Las Vegas (KSNV) — El Cortez Hotel & Casino, the longest continuously operating hotel and casino in Las Vegas, marked a new chapter in its storied history with a grand re-opening event on Thursday, Feb. 20.
The celebration highlighted the completion of a property-wide expansion, featuring remarks from top executives, new dining and beverage options, and a special proclamation from Las Vegas Mayor Shelley Berkley.
Stationed in front of the casino’s new ShowBar, El Cortez owner and CEO Kenny Epstein expressed his enthusiasm for the expansion. “This new chapter brings exciting opportunities to the El Cortez’s iconic history,” Epstein said. His sentiments were echoed by Mike Nolan, COO, and Joe Woody, CFO, during the event.
The highlight of the evening was Mayor Shelley Berkley’s formal proclamation declaring Feb. 20, 2025, as “El Cortez Hotel & Casino Day” throughout Las Vegas.
Guests at the event enjoyed culinary offerings from Hot Noods by Chinglish, the casino’s newest dining venue led by Michelin Guide-recognized Chef Po Fai Lam and Operating Partner Kitty Heck.
Signature drinks from the newly opened ShowBar and Roulette Bar added to the festivities, accompanied by live music from singer Michael Nugent.
Among the notable attendees were Michael Gaughan, owner of South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa; Tito Tiberti, former president of J.A. Tiberti Construction; and Nancy Houssels, co-founder and board chair emeritus of Nevada Ballet Theater.
Originally operated by Las Vegas legends Bugsy Siegel, Meyer Lansky, Gus Greenbaum, and Moe Sedway, El Cortez remains committed to preserving its vintage appeal and rich history.
The $20 million expansion includes 10,000 square feet of additional casino space, a new high-limit lounge, and a Starbucks coffee shop.
The project was executed by McCarthy Building Companies, JIVE Architecture, YESCO, and Kenneth Ussenko Design, in coordination with IKE Gaming, Inc.
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