El Cortez Hotel & Casino, an iconic gem nestled in downtown Las Vegas, has recently unveiled a grand $20 million expansion that breathes new life into this historic establishment. Featuring a high-limit lounge, two vibrant bars, the innovative Hot Noods by Chinglish restaurant, and a welcoming Starbucks, this transformation is the latest chapter in a multiyear journey to restore and refresh the beloved property.
Founded in 1941—a year that coincidentally marks the birth of its current CEO and chairman, Kenny Epstein—the El Cortez carries not just the weight of history, but a commitment to evolve with the times. “To keep this old girl up, we just have to keep on improving it,” Epstein explains, embodying the spirit of a steward who recognizes the importance of both tradition and progress.
Utilizing what was once a closed restaurant and kitchen, the expansion adds an impressive 10,000 square feet of casino space. This upgrade includes around 200 fresh slot machines and a luxurious high-limit lounge, catering to a diverse crowd of gaming enthusiasts.
One of the standout features of the expansion is a bar designed to resemble a giant roulette wheel—a playful nod to the thrill of chance and the signature Vegas experience. Additionally, another bar will wow visitors with a stage for live performances and a substantial 20-by-10-foot screen showcasing films, music videos, and live sports. “It’s like old Las Vegas, where the lounges were right in the casino,” Epstein reminisces, remembering how the entertainment was central to the gambling experience, a charm he wishes to recreate in a modern context.
Hot Noods is no ordinary dining venue. With its playful pink tables, elegant gold chairs, and chic green-tile wall, the restaurant is a feast for the eyes before the food even arrives. The ambiance captures a vibrant essence complemented by dark marble flooring, neon accents, and playful street art that invites diners to immerse themselves completely in the experience.
As Epstein navigates the complexities of modern hospitality, he acknowledges that El Cortez’s clientele is shifting. “We used to be 70% local and 30% tourist, and our average age was like 53,” he shares. “Now we’re about 70% tourists and 30% local, and our average age is around 37.” This change in demographic, which he attributes to the emergence of nearby properties like the Circa Resort & Casino, underscores the importance of adaptability in an evolving market. “If you have a home worth X amount of dollars, and someone builds a house five times more expensive next door, your value instantly increases,” Epstein explains, likening the transformation of Las Vegas to their own evolving status.
Yet, enhancing the building’s allure goes beyond flashy renovations—it involves ensuring a comfortable stay for visitors. Epstein is acutely aware of the challenges, given that the structure is well over 80 years old. “We’re making improvements like better air conditioning as we head into summer because comfort should never be an afterthought,” he remarks.
With an acknowledgment that El Cortez does not boast the same amenities as some of its larger competitors, Epstein emphasizes the need for exceptional service. “We have to double down, triple down on service and old-fashioned handshaking, because that’s what we’re known for. We take care of our customers,” he asserts, reminding us that genuine hospitality transcends opulence.
As guests walk through the doors of El Cortez, they are not just entering a hotel or a casino; they are stepping into a storied past interwoven with a future filled with promise and excitement. Under the watchful eye of Kenny Epstein, this historic establishment is determined to forge ahead, ensuring that every visitor receives the warmth and attention they deserve while embracing the thrill of Las Vegas.
Image Source: Kayak
