MGM National Harbor, scheduled to open in the second half of 2016, announced a lineup of renowned chefs to lead its culinary program, which includes Jose Andres, Marcus Samuelsson and Bryan and Michael Voltaggio. Partnering with these big names, the resort plans to bring new regionally inspired concepts and be a culinary destination for the eastern U.S.
“In recent years, the Capital Region has become a thriving food destination, with many of the best chefs in the world contributing to our booming restaurant scene,” said MGM National Harbor General Manager Bill Boasberg. “We have selected incredible talent to create an unparalleled dining experience at our resort and we are excited to welcome these new concepts and chefs into our company’s award-winning culinary portfolio.”
Chef Jose Andres has a long list of accreditations that include Time’s “100 Most Influential People” and being recognized as an “Outstanding Chef” by the James Beard Foundation. Known for Spanish tapas, this will be his first seafood restaurant, where the menu will feature locally sourced ingredients and fresh seafood.
“I’m thrilled to be announcing my first seafood restaurant in what will be the iconic MGM National Harbor,” Andres says.
Chef Marcus Samuelsson, a five-time James Beard Award winner, will make his Capitol Region debut with a menu inspired by his cultural roots—he is Ethiopian-born and Sweden-raised—while tying in local coastal flavors. The restaurant will center around an open kitchen and large grill, and feature a bar with signature cocktails.
Brothers Bryan and Michael Voltaggio, best known for their appearance on Top Chef, are joining forces for the first time to open a contemporary steakhouse at the resort.
“It’s fitting that we are bringing our first kitchen together in our home state of Maryland, and we are excited to be a part of the evolution of the new Potomac waterfront,” Bryan says.
MGM National Harbor is located on the shore of the Potomac River, a short distance from Washington, D.C. The 308-room property will feature 27,000 square feet of meeting space, an entertainment theater with seating for up to 3,000, and a 125,000-square-foot casino.