Historic Atmosphere and Attractions
The Sands Bethlehem Casino opened its doors to the public on Friday, the 22nd, featuring a captivating interior adorned with historic images of the Bethlehem Steel. The casino’s restaurants and bars are named with a nod to industrial themes, such as Molten Lounge, Cobalt, and Coil.
Emeril Lagasse’s Chop House
One of the standout attractions is Emeril Lagasse’s Chop House, which marks his third restaurant on the Las Vegas Sands property. The restaurant was bustling on opening day, as many were eager to see the renowned chef, famous for popularizing the phrase "bam!"
Special Events and Guests
Among the highlights was a special meet-and-greet dinner won by Ann and Philip Monesmith. The couple enjoyed a memorable evening, with Emeril Lagasse himself frequently checking in on guests to ensure their experience was exceptional. Monesmith, a poker player, expressed excitement about returning to the casino regularly.
Casino’s Strategic Location
Robert DeSalvio, President of Sands Bethlehem Casino, anticipates a high volume of visitors due to the casino’s prime location. It is just a 90-minute drive from New York City and about an hour from Philadelphia.
Opening Day and Future Plans
The opening days saw large crowds as visitors lined up to collect their "My Sands" reward cards, which are necessary for earning comp points. The Sands Bethlehem Casino is still in the process of completing a 300-room hotel and plans to add a retail component and meeting space once the economy recovers.
