will feature more than 50 award-winning chefs and over 100 of the best wines and spirits from around the world. EARLY ACCESS: A limited number of tickets are available for early admission.
Brunch at GIADA: A Toast to Mother’s Day (The Cromwell), Saturday, May 12: Join chef Giada De Laurentiis for a special pre-Mother’s Day brunch at her award-winning namesake restaurant. Guests can treat the most important women in their lives to a delightful brunch menu highlighting Giada’s California-inspired Italian cuisine while indulging in limitless mimosas, live entertainment, and more with the Emmy Award-winning and New York Timesbest-selling celebrity chef.
Master Series: The World’s Best, An Epicurean Affair with Guy Savoy (Caesars Palace), Saturday, May 12: Guy Savoy, a Michelin-starred chef, will present a multi-course epicurean affair with premier pairings, serving signature dishes alongside some of the world’s great wines and champagnes at his Forbes Five-Star/AAA Five-Diamond Las Vegas restaurant. With his Paris restaurant recently receiving the “Best Restaurant in the World” award from La Liste for the second year in a row, this meal will take diners on a truly special adventure across Chef Guy Savoy’s empire of tastes and influences, celebrating his achievements through his signature creations paired with wine from the restaurant’s Wine Spectator Grand Award-winning list. A roaming violinist will complete the five-star sensory experience. Don’t miss this rare opportunity for an intimate dinner with a world-renowned legend. The Krug Chef’s Table: Experience exclusive like never before and be one of six at the extremely intimate Chef’s table—your portal into the chef’s den. At the only Krug Chef’s Table in the U.S., you’ll sip the luxurious Krug Champagne and dine on a special menu prepared by chef Guy Savoy right in front of you.
Picnic at The Park with Masaharu Morimoto, Michael Mina, Julian Serrano, Shawn McClain, Roy Ellamar & More (The Park, located between Monte Carlo (soon to be Park MGM) and New York-New York), Saturday, May 12: Enjoy the second-annual Picnic at The Park, Vegas style! Featuring live music and some of MGM Resorts’ most notable chefs including Masaharu Morimoto, Michael Mina, Julian Serrano, Shawn McClain and Roy Ellamar, Picnic at The Park will offer creative twists on classic al fresco dining perfectly paired with wine curated by Master Sommelier Jason Smith, cocktails by Mixologist Craig Schoettler and a variety of beer. Located on the Las Vegas Strip, this outdoor dining and entertainment district provides an ideal backdrop for you to enjoy a fun, interactive afternoon picnicking with celebrated chefs. EARLY ACCESS: Gain early admission to the event with an Early Access ticket. A limited number of tickets are available to deliver the undivided attention of experts on-site, an exclusive signature cocktail available only to early access guests, and an opportunity to interact with the chefs in a more intimate setting.
Rao’s Italian Brunch with The Rao’s Family (Caesars Palace), Sunday, May 13: Transport yourself to Southern Italy at this intimate afternoon affair at Rao’s Restaurant. You’ll join owners Frank Pellegrino Jr. and Ron Straci to celebrate Mother’s Day for a true Rao’s family-style event. Enjoy a seasonally inspired multi-course brunch featuring authentic family recipes and unique cocktails in honor of the occasion.

A general view of Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appetit’s Grand Tasting event at Caesars Palace on April 24, 2015 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images for Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appetit)

About Bon Appétit
Bon Appétit is where food and culture meet. The award-winning No. 1 food lifestyle brand covers food through the lens of cooking, fashion, travel, technology, design, and home. Bon Appétit has been named to Advertising Age‘s A-List for six consecutive years, including Magazine of the Year 2013 and 2017, and Brand of the Year 2015, and has been named to Adweek‘s Hot List every year since 2012, including Hottest Food Magazine in 2013 and 2017. Bon Appétit has also been nominated for 23 National Magazine Awards in the past five years, including wins in 2014 for General Excellence and Photography, and in 2017 for General Excellence. For more, visit bonappetit.com.

About the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority
The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) is charged with marketing Southern Nevada as a tourism and convention destination worldwide, and also with operating the Las VegasConvention Center and Cashman Center. With nearly 150,000 hotel rooms in Las Vegas alone and more than 11 million square feet of meeting and exhibit space citywide, the LVCVA’s mission centers on attracting ever increasing numbers of leisure and business visitors to the area. Download the virtual reality app, Vegas VR, to experience Las Vegas from your iPhone or Android by visiting www.vrtv.vegas/. For more information, go to www.lvcva.com or www.visitlasvegas.com.

The names and brands mentioned above are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

2017 New York City Wine & Food Festival: more celebrities, event schedule announced

June 23, 2017

The following is a press release from the The Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine & Food Festival:

The Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine & Food Festival presented by Coca-Cola (NYCWFF) returns for its 10th anniversary October 12 – 15, 2017. Including returning fan-favorites and an array of new soirées, more than 70 events will take place at locations across New York, with 100 percent of the net proceeds benefiting the hunger-relief organizations Food Bank For New York City and No Kid Hungry. To date, NYCWFF has raised more than $10 million to support the fight to end hunger.

Mastercard cardholders will continue to enjoy the exclusive Mastercard pre-sale through Sunday, June 25. Ticket sales open to the general public online at nycwff.org starting at midnight on Monday, June 26.

“We are excited to celebrate 10 years of NYCWFF this Fall with the unveiling of several new events to complement everyone’s returning favorites,” noted Festival founder and director Lee Brian Schrager, who also serves as senior vice president of communications and corporate social responsibility for Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits. “NYCWFF is committed to its mission to EAT. DRINK. END HUNGER. with the support of the some of the world’s most renowned chefs, winemakers, spirits producers, culinary personalities, industry professionals, and partners.”

The Festival’s 10^th anniversary includes a noticeable increase of family-friendly offerings. The following events are compelling for fans of all ages:

Culinary Demonstrations Only at the Grand Tasting presented by ShopRite featuring Samsung^® Culinary Demonstrations presented by Mastercard^® on Saturday, October 14 and Sunday, October 15
Italian Harvest Party sponsored by Barilla hosted by Giada De Laurentiis
Family Ice Cream Fun-dae hosted by Mario Batali and Ayesha Curry
Coca-Cola Backyard BBQ hosted by Andrew Zimmern and Pat LaFrieda

An array of new events have been introduced, including completely refreshed experiences at the Festival’s iconic Pier 92 rooftop. Kicking off the weekend on Thursday, October 12, the popular Brooklyn market Smorgasburg will travel over the bridge for the first time to celebrate their simultaneous 10th anniversary with NYCWFF. This expansive tasting, presented by Thrillist hosted by the Cast of “Chopped,” will feature bites curated by the team at Smorgasburg and plenty of carefully-crafted libations. The revamped signature party continues on Saturday, October 14 with Rooftop “Iron Chef Showdown”: Battle Autumn Bounty hosted by Alton Brown, where Kitchen Stadium will be brought to life overlooking the Hudson River in celebration of the “Iron Chef” franchise and more than 30 chefs will compete for multiple cash prizes.

Other newly-introduced events for the Festival’s 10^th anniversary include:

Femme Fatale with Speed Rack hosted by Anne Burrell
Pie vs. Cake hosted by Duff Goldman
Late Night Adventures in Dean & DeLuca hosted by Hannah Bronfman
Israeli Brunch hosted by Michael Solomonov
Late Night Sandwich Eggs-travaganza hosted by Eggslut
Lucky Rice hosted by BD Wong
Chinese Tuxedo Brunch
Dale Talde Brunch with Eggslut
Eastbound and Down hosted by Josh Capon
Rooftop Rosé at The Top of The Standard hosted by Katie Lee and Elvis Duran

Once again, returning fan-favorite events like the Bank of America Dinner Series presented by The Wall Street Journal, Blue Moon Burger Bash presented by Pat LaFrieda Meats hosted by Rachael Ray, Pigs and Pints presented by InsideHook hosted by Robert Irvine, Mastercard^® Exclusive events like Greenmarket Brunch presented by Lifeway Kefir hosted by Geoffrey Zakarian and Variety presents Broadway Tastes hosted by Kristin Chenoweth, and much more will tantalize fans.

Tickets for NYCWFF’s 10th anniversary go on sale Monday, June 26, 2017 online at nycwff.org or by calling (800) 764-8773.

Between NYCWFF and its sister Food Network & Cooking Channel South Beach Wine & Food Festival (SOBEWFF^®), which takes place each February in Miami, Florida, more than $36 million has been raised to benefit the respective charities for each Festival. Beyond the funds raised, both Festivals draw attention to the vibrant dining culture in their respective cities, provide economic stimulus in their communities, and serve as an invaluable platform to drive awareness, engaging and inspiring people to get involved in philanthropic activities.

2017 New York City Wine and Food Festival: celebrity appearances, events announced

May 9, 2017

NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 16: Chef Andrew Zimmern during the Grand Tasting presented by ShopRite featuring Samsung Culinary Demonstrations presented by MasterCard at the Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine & Food Festival presented by Coca-Cola at Pier 94 in New York City on October 16, 2016. (Photo by Nicholas Hunt/Getty Images for NYCWFF)

The following is a press release from Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine & Food Festival presented by Coca-Cola

The Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine & Food Festival presented by Coca-Cola (NYCWFF) returns for its 10^th anniversary October 12 – 15, 2017. More than 70 events will take place at locations across New York, with 100 percent of the net proceeds benefiting the hunger-relief organizations Food Bank For New York City and No Kid Hungry. To date, NYCWFF has raised more than $10 million to support the fight to end hunger.

“We are looking forward to celebrating 10 years of NYCWFF this October, and are thankful to all of the talent, partners and fans who have helped us reach this milestone,” said Festival founder and director Lee Brian Schrager, who also serves as senior vice president of corporate social responsibility and communications for Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits. “Our line-up of events is an exciting mix of new events and signature favorites, including more options for the whole family to enjoy.”

The complete line-up for this year’s Festival will be unveiled later this month online at nycwff.org, but several new events will complement the return of fan-favorite tastings, intimate dinners, seminars, and late-night parties. Debut events include a collaboration with the popular Brooklyn market Smorgasburg, for their simultaneous 10th anniversary, presented by Thrillist to kick-off the Festival on Thursday, October 12, taking place on the rooftop of Pier 92 overlooking the Hudson River. Plus, Femme Fatale with Speed Rack hosted by Anne Burrell, Pie vs. Cake hosted by Duff Goldman, Israeli Brunch hosted by Michael Solomonov, Late Night Sandwich Eggs-travaganza, Chinese Tuxedo Brunch, Dale Talde Brunch with Eggslut, Rooftop Rosé at The Top of The Standard hosted by Katie Lee and Elvis Duran, and more.

Signature, fan-favorite events returning for this year’s celebration include:

Aperitivo! hosted by Scott Conant
Blue Moon Burger Bash presented by Pat LaFrieda Meats hosted by Rachael Ray, featuring 10 years of award-winning chefs that have taken home top honors.
Best of Brooklyn presented by Munchies hosted by Action Bronson
Greenmarket Brunch hosted by Geoffrey Zakarian
Pigs and Pints presented by InsideHook hosted by Robert Irvine
Street Eats hosted by Ghetto Gastro
Variety presents Broadway Tastes
Oyster Bash presented by Modelo hosted by Adam Richman

The Festival’s popular intimate Bank of America Dinner Series presented by Wall Street Journal will return with a star-studded roster of acclaimed chefs and personalities. The line-up includes Daniel Boulud and Wolfgang Puck, Alain Ducasse and Laëtitia Rouabah, Dominique Crenn and Alex Guarnaschelli, Gabrielle Hamilton and Nancy Silverton, Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Masa Takayama, Whoopi Goldberg at Sylvia’s, Francis Mallmann in collaboration with Faena Rose, and more.

In addition, NYCWFF has an array of offerings to attract passionate fans of all ages – including the return of the Culinary Demonstrations Only Pass for anyone under 21 years of age at the Festival’s signature Grand Tasting presented by ShopRite featuring Samsung^® Culinary Demonstrations presented by Mastercard^®, which takes place on Pier 94 on Saturday, October 14 and Sunday, October 15; as well as a ticket option for those under 21 at its closing Pier 92 rooftop tasting Coca-Cola Backyard BBQ hosted by Andrew Zimmern and Pat LaFrieda on Sunday, October 15. Two brand new family-friendly events will also be introduced on Saturday, October 14:

Italian Harvest Party hosted by Giada De Laurentiis and her daughter Jade
Sundae Funday hosted by Mario Batali and Ayesha Curry

Tickets for NYCWFF’s 10^th anniversary will go on Monday, June 26, 2017 online at nycwff.org or by calling (800) 764-8773.

2017 Vegas Uncork’d: Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger are first female chefs to lead saber off

April 28, 2017

Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger (front row) at Vegas Uncork'd — Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger (front row) at Vegas Uncork’d’s saber off opening ceremony sabered a bottle of Perrier-Jouët champagne at The Vortex at The LINQ Hotel & Casino. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

The 11th annual Vegas Uncork’d culinary festival Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appétit kicked off on April 27, 2017, with the saber off, a tradition in which participating chefs saber a bottle of champagne. For this year’s saber off, chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger sabered a bottle of Perrier-Jouët champagne at The Vortex at The LINQ Hotel & Casino. According to a Vegas Uncork’d press release, Milliken and Feniger were the first female chefs to lead the saber off and, to recognize their support, they were given personal sabers to do the honors during the inaugural event. More than 15 iconic chefs including Frank Pellegrino Jr., Greg Sherry, Guy Savoy, Lorena Garcia, Rick Moonen, Scott Conant and Shawn McClain joined in the festivities were also at the event.

The 2017 edition of Vegas Uncork’d takes place April 27 to April 30 at various Las Vegas location, including Caesars Palace, The Cromwell, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, MGM Resorts International’s The Park, The Venetian and The Palazzo Las Vegas.

Participating chefs include Wolfgang Puck, Alain Ducasse, Bobby Flay, Buddy “Cake Boss” Valastro, Giada De Laurentiis, Gordon Ramsay, José Andrés, Julian Serrano, Michael Mina, Nobu Matsuhisa, Tom Colicchio, and Charlie Palmer.

The following is an excerpt from a Vegas Uncork’d press release:

New this year, guests can enjoy a Picnic in The Park at MGM Resorts International’s newest outdoor dining and entertainment district, and go on a mixology journey with Mariena Mercer at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. To sample a bit of everything, guests can still purchase tickets to perennial favorite The Grand Tasting at Caesars Palace and indulge in Sweet Escape: An Evening of Buddy, Beignets, Bonbons & Booze on The Palazzo Pool Deck.

Additionally, Chase Sapphire returned for the fifth consecutive year as a presenting sponsor of Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appétit. Chase Sapphire Preferred^® and Sapphire Reserve^SM cardmembers will enjoy unique access to select experiences and interaction with celebrity chefs throughout the four-day festival.

Events with limited tickets still available include:

#FoodPorn Cooking Demo & Luncheon with the Too Hot Tamales (Forum Shops at Caesars Palace), Friday, April 28: Bring your camera phone and appetite, as you get up close and personal at a fun-filled live cooking demonstration featuring chef duo, Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger. Prepare to laugh, taste and sip as the Too Hot Tamales fix a feast for the eyes and shake up creative cocktails. Guests will not only learn the dynamic duo’s innovative recipes and cooking techniques but also get the lowdown on how to shoot epic food porn photos with expert tips and tricks from Bon Appétit magazine’s social media gurus. Meet the chefs, enjoy a multi-course lunch with specialty cocktails, a takeaway recipe booklet and a chance to purchase personalized cookbooks following the event.
Lunch like a Spaniard with José Andrés at Jaleo (The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas), Friday, April 28: Experience a taste of Spain with internationally acclaimed culinary pioneer and innovator, Chef José Andrés. Join José as he prepares lágrima paella over their renowned live fire pit in a dish-and-tell session, and shares his favorite stories behind the unique restaurant’s menu items, like José’s Taco, a slice of jamón ibérico de bellota topped with osetra caviar and gold flakes; Coca con Erizas del Mar, crusty Spanish cristal bread topped with sea urchin, ibérico bacon and butter; their renowned Gin and Tonic program, and more.
Picnic in The Park with Alain Ducasse, Charlie Palmer, Michael Mina, Julian Serrano, Tom Colicchio, Shawn McClain, Rick Moonen, Roy Ellamar, Akira Back, Bryce Shuman, David Werly & More (The Park, located between Monte Carlo and New York-New York), Saturday, April 29: Enjoy a Picnic in The Park Vegas style! Featuring live music and some of MGM Resorts’ most notable chefs including Alain Ducasse, Charlie Palmer, Michael Mina, Julian Serrano, Tom Colicchio, Shawn McClain, Rick Moonen, Roy Ellamar, Akira Back, Bryce Shuman and David Werly, Picnic in The Park will offer creative twists on classic picnic dishes, Edible Gardens and champagne provided by Veuve Clicquot. We encourage you to embrace your inner-child with a variety of social games including giant Jenga, cornhole and croquet. And don’t forget to take a selfie in front of Bliss Dance, a 40-foot-tall sculpture by artist Marco Cochrane and a focal point of The Park experience, or swing by the vintage VW Bus, which has been transformed into a photo booth for the occasion. Located on the Las Vegas Strip between Monte Carlo and New York-New York, this new outdoor dining, and entertainment district will provide an ideal backdrop for you to enjoy a fun, interactive afternoon picnicking with celebrated chefs.
EARLY ACCESS: Gain early admission to the event with an Early Access ticket. A limited number of tickets are available to deliver the undivided attention of experts on site, an exclusive signature cocktail available only to early access guests, and an opportunity to interact with the chefs in a more intimate setting.
Sweet Escape: An Evening of Buddy, Beignets, Bonbons & Booze (The Palazzo), Saturday, April 29: Everyone’s favorite baker and TV personality Buddy “Cake Boss” Valastro will host a decadent evening to surrender to the sweet side of life, featuring a number of world-renowned chefs of The Venetian and The Palazzo, each preparing a unique take on beignets or bonbons. The poolside reception will include specialty cocktails, a live performance from the electrifying trio Simply Three, and a special appearance by Chef Lorena Garcia of Chica, set to open on Mother’s Day, May 14, 2017 in Restaurant Row at The Venetian.
The Ultimate Big Cake & Craft Cocktail After-Party with Buddy Valastro (The Venetian), Saturday, April 29: Celebrate the evening with an official after-party at the latest Las Vegas hotspot, The Dorsey, with a colossal cake baked by the Cake Boss himself, Buddy Valastro. The Dorsey is a high design, memorable spot for the worldly, curious and engaged featuring a hand crafted cocktail menu.