The 2025 Masters Tournament is set to be a spectacular event on the golf calendar, and this year, an unexpected culinary twist awaits attendees. Rao’s, the iconic New York City restaurant known for its impossibly exclusive dining experiences, is making a much-anticipated guest appearance at a unique pop-up location in Augusta, Georgia. Dubbed Rao’s Country Club at Augusta, this temporary establishment will cater to golf enthusiasts and food lovers alike during one of the most prestigious events in sports.
Under the leadership of renowned restaurateurs Ron Straci and Frank Pellegrino Jr., alongside their acclaimed executive chef Dino Gatto, Rao’s is ready to elevate the Masters experience with its authentic Italian cuisine. The involvement of entrepreneur Kenny Dichter and his Real SLX team promises a vibrant atmosphere aimed at creating memorable moments for all its guests.
The allure of Rao’s: a culinary institution in NYC
Rao’s has long been a culinary gem, revered for its rich history and deliciously secretive dining policies. Located in East Harlem, this restaurant has become synonymous with exclusivity, where reservations are nearly impossible to obtain. Its legacy has even led to a pop-up at the Super Bowl, which drew in a star-studded crowd, solidifying its status as a cultural staple.

Rao’s at the Masters: what to expect
This year’s Masters will not only feature world-class golf performances, but also an inviting celebration of food at Rao’s Country Club. Guests can look forward to an array of classic dishes, including the famous meatballs that have garnered a dedicated following. The ambiance will reflect a buoyant country club vibe, perfect for unwinding after a day of watching PGA champions chase the elusive green jacket.
- Exclusive Italian dishes from Rao’s menu
- Daily watch parties at the 19th hole, an undisclosed hotspot
- Interactions with notable athletes and celebrities
- Collaborative offerings alongside the pizza pop-up from Brooklyn’s FINI Pizza
A star-studded guest list at Rao’s Country Club
With the Masters attracting a plethora of distinguished guests, the lineup for Rao’s will include NFL star Russell Wilson, and a host of other celebrities known for their admiration of the restaurant’s culinary offerings. The buzz around these notable attendees sets the stage for a unique fusion of sports and gastronomy.
Some of the anticipated guests also include:
- Mike Turico
- Scott Van Pelt
- Troy Aikman
- Adam Schefter
- Kirk Herbstreit
- Eli Manning
- Jared Goff
A glimpse into the Masters Tournament
The Masters, taking place from April 10 to 13, 2025, at Augusta National Golf Club, is renowned for its rich traditions and competitive spirit. Defending champion Scottie Scheffler aims to etch his name into the history books as he attempts to join the elite company of Jack Nicklaus, who was famously able to win three green jackets in a four-year span.

The perfect blend of sports and gastronomy
Rao’s coalescence with the Masters highlights the enchanting connection between sport and food, culminating in an unforgettable experience for both golf fans and culinary enthusiasts. As the excitement builds around the tournament, the anticipation for Rao’s unique contribution adds another layer of allure to this historic event.
Creating unforgettable moments at Rao’s Country Club
The culinary landscape at Augusta is set to be transformed by the arrival of Rao’s, ensuring every guest leaves with lasting memories of exquisite flavors and delightful interactions. In keeping with the spirit of the Masters, Rao’s promises an exclusive experience that is not just about the food, but also the camaraderie formed through shared experiences.
The culinary magic behind Rao’s
The magic behind Rao’s lies not only in its exclusive dishes but also in the heartfelt approach to service that enhances every guest’s dining experience. The esteemed chefs strive to create a warm ambiance that reflects the charm of a country club, where conversations flow as easily as the wine.
Dish | Description |
---|---|
Meatballs | The signature dish that has garnered consecutive praise over the decades. |
Pasta Primavera | Fresh seasonal vegetables paired with house-made pasta. |
Tiramisu | A perfect end to the meal—light, creamy, and indulging. |
Final thoughts as the Masters approaches
The convergence of golf and gastronomy at Rao’s Country Club during the Masters represents a remarkable fusion of tradition, sport, and luxury. As both attendees and competitors prepare for the excitement ahead, the addition of an acclaimed restaurant such as Rao’s will undoubtedly heighten the experience.
With less than a month to go until the tournament kicks off, the buzz surrounding Rao’s Country Club continues to build. It’s clear that for those attending, April 2025 promises not only remarkable golf skills on display by some of the world’s greatest players but also an unforgettable culinary journey. Those seeking an extraordinary event should tune into this intersection of sports and high-end dining, celebrating the spirit of Augusta.

I’m Mikael, a 35-year-old Gossip Gravity Creator. I’m passionate about curating captivating content that sparks conversations and ignites curiosity. Join me on this exciting journey as we explore the fascinating world of gossip and trends together!