This week, we talk to Chef Justin Frederickson of MGM about his involvement in Chefs for Kids, a program that teaches nutrition and food education to children in needy areas of southern Nevada.
The conversation revolves around a charity event organized by Chefs for Kids, which provides nutritious meals to underprivileged children in schools. Chef Justin, a sous chef at MGM Grand, shared his initial involvement in 2010 and the program’s evolution, which now offers a more experiential event with plated meals and chef hats for the children. Chef Justin highlighted the program’s impact, noting that one in eight people in Southern Nevada is food insecure, affecting about 100,000 children.
The upcoming event on Saturday, April 19, 2025, will honor chefs and restaurant suppliers who help keep the program running, present scholarships to young chefs, and raise money for the charity through ticket sales and auctions. Tickets start at $250, and tables are $2,500.
For more information, visit ChefsForKids.org
Highlighting our Host: Rivea by Alain Ducasse at the W Las Vegas
Mark, the GM, shared that Rivea occupies the top two floors of the W Hotel (formerly Delano).
Originally called Mix, it was Alain Ducasse’s “greatest hits” restaurant. In 2015, it was remodeled to focus on shareable plates with an Italian and French Riviera theme. Recently, they’ve shifted to a more global seafood concept with Mediterranean inspiration.
Mark explains how they maintain Ducasse’s ingredient origin principles and showcase great seafood and vegetables.
The restaurant is known for its breathtaking views of Las Vegas, particularly during sunset when the eastern hills turn “orange and purple.”
In addition to Rivea, there is the SkyFall Lounge. It provides a sophisticated lounge experience with a remarkable cocktail program. Open until midnight, the lounge features DJs on weekends for a high-energy vibe, offering quieter moments to enjoy the city’s panorama. With food from Revere’s kitchen and a focus on creating bespoke experiences, Skyfall allows guests to immerse themselves in the Vegas atmosphere, whether seeking a vibrant night out or a relaxed evening overlooking the strip.
Some of Our Favorite Bites Around Las Vegas:
Sparrow and Wolf: Enjoyed a greens and fennel salad, and reimagined Banh Cuon dish. Known for impeccable service and a who’s who dining scene.
Cafe Landewar: An Israeli-inspired restaurant offering a massive breakfast with flaky burekas, fresh pita, hummus, and rugelach. Affordable and delicious, with everything baked to order.
Bar Boheme: A new French restaurant by James Trees with standout dishes like duck rillette, Mary’s duck with crispy leg, and a tarte tatin with foie gras ice cream. Praised for creative flavors and exceptional service.
Stubborn Seed: Highlighted for its innovative tasting menu with bold, unexpected flavor combinations. Dishes included Kaluga caviar on champagne macarons, Wagyu beef tartare, and uni panna cotta.
Chica: Noted for its South American cuisine, with standout fish tacos described as the “platonic ideal” for all future fish tacos Al eats to compare.
Rose Rabbit Lie (temporary pop-up): Featuring classic dishes like caviar tacos, crispy oysters Rockefeller, and gougères with truffle Mornay at the Chandelier Bar in the Cosmopolitan.
What Not to Miss: Updates and Pop-ups from Strip Chefs
Well, all of it, of course!
But dig into recorded interviews with Sean Griffin of Bellagio’s Prime Steakhouse discussing the recent renovations at the restaurant. Brezza’s Chef Nicole Brisson also explained her upcoming pop-up collaboration with Pasta Ramen.
