One of the most impactful chefs in the history of the Las Vegas Strip is getting ready to retire. Julian Serrano has stepped away from supervising the kitchen at Lago at Bellagio, and while the decorated chef remains at the helm of Julian Serrano Tapas at Aria, his landmark fine-dining destination Picasso is set to close in August. Opening with Bellagio in 1998, Picasso is one of only two Las Vegas restaurants to receive two Michelin stars. “From our front of house staff to our wonderful chefs and the executive team, none of this would have been possible without everyone’s immense talents coming together,” Serrano said in a statement. “I’m forever grateful to everyone who contributed to making memories every night at Picasso.”
Longtime favorite Strip burger joint Holsteins at the Cosmopolitan is closing up shop on July 9. Gen3 Hospitality president Stacia Stephens said in a statement that details on a new concept will be shared in the coming months.
An all-star team of local hospitality veterans is bringing La Casa de Juliette Mexican Cocina to Centennial Hills this summer. Nathan Grates, Anthony Jamison and Chase Gordon—the team behind the Sand Dollar Lounge and Sand Dollar Downtown—are collaborating with chef Lalo Saavedra of Charlie Palmer Steak on the Strip and the Honest Hospitality company to create an elevated take on classic Mexican cuisine showcasing fresh ingredients, seasonal flavors and a focused cocktail program. Stay tuned at lacasadejuliette.com.
Gong Cha, a bubble tea brand with more than 2,200 stores around the world, is set to open its first Las Vegas location May 24 in Chinatown at 4215 Spring Mountain Road #106B. Special promotions and giveaways are planned all weekend long, including buy-one-get-one drinks; more info is at gongchausa.com.
Naxos Taverna at Red Rock Resort has launched its weekend Mediterranean brunch, available Saturday and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. until 3 p.m., featuring dishes like strapatsada with Loukaniko sausage, shakshuka, lemon poppyseed pancakes, melomakarona waffles and more. Find info or reservations at naxosredrock.com.
The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party at Silverton’s Shady Grove Lounge has been extended through July 7, offering plenty more opportunity to experience Alice in Wonderland-themed specialty cocktails, decor and more. For details, visit silvertoncasino.com/madhatter.
The Cabinet of Curiosities at Horseshoe Las Vegas has launched a mixology masterclass educating guests on cocktail history, flavor profiles and technique. The 90-minute sessions are set for 1 p.m. Thursday through Saturday for $100, with info and reservations available at thecabinetlv.com.
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