The El Cortez Hotel & Casino, an iconic establishment nestled in the heart of Las Vegas, recently completed an ambitious $20 million expansion, showcasing a compelling blend of tradition and modernity. Launched during a remarkable era in 1941, the hotel has remained an essential part of the Las Vegas narrative, and under the stewardship of Kenny Epstein, it has undergone significant enhancements aimed at captivating a new generation of visitors.
Occupied by a commitment to preserving the hotel’s vintage essence, Epstein is on a mission to breathe life into the hallowed halls of El Cortez. “To keep this old girl up, we just have to keep on improving it,” he remarked, revealing his admiration for the building’s storied past while recognizing the necessity of adaptation. This latest expansion, which includes a high-limit lounge, two dynamic bars, the Hot Noods by Chinglish restaurant, and even a Starbucks, signals a proactive approach to cater to evolving guest preferences while maintaining a connection to the hotel’s rich history.
A New Era of Entertainment and Leisure
Spanning an impressive additional 10,000 square feet, the renovated casino space introduces around 200 new slot machines alongside the high-limit lounge, enhancing the gaming experience for patrons. The aesthetic choices in the bar designs are notable; one takes inspiration from the whirl of a roulette wheel while the other is equipped with a stage for live performances complemented by a massive screen for films, music, and sports. This ambition to meld together elements of entertainment within the gaming floor harkens back to the golden days of Las Vegas when lounges played an instrumental role in the casino experience.
Epstein expresses a sentiment echoed by patrons and purists alike: “It’s like old Las Vegas, where the lounges were right in the casino.” This phrasing evokes a nostalgic image of Las Vegas that many associate with its glorious, hand-crafted atmosphere rather than its more modern, sterile counterparts. The vibrancy of this nostalgic throwback could prove vital in distinguishing El Cortez from its competitors, a factor that Epstein seems to understand instinctively.
Hot Noods: A Culinary Twist
A significant highlight of the expansion is the introduction of Hot Noods, a full-service Asian noodle bar that boldly combines contemporary aesthetics with traditional culinary delights. Bright pink tables, gold accents, and striking decor including Asian script and street art give a playful vibe to the restaurant, while the sophisticated ambiance speaks volumes about the careful curation of services on offer. This balance of contemporary whimsy and classic elegance encapsulates Epstein’s philosophy: retain the essence of El Cortez while appealing actively to a younger demographic.
The shifting demographic profile is striking; Epstein has noted a pivot from a historic 70% local, 30% tourist ratio to the current 70% tourist and 30% local mix, with a notable drop in average patron age from 53 to 37. This transformation can be partially attributed to the burgeoning popularity of nearby establishments, particularly the Circa Resort & Casino, which has drawn a fresh influx of visitors to the downtown area. As Epstein quipped, the rise of Circa has worked to the benefit of neighboring venues by elevating overall property values and interest: “If you build a home worth five times more, your house is worth more too.”
Commitment to Service in Tradition
While modernization is essential, Epstein is aware of the importance of service and the personal touch that has historically defined the Las Vegas experience. With the El Cortez building being over 80 years old, ongoing improvements are crucial. Epstein is introducing upgraded air conditioning systems to ensure comfort during the peak season, but the true distinguishing factor remains their customer service ethos. He emphasizes a dedication to the kind of genuine hospitality that encourages a familial, welcoming atmosphere.
Epstein’s understanding of the balance between adapting to modern tastes while preserving the essence of what makes El Cortez unique exemplifies an admirable leadership approach. Where most would bend under pressure to conform to the mainstream, he champions the idea of tradition as the backbone of successful hospitality. This approach is not merely about survival; it is about nurturing a legacy that continues to flourish in an ever-changing environment, one that both honors the past and embraces the present. It’s a challenge faced by many in the hospitality industry, but one that El Cortez has accepted with both confidence and creativity.
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