MGM Grand is proud to announce Kamel Guechida, pastry chef at the Mobil Five-Star, AAA Five Diamond restaurant Joël Robuchon, has been named Bon Appetit's Pastry Chef of the Year.  This latest accolade affirms Guechida's place among the top in the culinary world, while further solidifying the acclaimed restaurant's status as one of the world's best. 


As evidenced in his signature dessert, the soufflé, Guechida's brilliance lies in the balance between his dedicated artistry and deft technical skills.  Guechida is innovative with the bounty of the season in dishes such as the Violet Milkshake with blueberry marmalade and Marinated Peaches with raspberry meringue and strawberry sorbet.  Perhaps the most memorable is the spectacular petit four trolley, affectionately known as the "candy cart," which displays an array of bite-size sweets that range from chocolate truffles to sake meringue. 


Since 2000, Guechida has worked alongside Chef Joël Robuchon in his kitchens all over the world including Tokyo, Macau, Paris and Monte Carlo.  It was no wonder that when Robuchon decided to open his first U.S. venture at MGM Grand in Las Vegas, he asked Guechida to join him.  As the architect behind the desserts at Joël Robuchon, Guechida is constantly challenged to create light desserts that maintain bold flavors.  With a thorough understanding of the ingredients he works with in America, Guechida creates a seamless synergy with the cuisine of Robuchon exhibiting the principles of flavor and seasonality.


"The passion and creativity behind Kamel's desserts are extraordinary," said MGM Grand President Gamal Aziz.  "This award is a well-deserved honor and we are thrilled to have this talent at MGM Grand."


The restaurants at MGM Grand include an exclusive cadre of chefs who have elevated the property to a world-class dining destination.  The presentation of the Bon Appetit award further solidifies the MGM Grand's reputation for excellence and innovation.


Chef Guechida said, "It is an honor for me to be recognized by such a prestigious magazine.  Joël Robuchon was designed to be a special and extraordinary experience.  This accolade from Bon Appetit reflects the commitment of Joël Robuchon's culinary team to delivering superior products and experiences to our guests."


MGM Grand Hotel and Casino