‘We want to be the premier casino of choice,’ Casino Rama undergoes multi-million dollar upgrades

Casino Rama is undergoing some major multi-million-dollar upgrades.

Casino Rama Resort is in the midst of a multi-million dollar major transformation.

Over the past several months, the resort has launched a wave of upgrades, from new dining and entertainment options to refreshed hotel accommodations and spas.

Gateway Casinos and Entertainment has been working with its partners at the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) and Rama First Nation, embarking on the major refurbishment project.

Friday marked a milestone with the grand opening of MATCH Eatery and Public House, the latest addition to the resort’s lineup of attractions.

Located just inside the main rotunda, staff says MATCH brings a modern pub-style dining experience to the heart of the casino.

This dining experience is one of many new additives to the resort. This is part of an ambitious effort to draw in excitement to the property that has been standing on Orillia grounds since July 1996.

“We certainly want to remain competitive within our market place. There are three large resort casinos in the province and we want to continue to be the premier casino of choice for all patrons in Ontario,” shared Tara Woodward, general manager of Casino Rama.

MATCH is the second new restaurant to open recently, following the debut of Chow Lucky Noodle Bar last fall. A new spa facility has been added on the ground floor, with saunas, steam rooms, and the pool still located on the third. Hotel rooms are now being renovated, beginning with the second level.

Friday’s grand opening drew in a crowd of leaders including OLG Chair Jim Warren, OLG President and CEO Duncan Hannay, AGCO Chief Registrar Karin Schnaar, Rama First Nation Chief Ted Williams, and Orillia Mayor Don McIsaac.

Plans are also in place to open Atlas Steak and Seafood at the former St. Germain’s location part of a premium dining push.

The casino floor has also received a new look with upgraded slot machines. The revitalization’s economic impact has been huge, according to Casino Rama officials, boosting jobs for more than 60 tradespeople working on the renovations.

The entertainment lineup continues to draw crowds with a list of fan favourites set to hit the stage this summer.