NRA Show Blog

The New Twist, Las Vegas Style

Blogger’s note: This special post was written by NRA Show Hot Chef Challenge 2009 winner and BetterRecipes.com writer Kristina Vanni
 
It is a rare experience when a culinary adventure begins in a hotel room. That is exactly what happened while staying at the newest Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Las Vegas. This sophisticated urban sanctuary of sophisticated elegance is a magnificent resort destination located in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip. The epitome of luxury and innovation, everything here is cutting edge. From the lighting system to the television, and even the curtains, are all controlled by the clock sitting on the nightstand.  
 
The modernism revealed in the guest rooms carried through to the hotel’s cuisine at signature restaurant Twist by Pierre Gagnaire. The award-winning cuisine of this three-star Michelin chef, is Gagnaire’s first restaurant in the United States. The innovative menu infuses the simplicity of classic French cuisine with a contemporary flair.

Hot Chef Fridays: Fall Flavors in New York City

by guest blogger Kristina Vanni

Local ingredients and organic produce were at the top of the National Restaurant Association's annual list of hottest trends in 2009. For chefs and home cooks alike, there is nothing more satisfying than browsing a local farmers market for the freshest seasonal ingredients. 
 
Chef Brandon Kida’s “Taste of Fall” menu at the Mandarin Oriental hotel in New York City embraces the ingredients of the season. It takes diners on a culinary journey as they soak in the priceless views of Central Park, while floating 35 stories up within the Manhattan skyline. Chef Kida’s contemporary cuisine reflects international influences from his travels and his Asian-American background. 

Chef Kida explains, "While traveling throughout Southeast Asia, I was inspired by the balance of tastes. This balance is always what inspires me when I create my seasonal menus."