Celebrity Chef Robert Irvine partners with Tropicana Las Vegas

(PRESS RELEASE) -- Celebrity Chef Robert Irvine, host of Food Network's Restaurant: Impossible, announced today that he is teaming up with Tropicana Las Vegas to open his first signature restaurant on the Las Vegas Strip. At the press conference, the exterior of the Tropicana Las Vegas came to life, where a high-energy video showed the crowd what they can expect to see from the newest chef in town. In true Robert Irvine fashion, the celebrity chef made his entrance by rappelling 22 stories (220 feet) down the exterior of the Tropicana hotel to the assembled press below.

In introducing Chef Irvine, Bob Sheldon, President of Las Vegas Operations for Tropicana's parent company, Penn National Gaming, said, "Chef Robert Irvine has tackled some of the toughest culinary challenges around the world, and we're excited to have him take on Las Vegas, right here at the Tropicana. We are thrilled to be the Las Vegas home to such an acclaimed world-class chef. With his unparalleled passion, energy and culinary skills, he is the perfect addition to our family."

Commenting on his new partnership with Tropicana Las Vegas, Chef Irvine said, "From the moment I stepped foot in Las Vegas, I have been on a mission to break the barrier into the food and dining scene here. I am excited to join the city's impeccable culinary talent and I could not be happier with my decision to embark on this journey right here at the Tropicana Las Vegas."

Following Chef Irvine's remarks, Eric Schippers, Sr. Vice President of Public Affairs for Penn National Gaming, presented him with a $5,000 check to benefit The Robert Irvine Foundation, a not-for-profit, 501c3 organization that "honors the men and women defending our country, first responders and the many other heroes in our lives." In accepting the donation, Chef Irvine said, "I greatly appreciate the support of Penn National Gaming to help further the mission of my Foundation, which serves as the cornerstone of everything I do. All of my shows, products and partnerships help support individuals and organizations committed to enriching the lives of our heroes and their families."

Slated to open in 2017, Chef Irvine will bring his nothing-is-impossible attitude to the all-new modern American-inspired restaurant set to debut on Tropicana's casino floor.

With more than 25 years in the culinary profession, Chef Irvine has cooked his way through Europe, the Far East, the Caribbean and the Americas, in hotels and on the high seas. The star chef is known for his experience on the Food Network as host of Restaurant: Impossible and Dinner: Impossible, along with his appearances on All-Star Academy, Chopped: Impossible, Worst Cooks in America, Guy's Grocery Games and many more.