Knowledge is power, but so is a sense of curiosity for Connie Shin, assistant general manager of Kusa Nori, a modern Japanese restaurant at Resorts World Las Vegas. The China native has a natural affinity for learning all she can about what is served in her restaurant, and having that passion for learning has helped her build a successful career in the food and beverage industry.

Shin was the youngest manager at The Mirage (her first gig on the Strip), helped open a property in China, managed fine dining spots at Bellagio and was recruited to help open Resorts World Las Vegas.

“I’ve always been a curious person,” Shin says. “If there’s a dish in front of me, I want to know the ingredients, where it is from.” She grew up around food because her family is also in the industry and helped nurture that love-—and she loves to pass on that passion to her team, which in turn passes it on to the guest. “Telling a story with our food—it’s fun to tell why chef makes his dishes,” she says. “I train the staff on what ingredients are used, how different cooking techniques are used, the history of the food. When the servers are empowered and they have the knowledge they can pass it on to the guest, making for a better experience.”

Shin keeps her creativity flowing outside of work, too, diving into her love of design and creating artwork using AI. “I’m just a curious, creative person. I’ve always been,” she says.

Photo by: Christopher DeVargas

Libation: Genting Old Fashioned

Kusa Nori puts its own spin on the classic Old-Fashioned with its specialty cocktail, the Genting Old Fashioned. Made with Highland Park 12 Year Single Malt Scotch, demerara syrup, Angostura bitters and orange bitters, the twist comes with a matcha ice cube. As the ice melts, the cocktail constantly evolves in flavor.

Benefit: Don’t miss happy hour at 4 p.m. daily (in the lounge only) with deep discounts on cocktails and popular dishes.

Resorts World Las Vegas, 702.676.6965. rwlasvegas.com

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