New York, NY
After first opening its doors in 2010, Nusr-Et Steakhouse quickly became an industry leader with its top-quality steaks and guest service. The Head Chef Nusret Gökçe garnered attention online for his unique approach and technique, which ultimately earned him the distinction of “Salt Bae.” Wanting to expand his international restaurant chain, Chef engaged TPG Architecture to bring its hospitality expertise to design a new steakhouse in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The new vibrant and lively steakhouse occupies over 11,000 square feet at Park MGM across from the T-Mobile Arena. The design aims to marry the Chef’s charisma, allure, and bold persona with the animated environment of Las Vegas. In addition, the Park MGM resort offers a prime location for the restaurant and perfectly matches the spirit of the brand. The restaurant has an electric street presence, with a logo featuring the Chef adorned on the façade.
The restaurant can seat up to 370 guests and offers different dining settings, including extensive patio and terrace seating, to fit the mood. When guests walk in, they are immediately met with an eye-catching circular bar that’s 25 feet in diameter situated in the center of the venue and framed by intricate floor tiling. The team also gave this feature attraction a Vegas-worthy lighting display above. The designers conceptualized a 30-foot LED column with multiple LED rings seemingly suspended in midair. On-screen, the restaurant can flash exciting imagery of champagne, fire, smoke, steaks, and more to showcase the synergy of any given night. Additionally, 200 custom lights that mimic crystal salts cascade from the canopy, representing the Chef’s signature salting technique.
Nearby the entrance, there is a DJ booth for live music, as well as an Instagram wall for guests to have a photo moment with the famous Chef. To enhance the experience, guests can see into the working kitchen and watch their dishes be prepared at the featured Chef’s Table. There is also a classic butcher counter and display case, allowing diners to peruse the high-quality cuts of steaks before they’re served.
Underneath the staircase, a custom wine display with illuminated LED color-changing shelving adds drama to the atmosphere. Upstairs, two private dining rooms can be reserved and closed off for special events. These intimate spaces capture the look and feel of a modern residential dining room, framed with elegant millwork and chandeliers. These spaces also feature custom artwork and décor that highlight the Chef’s legacy and celebrity status. Across the way, there is a second feature bar, which anchors the energy and buzz felt on the floor.
Since its opening in late February 2022, the steakhouse has welcomed A-list celebrities and overwhelming crowds, making it the most successful restaurant opening for the brand in the last five years. The entire design and development team delivered a spectacular restaurant that establishes the Chef’s striking presence among the other five-star dining experiences in Vegas.
Status: Built
Location: Las Vegas, NV, US
Firm Role: Interior Designer