Rome wasn’t built in a day, and this wisdom applies to the transformation of New Orleans’ only land-based casino. The extensive renovations are nearly complete, and the newly revamped Caesars Hotel and Casino is poised to welcome bettors to the bayou with a completely transformed look. Following a $435 million overhaul, the rebranded Caesars New Orleans will officially reopen this week, featuring new restaurants, bars, and a redesigned gaming floor. This ambitious project concludes just months ahead of the influx of visitors expected for the 2025 Super Bowl in the Crescent City.
Buffet Out, Celebrity Chef Restaurants In
The renovations mark a significant shift in the culinary offerings at Caesars New Orleans. Gone is the traditional buffet, replaced by a vibrant food hall that showcases the talents of celebrity chefs. Notable names like Bobby Flay, Buddy Valastro, and Nina Compton will be serving up their signature dishes, bringing a fresh and exciting dining experience to the casino. Additionally, renowned chef Emeril Lagasse has opened a new restaurant within the casino, further elevating the culinary landscape.
The revamped gaming floor is designed to enhance the overall experience, making it more inviting and engaging for guests. One of the standout features of the renovation is the new Octavia Lounge, which replaces the former Masquerade dance club. This stunning lounge boasts a $750,000 chandelier, serving as a centerpiece that draws inspiration from both Ancient Rome and New Orleans. Named after Octavia, the niece of Julius Caesar, the lounge’s octagonal design celebrates the number eight, intertwining themes of history and local culture.
In addition to the culinary upgrades, there was a concerted effort to develop previously unused areas on the second floor, as well as to refresh both the exterior and interior of the casino. The new Caesars New Orleans also features a luxurious Nobu hotel and a tower with 340 rooms, providing guests with a comprehensive and upscale experience.
New Orleans Is the Birthplace of Casinos
New Orleans has a rich history as a gambling hub, earning the nickname “Gambling City” long before the construction of the St. Louis Cathedral in 1727. Historians note that residents frequently indulged in gambling within billiard halls and cabarets, which played a crucial role in Louisiana’s history.
By the early 1800s, French settlers at the Port of New Orleans introduced a card game that involved betting and bluffing, closely resembling today’s “draw poker.” This game, known as “Poque” in French or “Poch” in English, laid the groundwork for the gambling culture that would flourish in the city.
In 1822, John Davis opened the first gambling casino in New Orleans, which operated around the clock, offering fancy food, drinks, and games like roulette, Faro, and poker. The casino also featured entertainers, often referred to as “painted ladies,” who added to the lively atmosphere.
Site Is Old Harrah’s Hotel and Casino
The newly renovated Caesars hotel and casino occupies the site of the former Harrah’s property. Harrah’s New Orleans Casino opened its doors in October 1999 on Canal Street, strategically located in the heart of downtown New Orleans, just steps away from the historic French Quarter and the Mississippi River. The Harrah’s Hotel and Fulton Street pedestrian promenade followed in 2006, enhancing the area’s appeal.
Harrah’s New Orleans offered an impressive 115,000 square feet of gambling space, and its 450-room luxury hotel opened in 2016 adjacent to the casino on Poydras Street. Both the casino and hotel are within walking distance of the vibrant French Quarter, making them a prime destination for visitors.
Caesars Entertainment is now the parent company of Harrah’s, with an operating contract that extends until 2054, following a recently agreed-upon 30-year extension. This partnership ensures that Caesars New Orleans will continue to be a significant player in the city’s gaming and hospitality landscape.
About the Author
Dave Grendzynski is a casino writer for Vegas Insider and Action Network. His most cherished casino experience is hitting a royal flush after betting the maximum amount on a machine at Seneca Niagara. Follow Dave Grendzynski @casinonewsdave on Twitter/X.