New York is famous for many great things: a thriving economy, cutting-edge business centers, endless entertainment for locals and tourists, and its popularity in cinema. But any New Yorker who loves to gamble will likely head to Las Vegas, as the casino scene in NYC has never really taken off. In fact, the first casino didn’t open in the city until 2016. However, what most people don’t know is that another controversial establishment existed in Central Park back in the late 19th century. Read more at new-york-future.
The History of “The Casino” in Central Park
When Central Park was nearing completion in 1858, architect Calvert Vaux planned to build an exhibition and music hall there. Those plans never materialized, and instead, a small stone cottage appeared at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and 72nd Street. This was the city’s first Ladies’ Refreshment Saloon, a place where women could gather without male chaperones to socialize, relax, and enjoy a variety of food and drinks. Eventually, the owners decided to open their doors to men as well, and the restaurant was renamed “The Casino.”
“The Casino” quickly became an elite restaurant offering a wide selection of dishes, from poultry to lobster, and an extensive wine list. After these elegant dinners, it was common for guests to engage in gambling. The establishment became so popular with locals and tourists that the owners had to expand it, investing about $500,000 in the renovation. In the 1920s, New York media outlets described “The Casino” as a “somewhat crazy nightclub.” By 1928, the establishment was run by theater director Carl Zittel, and when his lease expired, Mayor Jimmy Walker handed “The Casino” over to his friend, Sidney Solomon. It was rumored that Walker owed Solomon money and gave him the restaurant as a favor in exchange for Solomon allowing him to use his tailor’s services for free.
“The Casino” soon became a luxurious establishment only the wealthiest New Yorkers could afford. The Art Deco design was created by Viennese designer Josef Urban. Live music was played for the guests, and meals were prepared by renowned chefs. The average price for dinner was $10, and coffee cost 40 cents—not a small sum at the time. During the Great Depression, this didn’t appeal to a wide audience. Given that “The Casino” was located in Central Park, the new New York City Parks Commissioner, Robert Moses, decided to go to court to shut down the lavish restaurant and casino. This was the moment when the history of this unique establishment came to an end.
The Second Attempt: A New York Casino in 2016
For a long time, New York couldn’t boast of entertainment centers where locals and tourists could try their luck at gambling. However, in 2016, a long-awaited event took place: the Resorts World Casino opened in Queens, near a racetrack. On its opening day, thousands of New Yorkers came to see what the new establishment had to offer and were not disappointed. The casino was created thanks to the efforts of state legislators, and its goal was not only to provide more entertainment options but also to contribute to the city’s economic development. While “Resorts World” differs significantly from the typical understanding of a gambling club (New York law prohibits games with dealers), residents are confident that this establishment can compete with many casinos in Las Vegas.