Caribbean and African flavors are hard to come by on the Las Vegas Strip. But diners can visit Libertine Social at Mandalay Bay or Public House at Luxor right now to feast on chef JJ Johnson’s signature cinnamon-scented braised oxtails with jollof rice, five-hour black beans and collard greens. And credit for this delicious availability goes to Pepsi and MGM Resorts.
The Pepsi Dig In Restaurant Royalty Residency initiative has brought Johnson’s food to the two MGM properties through November 5, after which another culinary gem from across the country will take a turn. Pepsi launched Dig In two years ago to accelerate business and awareness of Black-owned restaurants, and the residency program is a new part of a larger commitment of over $400 million towards advancing racial equality within the company.
Johnson has been expanding his acclaimed Fieldtrip fast-casual rice bowl concept from New York City, so perhaps he could find a permanent Vegas spot soon. In the meantime, Houston rapper Bun B’s Trill Burgers pop-up hits the Strip next, from November 6 through December 3, and then Nashville’s Slim & Husky’s hip-hop pizza shop will bring its food to Las Vegas.
“The Pepsi Dig In initiative combined with our company’s renowned culinary program provides the ideal platform to continue leading with a purpose,” Tony Gladney, MGM Resorts’ vice president of diversity, equity and inclusion, said in a statement.
“By creating exceptional guest experiences with this initiative, we also provide opportunity for talented Black-owned restaurants to shine on a worldwide stage.”
Other scheduled residencies include FoodChasers’ Kitchen in January (think shrimp and grits) and Trap Kitchen in February (get ready for a pineapple bowl filled with steak, shrimp, rice and house-made sauces).
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