Internationally renowned chef Jose Andres has added a seventh restaurant to his Las Vegas portfolio: the Mediterranean-themed Zaytinya at the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace.
The menu explores the culinary traditions of Turkey, Greece and Lebanon.
It includes classic spreads such as labneh (strained yogurt) and baba ghannougem (eggplant with tahini, garlic, lemon juice and olive oil). Signature dishes include Soujouk Pide (spicy sausage, cheese and a soft-cooked egg on flatbread) and Octopus Santorini (grilled and served with marinated onions, capers and yellow split pea puree).
There are also vegetable-forward options such as spanakopita (spinach, feta cheese and seasonings baked in phyllo) and seasonal salads.
Guests can share mezze with the table, pick their own main courses or a combination of both. One highlight is the grilled lamb chops, prepared with Tangier spice and paired with spring pea tzatziki.
Design sets the mood
Rockwell Group designed the 8,604-square-foot space. Guests enter through large oak doors adorned with trellises and plants into a vibrant bar and lounge with mosaic tile and soft lighting.
Beams and pendant lamps help frame the dining area, which features a fireplace with a large hood. The back bar is built with a glass structure that is symbolic of the Greek evil eye. Drapery provides semiprivate dining areas for gatherings and celebrations.
"At Zaytinya, we've focused on curating a vibrant cultural experience," said Sam Bakhshandehpour, Jose Andres Group's global CEO. "The vision was to craft a space where the soul of the Eastern Mediterranean comes alive through bold flavors, stunning design and connection. Ultimately, we believe that food is at its best when shared; it's all about bringing people together."
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Since it launched in Washington in 2002, the flagship Zaytinya has been recognized by awards such as Bib Gourmand and the 2021 Michelin Guide.
Hours for the Las Vegas location are from 5 to 9 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays and from 5 to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. The restaurant will also launch with Mezze Ora, which features specially priced and paired drinks and bites from 5 to 6 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays.
Jose Andres Group's other Las Vegas restaurants are Bazaar Mar and Bar Centro (Shops at Crystals); Bazaar Meat (Sahara); and Jaleo, China Poblano and e by Jose Andres (Cosmopolitan).