Celebrity Chef's Restaurant Announces Mohegan Sun Opening Date

MONTVILLE, CT — Beauty & Essex , a restaurant co-created by Food Network star Chris Santos, will open Feb. 7 at Mohegan Sun.

Beauty & Essex first opened in New York City in 2010 and also has a Las Vegas Location. Mohegan Sun's 11,000-square-foot location will offer guests "a high-caliber dining experience within the property’s Casino of the Sky, next to novelle."

The restaurant, opened in conjunction with Tao Group Hospitality, "has an innovative design that starts in the restaurant’s entrance with a well-curated modern day pawn shop, featuring a collection of vintage jewelry, custom musical instruments, one-of-a-kind art and more, curated by Gold Girl, Lauren Kaminsky," according to a statement. "Everything in the shop is available for purchase and each item tells a story, inviting guests to discover luxury in the most unexpected places."

Co-created by Santos, a fixture on the show "Chopped," Beauty & Essex serves "global cuisine with shareable dishes and new twists on classic cocktails." Favorites include the grilled cheese, smoked bacon & tomato soup dumplings, classic beef wellington, Togarashi spiced tuna, truffled mac & cheese as well as some new menu options exclusive to Mohegan Sun.

“As a native to the region, New England holds a special place in my heart, and I’m eager to introduce Beauty & Essex to Mohegan Sun’s guests,” Santos, who is from Rhode Island, said in a statement. “I believe our menu and atmosphere will offer something truly exceptional for visitors.”

The venue will also soon celebrate Grand Opening party with special guests, with more details to be shared soon via Mohegan Sun's website.

“The addition of Beauty & Essex furthers our partnership with Tao Group Hospitality,” Jeff Hamilton, President & General Manager of Mohegan Sun, said in a statement. “TAO Asian Bistro & Lounge has set a new standard in the region, and Beauty & Essex will further strengthen Mohegan Sun’s reputation as a top choice for memorable dining experiences.”