'New Vegas': Bigger, better casino opening in arena district

Edmontonians who want to dance with Lady Luck will now have a new place to play.

The Grand Villa Casino will officially open Wednesday in the downtown Ice District.

Part of the new Rogers Place development, the new building will replace the neighbouring Baccarat Casino.

The often-mocked Baccarat, frequently referred to as one of Edmonton's worst eyesores, will be torn down as its staff and management move next door.

Eyesore no more

Though both buildings are owned by Gateway Casinos and Entertainment, that's where the similarities end, said CEO Tony Santo.

"We owned Baccarat. We don't admit it often, because of the way it was," Santo said during a Tuesday interview on CBC Radio's Edmonton AM.

"Its presentation really wasn't what we wanted our company to represent. So we were really keen to the fact that we had an opportunity to show Edmonton what we can do with a casino.

"There is absolutely no comparison between the two."

The $32-million building will be more of an opulent entertainment space than its ugly older sister, Santo said.

At 60,000 square feet of entertainment space, with 24 gaming tables, 600 slot machines and private gaming salons, the Grand Villa is double the size of the Baccarat.

'New Vegas'

While the Baccarat had a single bar and restaurant, Villa will have a food court and numerous bars scattered about the main floor and the mezzanine.

Atlas Steak + Fish will provide customers a fine-dining experience. Match Eatery & Public House will offer more casual fare.

Santo said the new casino will attract a more elegant clientele and give downtown Edmonton a taste of "New Las Vegas."

"The casino is going to be absolutely gorgeous," said Santo.

"Grand Villa is our highest brand. It's not just about gambling. It's about being entertained, and with the arena being just next door, it's the perfect fit for us."