Overview
The Big Easy Casino is a notable entertainment venue located in Hallandale Beach, Florida. Owned by Jeffrey Soffer, it previously operated under the names Mardi Gras Casino and Hollywood Greyhound Track. The casino boasts over 70,000 square feet of gaming space, featuring more than 900 slot machines, virtual table games, such as roulette and blackjack, and a dedicated poker room with more than 30 tables. The complex also incorporates various amenities, including restaurants, bars, a flea market, and a gift shop. Historically significant, the casino transitioned from a greyhound racing site, with its final race on May 5, 2018. Despite ceasing live races, the casino continues to support simulcast greyhound, harness, and thoroughbred racing, maintaining its ties with the racing community.
The Big Easy Casino originally opened on December 1, 1934, as the Hollywood Kennel Club. Over the decades, it has undergone substantial changes, particularly following a 2004 referendum that approved slot machines, leading to significant renovations in 2006. In 2018, Jeffrey Soffer acquired and rebranded the property as The Big Easy Casino.
Facilities and Offerings
The Big Easy Casino provides a comprehensive array of attractions, including:
- Gaming: The facility offers over 900 slot machines, including 'The Dog Pound'—a smoker-friendly slot area.
- Poker Room: Featuring games such as Texas Hold 'em, 7 Card Stud, and Omaha, with free nightly poker tournaments to enhance visitor engagement.
- Dining: Various dining options cater to diverse preferences, with establishments like The French Quarter (signature restaurant), Le Royale, Trifecta Grille & Bar, and Bonjour Cafe.
- Entertainment: A dynamic calendar of events, including concerts and comedy shows, contributes to the vibrant visitor experience.
- Krewe Club Membership Program: A loyalty initiative offering tiered benefits like complimentary event tickets and free valet service.
Management Team
The leadership team at The Big Easy Casino includes:
- Mike DeLuca, Slot Director, with over thirteen years of experience, overseeing slot operations.
- James Dunlap, Director of Surveillance, ensuring safety and security, with technical expertise from ITT Technical Institute-Fort Lauderdale.
- Quinn Kelly, Creative Director, leading creative strategy and marketing, leveraging skills from Florida Atlantic University.
Website: [The Big Easy Casino](https://thebigeasycasino.com/)
Competitor Profiling
The Big Easy Casino is a competitive player in the gambling and gaming industry with an estimated annual revenue of $16.4 million and a workforce of approximately 80 employees. It faces competition from several entertainment providers:
Direct Competitors
- Venevision Productions
- Based in Coral Gables, Florida, this entertainment entity focuses on television distribution and reports an annual revenue of $14.2 million.
- Garden Theatre
- A nonprofit entertainment organization in Winter Garden, Florida, recognized for live performances, films, and concerts, struggling with financial challenges affecting its operations.
- Crave
- Although not directly aligned with gambling, Crave’s lifestyle and entertainment services categorize it as a secondary competitor.
Other Competitors
- Valley View Casino & Hotel
- Located in Valley Center, California, it features a comprehensive gaming experience with over 2,000 slot machines, 26 table games, and a revenue of $181.7 million, employing between 501-1,000 people.
- Colusa Casino Resort
- Established in 1986 in Colusa, California, offering gaming and luxury experiences with a revenue of $150 million and a staff of 201-500 employees.
- Casino Pauma
- Based in California, it offers gaming, a player's club, and dining services, generating revenue between $10M and $50M.
Recent Developments
Plans for residential construction adjacent to The Big Easy Casino are underway, with 13th Floor Investments securing $83 million for apartment development. This initiative could increase patronage through improved accessibility and accommodation options for visitors.
Strategic Insights
Operating in an environment dominated by larger rivals, predominantly California-based with higher revenues, The Big Easy Casino has growth opportunities through its strategic location in Florida and potential partnerships linked to residential developments. These efforts could enhance its appeal and attract a larger customer base.
