Latest news with #culinaryexperience
Fast Company
15-07-2025
- Business
- Fast Company
The Platinum Card is about to change. Amex's new fast-format airport lounge might be a sneak preview
If you've ever sprinted through an airport only to land in a standing-room-only lounge buffet line, you know that the state of modern travel perks is competitive. As credit card companies and airlines rush to expand their lounge footprints, American Express is looking to double down on what it believes sets it apart: consistency, exclusivity, and culinary experience. This summer, Amex is rolling out two major updates that signal how it plans to maintain its lead in the fast-growing airport lounge landscape. The first is 'The Culinary Collective,' a chef-driven revamp of food and beverage offerings at Centurion Lounges nationwide. The second is 'Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge,' a brand-new, fast-format lounge experience that's set to launch at Las Vegas's Harry Reid International Airport in 2026. Together, these updates offer a glimpse at Amex's evolving strategy: appealing to both high-end leisure travelers and time-crunched business flyers, all while keeping its signature level of luxury intact. A new flavor of exclusivity Rather than chasing square footage like Delta Air Lines— whose newest Sky Club in Atlanta can seat over 500 guests—Amex is banking on curated experience over capacity. That's where The Culinary Collective comes in. Featuring rotating menus from a team of James Beard Award-winning chefs, including Mashama Bailey and Kwame Onwuachi, the initiative aims to bring restaurant-level meals into the airport setting. 'You'd be lucky to get into each of their restaurants on a normal day,' Audrey Hendley, president of American Express Travel, tells Fast Company. 'Now, you can try them all in one trip.' Through the Collective, new menu items will be available in all 15 U.S. Centurion Lounges beginning July 29, 2025. The focus on thoughtful dining mirrors Capital One's approach, which leans into local partnerships with regional bakeries and breweries to create an experience that feels like stepping into a city's best café, not another airline lounge. Amex, in turn, is opting for hospitality as theater: chef-driven menus, cocktails developed by Overstory's Harrison Ginsberg, and lounge layouts designed to feel more like boutique hotels than waiting rooms. Introducing Sidecar: A lounge for the layover-challenged But what if you only have 45 minutes until boarding? Enter Sidecar, a new lounge format designed to give travelers a premium experience even if they're short on time. Set to launch in 2026, the space will offer table-side service, curated small plates, and a speakeasy vibe—all within close proximity to the main Centurion Lounge in Las Vegas. Think of it as Amex's answer to the crowding crisis that's plagued lounge operators in recent years. Rather than just add square footage like Delta or increase access fees like United, Sidecar is an attempt to diversify the experience based on how travelers actually use lounges. 'We're seeing a significant segment of travelers who only spend 30 to 45 minutes in the lounge,' said Hendley. 'Sidecar is our way of honoring that time with the same level of care and service.' That echoes Capital One's design philosophy for its growing lounge network, which includes grab-and-go options, regionally inspired food, and 'perfect' airport beers crafted in collaboration with local breweries. As Capital One's Jenn Scheurich put it: 'It doesn't really matter whether you have 15 minutes or an hour—you still want a great lounge experience.' Travel benefits for the TikTok generation The updates come as American Express embarks on its largest Platinum Card refresh in company history, with new perks targeting millennial and Gen Z cardholders, who now make up 35% of the company's U.S. consumer spending. With over 1,550 lounges worldwide—including 29 Centurion Lounges and new ones coming to Salt Lake City, Newark, Tokyo, and Amsterdam—Amex already boasts the largest global lounge network of any U.S. card issuer. But in a post-pandemic travel boom where lounge access is no longer a rarity but a battleground, the pressure to keep experiences differentiated is high. While Delta is betting big on footprint and familiarity, leaning into hometown-inspired art and hospitality in its new Atlanta Sky Club, Amex is betting that its brand of curated luxury still wins loyalty—even if that means skipping the buffet for a quick cocktail before boarding. More than perks: a play for emotional loyalty For American Express, lounges like the new Centurion Sidecar in Las Vegas aren't just about creature comforts—they're part of a broader strategy to build what the company sees as lasting, emotional loyalty. Yes, the lounge has yuzu cocktails and espresso crème brûlée. But it also has something harder to measure: the feeling of being taken care of when everything else about air travel is chaos. 'We're always looking for ways to better understand how customers travel and what they're looking for in the experience,' says Hendley. 'There's nothing better than settling in at a Centurion Lounge and starting your trip with a great meal and a great drink. Whether you're going on vacation or traveling for work, we want to make that moment count.' For now, Amex is staying tight-lipped about the specifics of its Platinum Card refresh. What it has made clear is that the refresh is aimed squarely at younger travelers. 'They're not just looking for benefits—they're looking for a brand that gets them,' Hendley said. That means spaces that feel modern and intimate, perks that are easy to use, and partnerships that feel aspirational but not out of reach. To stand apart from its rivals, American Express is banking on design, consistency, and culinary clout to keep members engaged. And in Sidecar's case, it's also about speed. 'Many of our visitors spend less than an hour in our lounges, and we've created Sidecar specifically for them,' Hendley said. 'You still want a great lounge experience—just in a shorter window.' Ultimately, the lounge is the hook—but the goal is bigger. Amex wants card members to feel like wherever they're going, the brand is already there, holding the door open and mixing the drink.
Condé Nast Traveler
07-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Condé Nast Traveler
Somni — Restaurant Review
What were your first impressions when you arrived? Walking into Somni (meaning dream in Catalan) feels like entering a piece of performance art—or something you might have dreamed up. Everything from the lighting to the table settings is designed to prepare you for something extraordinary. It's theater, but the kind where you're genuinely excited for the show to start. What's the crowd like? Special occasion diners, food world insiders, and people celebrating something important enough to justify the price point. Everyone here has done their homework and knows they're in for a journey. What should we be drinking? The wine pairings are essential because they're not just matching flavors but creating narrative arcs that complement each course. Trust the sommeliers; they're orchestrating the entire experience. Main event: the food. Give us the lowdown—especially what not to miss. This is molecular gastronomy—chef Aitor Zabala hails from Barcelona and had a stint at El Bulli—with a sense of humor and genuine deliciousness. Expect techniques you've never seen, presentations that defy physics, and flavors that somehow make perfect sense despite seeming impossible. And how did the front-of-house folks treat you? Service here is expertly choreographed without feeling robotic. It's all part of the performance, with servers delivering courses with perfect timing and just enough explanation to enhance the experience. What's the real-real on why we're coming here? You're coming for dinner as entertainment: A multi-sensory experience that you'll be talking about for months. It's expensive, but so is a show at LA's Walt Disney Concert Hall.
Associated Press
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
JDV Lifestyle Group Celebrates 5 Years of Cultural Excellence with Two Signature Events: Indulgence and JDV Polo Classic
From curated culinary experiences to luxury sport, JDV's milestone anniversary weekend promises style, substance, and storytelling 'With Indulgence and the Polo Classic, we're showing what the next five years will look like, intentional, impactful, and unapologetically excellent.'— Marlon Bolasingh, COO and Managing Partner of JDV Lifestyle Group NEW YORK, NY, UNITED STATES, July 4, 2025 / / -- This summer, the JDV Lifestyle Group commemorates five years of innovation and impact in the luxury lifestyle space with two hallmark events that embody the brand's ethos of culture, community, and curation. As part of its anniversary celebration, JDV presents Indulgence: A JDV Culinary Experience on Thursday, July 17, in New York City, followed by the JDV Polo Classic on Sunday, July 20, 2025, at the Greenwich Polo Club in Connecticut. Together, these two events represent JDV's commitment to excellence, not just in experience but in purpose. A Taste of Artistry – Indulgence: A JDV Culinary Experience: Date: Thursday, July 17, 2025 Location: Lavan 541 Chelsea, New York City Indulgence is more than a dinner—it's a curated, multi-sensory journey that invites guests to explore culture through cuisine. Featuring six dynamic chefs and an ensemble of mixologists and performers, this one-night-only event celebrates the power of storytelling through food, flavor, and artistic expression. The featured chefs include: - Shorne Benjamin – Caribbean elegance with precision and flair - Javon Cummins – Award-winning, island-rooted culinary storyteller - Jerome Grant – James Beard nominee championing African-American heritage cuisine - Huda Mumin – Bold Southern flavors with global influence - Anya Peters – The boundary-pushing mind behind Kit an' Kin - Yessima of HAAM – Plant-based Caribbean cuisine redefined Guests will also enjoy thoughtfully crafted cocktails, surprise performances, and immersive moments throughout the night. A portion of proceeds supports mentorship and scholarship initiatives for youth from underrepresented communities. The JDV Polo Classic – Sophistication Meets Sport: Date: Sunday, July 20, 2025 Location: Greenwich Polo Club, Greenwich, CT Closing out the celebration weekend, the JDV Polo Classic returns as a high-style, high-energy summer tradition. Hosted at the prestigious Greenwich Polo Club, this luxury sporting and social affair offers an afternoon of elevated hospitality, Caribbean elegance, and fashionable flair. Guests can expect: - Premium field side lounges - Curated culinary offerings - Signature cocktails - Live entertainment - An unforgettable polo match Now in its third edition, the JDV Polo Classic is more than a match—it's a moment. One that brings together tastemakers, creatives, and changemakers in a vibrant celebration of culture and excellence. Five Years. One Vision. Countless Memories. 'What started as a bold idea is now a movement,' says Marlon Bolasingh, COO and Managing Partner of JDV Lifestyle Group. 'These five years have been about building community and celebrating culture. And with Indulgence and the Polo Classic, we're showing what the next five years will look like—intentional, impactful, and unapologetically excellent.' For tickets and full event details, visit: Marilyn Remo Tené Nicole Creative Agency +1 201-638-2685 email us here Visit us on social media: LinkedIn Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
Washington Post
03-07-2025
- Business
- Washington Post
Dubai's booming restaurant scene is feeling the heat of high costs and high failure rates
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — From suspended tables to underwater lounges, some 13,000 food and drink establishments in Dubai pull out all the stops to attract customers in one of the world's most saturated dining markets. They cater to all tastes and budgets. Some spots ladle out inexpensive biryani while others offer dishes dusted with edible gold.
Associated Press
01-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
Trio of 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA Chefs Present a Six-Michelin-Star Culinary Extravaganza at Galaxy Macau
Legendary Italian chef Umberto Bombana joins forces with the Executive Chefs of his Macau and Shanghai restaurants to celebrate the season of Australian Black Truffle and award-winning wine list at 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA at Galaxy Macau MACAU SAR - Media OutReach Newswire – 1 July 2025 - Galaxy Macau™, the world-class luxury integrated resort, stands as a premier culinary destination with its exquisite and diverse lineup of gastronomic offerings. This summer, 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA at Galaxy Macau presents an exclusive culinary extravaganza, as a trio of Michelin-starred chefs come together to create a one-of-a-kind dining experience on July 18 and 19. 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA at Galaxy Macau presents an exclusive culinary extravaganza, as a trio of Michelin-starred chefs come together to create a one-of-a-kind dining experience on July 18 and 19. Legendary Chef Umberto Bombana, owner of the three-Michelin-starred 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA in Hong Kong, is joining hands with Chef Marino D'Antonio of his one-Michelin-starred Macau restaurant and Chef Nicoló Rotella of his two-Michelin-starred Shanghai restaurant for the very first time. Boasting six Michelin stars between them, this trio of gastronomic mastery will orchestrate an exquisite feast that showcases the alluring culinary gem from the Southern Hemisphere – the Australian Black Truffle, alongside the finest produce from around the globe and the restaurant's award-winning wine list – which has recently been crowned the Gold Star winner of both 'Best Long List' and 'Best Italian Wine List' in the Star Wine List of the Year Asia 2025, named a finalist of Best Long List in the Star Wine List of the Year International Final 2025, and also retained the 'Best of Award of Excellence' by the Wine Spectator magazine. The exquisite feast will showcase the alluring culinary gem from the Southern Hemisphere – Australian Black Truffle This six-Michelin-star collaboration is available only for dinner on Friday, July 18, and for lunch and dinner on Saturday, July 19, priced at MOP1,280 per person for a four-course lunch, and MOP3,280 per person for an eight-course dinner. An optional wine pairing is also available for an additional MOP880 and MOP1,380 for lunch and dinner respectively. Embrace the Harvest Season of the Australian Black Truffle Celebrating the Australian Black Truffle season in full bloom, Chef Marino D'Antonio of 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA at Galaxy Macau has crafted a selection of delicate dishes that highlight the unique aroma and incredible taste of this exceptional seasonal ingredient. Be sure to also savour the deep collection of fine wines expertly curated by the restaurant's seasoned sommelier. A refreshed lunch menu with signature dishes of Chef-Owner, Umberto Bombana, as well as exquisite creations inspired by Executive Chef Marino D'Antonio's upbringing in Bergamo, Northern Italy, is also available from Thursday to Saturday. Chef Marino D'Antonio crafts a selection of delicate dishes that highlight the unique aroma and incredible taste of Australian Black Truffle. Since its opening in 2015, 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA at Galaxy Macau has garnered numerous accolades, including a Michelin one-star rating for ten consecutive years and a Forbes Travel Guide five-star rating for four years running. The restaurant's décor harmoniously blends modern and classic styles, creating an elegant and inviting atmosphere. Guests can indulge in not only exquisite cuisine but also the cultural essence of Italy, experiencing a dining environment that beautifully interprets contemporary artistic elegance. With outstanding service, diners are treated to a feast for both the eyes and the palate, as well as an experience of the essence and soul of Italian gastronomy. The restaurant's award-winning wine list has a deep collection of fine wines expertly curated by the restaurant's seasoned sommelier. For inquiries and reservations, please call +853 8886 2169 or email: [email protected] Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Galaxy Macau Integrated Resort Galaxy Macau™, The World-class Luxury Integrated Resort delivers the 'Most Spectacular Entertainment and Leisure Destination in the World'. Developed at an investment of HK$43 billion, the property covers 1.1 million-square-meter of unique entertainment and leisure attractions that are unlike anything else in Macau. Eight award-winning world-class luxury hotels provide close to 5,000 rooms, suites and villas. They include Banyan Tree Macau, Galaxy Hotel™, Hotel Okura Macau, JW Marriott Hotel Macau, The Ritz-Carlton, Macau, Broadway Hotel, Raffles at Galaxy Macau, Andaz Macau. Unique to Galaxy Macau, the 75,000-square-meter Grand Resort Deck features the world's longest Skytop Adventure Rapids at 575-meters, the largest Skytop Wave Pool with waves up to 1.5-meters high and 150-meters pristine white sand beach. Two five-star spas from Banyan Tree Spa Macau and The Ritz- Carlton Spa, Macau help guests relax and rejuvenate. As the dining destination in Asia, Galaxy Macau offers a wide variety of gastronomic delights, exquisite experiences and ingredients of the finest quality with over 120 dining options from Michelin dining to authentic delicacies. Embark on a delightful and rewarding journey at Galaxy Promenade, the one-stop shopping destination boasting some of the world's most iconic luxury brands. Be the first to get the latest limited-edition items; explore fascinating pop-ups by coveted labels and revel in fabulous shopping rewards and privileges. Our VIPs are entitled to a highly-curated experience with dedicated personal shoppers at guests' service, and be invited to exclusive luxury brand events. A different caliber of privileges and rewards also await. Discover the joys of fashion and stand at the forefront of style and sophistication—Galaxy Promenade has everything guests need to stay ahead of the style game. Galaxy Cinemas takes immersive movie experiences to the next level with the latest audio-visual technology, ultra-luxurious facilities and bespoke services; CHINA ROUGE, one-of-a-kind cabaret lounge that evokes the glamor of Shanghai's golden era with stylish entertainment and customizable surrounds; and Foot Hub, which presents the traditional art of reflexology for authentic relaxation and revitalization. For Authentic Macau Flavours and Vibrant Asian Experiences, Broadway Macau – just a 90-second walk via a bridge from Galaxy Macau, has over 35 Authentic Macau & Asian Flavours at Broadway Food Street. The 2,500-seat Broadway Theatre plays host to world-class entertainers and a diverse array of cultural events. Meeting, incentive and banquet groups are also catered to with a portfolio of unique venues in Galaxy Macau and an expert service team. Galaxy International Convention Center (GICC) is the latest addition to the Group's ever-expanding integrated resort precinct and will usher in a new era for the MICE industry in Macau. GICC is a world-class event venue featuring 40,000-square-meters of total flexible MICE, and the 16,000-seat Galaxy Arena – the largest indoor arena in Macau. For more details, please visit and
