Industry News

Esports Arena Las Vegas partners with celeb chef 

The Esports Arena Las Vegas at the Luxor is set to develop an esports-inspired food and beverage menu in partnership with ThinkFoodEntertainment.

The division of celebrity chef José Andrés’ ThinkFoodGroup has linked up with Allied Esports, a leading network of esports properties and content production facilities, to produce the one-of-a-kind offering.

The Esports Arena is scheduled to open in early 2018 at MGM Resorts International’s Luxor Hotel and Casino.

Andrés and the ThinkFoodEntertainment team are working to create a unique and highly researched culinary programme designed for gaming enthusiasts and visitors from around the world who will take part in the arena’s interactive entertainment offerings.

The menu will reflect innovative items catered to gamers, with portions crafted with efficiency in mind.

“Like the rest of Esports Arena Las Vegas, the food and beverage offering will be unlike anything seen across the industry, and José and his team are the perfect fit for that kind of culinary inspiration,” said Jud Hannigan, chief executive of Allied Esports International.

“Whether you are a regular gamer or a first-time visitor, you will leave Esports Arena Las Vegas wanting more, and the unique food experience will be a major part of that sentiment.”

This partnership marks the fifth concept for Andrés in Las Vegas, with his other restaurants including Jaleo Las Vegas, é by José Andrés, China Poblano and Bazaar Meat by José Andrés. Andrés also opened Fish by José Andrés at MGM National Harbor in December 2016.

Andrés said: “I happen to be an avid gamer myself, so I was excited to have the opportunity to create an experience for the esports guest – whether they are playing or just enjoying the show.

“My team and I are working to create a menu that is delicious, but also practical for the gaming environment. The development process has been a lot of fun as we determine what gamers will want to enjoy while playing!”

Allied Esports and Esports Arena are working with Luxor to transform the 30,000-square-foot space into a multi-level arena with a competition stage, LED video wall, telescopic seating, daily gaming stations, and state-of-the-art streaming and television-quality production studios.