A Culinary Milestone
The vibrant flavors of Mexico City will take center stage in Las Vegas with the grand opening of Cantina Contramar. Developed by the internationally acclaimed Chef Gabriela Cámara, this new venture at the luxurious Fontainebleau Las Vegas promises to redefine the dining experience on the Las Vegas Strip. With a focus on authentic Mexican cuisine, stellar hospitality, and stunning design, Cantina Contramar is set to become a premier destination for food lovers and hospitality professionals alike.
The Vision Behind Cantina Contramar
Chef Gabriela Cámara, the visionary founder of the celebrated Contramar restaurant in Mexico City, brings nearly three decades of culinary expertise to this new Las Vegas location. Known for her commitment to sustainability and quality ingredients, Chef Gabriela aims to recreate the magic of her iconic restaurant while infusing it with the lively spirit of Las Vegas.
“One of the most exciting aspects of bringing an interpretation of Contramar’s spirit and cuisine to Fontainebleau Las Vegas is the opportunity to offer a taste of Mexico: fresh, vibrant, spicy, and full of character,” Chef Gabriela explains. This restaurant is not merely a dining venue; it is a celebration of Mexican culture and community.
Designing an Experience: Frida Escobedo’s Touch
To complement Chef Gabriela’s culinary vision, the restaurant’s space has been designed by the renowned architect Frida Escobedo. Escobedo is celebrated for her ability to create spaces that foster community and connection. Her design for Cantina Contramar is inspired by traditional Mexican cantinas, featuring an open kitchen, a comal station, and a vibrant bar area that encourages interaction among guests.
“Cantina Contramar presents a gateway to Mexican culture, its design heritage, and world-famous hospitality,” states Escobedo. This design philosophy not only enhances the dining experience but also aligns perfectly with the ethos of Mexican hospitality, making everyone feel welcome.
Menu Highlights: A Culinary Journey
The menu at Cantina Contramar is poised to be a gastronomic journey through the diverse landscapes of Mexican flavors. Building on Chef Gabriela’s legacy, the menu will feature her iconic seafood dishes alongside new creations that pay homage to traditional cantina cuisine.
- Signature Dishes: Expect to see fresh seafood options like their famous tuna tostadas and grilled fish, all prepared with simplicity and elegance.
- Custom Cocktails: The drink menu will highlight exclusive cocktails crafted from Casa Dragones tequila, offering guests a taste of premium, small-batch spirits.
- Sharing Plates: The culinary philosophy emphasizes communal dining, with dishes designed for sharing, perfect for both large gatherings and intimate dinners.
As Chef Gabriela notes, “Cantina Contramar reflects a sense of authenticity and effortlessness.” This authenticity extends to the beverage program, which aims to introduce guests to the rich world of Mexican spirits, further enhancing the dining experience.
Elevating the Strip’s Culinary Scene
The arrival of Cantina Contramar at Fontainebleau Las Vegas marks a significant milestone in the ongoing evolution of the Las Vegas culinary landscape. With its One Key designation from the MICHELIN Guide, Fontainebleau is already a beacon of luxury and sophistication. The addition of Cantina Contramar will further elevate this reputation, drawing in both locals and tourists seeking high-quality dining experiences.
Brett Mufson, President and Partner of Fontainebleau Development, emphasizes the importance of creativity and artistry in this collaboration. “We are proud to serve as the home of its next chapter,” he states. This partnership not only reflects the culinary prowess of Chef Gabriela but also showcases the innovative design of Frida Escobedo, creating a unique fusion of food, art, and hospitality.
A Call to Experience
As the opening date approaches, excitement builds around the launch of Cantina Contramar. This culinary destination promises to deliver an unparalleled experience that celebrates Mexican culture and cuisine in the heart of Las Vegas. For restaurant owners and hospitality professionals, this opening represents an opportunity to learn from a successful model that combines authenticity, design, and exceptional service.
Stay tuned for updates on the full menu and reservation details. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Las Vegas, Cantina Contramar is a must-visit for anyone passionate about food and culture. We encourage you to share your thoughts and anticipation for this exciting opening in the comments below!
Written by Michael Politz, Author of Guide to Restaurant Success: The Proven Process for Starting Any Restaurant Business From Scratch to Success (ISBN: 978-1-119-66896-1), Founder of Food & Beverage Magazine, the leading online magazine and resource in the industry. Designer of the Bluetooth logo and recognized in Entrepreneur Magazine’s “Top 40 Under 40” for founding American Wholesale Floral. Politz is also the founder of the Proof Awards and the CPG Awards and a partner in numerous consumer brands across the food and beverage sector.
