Arent Fox Counsels ThinkFoodGroup on Opening of New José Andrés Restaurant at MGM National Harbor

WASHINGTON, DC – Arent Fox LLP represented Jose Andrés’ ThinkFoodGroup LLC in a venture with MGM National Harbor to open a new restaurant concept expected to debut at MGM National Harbor. The new MGM resort, just outside Washington, DC, is slated to open in mid-2016. Arent Fox partner Jay L Halpern and associate Amal U. Dave led the Arent Fox team that advised ThinkFoodGroup on the project.

The restaurant will celebrate the region’s local seafood and, according to Maryland Governor Larry Hogan, be part of one of the “most important economic development projects in Maryland history.” Award-winning Spanish-American Chef Andrés is well known for his popular dining destinations in Washington, DC, Beverly Hills, Las Vegas, Miami, and most recently, Mexico City.
 
The ThinkFoodGroup portfolio includes celebrated restaurants such as Jaleo, Oyamel, China Chilcano, Bazaar, Minibar, and its new fast-casual concept, Beefsteak. The 24-story MGM National Harbor will be home to an arena, luxury hotel, salon and spa, high-end retail shops, conference space, and a casino.
 
Mr. Halpern, who is annually recognized among the best transaction attorneys in the country by Legal 500 and Super Lawyers, has significant experience advising private equity funds and their portfolio companies in a variety of strategic transactions and financings. Mr. Halpern represents licensors, distributors, and franchise companies in the alcohol beverage, food, and hospitality industry on growth-strategy options, including debt and equity financing, and strategic transactions.
 
Recognized among the best Hospitality & Leisure practices in the country by Chambers USA, Arent Fox draws from a wide range of experienced attorneys to provide support in all aspects of the development, acquisition, disposition, financing, franchising, leasing, and protection of hospitality assets, whether in the United States or abroad. Our cross-disciplinary team routinely advises some of the most active and sophisticated developers, owners, REITs, franchisors, franchisees, and operators of lodging and leisure properties in the world.

Smart In Your World
Your goals define our mission. Whether an immediate need or a long-term objective, ArentFox Schiff helps you reach your full potential. As industry insiders, we partner with you to develop practical business strategies and sophisticated legal solutions to achieve today’s targets and anticipate tomorrow’s problems. We get you across the finish line.

Contacts

Continue Reading