The Intersection of Streaming and Culinary Art
The world of streaming television has physically collided with high-end dining in Las Vegas with the highly unique and deliciously quirky Netflix Bites restaurant at MGM Grand, a groundbreaking partnership between MGM Resorts International and Netflix. This culinary residency transports the magic of Netflix’s acclaimed food shows from the screen to the plate.
Eric Upper, Director Assistant Executive Chef Property, explains why Las Vegas was the perfect place to launch the concept. “MGM Grand is uniquely suited to launch a concept like Netflix Bites because it’s a global hospitality destination. We have great international foot traffic, a built-in entertainment audience, and the operational scale to support a project of this size. That combination allows us to deliver theatrical food moments to guests who are already seeking new, immersive experiences.”
Translating Screen Magic to the Plate
The residency successfully bridges the gap between passive viewing and active consumption by focusing on sensory connection. The space evokes subtle nods to popular Netflix shows through themed art and memorabilia scattered throughout, in a way that feels deliberate yet not in your face. Upper describes the key elements: “The bridge from screen to plate is created through storytelling, theatrics, and a bit of nostalgia. Signature items were crafted to evoke sensory memories that connect guests back to their favorite shows.”
Cohesion and Iconic Dishes
With chefs and mixologists sourced from various Netflix hit series, the culinary team’s goal was rooted in authenticity. “Because the theme of the restaurant is Netflix itself, the cohesion came naturally by choosing dishes that authentically represent each chef and each show,” Upper said. “The goal was to bring iconic dishes from their shows to life. We wanted to not only create a visceral connection for fans but to honor the chefs and the stories behind their food as well.”
This commitment is evident in the playful execution of certain dishes at Netflix Bites. The Regency Tea contains direct references to Bridgerton, complete with a copy of Lady Whistledown’s column and themed treats. Nachos Nevermore is a delightful nod to Wednesday with a deliciously dark twist on traditional nachos. “For example, our pizza is served in a Surfer Boy Pizza box with a working phone number that plays an in-universe recording when you call,” Upper shares. “At the more theatrical end, our Floor Is Lava dessert features a chocolate volcano and flaming coulis poured tableside to recreate the drama of the show. These touches transform recognizable on-screen moments into tangible, flavorful experiences.” Eleven’s Feast captures the essence of the Upside Down in a creepy yet tasty nod to Stranger Things, while the Red Bite, Green Bite invites diners to take part in a game like the ones often played in Squid Game and Squid Game: The Challenge.
Operational and Thematic Immersion
Translating multiple global chef concepts into a single, temporary high-volume space presented significant logistical hurdles. “One of the biggest challenges was ensuring we did justice to each chef and mixologist. We wanted them to feel confident that their dishes were represented accurately,” Upper noted. “Sourcing specific products and replicating each recipe correctly was essential. From there, the challenge became consistency. Training our team to recreate these dishes at a high level, repeatedly, in a high-volume environment, while balancing quality with operational efficiency was a key part of the process.”
The dining experience goes far beyond the menu to immerse the guest in the Netflix universe fully. “We incorporated numerous details to ensure guests felt immersed from the moment they approached the venue. The exterior resembles a classic movie theater, setting the tone immediately,” Upper explained. “Guests walk down a long hallway to the host stand, flanked by Stranger Things statues and other thematic décor.”
Upper detailed the additional thematic elements: “The soundtrack features Netflix show and film music exclusively. Guests may encounter actors portraying beloved characters on their way to the table, and everyone is greeted with popcorn at their seats. Menus contain playful references to Netflix content, and we matched every vessel, glassware, paper goods, garnish, and service piece to the dish or show it represents. These touches extend the storytelling beyond the plate and into the full dining environment.”
Selecting the Talent
The inaugural chef and mixologist lineup at Netflix Bites was chosen based on specific criteria. “We selected talent that is highly visible within Netflix and with whom Netflix already had strong relationships,” Upper stated. “We also focused on individuals whose culinary style and on-screen presence aligned best with the concept, ensuring their dishes would translate well into the experience we envisioned.”
Measuring Success for Future Experiences
As a limited-run residency, the success of Netflix Bites will be measured primarily by customer interest. “Our primary metric is guest volume. How many people choose to dine with us. That reflects the level of interest and demand for a concept like this,” Upper said. “After that, guest feedback becomes the most important indicator. If this residency proves successful, it demonstrates the viability of future Netflix-branded, in-person culinary and experiential concepts, at least within the Las Vegas market.”
Catch Netflix Bites while you can—the limited-run ends in February 2026.
