Chica Las Vegas at The Venetian to Transport Diners to Latin America, Serving a Refreshing Take on Authentic, Home-Style Latin Cuisine by Celebrity Chef Lorena Garcia
Appropriately debuting on Mother’s Day, May 14, Chica Las Vegas will deliver the fresh and vivacious flavors of Latin American fare united with an eclectic wine and unique mixology program to The Venetian Las Vegas.
The newest hand-crafted concept from John Kunkel’s 50 Eggs and the creator of The Venetian’s award-winning Yardbird Southern Table & Bar, Chica is a collaboration with Top Chef Masters’ Chef Lorena Garcia showcasing her innovative and flavorful Latin-inspired cuisine.
Chica Las Vegas at The Venetian Las Vegas to Transport Diners to Latin America, Serving a Refreshing Take on Authentic, Home-Style Latin Cuisine by Celebrity Chef Lorena Garcia
Photo credit: Wolfgang Hirn.
“After many years of living in Miami, where I have been fortunate to be inundated with numerous Latin American nationalities and gastronomies, along with my extensive travels to Central and South America, I am excited to bring my latest creation and concept to the Venetian Las Vegas,” said John Kunkel, founder of 50 Eggs Inc. “Chica will not only showcase the bold and vibrant flavors of Latin American, but will celebrate the strength and vivacity of the many amazing cultures.”
“Developing the menu for Chica has been one of the greatest joys of my career. I am so proud to share my exciting Latin flavors and cuisine with the thousands of travelers from around the world who visit Las Vegas,” said Executive Chef Lorena Garcia, “Latin cooking will now be showcased on one of the world’s biggest stages.”
Joining sister restaurant Yardbird Southern Table & Bar in Restaurant Row at The Venetian, Chica will be the property’s first Latin concept and the first of its kind in the Las Vegas market.
“It’s a pleasure to welcome acclaimed Chef Lorena Garcia and the entire team at Chica to The Venetian family,” said George Markantonis, president and COO of The Venetian, The Palazzo and Sands Expo. “The restaurant reflects the passion and creativity of Chef Lorena, John Kunkel and 50 Eggs. Chica is the talk of the town, and Chef’s interpretation of the exotic cuisines of Central and South America will add yet another not-to-be-missed dining experience to the culinary offerings on the Las Vegas Strip. We can’t wait!”
On the Plate
The uniquely diverse menu inspired by classic renditions gives guests the opportunity to explore the flavors of Latin American cuisine as one culture, with influences from Venezuela, Peru, Brazil, Mexico and Argentina, among many more.
Chica under Celebrity Chef Lorena Garcia will serve exciting and flavorful Latin-fusion dishes including signature: Asado Negro Arepas made from house-made anise and piloncillo arepas stuffed with braised short rib, and garnished with pickled onions and cilantro; Meyer Lemon Rotisserie Chicken with Peruvian purple potato salad, fresh hearts of palm and herb chimichurri; Tuna Ceviche made from tuna nikkei in an apple infused leche de tigre; Kale Lime Chopped Salad tossed in a citrus vinaigrette, topped with sour green apples, dried cranberries, pumpkin seeds and croutons, and Marinated Churrasco Steak served with thick cut fries and an herb chimichurri and creamy huancaina sauce. Guests will also enjoy an array of fresh arepas, tamales and tortillas made in house.
In the Glass
50 Eggs Inc. concepts are known for their innovative bar programs and Chica is no exception. Classic cocktails will be well-represented, but uniquely curated with a new modern twist; highlighting the finest spirits from Latin America including tequila, mezcal and rum.
Guests will enjoy enthralling libations such as the F.W Margarita, which is a play on the margarita with a slightly sweet and spicy with Tequila, fresh lime, fresno chili, fresh pressed watermelon juice and orange bitters with cilantro.
Chica’s wine selections emphasize historical ties to old world wines while focusing on strong female winemakers from across the globe. The list will boast many rare, sought-after wines dedicated to regions with cultural ties to Latin America.
Ambiance & Style
The design, décor and ambiance nods to cultural Latin roots, boasting vivid colors and chic contemporary accents.
A collaboration between 50 Eggs Inc. and Wilson Associates, the décor and interior space draws on traditional influences, adorned with ornate and authentic textures including handmade vintage tiles, bright accents and colonial-styled ironwork. Following suit, the art throughout the restaurant aligns with a bright and empowering female-centric theme.
“Over the past several years, my travels have included visits to many Latin American countries, such as Panama, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Costa Rica and Mexico,” said John Kunkel, founder of 50 Eggs Inc. “All of these amazing places embody uniquely specific traditional foods and fascinating design elements. I wanted to create a space that would allow guests access to the vibrant and bold flavors, sights and sounds of Latin America.”
The kitchen features a built-in rotisserie wall and custom Churrasco grill, alongside a state-of-the-art cold bar serving as the focus of the restaurant where fresh ceviches and crisp salads will be made, as well as handmade arepas creating an interactive experience for restaurant patrons.
Multiple private dining areas will offer groups space to enjoy a variety of events, from cocktail parties to large seated dinners, to smaller spaces for an intimate affair.
Chica will be open daily for lunch, dinner and weekend brunch at Restaurant Row in The Venetian, 3355 Las Vegas Boulevard South in Las Vegas, Nevada. Reservations can be made beginning May 1, 2017 via OpenTable or by calling 702-805-8472.
Chef Lorena always finds time to give back and her “Big Chef, Little Chef” as a comprehensive non-profit program was developed to help children and their families take control of their eating habits and, ultimately, their lives. Follow her on Facebook.