Eat, Enjoy, and be Entertained at Chef Martin Yan’s M.Y. Asia

INSIDE THE HORSESHOE CASINO & HOTEL

By Elaine & Scott Harris

Effervescent, Energetic notable PBS television cooking host and lifetime James Beard Award recipient Chef Martin Yan did not hesitate to dazzle the crowd at the recent soft opening of his first Las Vegas restaurant.

“I am going to take you on a culinary adventure of Asia selected personally by my chefs and me; it will be our take on traditional Asian dishes with innovation and imagination. We want all of you to enjoy the experience. Welcome to this theater; this is the stage, and this is the showcase of Asian cuisine. If Yan can cook, then so can you! Come one, come all, and enjoy,” Yan spoke in front of an invite-only crowd of A-listers. Yan’s culinary jewel is a welcomed addition to the gastronomic crown of Las Vegas, much to the delight and anticipation of the public.

Guests did not get to witness Yan being able to carve a chicken in 18 seconds but did experience a “noodle” show that impressed all in attendance. “The Noodle is the symbol of long life and longevity. We will demonstrate how to cook and flip a Wok along with the hand-pulled noodles and T.V. screens showing some of the most popular recipes from my shows,” Yan added. “What is a noodle show, you may ask? Watch how to hand-pull noodles, where you can dance with them, by beginning with one strand noodle and seeing it expand to 32-foot noodles.”

The 5,300 square-foot space boasts an open communal dining experience with big, bold complementary colors and contemporary Asian murals as a backdrop to Yan’s beloved heritage. The centerpiece is the Lucky Bell Bar, surrounded by a 130-seat dining room. M.Y. Asia also features a “show kitchen,” with a hand-pulled noodle bar and wok kitchen to entertain eager diners, for those who order takeout “digital carryout lockers,” adding whimsy and a wink to Chinese takeout while keeping the experience contact-free.

The traditional Lion Dance that wove its way amongst the guests was the highlight for all attendees. The dance is a symbol in Chinese culture that is believed to bring good luck to all and is truly stunning to watch. The beat of drums filled the room as the procession allowed each attendee to “feed” the lion with a red money envelope symbolizing upcoming prosperity as Chef Yan took to the drums himself with great enthusiasm, to the delight of the guests.

As the evening concluded, Yan shared, “There are many great Chinese and Asian Chefs in Las Vegas. But to do something and survive amongst so many great chefs and restaurants, you must be great and make a difference. I wanted to do something in Las Vegas where people connect with the chef. We want to have people learn about the cuisine. I offer an interactive happy hour cooking class to show you how to make basics like a won ton, fresh spring rolls, and other Asian dishes. We want people also to eat, enjoy, and be entertained. We are in the entertainment city of the world. I want people to have an authentic dining experience that they don’t forget, an enjoyable Las Vegas Style experience. “

If this “soft opening” is any indication, M.Y. Asia is well on its way to being a global culinary destination for years to come.

Reservations: opentable.com
Menu:  myasialv.com