Joel Robuchon

Perhaps not a “celebrity” by American pop-culture standards, Joel Robuchon was arguably the most famous and most celebrated chef in the fine-dining world. Among his countless honors: being named Chef of the Century by Gault Millau and receiving more Michelin stars than anyone in history. His eponymous MGM Grand restaurant is the only Las Vegas establishment ever awarded three Michelin stars, and the dedication to perfection required for such an honor has survived that dining guide’s departure from the city, and Robuchon’s death in 2018.

The restaurant was originally known as Joel Robuchon at The Mansion -- a nod to the opulent décor and exquisite service. Truthfully, both are more reminiscent of a palace. You will feel like royalty as you enter the lush purple dining room with brilliant gold accents, an ornate crystal chandelier overhead. But that’s just the start. From the magnificent bread trolley through the exquisite dessert cart (both of which are rolled to your table), each course is a museum-quality work of art.

Meals here don’t come cheap – you can easily drop $1,000 or more on dinner for two. For that money, you expect perfection. Robuchon’s reputation was built on living up to that expectation.