Netflix Bites: Where Streaming Meets Steaming in Las Vegas
Netflix has officially entered the culinary arena with Netflix Bites, a uniquely themed restaurant now open at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. This isn’t your typical celebrity-endorsed eatery; it’s a fully immersive experience that seamlessly blends the streaming giant’s popular shows with delectable dishes, designed to entice both your appetite and your Instagram feed. Located just steps from the casino floor, Netflix Bites is committed to a long-term presence in the hotel, promising at least a year of themed dining fun.
The concept is a marriage of entertainment and gastronomy, carefully crafted to resonate with Netflix’s massive subscriber base and the ever-growing influencer culture. From the moment you arrive, you’re enveloped in a world of recognizable references, a veritable playground for fans of shows like "Emily in Paris," "Bridgerton," "Squid Game," and "Wednesday."
The experience begins with the presentation of your bill, delivered in a nostalgic DVD sleeve, a playful nod to Netflix’s origins as a mail-order DVD rental service. The menu itself is a delightful tapestry of cleverly named dishes, each tying back to a specific Netflix property. Imagine indulging in "Orange is the New Mac," a dish that instantly evokes the critically acclaimed prison drama, or sinking your teeth into "The Hellfire Club" sandwich, a tasty tribute to the beloved characters from "Stranger Things."
Perhaps the most striking example of this thematic integration is the "Squid Game" inspired experience. The restaurant features a spinning wheel of fortune (or misfortune, depending on your luck), complete with a Young-hee doll centerpiece. Diners who opt for the chicken tenders ($26) will find their fate determined by the wheel, which decides whether they receive a vibrant green or fiery red dipping sauce, mirroring the life-or-death stakes of the show.
The visual appeal of Netflix Bites is undeniable. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a pair of cavernous red lips reminiscent of the iconic Rolling Stones logo, instantly setting the stage for a memorable dining adventure. The interior is adorned with neon signs and thematic decor, providing ample photo opportunities for eager diners. A particularly popular spot is the booth beneath the pink neon sign that reads "I’d Bone Appetit Him," a playful reference to the romantic comedy series "Emily in Paris."
For those with a sweet tooth, the dessert menu is a must-explore. "The Dessert is Lava" ($30), inspired by the physical competition show "Floor is Lava," promises a molten chocolate experience. For a touch of whimsical darkness, "Trunchbull’s Chocolate Cake" ($14), inspired by "Matilda the Musical," provides a decadent indulgence. However, the star of the dessert show is arguably the "Schooled by Brookie" ($14), linked to the baking competition "School of Chocolate." This skillet-baked brownie cookie, topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, is a culinary masterpiece.
The savory dishes are equally creative. The menu offers a diverse selection, from the "O’Ahu, HI: Poke Taco" ($25), a tropical fusion of flavors, to the "Sex Education" Hoagie ($18), an Italian sausage sandwich that cheekily references the show’s themes. Even the cocktails are in on the act, with options like "The Pink Soldier" ($18), a gin-based concoction inspired by "Squid Game."
While the menu might appear scattershot at first glance, it’s intentionally designed to spark conversation and cater to the diverse tastes of Las Vegas visitors. Whether you’re a die-hard Netflix fan or simply looking for a unique dining experience, Netflix Bites offers something for everyone.
Beyond the thematic appeal, the food itself is surprisingly good. It surpasses the mediocre expectations that often accompany theme restaurants, especially in tourist-heavy cities. The chefs have clearly put thought and effort into creating dishes that are not only visually appealing but also genuinely delicious.
The Vegas location of Netflix Bites is modeled after a highly successful pop-up restaurant that captivated Los Angeles for six weeks in 2023, selling out reservations almost instantly. This initial success proved the viability of the concept and paved the way for the permanent Las Vegas location.
Netflix Bites is open daily for breakfast and lunch from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. and for dinner from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday. On Fridays and Saturdays, the restaurant stays open until midnight. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made at netflixbites.com.
The restaurant concept represents just one facet of Netflix’s foray into non-programming experiences. In recent years, the company has successfully launched immersive events like "The Queen’s Ball: A Bridgerton Experience" and "Stranger Things: The Experience" throughout the country. "Squid Game: The Experience" is currently captivating audiences in New York, Madrid, and Sydney.
Looking ahead, Netflix is planning to further expand its experiential entertainment offerings with the launch of "Netflix House," an "experiential entertainment venue" expected to open in Dallas and Philadelphia later this year. These venues will likely offer a combination of themed dining, interactive activities, and retail experiences, further solidifying Netflix’s position as a purveyor of entertainment beyond the streaming screen.
Netflix Bites exemplifies the company’s innovative approach to engaging with its audience. It’s a testament to the power of themed experiences and the enduring appeal of beloved television shows. Whether you’re a dedicated Netflix subscriber or simply seeking a unique and memorable dining experience, Netflix Bites is worth a visit. It’s a place where streaming meets steaming, where entertainment meets gastronomy, and where the lines between the digital world and the real world blur in the most delicious way possible. It’s a gamble worth taking, and one that could leave you feeling like a winner, even if you don’t hit the jackpot at the MGM Grand casino.
