The New York-based LUCKYRICE Festival returned to The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas this past weekend (Oct. 4-6) with a lively and extensive culinary celebration. The three-day festival allowed attendees to revel in the invigorating flavors of various Asian countries. Celebrity guest chefs from across the globe introduced their specialty dishes and interacted with guests at different events throughout the weekend.
The LUCKYRICE Vegas Night Market (Saturday, Oct. 5) transformed Boulevard Pool into an outdoor feast for the second year in a row, inspired by the festive night markets of Asia. Featuring traditional Asian street food and modern variations alike, the event allowed festival-goers to enjoy delicious bites from more than 20 guest chefs including Kristen Kish (Menton, Boston), Brooke Williamson (Hudson House and The Tripel, California), Jet Tila (Kuma Snow Cream, Las Vegas) and Pichet Ong (New York City). Chefs from The Cosmopolitan’s own famed eateries, such as China Poblano, STK, Wicked Spoon, Comme Ça and Holsteins, contributed dishes to the event as well. Resort mixologists Christopher Hopkins and Mariena Mercer were also on hand, creating specialty Bombay Sapphire EAST cocktails with an Asian flare.
Additionally, an Opening Ceremony kicked off the weekend on Friday, Oct. 4 at Boulevard Pool. Guests enjoyed authentic Chinese entertainment and released floating lotus flowers into the water at the sound of a drum, a wish signifying prosperity. The festival concluded with a Dim Sum, Bloody Mary & Mahjong Brunch (Sunday, Oct.6) at Bamboo Pool hosted by celebrity chef Susur Lee (Top Chef Masters/Lee, Toronto).
Photo credit: Erik Kabik