Major Food Group (MFG) has launched Carbone Riviera, a luxurious Italian coastal seafood dining establishment, located on the Las Vegas Strip within the Bellagio, in collaboration with MGM Resorts International.
Carbone Riviera, established by MFG co-founders Mario Carbone, Jeff Zalaznick, and Rich Torrisi, takes over the former Picasso location and specializes in upscale Italian coastal seafood.
The restaurant boasts 240 seats and features stunning interiors designed by Martin Brudnizki, alongside artwork from renowned artists like Miró, Picasso, and Renoir. Two terraces offer breathtaking views of the Bellagio Fountains. For an exclusive experience, a private deck showcases Fortuna, Bellagio’s unique 33-foot Riva yacht, providing an exceptional vantage point for fountain-viewing.
“Major Food Group’s unmatched creativity and dedication to quality have established them as a phenomenal partner over the last decade,” remarked Ari Kastrati, MGM Resorts’ Chief Content, Hospitality & Development Officer. “Our collaboration has produced a premium seafood dining experience that will elevate Las Vegas luxury—where Bellagio patrons can enjoy remarkable cuisine, stellar hospitality, and captivating Fountain views in an unparalleled environment.”
Carbone Riviera co-founder Jeff Zalaznick expressed that overseeing one of America’s iconic dining venues is a remarkable privilege. “Carbone Riviera is the culmination of a longstanding aspiration—an embodiment of our dedication, creativity, and relentless pursuit of excellence,” he stated. “With a decade of boundary-pushing experiences, our objective is to establish the finest fish restaurant this country has ever known.”
Carbone Riviera opens with a thoughtfully curated menu of crudo and sophisticated seafood options, such as Nantucket Bay Scallops with brown butter and truffles, Lightly Grilled Chu Toro, and Scottish Langoustines in Green Acqua Pazza. The menu also features antipasti, fritti, and salads that include Lobster Polpette Fra Diavolo, Grilled Octopus Peperonata, and “Mario’s Famous di Mare Salad.”
Highlighting the restaurant’s offerings is its whole-fish program, showcasing selections ranging from Sea Bream to Dover Sole and Branzino, prepared table-side utilizing various techniques, including Japanese charcoal grilling, al forno roasting, and salt-crust baking. Classic Carbone dishes—such as Spicy Rigatoni Vodka, Caesar alla ZZ, and Snake River Farms steaks—accompany the seafood-centric menu, while desserts like Stracciatella Tiramisu and Sicilian Lemon Cheesecake offer a delightful conclusion.
Carbone Riviera also presents an extensive wine collection that emphasizes Champagnes, White Burgundies, and coastal Italian whites, complemented by reds from Tuscany, Piedmont, Burgundy, and the Rhône. The cocktail offerings blend classic favorites with creative innovations, featuring selections like the Pistachio Colada and Strawberry Pomodoro, along with elevated non-alcoholic options.
Mario Carbone, chef and co-founder of Major Food Group, described Carbone Riviera as the beginning of a new era for the Carbone brand. While preserving the restaurant’s essence, it unveils a new interpretation on a magnificent platform. He remarked that the concept prioritizes seafood at an exceptional level, featuring an impressive seafood display, a ceremonial whole fish program, and pastas made from the finest ingredients.
“The ambiance is coastal, and the space is bright and airy. From the moment you enter, it feels as if you’ve arrived in an ageless destination on the Riviera,” Carbone noted. “Our mission is to deliver that ‘wow’ factor every time you visit: to make it feel just as extraordinary on someone’s tenth visit as it does on their first.”
Carbone Riviera is open every evening from 5 – 11 p.m. Reservations can be made at Bellagio.com or through the Bellagio Concierge at (702) 693-6705.