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NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. (August 22, 2026) – Tonight, MGM National Harbor hosted a live tuna carving ceremony with Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto. The event combined authentic cuisine, live culinary artistry, and elevated beverage experiences to celebrate the rich traditions and contemporary spirit of Japan.
“It was amazing to partner with Chef Morimoto on such a special moment for our guests,” said Padou Kabchi, Vice President of Hospitality at MGM National Harbor. “As we approach our 10th anniversary, we remain committed to creating unforgettable experiences that our guests will cherish for years to come.”
Chef Morimoto showcased his masterful knife skills during the Kaitai show as he broke down a 210-pound Bluefin tuna. Guests were mesmerized by the precision displayed from Chef Morimoto. In addition to the Bluefin tuna, guests enjoyed live action stations featuring sashimi ,nigiri and maki; small plates of tuna pizettes with anchovy aioli, toro katsu skewers with spicy honey, and toro-sciutto with summer melonand traditional Japanese accompaniments.
“It is an honor and pleasure to work with MGM in such a great setting of National Harbor but also a different setting as we’ve had such a great partnership with MGM Grand in Las Vegas. We will be celebrating our 10th anniversary as well,” said Chef Masaharu Morimoto.
To complement the culinary experience, guests enjoyed four luxurious beverage lounges featuring master blends and premium drink pairings:
- Morimoto Sake Lounge – Guests experienced the art of sake through a sommelier-guided sake tasting showcasing Morimoto’s signature line from Fukumitsuya brewery in Kanazawwa. The sommelier guided guests through proper tasting techniques, explained the characteristics of different sake styles, and shared insights on food pairings that enhance the tasting experience.
- Suntory Toki House Lounge – The Japanese spirits lounge offered an elevated tasting experience featuring a curated selection of renowned Japanese whiskies and premium spirits from Suntory. Guests explored the distinctive character, craftsmanship, and heritage behind some of Japan’s most celebrated spirits and learned about Japan’s meticulous distillation techniques, aging processes, and blending philosophies that have earned global recognition.
- Moët & Chandon Champagne Lounge – An elegant and immersive tasting experience where guests explored the sophistication and artistry of world-class champagne. Guests enjoyed a curated selection of premium champagnes, guided by experts who shared insights into the winemaking process, grape varietals, aging techniques, and the unique characteristics that define each expression.
- Hennessy Atelier – An intimate lounge experience inspired by the shared craftmanship, patience, and precision of master blenders and master sushi chefs. Guests explored Hennessy through ice, temperature, dilution, aroma, and elevated service rituals while engaging with an interactive hand-carved ice experience.
For more about MGM National Harbor, visit mgmnationalharbor.com.
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About MGM National Harbor
Located in an unrivaled setting, MGM National Harbor offers stunning panoramic views of the Eastern shore of the Potomac River in Maryland. The $1.4 billion LEED® Gold Certified resort sits a short distance from Washington, D.C. to the north and historic sites, including George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate across the river in Virginia. The 24-story, 308-room resort features premier amenities and experiences for locals as well as visitors from around the world including a dynamic two-level casino with over 160,000 square feet of space that includes slots, table games, and poker; a world-class spa and salon; an entertainment theater with flexible seating for up to 3,000; high-end branded retail; 50,000 square feet of meeting space; and restaurants from renowned local, national, and international chefs. MGM National Harbor is owned by MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM). For more information, visit mgmnationalharbor.com or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Media Contacts:
Joe Pudlick / Charisse McDaniel
MGM National Harbor
jpudlick@mgmnationalharbor.com / cmcdaniel@mgmnationalharbor.com
Gabrielle Garrett-Levine
Kirvin Doak Communications
mgmnh@kirvindoak.com
