Published on: November 26, 2025, 05:41h.
Updated on: November 26, 2025, 05:43h.
The most expansive Japanese dining, cultural, and entertainment venue in the U.S. is set to be established in Chinatown, Las Vegas, located just 1.5 miles west of the Wynn and Encore.
As reported by chinatownvegas.com, a local news outlet, the ambitious project named Chubby World is spearheaded by Chubby Group, a hospitality firm in Las Vegas. Their local venues include the X Pot at the Venetian as well as Chubby Cattle BBQ, Chubby Cattle Hotpot, Chubby Skewers and Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House, all situated in Chinatown.
Notably, the Japanese interpretation of “chubby” transmits a different sentiment than in English. “Pocchari” conveys a positive image of being cute and lovable.
Spanning 25,000 square feet, Chubby World will boast five distinct themed floors, with the following highlights:
- Basement: A vibrant music hall for DJ sets, anime-themed concerts, and various entertainment events.
- 1st Floor: A treasure trove of Japanese collectibles, featuring blind boxes, Pop Mart, anime merchandise, figurines, and Instagram-friendly installations.
- 2nd Floor: A marketplace run by Hashi Market, showcasing seafood, authentic Japanese groceries, and daily-prepared meals. It will also include a highly affordable omakase (chef’s choice) counter, anticipated to be priced between $49-$69 per person.
- 3rd Floor: A food court filled with Chubby Group concepts and partners, designed to echo the vibrant atmosphere of Tokyo’s street vendors.
- 4th Floor: A venue designated for cosplay shows, anime happenings, and cultural performances.
According to chinatownvegas.com, an innovative radio-frequency (RFID) wristband system will be implemented for transactions in addition to cash and credit options, allowing visitors to earn loyalty points and various perks.
At this time, no definitive construction timeline or anticipated opening date has been disclosed.
Ole (in the) Red
Jason Aldean’s Kitchen + Bar, designed as a counterpart to Blake Shelton‘s Ole Red, has struggled to gain the same recognition and noise level as its live music counterpart since launching last year, leading to the dismissal of the Nashville hospitality firm that initially managed it.
According to Vital Vegas, TC Restaurant Group, which lacked prior experience in Las Vegas, has now been replaced by Gen3 Hospitality. This new group is well-known for establishments like Holsteins Shakes and Buns (formerly at the Cosmopolitan and now downtown), along with Haute Doggery and Flour & Barley Brick Oven Pizza located on the Linq Promenade.
While Aldean’s name remains associated with the restaurant, Vital Vegas reports that the executive chef and several staff members will not continue in their roles.
This change comes ahead of the anticipated opening of Category 10, a new Southern restaurant and honkytonk from Luke Combs, set to debut in a more prominent spot on the Strip than its two competitors — specifically, the old Margaritaville space in front of the Flamingo — next fall.
Dining Updates
Bojangles, the popular chicken-and-biscuit franchise rooted in North Carolina, is launching its first location that will include a full bar and live music. This establishment will be situated at the Linq promenade, aligning perfectly with the themes of Guy Fieri’s Vegas Kitchen and Hash House A Go Go. Currently, Bojangles operates one outlet in Vegas, but has 19 additional locations planned, including one at Harmon Corner, the bustling three-story retail and dining site at Las Vegas Boulevard and Harmon Avenue.
The Colorado-based Chili Shack chain has opened its doors in downtown Las Vegas at 707 Carson Ave., offering an array of customizable burritos, tacos, enchiladas, and Southwestern-style burgers.