Vegas Dining Trends: How Massive New Food Halls at Venetian and In-N-Out Drive Massive Casino Revenue

A new In-N-Out Burger is on the way in Las Vegas, taking prime space on the third-floor rooftop of The BLVD. This 400,000 square-foot retail, entertainment, and dining plaza is replacing the old Hawaiian Marketplace at 3755 S. Las Vegas Blvd., serving as a strategic anchor to keep visitors on-site. By enhancing the local dining landscape, such developments help drive foot traffic to nearby gaming floors, ultimately contributing to the overall surge in casino revenue throughout the district.

This location marks a significant expansion for In-N-Out, bringing their representation on the Strip to two locations. The new restaurant is anticipated to be the largest In-N-Out ever built, featuring 8,000 square feet of indoor dining space and an additional 2,500 square feet outdoors on the patio.

The popular West Coast fast food chain debuted its initial Strip location across from the Flamingo at LINQ Promenade in 2022. Currently, it operates nearly 14 locations throughout Las Vegas, with over 400 nationwide!

Another Delicious Addition: Food Hall at The Venetian

Coming next summer, a new food hall named Via Via is set to open at The Venetian. This anticipated food hall will host an impressive lineup of gourmet dining options, including:

• All’Antico Vinaio, known for its world-renowned Florentine sandwiches
• B.S. Taqueria, a chorizo haven launched by chef Ray Garcia in LA
• Howlin’ Ray’s, a hotspot for Nashville hot chicken created by chef Johnny Ray Zone
• Ivan Ramen, a high-end ramen restaurant led by acclaimed chef Ivan Orkin
• Scarr’s Pizza, a pizzeria from chef Scarr Pimentel that draws on New York traditions
• Turkey and the Wolf and Molly’s Rise and Shine, both New Orleans eateries by James Beard Award-winning chef Mason Hereford

News also broke recently regarding the Palazzo Tower being the upcoming location for Bazaar Meat by culinary superstar José Andrés, making its move from the Sahara next year.

Via Via represents the fifth new food hall in Las Vegas within just two years, indicating a shift from traditional buffets to this more upscale dining concept, which has proven to be more lucrative for casino businesses.

Dining Ins & Outs

The dining scene in Las Vegas is ever-evolving. Recently opened is Brunello, an Italian eatery located in Summerlin at 9320 Sun City Blvd., taking over the space previously occupied by My Mother’s House.

Additionally, The Cosmopolitan has applied for a trademark for Naughty Patty’s, hinting at plans for a hamburger restaurant that may take the place of Holsteins, which has already been promised to Amaya Modern Mexican Restaurant.

Quick Summary

The dining landscape in Las Vegas continues to impress and innovate, with significant new additions like the largest In-N-Out Burger and the Via Via food hall at The Venetian. As casinos adapt to changing trends, they are shifting towards upscale dining experiences that enhance the visitor experience and boost revenues in an industry where gaming revenue plays a diminishing role. Keep an eye out for these exciting developments!

Illegal Online Gambling Continues to Cause Controversy in Japan’s Baseball Scene

Illegal online gambling remains a pressing issue within the highly acclaimed world of professional baseball in Japan, a nation where the sport holds an esteemed reputation. The scandal has particularly rocked Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), which is the highest tier of professional baseball in Japan.

Key Facts

• Online gambling is strictly illegal in Japan.
• Japanese gamers wager an estimated $45 billion online annually.
• Recent investigations revealed that numerous players from NPB have violated these laws.

In February, a significant scandal emerged when 14 players admitted to participating in illegal online games, fully aware that these platforms operate without regulation. Among the most recent cases, four players from the Saitama Seibu Lions—a prominent team within the NPB—were charged with illegal online gambling. These players include Tonosaki Shuta, Tsuge Sena, Kodama Ryosuke, and Hasegawa Shinya.

The Saitama Prefectural Police initiated a probe into the players’ off-field activities following a tip-off from the team management. Additionally, a staff member from the team was implicated in making illegal wagers.

In an official statement, the Saitama Seibu Lions conveyed that the involved parties expressed “deep regret” regarding their actions and accepted the penalties upheld by the club. Importantly, there was no evidence suggesting the violators had engaged in betting on sports or jeopardised the integrity of the NPB.

Japan’s Professional Baseball Scene

The Saitama Seibu Lions enjoy a storied history, boasting 13 Japan Series titles. Notably, pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka, who played for the Lions, went on to achieve greatness in Major League Baseball (MLB).

As the gambling concerns unfold, there is a broader pattern at play within Japan’s love for baseball. The affection for gambling and betting extends beyond the local league and into global arenas. One notable case involved Ippei Mizuhara, who was the interpreter for MLB superstar Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Mizuhara was discharged from his position in March 2024 after being accused of embezzling over $16 million from Ohtani to sustain his gambling addiction. Federal prosecutors confirmed that there was no indication Ohtani was aware of Mizuhara’s actions or participated in gambling himself. Consequently, Mizuhara was sentenced to 57 months in prison and assigned three years of supervised probation.

Measures Taken by the NPB

In light of these incidents, the NPB has instructed its teams to engage in detailed internal assessments to identify any other players or staff members involved in illegal gambling. The league has also advocated for educational initiatives to inform players and team members about their gambling limitations and responsibilities.

It’s worth noting that this issue isn’t encased within just the professional landscape of Japanese baseball. Statistics show that Japanese citizens engaged in an astounding $45 billion worth of online gambling last year, suggesting a potential systemic problem.

Current State of Gambling in Japan

Japan forbids most forms of gambling, permitting only state-run lotteries, sports lotteries, and parimutuel betting on horse races and motorsport events. While Pachinko parlours operate under the guise of entertainment, they do offer cash rewards.

The country is currently undergoing a significant change with the liberalisation of its casino industry. Notably, MGM Resorts has collaborated with Orix Corporation to develop MGM Osaka, a nearly $9 billion casino complex set to open on Yumeshima Island. Notably, Japanese residents will require a ¥3,000 (approximately $21) entry fee, which is doubled for Osaka residents. This strategy aims to mitigate potential gambling addiction among locals.

Despite these developments, all varieties of online gambling remain prohibited within the country, highlighting a strong regulatory stance as officials wrestle with the challenge of managing these illicit activities.

Conclusion

The ongoing issue of illegal online gambling continues to present serious challenges for Japan’s professional baseball scene. With rising gambling statistics and high-profile scandals, it is evident that this matter requires urgent attention from authorities. As Japan pushes towards a more liberalised gambling landscape, balancing legislation with player integrity and public safety remains a significant concern.

Bettys New Online Casino Partnership with the Maple Leafs and Raptors

Betty, a leading online casino operator based in Toronto, has recently announced an exciting multi-year partnership with the well-regarded Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto Raptors. This alliance is poised to create enhanced gaming experiences while promoting community-based initiatives.

Key Highlights of the Partnership

• Strategic Expansion: Betty is set to broaden its reach across Ontario and beyond with this new collaboration.
• Activations to Commence: The partnership activations are expected to kick off this October as the NHL season starts.
• Community Impact: The deal supports community initiatives through the MLSE Foundation, aiming to provide meaningful experiences for fans and players alike.

The Power of Branding

Living in Toronto, one can easily recognise the strong influence of the Toronto Maple Leafs and their dedicated fan base. The partnership places Betty in a unique position to leverage this brand power effectively, offering promotions that resonate with local fans.

Activations to Begin in October

As part of this exciting collaboration, Betty has become the “Official Online Casino Partner of the Leafs and Raptors,” with various activations planned as the hockey season heats up. CEO Chavdar Dimitrov stated, “This partnership represents an important shift for Betty, allowing us to connect with fans in a deeper and more engaging manner. We’re committed to offering exciting opportunities that enhance the connection between sports and gaming.”

A Commitment to Growth and Expansion

The partnership is not merely about branding; it embodies Betty’s ambition to expand its operations, enhance its mobile offerings, and improve its loyalty programs. The company aims to double its revenue in Ontario and venture into new territories. Dimitrov also mentioned the launch of a new mobile app, scheduled for release soon, reflecting their commitment to innovation in the iGaming sector.

Chance to Win Big!

• Exclusive VIP experiences and events for basketball and hockey fans.
• Engaging contests and promotions tied to both teams’ performance.
• Community-oriented programs supporting local initiatives.

What’s Next?

As Betty moves forward with this strategic partnership, many more details and offerings are set to be unveiled in the coming months. This partnership marks a significant milestone in betting and gaming in Ontario, promising an array of exciting experiences for fans and customers.

Conclusion

This partnership symbolizes not just a business move for Betty, but also a step toward fostering a stronger community between sports enthusiasts and the world of online gaming. As they prepare for activations and new offerings, both fans and gamers alike have much to look forward to.

Casino Surveillance Intensifies: Murder Suspect Still on Run from Emerald Queen Casino

US Marshals and local police are doubling down on their efforts to track down Elijah Dominick Hylton, a suspect in the 2020 fatal shooting of a rival gang member at the Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Washington, intensifying the focus on the casinos security protocols and the effectiveness of ongoing casino surveillance efforts.

Hylton, aged 29, is wanted on a first-degree murder warrant issued in January 2023. Investigators believe he shot and killed Ty Jenkins, aged 25, in the casino’s parking garage after an argument erupted on the gaming floor.

The incident escalated rapidly; surveillance footage captured Hylton exiting the casino and firing at Jenkins before fleeing the scene in a red Toyota Corolla.

Getaway Driver Charged

Authorities arrested Hylton’s brother, David Sekou Sebowa Ward, in 2022, believing him to be the getaway driver. Ward has been charged with first-degree murder and is currently awaiting trial.

This shooting was likely a retaliation, with both men believed to be part of rival gang factions. Hylton reportedly has ties to local members of the Crips gang.

Investigators suspect Jenkins had previously been robbed during a firearm sale, potentially involving Hylton. In a separate attack in July 2020, two individuals were shot in retaliation for this robbery, with shell casings matching Jenkins’ firearm found at the scene.

‘Armed and Dangerous’

The police identified Hylton based on surveillance video, which notably showed him wearing four distinctive rings on his left hand. These rings were later pawned shortly after the shooting, which led to their recovery as evidence.

Police advise the public not to approach Hylton and to report any sightings immediately by calling 911 or reaching out to the US Marshals at 1-877-WANTED-2 (1-877-926-8332) or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

Conclusion

The case remains under intense scrutiny as authorities ramp up their efforts to locate Elijah Hylton. With his dangerous background and potential to arm himself further, the urgency for public assistance is paramount. Hylton’s capture would not only bring closure to the family of Ty Jenkins but also send a message regarding gang violence and accountability in the community.

DraftKings CEO on Illinois Tax Hike: What It Means for the Sports Betting Industry

DraftKings co-founder and CEO Jason Robins has expressed his strong discontent regarding the latest sports betting tax increase in Illinois, calling it “incredibly ill conceived.” The newly enforced law imposes a tax of 25 cents on an operator’s first 20 million bets, and a further fee of 50 cents on all subsequent bets.

In a recent CNBC interview, Robins criticized the tax hike as burdensome, enhancing the already difficult conditions faced by sports betting operators in Illinois, particularly DraftKings and rival FanDuel. Both companies have implemented a fee of 50 cents per bet to cover the increased operational costs, which will directly affect bettors starting September 1. However, both firms have committed to retracting these fees if lawmakers negotiate a more reasonable solution.

Implications of the Illinois Tax Hike

Robins believes that this tax hike will not only impact big operators but also severely affect smaller firms. According to him, the hefty transaction costs may drive bettors towards unregulated or illegal betting options, undermining the legal sports betting market. He elaborated:

“It just makes no sense. It was done in the dead of night. We had no warning. We actually met with legislative leaders in the weeks before the budget was released and they made no mention of this.”

Furthermore, with the implementation of over 50 tax increases in Illinois since Governor J.B. Pritzker’s administration began in January 2019, Robins highlighted the necessity for education among lawmakers. He indicated that they might not fully grasp how these tax increases apply to gross receipts rather than to profits or revenue, which could lead to more significant implications for the market as a whole.

Potential Risks for Bettors and Operators

While analysts believe that Illinois’ unique per bet tax scheme is improbable to be replicated in other states, some states like Louisiana and Maryland have already adjusted their sports wagering taxes upwards this year. Other states including Massachusetts, New Jersey, and North Carolina may follow suit.

Robins warns that such hikes could stifle innovations in the gaming sector and ultimately lead to consumer detriment:

• Activity could shift to the illegal market and reduce tax revenues for the state.
• Consumer protections will vanish, allowing minors easier access to betting options.
• The very purpose of legalizing such activities—to safeguard consumers and generate tax revenue—will be undermined.

In conclusion, Rest assured that Illinois’ recent tax hike is under heavy scrutiny, not only from industry leaders like Robins but also from stakeholders advocating for the long-term sustainability of the legal betting landscape.

This discourse is vital not just for Illinois but also serves as a cautionary tale for other states considering similar paths. As more debates arise around sports betting regulations, the balance between taxation and fostering a healthy market remains a critical conversation.

Overall, as Jason Robins stated, deregulation and consumer protection should remain at the forefront of our discussions to ensure the future of sports betting is both profitable and safe.