Health Department Closes Wolfgang Puck Restaurant in Las Vegas
The Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) recently shut down the Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill at MGM Grand in Las Vegas due to multiple health code violations uncovered during a routine inspection on January 2, 2025. This closure follows the discovery of alarming findings in the restaurant’s hot line and prep kitchen, with both areas receiving a significant number of demerits.
Violations Uncovered During Inspection
The inspection revealed that the hot line and prep kitchen at Wolfgang Puck’s restaurant received 16 and 15 demerits, respectively. Issues ranged from inadequate pest control measures to improper food handling practices that could lead to potential cross-contamination. Specific violations included improper food temperatures, inadequate thawing and cooling methods, and improper cleaning and sanitization of food contact surfaces.
In addition to the main kitchen areas, several other sections of the restaurant, including the bar, server station, butcher shop, and exhibition kitchen, were also found to be in violation of health codes.
Wolfgang Puck’s Legacy in Las Vegas
Wolfgang Puck, a renowned celebrity chef, made his mark in Las Vegas as the first to open a restaurant on the Strip in 1992 with Spago at the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace. His MGM Grand establishment, which opened in 2023, was the fifth addition to his culinary empire in Las Vegas. Despite the closure, Puck’s reputation as a pioneer in the city’s dining scene remains intact.
Implications for MGM Resorts and Future Reopening
For MGM Resorts, the closure of the Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill represents a significant setback, as health department violations are viewed as a serious issue in the hospitality industry. The company, which co-owns the restaurant with Wolfgang Puck, is expected to address all violations promptly to ensure a successful reopening. A follow-up inspection is scheduled within 1-2 days to verify compliance with health codes.
As the MGM Grand prepares to reopen the Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill, guests are advised to check the restaurant’s availability starting from January 6, 2025. Despite the temporary closure, efforts are underway to rectify the situation and maintain the high standards associated with the Wolfgang Puck brand in Las Vegas.
One of the most challenging aspects of dining out is trusting that the establishments we visit prioritize our health and safety above all else. It can be disheartening to learn that a well-known restaurant like Wolfgang Puck’s Bar & Grill at MGM Grand has failed to meet the necessary health standards, leading to its closure by the Southern Nevada Health District. This incident serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of stringent food safety protocols in all dining establishments, regardless of their reputation or popularity.
When we choose where to dine, we place our trust in the hands of chefs, restaurateurs, and staff to uphold the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene. The closure of Wolfgang Puck’s restaurant sheds light on the rigorous inspections conducted by health authorities to safeguard public health and prevent potential foodborne illnesses. As consumers, we must remain vigilant and informed about the safety practices of the restaurants we frequent to make informed decisions about where we eat. Remember, your health is always a priority, even when enjoying a meal prepared by a world-renowned chef.
