The executive chef will be on board with as you as you sail, providing he ultimate culinary experience for you and your guests.
The menu will feature items such as:
SUSHI PRESENTATION
CHARCUTERIE BOARD
LOBSTER TAIL
USDA PRIME BONE
IN RIBEYE STEAKS
FRESH CAUGHT FISH
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ENJOY AN ALL-INCLUSIVE OPEN BAR AS YOUR PERSONAL BARTENDER CREATES YOUR FAVORITE COCKTAILS THROUGHOUT YOUR EXCURSION. WITH A LIMITLESS VARIETY OF ALCOHOLIC AND NON-ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, YOUR GLASS WILL NEVER BE EMPTY. WHILE WE WILL SUPPLY YOUR YACHT WITH ANYTHING YOU REQUEST, OUR STOCKED BAR FEATURES ITEMS SUCH AS:
When you enter Circa Las Vegas and realize you have to hit “Level 0” in order to get to Barry’s Prime Steakhouse, you can already tell it’s going to be special. The design, the ambiance, the sense of occasion… it is special.
Barry’s Prime is a destination spot, off the strip, located in Downtown Las Vegas. It’s often called “Old Las Vegas” because that’s where it all began. This area was Las Vegas, back in the day. Barry’s Prime emulates that with style and sophistication, without it feeling stuffy. The staff is attentive. You are treated like a VIP, but it also has an intimate feel. It’s a throwback to the 50s, 60s, and 70s with a contemporary vibe. Even the music sounds familiar… old songs remixed in a new fashion. Speaking of mixing, the unique “cocktail cart” where you watch your Old Fashioned or Manhattan get made, makes it even more of an experience!
This is all important because people are spending a longer amount of time at the table these days. Owner Marco Cicion says,
“instead of ending on a coffee and moving on, they are having another cocktail or glass of champagne. They are enjoying the company and atmosphere. The normal 90 minute dinner isn’t normal anymore.”
Cicion, Yassine Lyoubi, and Chef Barry Dakake are partners and owners of the restaurant. They all have history in Las Vegas and you can tell they are proud of what they created.
Many people know Chef Barry from his popular restaurant N9NE Steakhouse that was located at The Palms. It was a hotspot! You could always spot a celebrity there and those celebrities and prominent people are back. “Pete Rose was here, we have a ton of the Raiders that come here, the owner Mark Davis comes here, Bill Foley that owns the Vegas Golden Knights, the Knights players come here, Big Time Rush they just came, we have a lot of WWE stars that come, Goldberg… and a lot of the UFC people,” says Cicion.
Let’s talk food! Not only is it pleasing to the taste buds, but it’s pleasing to the eye too. I asked Chef Barry what kind of experience he is trying to create with his menu, he told me he wants it to be a memorable experience that touches on classic steakhouse fare with all those “dishes with a twist” that put the team on the map years ago.
He says, “we wanted to bring back the classics from our early 2000’s menu that so many of our loyal guests and followers enjoyed for years. Here we had the opportunity to create and recreate on our own as we please, which was the goal…to keep our customers happy.”
Barry’s Prime was recently shortlisted for the 2021 restaurant and bar design awards too. The restaurant was designed by PUNCH. The lower romantic lighting and low ceilings are a highlight. Cicion says the partners are old school,
“it’s an homage to that era that we love. Booths, leather, wood, dark lighting.”
The artwork is also locally sourced. Chef Barry says,
“we really wanted to give a fresh revival to the classic Las Vegas steakhouses of the past, yet make it a familiar and comfortable home away from home for our locals and celebrities.”
Partner Yassine Lyoubi told me more about the vision. “After visiting restaurants throughout the country and internationally, we felt that there was room for a steakhouse that “hit different”. That was when we approached my brother Namyd Lyoubi (architect with PUNCH) and asked if his team would take on this project. With the blessing of Circa owner, Derek Stevens, our steakhouse was carved out of the overall design plan
and taken on completely by PUNCH. We had multiple sit downs with Namyd and the team throughout the process and all agreed that we needed a steakhouse that took us back to a certain era, classic cool 50s and 60s with timeless appeal. It was all about feeling and hospitality, clean, sexy, hip.”
Barry’s is also the official Vegas Golden Knights steakhouse. Community is important to the restaurant team, so they felt it was a perfect fit since the NHL hockey team is such an important part of Las Vegas and gives back.
Lyoubi says he couldn’t be more proud of the restaurant’s staff and executive team.
“We had to think outside of the box, opening a restaurant of this caliber during a pandemic. It would have been impossible to achieve this level of execution and success without each of the team members that joined us, more importantly that trusted us. A few miles south of Barry’s lies the Las Vegas Strip with hundreds of great restaurants, yet they decided to stay with us and be a part of this opening and journey in Downtown Las Vegas. They took a risk with us and we will forever be grateful for that, forever.”
He continued, “I’m also extremely proud of the fact that we were finally able to put our mark/stamp on a concept that we not only believe in, but are extremely passionate about. Every menu item, every custom plate/serving vessel, every song on the playlist etc. was thought of in a little office downtown and seeing all that come to life and have this much success is humbling and rewarding.”
Luis Deleon Delivers A Party Amongst Vibrant Flavors At Wynn’s New Casa Playa
The behind the scenes personality responsible for some of your favorite nights out is a man who really knows how to throw a party.
Meet Wynn Nightlife’s ace, nightlife and restaurants relations manager, Luis Deleon. Over the last 10 years working for the brand, he’s been a part of some of the most world renowned club hotspots reimagining how they think about providing elevated customer service by offering guests one of a kind experience. If you’ve had sensory overload from your VIP table at XS Nightclub at 2am Friday night when The Chainsmokers are bringing down the house, you can thank Deleon for assisting with that.
Adding to those accomplishments, Deleon has his eyes set on more projects for Wynn including being a part of Encore’s new coastal Mexican restaurant, Casa Playa.
“I’m thrilled to take on this role within the Wynn Nightlife family,” said Deleon. “Casa Playa brings an exciting new element to the social dining scene and is a great addition to the portfolio of renowned venues.”
Casa Playa whisks you away to a place that feels so vacation-like you’ll expect sand beneath your toes and the crashing of waves in between Mariachi songs while sipping on a signature cocktail from an unmatched tequila and mezcal collection, to biting into a mouthwatering dish helmed by executive chef Sarah Thompson. Try the Mexican Blue Shrimp Ceviche, Black Truffle Tostada and Queso Fundido with House Made Chorizo, and don’t forget to save room for dessert with Carolina’s Flan and Tres Leches. With Deleon’s touch, prepare for an unforgettable evening of Mexican escapism at this ambitious and true-to-form take on south of the border coastal cuisine. Quite simply, the trendy Casa Playa boasts a culinary adventure. But the secret to its unique vision comes from its buzzy aura in a chic setting. You will also spot many celebrities at this new dining destination.
Infusing his club hosting prowess, Deleon is ensuring Casa Playa serves as a perfect “pregame” to your late night fun.
“We offer the lounge area to visit before you’re going to the nightclub,” Deleon explains. “We have acclaimed DJs on the roster which will set the tone for the night. Small bites and appetizers so you’re not too full when you’re out. It all makes for the perfect pregame.”
Deleon helps bring the restaurant back to its roots of authenticity where in Mexico entertainment is not ancillary, but rather at the core of the culinary experience. It’s not uncommon to feel called to dance. Deleon claims, “the front lounge serves as the precursor to get the celebrations started with live entertainment and much more.” Be sure to join for an industry party that takes place on certain dates during the month Deleon has conceived called, “Mi Casa es Su Casa” where according to him, you’re offered a “unique party experience paired with live entertainment and additional celebrational elements.”
A perfect pregame before you go big or a dedicated night out, Deleon is the go-to guy to throw the party for you. Deleon and Casa Playa are the duo you’ve been seeking for an unforgettable night out. Don’t wait, get your reservations now and let Deleon continue to do what he’s been doing the last decade, making sure you have a one of a kind experience.
Nestled on the Baja California Sur Peninsula, Nobu Hotel Los Cabos blends a Japanese aesthetic with a Mexican flair in one of Mexico’s most coveted vacation towns. The luxurious hotel is one of the latest ventures by famed chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa and actor Robert De Niro.
The tranquil resort was designed by California based WATG with interiors tastefully pieced together by Studio PCH. With over 200 guest rooms, multiple pools, a spa, and a variety of restaurants – Nobu Hotel Los Cabos is the perfect sanctuary to escape all those winter woes. The design aesthetic melds earthy materials with clean lines and Mexican art adorning the walls of the property. The landscaping contrasts vibrant green succulents with the neutral tones of the hotel’s facade. There is even a garden on-site where the culinary and mixology team source items for the food and drink menu.
The entrance of Nobu Hotel Los Cabos features a stone sculpture installation that sets the tone for relaxation and serenity. The decor in the guest’s room blends natural vibes with neutral tones. The spacious rooms include rich wood with tan floors and off-white linens. Bathrooms are vast and include Japanese soaking tubs –allowing guests to reset and relax in a spa-like setting. The rooms feature furnished patios facing the ocean with perfect views for sunset cocktail-sipping, or enjoying a sunrise coffee.
Nobu Hotel Los Cabos has no shortage when it comes to poolside lounging. The resort has four pools – including an adults-only infinity pool – a calm oasis for a moment of Zen. The Cortez side pool and Pacific side pool are suited for the social sipper and the pool party people. The pools have a plethora of lounge chairs but why not step things up one notch and treat yourself to a private cabana? Spend your day sipping margaritas while listening to the sounds of a local DJ spinning just steps away.
The property has a variety of cuisine options from Nobu Restaurant to Malibu Farm. Nobu Restaurant features Chef Nobu’s revered dishes and a variety of sumptuous signature cocktails. The restaurant even offers a sunset happy hour menu where guests can sip libations and enjoy a small bites menu while watching the sunset on the Pacific Ocean. Malibu Farm, an offshoot of the Los Angeles eatery, features a menu of organic and sustainable farm to table options. The spot is the perfect place to start your day with a hearty and healthy breakfast.
When you arrive at Nobu Hotel Los Cabos and throughout your stay, the warm staff greets you with their signature mantra, “Welcome home.” After a few days at Nobu Hotel Los Cabos – you will not want to return to your actual home.
With a bottle of Champagne and the ceremonial swipe of a saber, actress Kate Beckinsale officially christened Carversteak, the brand-new restaurant inside Resorts World Las Vegas.
Also looking sharp on the VIP grand opening red carpet were special guests Paris Jackson, Courtney Mazzo Lopez and her husband, self-described carnivore Mario Lopez.
Says the Access Hollywood host,
“I’m a big steak lover. I’m about to tear up a steak right now!”
A 42-ounce Wagyu Tomahawk Rib Chop, to be exact; the main event at this cutting edge exclusive steakhouse, sliced and served by Chef Daniel Ontiveros himself.
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – DECEMBER 29: Carver Road Hospitality’s VP of Beverage and Hospitality Culture Francesco Lafranconi and actress Kate Beckinsale saber a champagne bottle during the grand opening of Carversteak at Resorts World Las Vegas on December 29, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Denise Truscello/Getty Images for Carversteak)LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – DECEMBER 29:Actress Courtney Mazza and actor Mario Lopez attend the grand opening of Carversteak at Resorts World Las Vegas on December 29, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Denise Truscello/Getty Images for Carversteak)
The man behind-the-blade comes to Carversteak from Scotch 80 Prime at the Palms after working with fine-dining dynamos Joel Robuchon, Thomas Keller, and Michael Mina.
“In crafting the Carversteak story, we began at the source: dry-aged American cuts and Japanese-certified Wagyu steaks,” explains Chef Ontiveros. “From cooking to presentation, our ingredients set everything into motion.”
Gaby Duong Photography
At over 14 thousand square-feet, it is the city’s largest luxury steakhouse. It has a classic-meats, I mean, meets-contemporary vibe, but also offers “playful vegan selections in a modern environment.”
The mid-century modern-designed space overlooking the Strip is the first Las Vegas dining concept conceived and developed by Carver Road Hospitality and opened just in time to ring in 2022.
“[It was] a lot of hard work for the past 15 months to put this project together,” admits Carver Road Hospitality chief Sean Christie. “That’s a pretty quick timeline for a project of this size. It was a hard year, but worthwhile and also very exciting to see the end product.”
Gaby Duong Photography
An end product that includes a 70-foot honed quartzite stone bar; a sweeping outdoor bar and dining terrace; two private dining experiences – Whiskey Room and The Knife Shop; and a curated cocktail collection from acclaimed master mixologist Francesco Lafranconi.
No matter how you slice it, it’s time to sharpen your appetite.
“Carversteak is always just about pleasing people,” says Christie. “We’re always trying to “Wow!” someone with the basics of having a great meal and having great service with a smile.”
If “live like royalty” is on your 2022 wish list, then a visit to the Palaces at Crockfords Las Vegas is your answer.
Crockfords is the ultra-luxe, high-end hotel inside Resorts World—the first resort to be built on the Las Vegas Strip in over a decade—and the Palaces are as grand as it gets.
This world-class “resort-within-a-resort” has ushered in a new era of luxury in just over six months, according to Shannon McCallum, Resorts World Las Vegas Vice President of Hotel Operations. “Here, luxury is all about comfort, ease and indulgence.”
And nowhere is that more evident than when you enter one of the exclusive Palaces.
“These are private residential-style getaways, with secluded entrances, a dedicated pre-arrival team, and a 24-hour VIP ambassador service,” says McCallum. “The amenities are state-of-the-art…and the design provides a fresh, new take on opulence.”
Seven thousand square feet of opulence to be exact. The Steelman Partners-designed four-bedroom Palaces are the hotel’s most spacious suites. They offer a grand foyer; a formal dining room; a cinema-style media room; and a game room complete with billiards and a wet bar.
Each of the palatial master suites include spa-inspired bathrooms with soaking tubs and custom walk-in closets. There is a three-bedroom option as well; and not to be outdone, each Palace has its own eclectic pop-art program so “discerning guests will be able to come back again and enjoy a completely different vibe.”
The outdoor vibe is just as magnificent. Adds McCallum,
“Outside is a tranquil terrace with a private pool, spa, manicured gardens and gourmet patio kitchen that invites guests to lounge under the sun, moon and stars.”
So for those who enjoy the finer things in life, have fun storming the palace. Just don’t forget to pack your crown!
A phrase from the latest hit song by Zouk Group’s resident DJ, Tiesto, rings true as the mega-club opens its doors on the Las Vegas strip. This highly anticipated nightclub inside Resorts World is Zouk Group’s first club in Las Vegas.
“The partnership between Zouk Group and Resorts World Las Vegas has allowed us to create the newest, most exciting nightlife experiences on the Las Vegas Strip,” says Ronn Nicolli, the Vice President of Nightlife and Lifestyle Marketing.
While Zouk is an established and well-known nightlife and lifestyle brand 30 years overseas, it’s still in the early stages of building brand awareness in the domestic market. Nicolli says, “at Resorts World Las Vegas, we’ve brought together a multiplicity of experiences in one entertainment complex, including Zouk Nightclub and Ayu Dayclub featuring can’t-miss performances by resident DJs Tiësto and Zedd; as well as RedTail, a new-style social gaming bar, and FUHU, an Asian-influenced vibe dining venue.”
Zouk Group’s CEO, Andrew Li, flew in for the grand opening. He knows Las Vegas is a competitive market, but he’s ready for it, “throughout the years, I’ve gotten to experience Vegas as a customer, and on any given weekend you can see the world’s top talent perform across the Strip. Everyone is competing for a roster of talent and their share of the guests that are coming to Vegas. To succeed, we knew we had to evolve and think differently. It was important for us to create meaningful experiences and customer service and truly make it part of the Zouk Group’s core foundation in Las Vegas.”
First impressions are everything and Zouk knows that. Nicolli says, “the reaction from guests so far has been overwhelmingly positive. I believe we’ve been able to create the most exciting nightlife experiences on the Las Vegas Strip. Everyone on our Las Vegas team has played an instrumental role in bringing this experience and concepts to life.”
Let’s cue up the Las Vegas executive leadership team:
Micheal Waltman – Executive Director of Operations
Nick Martini – Executive Director of Marketing
Jared Garcia – Director of Social Experience
Brent Freed – Entertainment Manger
There are a lot of questions as we get to know this brand new strip side nightclub. Each leadership team member answered some of my “must-know” questions, which should help you navigate your way inside, and guarantee a memorable night out.
If I’m visiting Las Vegas and want to spend a night at Zouk… what’s the best way to get in?
Michael Waltman, Executive Director of Operations
“Zouk takes this idea of familiarity and does things that exceed any guest’s expectation. Having advanced technology, a lineup of diverse talent, and unique programming unlike anything else in the city really allows us to create a new and exciting environment for our guests. From a digital-forward booking and in-venue ordering experience to QR-code entry and mobile queueing, we’ve looked at how we can improve the guest experience through every touchpoint of the customer journey. I really believe that guests will be very impressed by the level of service, attention to detail, and devotion to creating the best experience possible. Guests can secure tickets or tables purchased online in advance at zoukgrouplv.com, at the door via digital kiosks, or by reaching out to one of our hosts. All tickets are digital allowing a seamless entry experience. Pro tip: book your table online and pre-order your favorite bottle. It’ll be waiting at the table when you and your guests arrive.”
What makes Zouk special from any other club you have worked for or opened?
Nick Martini, Executive Director of Marketing
“The way we approach technology and programming is unlike anything the Strip has seen before. A major component of Zouk is our incredibly diverse music roster. The lineup at both Zouk Nightclub and Ayu Dayclub spans a variety of music genres, with global names and an unprecedented list of female talent. Having this variety and diversity allows us to create a once-in-a-lifetime experience for our guests, with experiences that cater to everyone. With the diversity of musical talent of our residents, we have had the ability to touch wider audiences than we have in the past.”
What kind of VIP experiences can we expect if we decide to spend an evening at Zouk Nightclub?
Jared Garcia, Director of Social Experiences and Talent
“Many of the packages and presentations we’ve developed for guests were derived from the unique and over-the-top social experiences created for the well-known artists, athletes and influencers that visit the nightclub. Zouk is outfitted with the latest in audio-visual equipment that allows us to curate truly immersive moments. For example, if a group is coming in to celebrate a special occasion – we have the capabilities to deploy a personalized message on a single LED screen that drops down from a matrix of panels on the ceiling. We also have some fun, Instagrammable bottle service presentations, the opportunity to deliver food from any restaurant on property directly to your table, and can even coordinate a meet-and-greet or special shout-out from the DJ – everything is completely customized to create a memorable, one-of-a-kind experience that they will want to tell their friends about.”
If I go to Zouk one night, can I expect the same type of experience if I return? Or, will it be different?
Brent Freed, Entertainment Manager
“Talent is usually the focal point of the nightlife experience and given the diversity of music in our lineup, we have the ability to transform the space with different sounds and touch wider audiences than nightclubs have in the past. From EDM superstars to house music icons, popular Latin artist,s and live performances, we have a variety of entertainment that can offer a different experience on any given night.”
— By Dayna Roselli
Deluxe Version Magazine proudly recognizes Zouk Nightclub as “The Nightclub Of The Year!”
Nestled on the Baja California Sur Peninsula, Nobu Hotel Los Cabos blends a Japanese aesthetic with a Mexican flair in one of Mexico’s most coveted vacation towns. The luxurious hotel is one of the latest ventures by famed chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa and actor Robert De Niro.
The tranquil resort was designed by California based WATG with interiors tastefully pieced together by Studio PCH. With over 200 guest rooms, multiple pools, a spa, and a variety of restaurants – Nobu Hotel Los Cabos is the perfect sanctuary to escape all those winter woes. The design aesthetic melds earthy materials with clean lines and Mexican art adorning the walls of the property. The landscaping contrasts vibrant green succulents with the neutral tones of the hotel’s facade. There is even a garden on-site where the culinary and mixology team source items for the food and drink menu.
The entrance of Nobu Hotel Los Cabos features a stone sculpture installation that sets the tone for relaxation and serenity. The decor in the guest’s room blends natural vibes with neutral tones. The spacious rooms include rich wood with tan floors and off-white linens. Bathrooms are vast and include Japanese soaking tubs –allowing guests to reset and relax in a spa-like setting. The rooms feature furnished patios facing the ocean with perfect views for sunset cocktail-sipping, or enjoying a sunrise coffee.
Nobu Hotel Los Cabos has no shortage when it comes to poolside lounging. The resort has four pools – including an adults-only infinity pool – a calm oasis for a moment of Zen. The Cortez side pool and Pacific side pool are suited for the social sipper and the pool party people. The pools have a plethora of lounge chairs but why not step things up one notch and treat yourself to a private cabana? Spend your day sipping margaritas while listening to the sounds of a local DJ spinning just steps away.
The property has a variety of cuisine options from Nobu Restaurant to Malibu Farm. Nobu Restaurant features Chef Nobu’s revered dishes and a variety of sumptuous signature cocktails. The restaurant even offers a sunset happy hour menu where guests can sip libations and enjoy a small bites menu while watching the sunset on the Pacific Ocean. Malibu Farm, an offshoot of the Los Angeles eatery, features a menu of organic and sustainable farm to table options. The spot is the perfect place to start your day with a hearty and healthy breakfast.
When you arrive at Nobu Hotel Los Cabos and throughout your stay, the warm staff greets you with their signature mantra, “Welcome home.” After a few days at Nobu Hotel Los Cabos – you will not want to return to your actual home.
Finding peace in a pandemic with a plan, a pen, and my palate.
There was nothing more relaxing and soul-replenishing than my recent road trip to the heart of California’s wine country—from the palate-pleasing pinot of Paso Robles to the breathtaking beaches of Carmel-by-the-Sea—but the much-needed escape from reality almost didn’t happen.
I’d never been that person to second-guess a decision to hit the road; but with this trip, I came thiiiiis close to canceling. Because, 2020.
As most people have experienced in one way or another, maintaining normalcy in the age of COVID-19 is no easy feat. Under typical circumstances, a summer getaway along the Golden State’s Central Coast would’ve been a no-brainer. (Not to mention, this opportunity would have me tagging along with food, wine, and travel journalists Elaine and Scott Harris of Cuisineist.com, a top-100 travel website featuring hundreds of articles and videos from the husband-and-wife sommelier’s globetrotting adventures.)
But with a legitimate concern over catching coronavirus, our safety and well-being were of utmost importance.
Luckily, at the time, California had just prohibited indoor dining in counties we would be visiting (which would automatically ensure we’d be eating outdoors at all times) and before and upon our arrival, our innkeepers guaranteed a strict pandemic protocol during our stay.
Taking those facts into consideration, we stocked up on masks and sanitizer; memorized social distancing guidelines, and ultimately decided to clear out (in separate cars) to California. Uncertain times call for uncertain measures, but looking back, I am so grateful I did.
Top Image: DAOU Mountain. This Image: Stacey and her husband Marty in Paso Robles Wine Country.
HOW TO WINE
The minute (actually, the second) we arrived in Paso Robles, our first stop was atop DAOU Mountain, a gorgeous winery famous for its exquisite cabernet sauvignon. Sitting 2,200 feet above the city and overlooking the entire Adelaida District, the tasting room was closed due to COVID, but with a view that extraordinary, there was no better way to experience DAOU than outside.
This property is widely considered Paso Robles’ “birthplace of modern winemaking.” Now, proprietors—and brothers—Daniel and Georges Daou continue to challenge themselves to produce a Bordeaux-style cabernet they say will “rival the greatest.” They are succeeding; and, their culinary choices were perfectly paired (do not leave the mountaintop before trying the Vegan Fregula and Onyx Mezze)! Trust me. Hands-down, DAOU is a two-fold tasting adventure.
From the mountain to the vineyard, Onx Wines offered our foursome a wine flight-filled adventure…on foot (with a little help from a Kawasaki “mule!”). A blend of adventure with time-honored winemaking tradition is at the heart of the Olson family’s cuvée blends at Onx, a 127-acre estate property located in the shotgun of the Templeton Gap, and home to complex soils, vast views, perfect wine growing temperatures, and outdoor tasting areas! Our tasting visit began in the open-air “tractor shed” and continued to five beautiful “Oases” found throughout the vineyard, an option perfectly suited to the new normal of six-feet-separation.
Onx Vineyard
Jeff Strekas, the director of operations and winegrowing, also showed us the vineyard’s innovative way of drinking-while-social distancing called “Onx-at-Home.” Tasters can now enjoy Onx wines in fun-sized vials either on location or via its Private Virtual Tasting Experience. Needless to say, he had me at fun-sized—but I left with two full-sized (Indie Rosé, my favorite!). Paso Robles is definitely “where wine takes you” and I can’t wait to return.
Our al fresco tasting tour continued up the Pacific coast to Carmel-By-the-Sea, the second leg of the trip. We couldn’t pass up a chance to visit Dawn’s Dream Winery, home to Dawn Galante’s award-winning pinots and rosés (and, the most Instagrammable wine tub ever!). The married mom of five saw her dreams of making “approachable wines with exceptional quality” and giving back to her community come true. Her rosé was voted “Best of Monterey” 5 years running, and she has raised sizable donations for several non-profits supporting women and children.
Tarpy’s Roadhouse, Monterey
Dawn’s husband, Jack Galante, and Otter Cove winemaker Richard Oh—both Carmel royalty—were our gracious hosts for the afternoon (one of many perks when you travel with experts!) The Galante Family has a long history in the area: Jack’s great grandfather, J. Frank Devendorf, discovered Carmel Beach, and together with his partner Frank Powers, created the town of Carmel in 1902. Turns out our last stop was in the courtyard of Carmel’s first tasting room: Galante Vineyards and Western Emporium. Galante is synonymous with fine cabs, merlots, pinots, and Sauvignon Blanc, and after a few (read: several) sips, I understand why they reign supreme. (Oh, if you missed the wine tub, be sure to check out the leather cowboy boot chair!)
HOW TO DINE
With a wide range of dining choices in and around Paso Robles’ downtown square, we started the gastronomic portion of our getaway on the elegant back patio of Thomas Hill Organics, deemed one of the city’s best restaurants. This farm-to-table concept is dedicated to organic, locally sourced food options and unique Central Coast wines. Lucky for us, we washed down our sea bass and vegetarian Buddha Bowl with a superb 2011 Tudor Wines Pinot Noir, hand delivered by Dan Tudor himself. (Thank you, Dan!)
In keeping with the COVID-conscious theme, we ate on the patio of Cello Ristorante & Bar at Allegretto Vineyard Resort by Ayres, a 5-year-old hotel resort/spa that has added a refined element to Paso’s profile. The Mediterranean-inspired restaurant offers a Northern Italian menu by Chef de Cuisine Benjamin Drahos. The upscale yet casual feel made us feel right at home while devouring spring pea pasta, pan-seared salmon, and Allegretto’s own home-grown rosé. To cap off the exceptional meal, we took a beautiful stroll through the manicured gardens, Tuscan architecture, and art-lined hallways of the 20-acre estate. (I plan to return someday for the complete Allegretto experience!)
Allegretto Vineyard Resort by Ayres, Paso Robles
Once in Carmel, we opted for alternative fare just off the beaten path. If you have a fondness for fondue like us, it’s “hip to dip” at Lugano Swiss Bistro, an authentic eatery that serves up Switzerland, with a side of France and Germany. Seated outside in the biergarten, we satisfied our fondue fix with cheese and, of course, Swiss chocolate. But I won’t soon forget my first experience with a Swiss puff pastry pastetli (all mushrooms!), and an order of original Swiss Raclette cheese. Yodel-ay-hee-hoo. Proscht!
Looking for casual cuisine on our last night in Cali, we ventured out to nearby Monterey for a halcyon happy hour—and history lesson—at popular steakhouse Tarpy’s Roadhouse, one-third of the area’s well-known trio of hot spots including Montrio Bistro and Rio Grill. The rustic stone building and courtyard was built in 1917 on three-plus acres, and thanks to an exclusive tour from new owners Ken and Mona Donkersloot (who took over the restaurant group during the pandemic), we learned about the beautiful property and Matt Tarpy, the celebrated vigilante for whom the restaurant got its name. It was perfectly picturesque and an enlightening end to our culinary roundup.
HOW TO RECLINE
The suites at La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Paso Robles were luxurious yet affordable and well-suited as “headquarters” for our two-night stay.
The newly redesigned property is right off Route 46, just minutes from downtown, the wineries and Highway 101. Our timing was impeccable, too, because La Quinta is just four minutes from the art installation Bruce Munro: Field of Light at Sensorio, a 15-acre, solar-powered exhibition of 58,800 stemmed fiber-optic spheres that gently illuminate the landscape. With limited attendance allowed and safety measures installed, this was just the kind of outdoor attraction for social distancing purposes in the age of COVID-19. It has been extended through January 2021, and it is not to be missed.
Allegretto Vineyard Resort by Ayres, Paso Robles
Finally, there was no better way to enjoy Carmel-by-the-Sea than with a stay at the pretty-in-pink Hofsas House. Founded by the Theis family over seven decades ago, this Bavarian-inspired 38-room charmer is within walking distance to everything the beautiful beachside village has to offer (especially the 5th Avenue Deli, where we stocked up on essentials for our hike at Point Lobos—easily the best hike I’ve ever done!) It’s a European retreat where the attention to your personal needs—and safety—can’t be beaten. I already miss those Dutch doors.
For more travel adventures with Elaine and Scott Harris, visit www.cuisineist.com.
50 Eggs Hospitality Group has managed to not only stay afloat during the pandemic restaurant crisis, but actually thrive. Over the past nineteen years and counting, founder and CEO, John Kunkel, continues to create new restaurant concepts and evolve the dining and hospitality industry alongside culinary leaders, such as famed Chef Lorena Garcia. With creme de la crop standards, Kunkel expresses his gratitude to work with the best of those in their fields to create extraordinary restaurants. He has fostered business relationships throughout his career, such as those with Sand Corp. and the Venetian Las Vegas, that provide prominent locations for his innovative concepts.
CHICA Miami
50 Eggs Hospitality Group has already opened a few concepts in Las Vegas at The Venetian such as Yardbird Southern Table & Bar, CHICA, and Spritz Restaurant & Bar. Kunkel also has three additional projects on tap within the resort. Following the eminent reaction to CHICA Las Vegas, he explains, “We are ramping up current to reopen CHICA Miami this winter after the pandemic forced us to close the doors just months after the location’s grand opening in 2019.” The allure of CHICA expands beyond the fresh food and explosive culinary creations by renowned Chef-Partner, Lorena Garcia. Acclaimed design firm, Rockwell Group, was brought on board to create an immersive and unique venue that truly elevates the guest experience. The design details of CHICA Miami are so remarkable that it was nominated for the Restaurant & Bar Design AwardsⓇ 2020 and the Boutique Design Gold Ket Awards in New York.
Chef Lorena Garcia
CHICA: Carne Asada tacos
Kunkel’s wild success is not by chance, but rather by years of hands-on experience and a creative edge that sets him apart. He recounts his formative years, “At fifteen, I started as a cook and worked my way through every position of the restaurant. I got to know the business inside and out.” Kunkel later established 50 Eggs Hospitality Group and brought the concept of Yardbird Southern Table & Bar to life in Miami Beach. With such an overwhelmingly positive response, he and his group introduced the restaurant to four more locations: Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Singapore, and Dallas. Kunkel informs of additional Yardbird locations on the rise, “[Washington] DC and Chicago will open next year.”
Yardbird Las Vegas
Humble beginnings and larger-than-life results yield the hospitality empire John Kunkel continues to grow well beyond the perceived limitations of the pandemic. He expresses, “We have been like a Phoenix rising from the ashes of the coronavirus.” He describes restaurant shutdowns as an opportunity, “to [improve], learn, and focus on our culture and people.” Kunkel attributes much of his success to expertise, surrounding himself with the most skilled restaurant industry professionals. quality staff, and a commitment to ensuring not only his guests’ happiness and satisfaction, but that of his team members as well. “Six to seven years later we are still going strong with a lot of the same [professionals] we started within our Vegas location, which plays a huge part in why we are so successful to date,” he acknowledges. With over ten restaurants opening in the upcoming year, 50 Eggs Hospitality Group continues to forge a new path in even the harshest of climates within the industry.
To learn more visit 50eggsinc.com and @50eggsinc on Instagram
