The U.S. Department of Labor has recovered over $475,000 in unpaid wages and damages for 32 employees from Juan’s Flaming Fajitas & Cantina. The restaurant, which operates two locations in Las Vegas and one in Henderson, Nevada, is also facing a $12,050 fine. Owner Juan Vazquez violated labor laws by failing to pay overtime and improperly exempting two employees from overtime eligibility. Vazquez claimed he was unaware of the non-compliance.
MGM Resorts International announced the closure of Picasso, the French restaurant at the Bellagio, on August 16. The restaurant, led by Michelin-starred chef Julian Serrano, has been a staple since the resort’s opening nearly 26 years ago. Picasso, which once displayed 11 Picasso paintings, earned two Michelin stars before the artwork was auctioned for nearly $110 million in 2021. While MGM cites Serrano’s retirement as the reason for the closure, rumors suggest other factors may be involved. Serrano will step back from the Bellagio’s Lago, but will continue managing Julian Serrano Tapas at Aria. The space occupied by Picasso will be temporarily filled by Prime Steakhouse from September to November during renovations.
In other dining updates, Buddy Valastro, known from “Cake Boss,” is entering the pizza business with Buddy V’s Pizzeria, which will open at Caesars Palace, replacing Di Fara Pizza at the Forum Food Hall. Di Fara, criticized for its $50.99 cheese pies, faced backlash for high pricing. Additionally, Caesars Entertainment plans to announce the opening of Havana 1957, a Cuban restaurant with three Florida locations, at the Flamingo, taking over the former Tropical Breeze Café. Lastly, 888 BBQ at 4801 Spring Mountain Road was closed on July 23 by the Southern Nevada Health District due to accumulating 28 demerits.