MGM National Harbor is set to open in the latter half of 2016 near Washington, D.C.. The 308-room resort and casino is positioning itself as a culinary destination, partnering with celebrated chefs to deliver distinctive dining experiences within the property.
“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 Bill Boasberg, general manager of MGM National Harbor. “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 José Andrés will lead a seafood-focused restaurant offering panoramic views of the Potomac. The concept will include sushi and tempura bars framed by dramatic décor, emphasizing fresh, ocean-forward flavors and innovative presentation. Andrés has been recognized among Time’s 100 Most Influential People and has earned awards from the James Beard Foundation, Bon Appétit and Condé Nast Traveler, among others.
Chef Marcus Samuelsson will contribute a restaurant featuring classic and coastal dishes served in an open, social setting with two bars. Samuelsson brings multiple James Beard Awards and a portfolio of successful restaurants and bestselling cookbooks, as well as television appearances that have helped build his reputation in the culinary world.
Brothers Bryan and Michael Voltaggio will open their first joint restaurant in their home state of Maryland, introducing a contemporary steakhouse that highlights regional flavors and nostalgic elements. Known for their television appearances and culinary competition experience, the Voltaggio brothers aim to blend modern technique with approachable, locally inspired dishes.
Together, these chef-driven concepts reflect MGM National Harbor’s strategy to make dining a central draw of the resort, offering a mix of seafood, coastal, and steakhouse experiences that showcase local ingredients and the talents of nationally recognized chefs. The resort’s culinary lineup is designed to appeal to both local diners and visitors to the Washington, D.C. area.