Annual Chef-driven Culinary Event Brings Together Top Las Vegas Talent for a One-night Showcase
Produced by The Feast of Friends, Vegas Unstripped has built a reputation as a chef-focused event that prioritizes creativity and collaboration. Each participating chef and beverage professional presents an original dish or cocktail created exclusively for the evening, offering guests direct access to the individuals shaping Las Vegas’ evolving food and beverage scene.
Vegas Unstripped Returns to Palms Casino
A Chef-Driven Event with a Local Focus
Set on the Palms’ outdoor pool deck, Vegas Unstripped stands apart as an independent, not-for-profit event designed to highlight local culinary talent rather than promote specific restaurants or brands. Participating chefs are selected to represent the cutting edge of the Las Vegas food scene and are asked to serve their dishes personally, creating a direct connection between guests and creators.
Chef Lineup Highlights
This year’s roster reflects a broad cross-section of the city’s independent culinary talent, from established names to rising chefs. Confirmed participants include:
- Adam Rios (Timeless Hospitality Portfolio)
- Alex Reznik (Hayworth, SMKD)
- Anthony Jamison (La Casa de Juliette)
- Anthony Carron (Alexxa’s)
- Bruce Kalman (SoulBelly BBQ, Perfect Bite Productions), James Beard Award nominee and “Chopped” winner
- Daniel “Izzy” Cabrera (Gyu+/Elevated Hospitality Group)
- Dio Buan (Istorya)
- Dylan Jobsz (Esther’s Kitchen)
- Francisco Cortes (Alebrijes by Chef Paco)
- Gary LaMorte (Fortune Events)
- Gina Marinelli (La Strega, Harlø Steakhouse), James Beard Award semifinalist
- Jackson Stamper (Ada’s Food + Wine)
- Jake Yergensen (Timeless Hospitality Portfolio)
- James Trees (Timeless Hospitality Portfolio), James Beard Award finalist
- Joe Valdez (Basilico Ristorante Italiano)
- John Arena (Metro Pizza, Truly Pizza), World Pizza Champions team member
- Johnny Church (Johnny C’s Catering), “Chopped” winner
- Kai Yau (Send Noodles, Palms)
- Kari Garcia (TSP Bakery)
- Marc Marrone (Diamond Spur Provisions & Meats)
- Marty Lopez (Scotch 80 Prime)
- Matt Meyer (Earth A.D.)
- Myrhissa Bautista (SoulBelly BBQ, Burgersmith)
- Oscar Amador (Amador Cocina Fina)
- Oulay Fisher (Calabash African Kitchen)
- Rang Tan (Rang’s Cocina Moderne)
- Sean O’Hara (Timeless Hospitality Portfolio)
- Tayden Poha-Ellamar (EDO Gastro Tapas/Braseria)
- Tyler Vorce (Lilli)
- Yuka Takamizawa (Moignet, Milkbread)
- Yuri Szarzewski (Partage, Le Club)
Bartenders and Sommeliers
The beverage program is equally strong, featuring some of the city’s most creative bar professionals and sommeliers:
- Kat Thomas (Ada’s)
- Constantin Alexander (The Golden Tiki)
- Jordan Jackson (Jive Turkey)
- Jonah Gibbs (Petite Boheme, Bar Boheme)
- Adam O’Donnell (Jive Turkey)
- Chris Guitterez (Stray Pirate)
- Carmen Caristo (The Dustland)
- Tony Abou-Ganim (The Modern Mixologist)
- Chris Whitney (Starboard Tack)
- Alyssa Carmona (Pachi Pachi)
- Emma Villareal (Craft Creamery)
- Bordeaux Bob
- Adam Rains
Revenue from the event supports both participating chefs and local charities. Expenses for independent chefs and restaurateurs are covered as much as possible, with most staff volunteering their time. Net proceeds are donated to underserved community organizations. Since its inception, Vegas Unstripped has contributed more than $70,000 locally.
The 2026 charity partners include St. Jude’s Ranch for Children and The Mats Project.
“This is the most exciting lineup of chefs and bar stars yet,” said co-founder Eric Gladstone. “We are truly excited to show Las Vegas the cutting edge of our culinary scene all in one place.”
Greg Van Stone, Vice President of Food and Beverage at Palms Casino Resort, added that the event reflects the depth of talent in the city. “It’s a privilege to host an event that highlights the artistry and passion that makes Las Vegas a true food destination. We look forward to an unforgettable night of flavors and experiences.”
Event Details and Ticket Information
General admission tickets are priced at $160 plus fees and remain at pre-inflation levels, with reduced service fees compared to last year. A limited number of higher-priced tickets will be available on the day of the event. All attendees must be 21 or older.
Tickets can be purchased at vegasunstripped.com.
Vegas Unstripped
Founded in 2018 by Eric Gladstone and Chef James Trees, Vegas Unstripped was created as a response to the former Strip-focused Vegas Uncork’d event. Originally focused on off-Strip chefs, the event now welcomes talent from across the city while maintaining an emphasis on independent voices and open submissions.
The event is produced by The Feast of Friends, a Las Vegas-based branding agency specializing in food and beverage, and event producer Heather Vincent.
Palms Casino Resort
Palms Casino Resort, located just west of the Las Vegas Strip on Flamingo Road, features 766 rooms and suites across two towers and a wide range of dining, entertainment, and lifestyle amenities. The property includes the steakhouse Scotch 80 Prime, A.Y.C.E Buffet, and Michelin-starred Tim Ho Wan, along with a 95,000-square-foot casino, Ghostbar Rooftop Lounge, The Pearl concert theater, and a full-service spa.
The resort is owned and operated by the San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority and has been recognized by USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards as one of the top casinos in the United States.
St. Jude’s Ranch for Children
For nearly 60 years, St. Jude’s Ranch for Children has provided care and support to young people affected by abuse, neglect, and homelessness. The organization serves children and youth from infancy through young adulthood, focusing on stability, healing, and long-term success. More information is available at stjudesranch.org.
Images Courtesy of Vegas Unstripped
