Top Toques Coming To Vegas Uncork'd

Without question, Vegas Uncork'd ranks as one of the country's premier culinary events. And one of this year's highlights will be "Toques Off to Paul Bocuse," a lavish, multi-course dinner to be held May 7th, at MGM Grand. Joining chefs Alain Ducasse, Hubert Keller, Joël Robuchon, and Julian Serrano, will be Jean-Philippe Maury, Michael Mina, Bradley Ogden, Roland Passot, André Renard, Jacques Torres, and J. Joho, all of whom will prepare delectable courses for this unforgettable evening. Collectively, this group represents one of the brightest constellations of award-winning chefs gathered to prepare a formal meal. 

"This unprecedented event makes an important statement about Las Vegas as a culinary destination and its appeal not only to food lovers, but to the world's greatest chefs themselves," said Bon Appétit editor-in-chief Adam Rapoport.  

Uniting this stellar group of chefs is a shared admiration and appreciation for legendary chef Paul Bocuse. Creator of the Bocuse d'Or — the world's most prestigious international culinary competition held annually in Lyon, France — Chef Bocuse has influenced generations of chefs around the world and the multitudes of gastronomes they serve.  

The evening's program promises guests a culinary experience set in a surrounding reminiscent of Paul Bocuse's landmark French restaurants. Upon arrival, guests will be greeted by an exceptional cocktail and hors d'oeuvres reception featuring stations helmed personally by chefs J. Joho, Hubert Keller, Shawn McClain, Bradley Ogden, and Julian Serrano. Following that, guests will experience a meticulously conceived four-course dinner, including a cold appetizer from Alain Ducasse and Jöel Robuchon, as well as an entrée from Michael Mina and Roland Passot.

Created exclusively for the evening's program, a retrospective of Paul Bocuse's life and illustrious career will be joined by in-person anecdotes from his colleagues and friends. Concluding the evening will be an elaborate dessert reception by renowned pâtissiers Jean-Philippe Maury and André Renard, as well as chocolatier Jacques Torres.  

In honor of Bocuse and his giving spirit, Southern Nevada charity partners have been named as beneficiaries of the evening: Keep Memory Alive (the non-profit organization that supports Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health) and the Wirtz Beverage Group's culinary programs and scholarships at the College of Southern Nevada. 

Rob O'Keefe, executive director of Vegas Uncork'd, added, "Only the most exciting culinary destination in the world would dream of pulling off a tribute of this scale. We're honored to pay homage to this icon of international gastronomy and delighted to be able to do so here in Las Vegas."

We have attended Vegas Uncork'd by Bon Appétit almost since its inception. It is a unique, four-day culinary extravaganza that features 25 intimate luncheons, dinners, tastings and other immersive and entertaining culinary experiences. But to be sure, if you can only attend one event this year, this is the one not to miss.