Fall River born acclaimed chef, “Chopped” judge, opening dining experience at Mohegan Sun next week

UNCASVILLE, CT – Mohegan Sun and Tao Group Hospitality have announced that Beauty & Essex will open inside Mohegan Sun.

“The addition of Beauty & Essex furthers our partnership with Tao Group Hospitality,” said Jeff Hamilton, President & General Manager of Mohegan Sun. “TAO Asian Bistro & Lounge has set a new standard in the region, and Beauty & Essex will further strengthen Mohegan Sun’s reputation as a top choice for memorable dining experiences.”

The 11,000-square-foot restaurant will feature Tao Group’s signature global cuisine, including popular dishes such as the Grilled Cheese, Smoked Bacon & Tomato Soup Dumplings, Tuna Poke Wonton Tacos, Classic Beef Wellington, Grilled Double Cut Lamb Chops as well as exclusive menu options crafted specifically for Mohegan Sun.

Known for its eclectic menu, speakeasy vibe and sophisticated ambiance, Beauty & Essex has an innovative design that starts in the restaurant’s entrance with a well-curated modern day pawn shop, featuring a collection of vintage jewelry, custom musical instruments, one-of-a-kind art and more, curated by Gold Girl, Lauren Kaminsky. Everything in the shop is available for purchase and each item tells a story, inviting guests to discover luxury in the most unexpected places. 

The Connecticut Beauty & Essex location adds to the current New York City, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles spots.

“Beauty & Essex represents an exciting and much anticipated addition to Mohegan Sun’s already impressive dining portfolio and will be our third location overall,” said Ralph Scamardella, Chief Culinary Officer of Tao Group Hospitality. “Our collaboration with Mohegan Sun has been tremendous, and we look forward to further elevating the guest experience with this distinctive concept.”

Created by acclaimed chef/co-creator and Fall River born Chris Santos, Beauty & Essex serves global cuisine with unique shareable dishes and new twists on classic cocktails. Beauty & Essex’s Mohegan Sun debut will be a homecoming to New England native Chef Chris Santos. “I’m very excited to bring this restaurant to Connecticut,” said Chef Santos. “New England has always been my home, and I know Beauty & Essex is a perfect fit.”

In addition to his many restaurant ventures, Santos is also known for being a judge on the Food Network show “Chopped”.

The opening of Beauty & Essex’s Mohegan Sun is set for Friday, February 7th. Reservations are highly encouraged.