The Grand Reveal: Caesars Hotel and Casino in New Orleans Completes Major Renovation
After four long years of construction delays, the Caesars Hotel and Casino in New Orleans is ready to welcome guests with its stunning transformation. This monumental $435 million project, which comprehensively renovated the former Harrah’s property, is not only a testament to resilience, particularly in the face of post-pandemic inflation, but it also positions New Orleans as a prime destination ahead of the eagerly anticipated 2025 Super Bowl.
A Monumental Transformation
The journey of renovation began with a construction fence that succinctly stated, "Rome wasn’t built in a day," aptly reflecting the lengthy process that involved substantial planning and execution. The Caesars Hotel and Casino, which has served visitors for nearly 25 years, underwent a complete overhaul designed to modernize its offerings while enhancing the guest experience.
General Manager Samir Mowad candidly described the challenges of the renovation, likening it to "changing the tires on a moving bus." Despite budget increases of over $100 million and numerous delays, the team persevered, and the project is finally set to unveil the many changes to the public.
Enhancements Fit for a King
Central to the renovation is a complete revamp of the 115,000-square-foot gaming area. Casino enthusiasts can look forward to impressive new features that include:
- A brand-new World Series of Poker Room.
- An upgraded Caesars Sportsbook area, featuring a colossal 147-foot wall of TV screens, perfect for sports fans eager to catch their favorite games.
- A High Limit gaming section catering to high rollers with minimum bets starting at $100.
For those seeking an exclusive experience, private Salon rooms now offer personalized table games along with opportunities to mingle with sports and entertainment celebrities. Director of Security and Facilities, Stacey Dorsey, remarked, "At the point you’re in the Salon, everyone is a celebrity," highlighting the luxury that guests can expect.
Luxury Accommodations
In addition to the entertainment offerings, Caesars has introduced a striking 15-story, 340-room hotel annex along Convention Center Boulevard. This new building features a "valet porte cochère" at its entrance for added convenience.
Particularly noteworthy is the creation of a "hotel within a hotel" that carries the exclusive Nobu brand, boasting 54 luxury rooms including 12 suites designed for the most discerning clientele. Each suite reflects the elegance and sophistication that Nobu is famous for, providing a unique stay for guests who value high-end hospitality.
Culinary Innovations
Dining options at Caesars have expanded dramatically, showcasing an array of high-profile culinary talents. Under the helm of celebrated chef Nobu Matsuhisa, his new Nobu restaurant has now opened on the casino level, available seven days a week. The restaurant presents a captivating menu featuring a blend of sushi, sashimi, and signature hot and cold dishes, appealing to those who appreciate gourmet dining.
Moreover, Emeril’s Brasserie, crafted by New Orleans’ own culinary icon, Emeril Lagasse, has made its debut on the Canal Street side of the casino. Unique to New Orleans, this new brasserie concept excites both locals and tourists alike. "Emeril is not cookie cutter, and he wanted to open his first brasserie here,” Mowad expressed, reflecting the synergy between the chef’s renowned legacy and the vibrant city.
Adding to the gastronomic delights is a sprawling 12,000-square-foot food court, home to fast-casual dining options helmed by notable chefs such as Nina Compton, Bobby Flay, and Buddy Valastro. Together, they introduce an exciting mix of international and local flavors, catering to all palates and preferences.
A New Social Scene
Replacing the former Masquerade dance club is the revamped lounge, Octavia. With a jaw-dropping design that includes a magnificent $750,000 chandelier, this venue is poised to become a social hotspot. Mowad commented, “The volume of the space of Octavia is jaw-dropping,” emphasizing the welcoming ambiance designed to impress visitors.
A Catalyst for Growth
The renovation of Caesars New Orleans is more than just the transformation of a casino; it signifies a strategic effort to uplift the hospitality district in New Orleans. As a critical part of a broader revitalization initiative, Mowad reflects, “Just think about how this little corner of New Orleans has now been transformed over the last five, six years.”
This ambitious transformation coincides with other large-scale development projects in the downtown area, such as the $530 million Four Seasons Hotel and Condominiums and the $570 million upgrade to the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Together, these significant investments, exceeding billions of dollars, aim to reshape the city’s hospitality landscape ahead of the 2025 Super Bowl.
Conclusion
With its enhanced gaming options, luxurious accommodations, and a wealth of dining experiences, Caesars Hotel and Casino in New Orleans is primed to captivate visitors long after the Super Bowl festivities conclude. This renovation heralds a new era for both the property and the city, blending a legacy of luxury with modern sophistication to create a truly unforgettable experience for all its guests. Whether you’re a gaming aficionado, a culinary enthusiast, or simply looking for a comfortable stay, the newly revamped Caesars invites you to explore and indulge in all that it has to offer.
