Chef Taylor Persh takes you on a journey to the highest level of culinary fantasy…
The term “culinary adventure” took on new meaning in 2022 when Searchlight Pictures released The Menu. A satyrical thriller starring Ralph Fiennes and Anya Taylor-Joy, the film depicts a sinister Chef’s final presentation for pretentious diners (and one unexpected attendee) on an exclusive island.
THE MENU – Searchlight Pictures
Palms Casino is the temporary “island” for a new kind of adventurous dining, wonderfully hidden on the 51st floor of the resort’s Fantasy Tower. It beckons the curious, the skeptical, and those seeking an escape from the humdrum. Entitled STORY OF A MUSE, the evening is created and presented by Chef Taylor Persh.
You might say that Chef Persh is a conjurer of epic tales from ages past. Her creations have taken guests to the worlds of literary giants like H. G. Wells and Jules Verne. Best known for Area 15‘s 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea at Lost Spirits Distillery, this child of historic adventures has created a new journey steeped in mythology.
Greetings, Gods and Goddesses
“Story of a Muse” is a limited-run dinner series inspired by the Melpomene, the Greek Muse of Tragedy. Her name encourages celebration through song and dance, yet Chef Persh prefers to take a different path. She describes her event as “a gastronomic homage to the power of inspiration, love, loss, memory, and the duality of life”.
“Story of a Muse” occurs in a spot formerly occupied by NOVE Italian Restaurant. A private, secure elevator whisks you upward to a cavernous space that’s simultaneously foreboding and inviting. Floor-to-ceiling windows allow you to drink in the magnificence of the Las Vegas skyline while you prepare for a trip through time.
A pre-dinner cocktail hour encourages participants to become acquainted, enjoy a themed libation, and drink in the glory of the famed Las Vegas Strip. The lounge and dining room are adorned with grape leaves, billowing drapes, candles, and a curated sonic atmosphere.
Guests are eventually beckoned through a scroll reading to a long, somewhat narrow space where the main festivities are held. A veritable army of choreographed servers assists Chef Persh and Abraham Lukaczer, her Sommelier, in presenting a ten-course meal.
“I always say that this is like an orchestra, every single person has an incredibly important role individually, that creates an amazing sound collectively. This team is beyond extraordinary and I am so grateful to have them.” – Chef Taylor Persh
Experience Liaison Dylan Diveley offers this description:
“As a guest of our Bacchanalia, we wish to challenge and inspire the ways you see the world around you. Through music, scents, lighting, libations, and of course, cuisine…all of your senses will be utilized…leaving you baffled, titillated, and perhaps emotional.”
“The courses served are meticulously designed and curated to take you on a sensory quest from sea to land. Ingredients include gluten, shellfish, dairy, egg, beef, pork, poultry, nuts, citrus…as well as wine and spirits.”
You may pair your dinner with a selection of wines or specially-created non-alcoholic beverages. Abraham introduces each pairing:
VEGAS 411 attended a special seating of “Story of a Muse” as an invited guest. Several food critics and influencers were present. They snapped photos, shot video content, and asked questions of the Chef and her staff.
A blend of social media and human interaction fostered intriguing conversation and the forging of new friendships, adding a contemporary element to the Muse’s saga.
Participants should know that accommodations cannot be made for those with special dietary restrictions. It is recommended that you visit the Frequently-Asked Questions page before purchasing tickets.
While already known as a master within the kitchen, Chef Persh happens to be a gifted orator as well. She memorably introduces each course, describes the carefully selected ingredients, and elaborates on their significance. Diners are invited to savor, question, reflect, observe, and share their responses to the presentation.
“Story of a Muse is about rebirth and the importance of community. We want our guests to have fun, meet new people, and challenge themselves.” – Chef Taylor Persh
As mentioned above, “Story of a Muse” is a limited series. Dates are Friday and Saturday at 5 pm and 8:30 pm through September 28th. The experience is designed for those 21 and over. Tickets start at $300 with add-ons available for beverage/wine pairings (gratuity not included). Make your reservations by heading here.
