Horseshoe Casino Chefs Keep Their Menus Local

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- Nine months after it opened, the Horseshoe Casino's restaurants are betting their menus are a success catering to their audience here in Baltimore.

Ron Matz reports it's all about making it local.

From Guy Fieri's to Jack Binions and Johnny Sanchez, it's all about Baltimore at the restaurants at the Horseshoe Casino.

At Johnny Sanchez, the crab meat tostados have become a favorite.

"Mexican food is a flavor that's very social. People in Baltimore like to break bread together and we use local ingredients here," said Chef John Bish.

Aaron Sanchez says his Mexican-American heritage is important to what he brings to the table.

"There are a lot of parallels between growing up in Louisiana and having a Mexian-American upbringing. The idea of honoring the traditions and keeping our culture alive through food, I think, is extremely important. It's something that's the foundation of who we are as people and who we are as chefs," Sanchez said.

The chefs here are buying local and they're happy to be in Baltimore.

"I've always loved Baltimore. I've wanted to open a restaurant here. When we had the opportunity to partner with the Horseshoe, we jumped at it," said Chef John Besh. "I love this area. It's an up and coming food town that people are just starting to discover."

Both chefs are James Beard award winners.