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Thompson named Executive Chef of Elio at Wynn Las Vegas19 February 2020(PRESS RELEASE) -- The teams behind New York's Cosme and ATLA and Mexico City's Pujol have named Sarah Thompson executive chef of Elio, the Mexican contemporary restaurant and lounge debuting at Wynn Las Vegas in March. Thompson previously served as the executive sous chef at Cosme, where she worked with founders Enrique Olvera, Santiago Perez, and chef Daniela Soto-Innes. Alongside Soto-Innes, Thompson has created a menu rooted in authentic Mexican flavors, showcasing the best regional and seasonal ingredients. Inspired by Mexico's rich heritage of celebratory food and gatherings, the festive menu complements Elio's ethos that every night should be a party. "Working with Daniela has taught me that Mexican food is about community, culture and family. It's with that in mind that we approached the menu for Elio," said Thompson. "We look forward to creating an environment where our guests can anticipate impeccable food, enjoy great company and just have a really good time." Thompson's family instilled a passion for food from an early age, which inspired her to pursue a career in the culinary arts. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America in 2010, she worked in some of New York City's most notable restaurants including, Michelin-starred Marea, Wylie Dufrense's Alder and with Andrew Carmellini's NoHo Hospitality Group. In 2015, shortly after the restaurant's opening, Soto-Innes recruited Thompson for the Cosme team. There, with Soto-Innes' leadership and tutelage, she worked her way up to executive sous chef. "During her time at Cosme, Sarah played a huge role in the success of the restaurant, so when we had the opportunity to develop a new concept at Wynn, we knew we wanted her to be a part of this special project," said Soto-Innes. Highlighted dishes include tuna tataki rubbed in adobo with nopales, scallion and a smoked soy; whole red snapper with crispy scales served with herbs, citrus, corn tortillas and salsa crudo, and vibrant green mole made with pepitas, nuts and herbs served with Toyko turnips a la plancha and hojo santa tortillas. Elio's lively fare will be complemented by signature agave-based cocktails crafted by Beverage Director Yana Volfson (Cosme, ATLA). Playful cocktails such as the Ride or Die featuring Toki, Mezcal Malbien and piloncillo and the One Night Stand complete with Joel Barriga Vago Espadin, Equipo Navazos Manzanilla Sherry La Bota 93, passion fruit infused-Dolin Dry Vermouth and Champagne, will anchor the beverage menu. The backdrop to the dining experience is a sleek and seductive setting, with modern and minimal architectural lines paired with rich textures and stunning Mexican art and sculpture. Evening turns to night as guests move from the warmth of the dining room to the energy of the bar and lounge. Playlists curated by Enrique Olvera and a live DJ will keep the party going all night. |