Jeff, a member of the Mohegan Tribe, has over two decades of experience at Mohegan Sun. The alumnus of Seton Hall University and University of New Haven carries both a bachelor’s and master’s degree. Prior to his current position, he worked as the Assistant General Manager and in key management roles within the Advertising and Human Resource departments. As President and General Manager, Hamilton is responsible for achieving overall business objectives, driving strategic planning, and ensuring operational success while also overseeing project development, marketing and fiscal planning, technology, and visitor experience.
Chamber staff surprised Hamilton during a Tribal Council Meeting on February 11 at the Mohegan Community and Government Center with the distinction.
“It is with great honor that we (the Chamber) present Jeff with our 74 Annual Citizen of the Year award. His unwavering commitment to both the success of the Mohegan Sun and Tribe and the betterment of our community reflects the true spirit of what it means to be a leader. Today, we celebrate not only the incredible achievements of his career but also the continuous impact he will have on our region and beyond,” states Chamber of Commerce of Eastern CT President, Tony Sheridan.
Citizen of the Year is an annual award given to an extraordinary individual for their outstanding contributions to the civic and business communities of the region. The full list of past Citizens can be found here. Most recent honorees include Mike Buscetto (Filomena’s; Cactus Jack Foundation), Chief Lynn Malerba (Mohegan Tribe; Former U.S. Treasurer), and Dr. John Burkhardt (Pfizer, Retired).
Hamilton was chosen not only for his longstanding leadership at Mohegan, but for also proudly serving on the Board of Directors for the United Way of Southeastern Connecticut – where he was awarded the Chairman’s Award of Excellence for increasing Mohegan Sun employees’ participation by 23% in the 2019-20 United Way Campaign efforts. Additionally, he is an active board member of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (CT Chapter), a member of the Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) State of CT Advisory Council, and member of the State of CT Tourism Council.
Jeff notably has also spearheaded the Tribe and Sun’s mutual efforts in supporting The Governor’s Prevention Partnership, a pivotal public-private initiative established in 1989, which combats substance and alcohol abuse among state youth through generous Casino/Tribe donations and program mentorship.
“I am truly honored to be recognized by the Chamber of Commerce for Eastern CT as Citizen of the Year,” said Jeff Hamilton, President and General Manager of Mohegan Sun.
“I have been blessed to work alongside so many great people over the last 20 years that have assisted and guided me not only in my career journey at Mohegan Sun, but with work that I have been able to enjoy with many great philanthropic organizations in our community as well. I look forward to celebrating with many of those special people in May.”
A formal celebration is scheduled for Thursday, May 8, 2025, in Mohegan Sun’s Earth Ballroom, where Jeff will be honored in the company of the local business community, Council leaders, Tribal Elders, and family. Additional details to follow.
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About the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut:
We are the region’s largest network of professionals, representing over a thousand organizations spanning eastern Connecticut and beyond. Our mission is to create and maintain a positive business climate that meets the needs of our members by supporting economic development and growth in the region. For more information, visit ChamberECT.com.
Tao Group Hospitality’s Iconic Restaurant Opens at Mohegan Sun, Featuring an Immersive Pawn-Shop Entrance and Elevated Dining Experience
UNCASVILLE, CT (February 11, 2025) – Mohegan Sun and Tao Group Hospitality proudly announce the grand opening of Beauty & Essex, a stunning new restaurant and lounge that fuses opulence with intrigue. The highly anticipated dining destination officially opened on Friday, February 7th, 2025, drawing a crowd eager to experience its award-winning cuisine, inventive cocktails, and signature speakeasy vibe.
With an 11,000-square-foot footprint inside Mohegan Sun’s Casino of the Sky, Beauty & Essex seamlessly blends vintage charm with modern luxury. Guests enter through a curated modern-day pawn shop—a signature element of the Beauty & Essex brand—before discovering a multi-room dining event featuring:
Pearl Lounge & Bar – An intimate cocktail haven
Peacock Dining Room – A stunning space with artful design
Locket Private Dining Room – An exclusive setting for private events
“Mohegan Sun has built a reputation for exceptional dining and nightlife, and Beauty & Essex takes it to the next level,” said Jeff Hamilton, President & GM of Mohegan Sun. “In partnership once again with Tao Group Hospitality, we’ve blended top-tier cuisine and craft cocktails, creating an atmosphere unlike anything else on the property. Rockwell Group and JCJ Architecture have done an incredible job bringing this vision to life, ensuring every space – from the pawn shop entrance to the private dining room – feels captivating and inviting. We can’t wait for our guests to experience it.”
A Menu of Elevated Global Flavors
Beauty & Essex, co-founded by celebrity chef Chris Santos, has gained worldwide acclaim for its shareable plates, globally inspired flavors, and immersive dining. The Mohegan Sun location introduces a curated selection of signature dishes and shareables, with highlights like:
Wagyu Steak Tartare with mustard and chive sticky rice
Grilled Double-cut Lambchops with creamy polenta, port wine glaze.
24 oz. Dry-Aged Bone-in Ribeye with Beauty & Essex’s signature roasted garlic & bacon or smoked tomato glaze
Little French Dips with slow-roasted prime sirloin, gruyère cheese, horseradish-garlic aioli, house-made au jus
Gochujang Salmon with black garlic risotto, kimchi slaw, ginger aioli
Oven Braised Chicken Meatballs with whipped ricotta, wild mushrooms, truffle
The restaurant offers a dedicated vegan menu for guests seeking plant-based options, including Miso-Glazed Crispy Eggplant, Wild Mushroom Risotto, Kale & Apple Salad, and more.
“At Beauty & Essex, we take a playful approach to fine dining,” said Chef Chris Santos. “We want our guests to feel like every meal is a discovery—whether it’s a first bite of our famous Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup Dumplings or sipping a craft cocktail that surprises the senses. Opening at Mohegan Sun is a dream, and we’re beyond excited to share this experience with new and returning fans.”
Handcrafted Cocktails & Curated Wine Selections
The beverage program at Beauty & Essex is just as captivating as the cuisine, featuring favorites like:
Beauty Elixir – Bombay Gin, La Marca Sparkling Rosé, cucumber, strawberry
The wine list also features over 20 hand-selected labels, including Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio (Italy) and BenMarco Malbec (Argentina).
A Speakeasy with a Hidden Entrance
At the heart of Beauty & Essex is its pawn shop-inspired entrance, a signature feature that surprises and delights first-time visitors. Curated by Lauren Kaminsky, aka “Gold Girl,” the modern-day pawn shop showcases a stunning collection of vintage treasures, all available for purchase. Guests can browse unique items such as Fender, Ibanez, Gretsch, Gold Tone and D’Angelico guitars, classic Vox amplifiers, retro wall art, vinyl records, and rare jewelry. Among the standout pieces are Beatles memorabilia and other one-of-a-kind collectibles that make for the perfect conversation starters.
Beyond this unexpected retail experience, the restaurant unfolds into a multi-room dining and cocktail haven, where dim lighting, vintage décor, and plush seating create a transportive and unforgettable atmosphere.
A Thrilling New Chapter in Mohegan Sun’s Dining Evolution
Beauty & Essex marks another exciting chapter in Mohegan Sun’s partnership with Tao Group Hospitality, joining the highly successful TAO Asian Bistro & Lounge. As Mohegan Sun continues to expand its dining and nightlife portfolio, Beauty & Essex stands out as a must-visit destination for food lovers, cocktail enthusiasts, and those seeking an unforgettable night out.
Reservations at Beauty & Essex can be made by visiting taogroup.com/venues. For more information and updates on special events planned at Beauty & Essex, guests can visit mohegansun.com.
To view and download additional imagery of Beauty & Essex at Mohegan Sun, click HERE.
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ABOUT JCJ ARCHITECTURE
JCJ Architecture is a forward-thinking and nationally ranked planning, architecture and interior design firm offering comprehensive services to clients in the hospitality, gaming, civic, K12 and higher education sectors. Founded in 1936, the employee-owned firm’s mission is to provide innovative design solutions that enhance the environment, enrich people’s lives and help organizations succeed.
With a long-standing reputation for business acumen and project delivery excellence, JCJ focuses on bringing the qualities of adaptability, integrity, respect and collaboration to a design process that leverages the unique qualities and potential of each project. JCJ collaborates with clients across the United States from offices located in Boston, Hartford, New York City, Phoenix, San Diego, Tulsa, and Las Vegas. For more information, please visit www.jcj.com.
ABOUT TAO GROUP HOSPITALITY
Tao Group Hospitality delivers distinctive culinary and premium entertainment experiences through its portfolio of restaurants, nightclubs, lounges, and daylife venues. Tao Group Hospitality acquired Hakkasan Group in April 2021. The combined company operates over 80 branded locations in over 20 markets across four continents and features a collection of widely recognized hospitality brands. These include TAO, Hakkasan, Crane Club, OMNIA, Marquee, LAVO, Beauty & Essex, Yauatcha, Ling Ling, Cathédrale, Little Sister, The Highlight Room, Sake No Hana, Jewel, and more. Tao Group Hospitality is part of Mohari Hospitality, a global investment firm with a focus in luxury lifestyle and hospitality investments. Learn more at taogroup.com.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN
Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic Southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, two distinct convention centers, an expo center, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on X and Instagram @mohegansun and view us on YouTube.
A new immersive dining destination arrives at Mohegan Sun, marking the property’s second concept developed in partnership with Tao Group Hospitality
UNCASVILLE, CT (January 8, 2025) – Mohegan Sun, one of the world’s leading integrated entertainment resort destinations, has announced that it will open Beauty & Essex in collaboration with Tao Group Hospitality on Friday, February 7, 2025. This restaurant concept, co-created by Chef Chris Santos, will soon offer Mohegan Sun guests a high-caliber dining experience within the property’s Casino of the Sky, next to novelle.
“The addition of Beauty & Essex furthers our partnership with Tao Group Hospitality,” said Jeff Hamilton, President & General Manager of Mohegan Sun. “TAO Asian Bistro & Lounge has set a new standard in the region, and Beauty & Essex will further strengthen Mohegan Sun’s reputation as a top choice for memorable dining experiences.”
The 11,000-square-foot restaurant will feature Tao Group’s signature global cuisine, including popular dishes such as the Grilled Cheese, Smoked Bacon & Tomato Soup Dumplings, Tuna Poke Wonton Tacos, Classic Beef Wellington, Grilled Double Cut Lamb Chops as well as exclusive menu options crafted specifically for Mohegan Sun.
Known for its eclectic menu, speakeasy vibe and sophisticated ambiance, Beauty & Essex has an innovative design that starts in the restaurant’s entrance with a well-curated modern day pawn shop, featuring a collection of vintage jewelry, custom musical instruments, one-of-a-kind art and more, curated by Gold Girl, Lauren Kaminsky. Everything in the shop is available for purchase and each item tells a story, inviting guests to discover luxury in the most unexpected places.
This unique and eloquent venue will also soon celebrate Grand Opening party with special guests, with more details to be shared soon via mohegansun.com
“Beauty & Essex represents an exciting and much anticipated addition to Mohegan Sun’s already impressive dining portfolio and will be our third location overall,” said Ralph Scamardella, Chief Culinary Officer of Tao Group Hospitality. “Our collaboration with Mohegan Sun has been tremendous, and we look forward to further elevating the guest experience with this distinctive concept.”
“As a native to the region, New England holds a special place in my heart, and I’m eager to introduce Beauty & Essex to Mohegan Sun’s guests,” said Chef and Co-creator Chris Santos. “I believe our menu and atmosphere will offer something truly exceptional for visitors.”
The opening of Beauty & Essex, which is now taking reservations, marks a new chapter in Mohegan Sun’s collaboration with Tao Group Hospitality, bringing yet another iconic dining experience to the property. As Mohegan Sun’s dining scene continues to evolve, Beauty & Essex is set to become a highlight for guests seeking premier culinary moments in a unique setting.
Attendees of Mohegan Sun’s 21st Annual Sun Wine and Food Fest will be able to get a first glimpse at Beauty & Essex’s offerings during a special Cocktails & Chandeliers: A Sneak Peek Inside Beauty & Essex. This event will take place from 6:00pm – 7:30pm on Saturday, January 25th, and will feature the world-renowned Chef Chris Santos, delicious apps from the new menu and an open bar offering up popular Beauty & Essex cocktails. Tickets to this event are on-sale now through mohegansun.com/swff. Those who are unable to attend the event can now also make reservations at Beauty & Essex by visiting taogroup.com/venues. For more information and updates on this opening, visit mohegansun.com.
ABOUT TAO GROUP HOSPITALITY: Tao Group Hospitality delivers distinctive culinary and premium entertainment experiences through its portfolio of restaurants, nightclubs, lounges, and daylife venues. Tao Group Hospitality acquired Hakkasan Group in April 2021. The combined company operates over 80 branded locations in over 20 markets across four continents and features a collection of widely recognized hospitality brands. These include TAO, Hakkasan, Crane Club, OMNIA, Marquee, LAVO, Beauty & Essex, Yauatcha, Ling Ling, Cathédrale, Little Sister, The Highlight Room, Sake No Hana, Jewel, and more. Tao Group Hospitality is part of Mohari Hospitality, a global investment firm with a focus in luxury lifestyle and hospitality investments. Learn more at taogroup.com.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN: Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic Southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, two distinct convention centers, an expo center, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on X and Instagram @mohegansun and view us on YouTube.
Dazzling events and big parties return to Mohegan Sun from Saturday, December 28th through Wednesday, January 1st
UNCASVILLE, CT (November 18, 2024) – Mohegan Sun is excited to announce its New Year’s Evecelebrations, which begin with Cirque Dreams inside Mohegan Sun Arena on Saturday, December 28th, rolling into Pitbull in the Arena on Sunday, December 29th, and featuring the annual Party into the New Year ballroom party on Tuesday, December 31st! Various celebrations and more entertainment are also on the bill, including the Endless Midnight Sweepstakes running December 29th and 30th, allowing Momentum members a chance to win a special prize pack that includes tickets to the Elvis Tribute Artist Spectacular starring Shawn Klush. Sweepstakes prizes will also include a pair of tickets to Mohegan Sun’s Party Into the New Year bash on New Year’s Eve.
Endless Midnight Parties
Mohegan Sun’s New Year’s Eve Dinner Gala – On Tuesday, December 31st from 6:00pm to 9:00pm, Mohegan Sun’s Uncas Ballroom rolls out a cocktail hour, followed by an elegant three-course dinner and live music by Juice Box. Tickets to this celebration are on sale now through mohegansun.com/NYE
Mohegan Sun’s Party into the New Year – On December 31st from 10:30pm to 1:00am, dance and celebrate the night away with DJ Rico, an open bar and champagne toast at Midnight, followed by a breakfast buffet to start the year right. Tickets are on sale now and available HERE.
Great Gatsby Roaming Event at novelle – On December 31st from 8:00pm to 3:00am, guests can experience a luxurious evening with a Gatsby-themed party at novelle, complete with live music and a glamorous atmosphere. This unique Endless Midnight event will also feature a celebratory Midnight champagne toast. Tickets are on-sale now!
NYE Party on the Concourse – On December 31st from 9:00pm to 1:00am Mohegan Sun guests can celebrate with live music by DJae Melee and energetic acts by DFX Entertainment. Hats, horns and tiaras will also be available for this festive and jam-packed annual concourse party that counts down to Midnight.
NYE Celebrations at Lansdowne, Vista Lounge and Avalon Nightclub – Lyons Group nightlife venues across Mohegan Sun will host special NYE parties from Saturday, December 28th through Tuesday, December 31st. Vista Lounge at Wombi Rock gets the action started on Saturday, December 28th with a dance party featuring DJ Cream starting at 9:00pm. Over at Lansdowne Irish Pub & Music House, DJ Easy will bring the beats for a celebration kicking off at 10:00pm. And at Mohegan Sun’s premier nightclub – Avalon – DJ Chizzle will set the vibe from starting at 9:00pm and feature special discounted tickets for the first 100 sold! Reservations for Avalon can be made by calling 860.235.7446. For Vista, guests can call 860.235.7446 and for Lansdowne, 860.862.7004
Live Entertainment
Cirque Dreams Celebration – On Saturday, December 28th at 7:00pm, Mohegan Sun guests can enjoy an evening of acrobatic performances and entertainment at Mohegan Sun Arena, perfect for families and guests of all ages. Tickets are on sale now, with more information available HERE. This performance is part of a three-night run that Cirque Dreams Celebration is performing in Mohegan Sun Arena, beginning on Thursday, December 26th.
Nick Bossse – The 2022 Mohegan Sun Locals Live champ, Nick Bosse, will rock the Wolf Den stage for an 8:00pm concert on Saturday, December 28th. Nick Bosse is an independent recording artist with ten years in the music industry. His soulful Country music vocals are backed by a power-house band, The Northern Roots, with talented musicians from Connecticut and Rhode Island.
Pitbull – The one-and-only Pitbull takes the Mohegan Sun Arena stage as part of Mohegan Sun’s Endless Midnight on Sunday, December 29th for a 7:30pm concert! Fans can celebrate with the global superstar for an evening that will be packed with high-energy hits and an unforgettable performance. For tickets and more information, visit mohegansun.com
Elvis Tribute Artist Spectacular starring Shawn Klush – On December 31st at 7:00pm, the NYE excitement continues inside Mohegan Sun Arena where Shawn Klush’s Elvis Tribute Spectacular takes center stage. Tickets are available HERE.
Boogie Wonder Band – In what has become a tradition at Mohegan Sun’s legendary Wolf Den venue on New Year’s Eve, the Boogie Wonder Band will bring their grooves to a live audience on December 31st for both an 8:00pm and 11:00pm show! Guests looking to enjoy the Disco hits of Boogie Wonder Band must be 21+ and more information is available via mohegansun.com/wolfden
Music and Comedy at Comix Roadhouse –During the final weekend of 2024, Comix Roadhouse will host the talented singer-songwriter Maddi Ryan for a 9:15pm show on Saturday, December 28th. Tickets are on sale now and available HERE. Additionally on Saturday, December 28th, Pennsylvania-based stand-up comedian Paul Spratt will play Comix Comedy Club for a 6:00pm and 8:00pm performance.
On New Year’s Eve — starting at 4:00pm — stand-up comedy fans can laugh their way into 2025 with multiple shows inside Comix Comedy Club, including Spinnato’s Comedy Magic (4:00pm), stand-up by Mike Finoia (6:00pm & 8:00pm) and a late-night drag show, Lipstick, Lashes and Lies (10:00pm). Popular Country Rock band, American Honey, hailing from Groton, CT will also play live on the Comix Roadhouse stage for a 9:15pm show. Learn more at comixmohegansun.com.
The Endless Midnight celebrations at Mohegan Sun also feature various promotions, starting with Triple Status Points beginning on December 29th for Mohegan Sun Momentum members. This gaming promotion will run through Midnight on December 30th. The Endless Midnight Sweepstakes is also planned for December 29th and December 30th between 6:00am – 6:00pm, where Momentum members who earn 2 Status Points during the promotion will be entered to win during an electronic drawing for a pair of tickets to the Elvis Tribute Arist Spectacular, and a pair of tickets to Mohegan Sun’s Party into the New Year event on New Year’s Eve. More details are available at mohegansun.com/NYE
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN
Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic Southeastern Connecticut,Mohegan Sun is home to two uniquecasinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, two distinct convention centers, an expo center, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available bycalling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on X and Instagram @mohegansun and view us on YouTube.
A special Reverse the Curse Anniversary celebrating Boston legends takes place at 8:00pm on Saturday, November 9th
On Saturday, November 9th at 8:00pm Boston baseball die hard fans can join Mohegan Sun’s Reverse The Curse: 20 Year Anniversary special event that will now feature beloved catcher, Jason Varitek! Fans can relive the magic of the unforgettable 2004 post-season as Varitek, along with Manny Ramirez, Johnny Damon, Mike Timlin, Alan Embree, and Keith Foulke reminisce on the greatest playoff comeback in baseball history. It all goes down inside Mohegan Sun’s popular nightlife lounge, novelle, hosted by broadcaster Jayme Parker of Outside the Fame.
Tickets to Reverse the Curse: 20 Year Anniversary are currently on-sale viamohegansun.com,Ticketmaser.com and the Mohegan Sun Box Office, subject to availability.
Twenty years ago on October 27, 2004, a team anchored by veteran leadership like Jason Varitek, power hitters Manny Ramirez and David Ortiz and strengthened by all-around offensive talent like Johnny Damon and tremendous pitchers like Pedro Martinez, Tim Wakefield and closer Keith Foulke, won the most prominent series in professional baseball and broke their team’s 86-year long curse! To get there, this team of big bats and special pitchers had to overcome their rivals from New York in unprecedented fashion, coming back from an 0-3 deficit – a comeback that is also chronicled in a popular new Netflix docuseries.
Jayme Parker will dive into this incredible comeback and what it was like to bring home the championship to Boston after decades of heartbreak.
All guests must be 21 + and each ticket comes with a complimentary beverage!
To learn more about Reverse The Curse: 20 Year Anniversary, guests can visit mohegansun.com or click HERE.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN
Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic Southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, two distinct convention centers, an expo center, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on X and Instagram @mohegansun and view us on YouTube.
