The Grand Opening of COTE Korean Steakhouse in Las Vegas: A Night to Remember
A Star-Studded Affair
Last weekend, the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas was amplified as some of hip-hop’s biggest stars gathered to celebrate the grand opening of COTE Korean Steakhouse at The Venetian Resort. Esteemed artists including Dr. Dre, Nas, N.O.R.E., and Havoc from Mobb Deep added a vibrant touch to the event, which marked the latest location of COTE following its successful establishments in New York and Miami.
A Special Performance
The energy of the night was elevated by a special DJ set from the multi-talented Anderson .Paak. Embracing his Korean heritage, he took to the turntables under the moniker DJ Pee .Wee. While he chose not to play K-pop or engage in a recent duet with Mariah Carey, .Paak treated the assembled guests to a nostalgic mix of classic hip-hop and R&B. The rhythm proved infectious, with attendees like Nas and a host of VIPs, including Chloe Flower and Steve Aoki, moving alongside glamorous Vegas showgirls in the aisles. Nas himself added to the ambiance, taking the mic to express that “in the land of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. comes in the Korean flavor.”
The Visionary Behind COTE
For Simon Kim, the founder and CEO of COTE, the opening signified more than just another restaurant launch. Having moved to the U.S. from Korea at the age of 13 without speaking English, Kim reflected on his journey, stating, “To partner with this iconic resort… I don’t think I can describe in words how grateful I am for this opportunity. This is the true American dream.” His story resonates deeply, adding a personal touch to the celebratory atmosphere.
A Boost for the Las Vegas Strip
Patrick Nichols, President and CEO of The Venetian Resort, shared Kim’s enthusiasm, suggesting that COTE would infuse “real energy” into Las Vegas, enhancing the area’s vibrant culture. The opening of COTE aligns with the resort’s recent major renovations, which included a $1.5 billion investment in updates, reaffirming The Venetian’s commitment to offering a unique and luxurious experience for visitors.
Culinary Delights Await
Guests were treated to a feast of exquisite drinks and intriguing culinary creations, such as the exclusive “BlackJack” A5 wagyu sandwich, designed specifically for the Vegas menu. The ambiance of the restaurant itself mirrors its high-end offerings; its main dining area is adorned with elegant banquettes surrounding a lively standing-room-only bar. Additionally, the second floor boasts intimate private dining rooms, a dedicated balcony, and a karaoke setup—further cementing COTE’s identity as a fusion of dining and entertainment.
More Than Just a Restaurant
Beyond offering a culinary adventure, Kim envisions COTE as a dynamic venue that combines the allure of a club with a restaurant. He firmly believes in the concept of “the power of ‘and’,” describing the establishment as “a club and restaurant, where entertainment is there with pulsating energy.” This unique positioning sets COTE apart in a city famed for its vibrant nightlife.
The Venetian’s Revitalization
The grand opening of COTE reflects The Venetian’s strategic move to revitalize its offerings. With nearly 4,000 suites updated and extensive upgrades made to meeting and convention spaces, the resort is set to welcome new and returning guests with fresh experiences. As Nichols stipulated, “this is brand new down to the studs,” illustrating the resort’s commitment to maintaining its status as a premier destination.
Upcoming Entertainment and Events
Adding to the excitement, The Venetian Resort will host a variety of performances this fall, including concerts from Earth, Wind & Fire, Jackson Browne, and Wynonna throughout the year. Additionally, Leona Lewis is set to kick off her residency at Voltaire in November, marking an exciting season of entertainment at the resort.
With COTE now open, the Las Vegas strip has yet another reason to celebrate, bringing new flavors and an electrifying atmosphere that blends the best of culinary artistry and vibrant entertainment.