Wing Lei

Wing Lei. It is a fine-dining restaurant located within the Wynn Las Vegas resort on the Las Vegas Strip. Opened in 2005, it was the first Chinese restaurant in North America to be awarded a Michelin star, a distinction it earned in the 2008 and 2009 editions. The restaurant is celebrated for its sophisticated interpretation of Cantonese, Shanghainese, and Szechuan dishes, presented within an opulent setting that blends French-inspired design with traditional Chinese artistic motifs.

History

The restaurant debuted alongside the opening of the Steve Wynn-developed Wynn Las Vegas in 2005, conceived as a cornerstone of the resort's luxury dining portfolio. Its creation was part of a broader trend on the Las Vegas Strip to attract high-end international culinary talent and offer globally recognized fine-dining experiences. The culinary direction was significantly influenced by the expertise of chefs from renowned establishments in Hong Kong and Mainland China, aiming to set a new standard for Chinese cuisine in the United States. Its achievement of a Michelin star in 2008 marked a historic milestone, elevating the profile of Asian cuisine within the global Michelin Guide system and solidifying Las Vegas as a premier dining destination.

Cuisine and menu

The menu is a refined journey through several major Chinese culinary traditions, with a strong emphasis on Cantonese techniques such as wok hei and delicate dim sum. Signature dishes often feature premium ingredients like Maine lobster, Australian abalone, and Peking duck, prepared with classical methods reinterpreted for a contemporary palate. The Szechuan offerings provide bold, mala-spiced contrasts, while Shanghainese specialties highlight subtle, savory flavors. The restaurant also boasts an extensive wine list curated by expert sommeliers, featuring prestigious labels from regions like Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Napa Valley, alongside a selection of fine Chinese tea.

Awards and recognition

Beyond its pioneering Michelin star, the restaurant has consistently received the highest accolades from major industry guides and institutions. It has maintained a Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star award for numerous consecutive years, a testament to its exceptional service and ambiance. The AAA Five Diamond rating has also been bestowed upon it, placing it among an elite group of North American restaurants. It has been featured prominently in publications such as Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure, and its chefs have been recognized by the James Beard Foundation for their contributions to the culinary landscape.

Location and design

Situated on the casino floor of Wynn Las Vegas, the entrance is marked by a striking, hand-carved Mother-of-pearl doorway, setting the tone for the interior's lavish decor. The dining room was designed by the renowned firm Wynn Design and Development, incorporating elements from the Palace of Versailles with traditional Chinese aesthetics. Design features include Jade stone accents, Chinoiserie panels, Murano glass chandeliers, and a color palette dominated by gold and jade green, creating an atmosphere of imperial grandeur. The space also includes several intimate private dining rooms, often used for high-profile events and business gatherings.

Notable events and guests

The restaurant has been a favored dining destination for celebrities, dignitaries, and sports figures visiting Las Vegas. It has hosted events during major city-wide conventions like CES and SEMA, as well as after-parties for concerts held at the Wynn Theatre and T-Mobile Arena. Notable guests have included actors like Robert De Niro and Nicole Kidman, musicians such as Elton John and Lady Gaga, and prominent athletes from the NBA and NFL. Its private salons have also been the setting for corporate events by Fortune 500 companies and celebratory dinners for winners of the World Series of Poker.

Category:Restaurants in Las Vegas Category:Chinese restaurants in the United States Category:Michelin-starred restaurants in the United States