Atlantic Coast's Borgata Casino
Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa Shines in Atlantic City's Entertainment Scene
The Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, a beacon of luxury and innovation in Atlantic City, continues to thrive despite the rise of competing casinos and the decline in the US gaming market. Its success can be attributed to its diverse array of "nongaming" attractions, setting it apart from other casinos in the area.
Sprawling over 20,000 square feet, the Borgata's poker room houses a staggering 85 tables. The casino also offers a high-stakes room with 18 tables and a separate room for tournament final stages with 9 tables. Daily $100 + $20 buy-in tournaments are held, and on Fridays, a weekly tournament with a $75,000 guaranteed prize pool takes place.
Entertainment is another key factor that sets Borgata apart. The casino hosts headliners like Billy Joel, Bon Jovi, Eric Clapton, Mary J. Blige, Rihanna, Aerosmith, Depeche Mode, and more. Annually, the World Poker Tour's Borgata Poker Open tournaments take place, further cementing its reputation as a leader in casino entertainment.
Borgata's nightlife is also noteworthy. It features 7 nightclubs, including Sunbar with a pool and Gypsy Bar with live music. The casino's unique feature, the Borgata Babes, adds an extra touch of glamour to the experience.
Dining at Borgata is a challenge, with the casino boasting twenty-two restaurants of all kinds, helmed by world-renowned chefs. The casino's reinvestment in its dining options, such as the creation of a 25,000-square-foot Asian gaming area, has notably boosted revenue and attracted a diverse clientele.
The Borgata offers high-end luxury and amenities, with features like flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, concierge and room service, pool and poolside bar, and proximity to major Atlantic City attractions. The casino has actively refreshed its gaming floor and bars and works closely with local regulatory bodies to maintain high standards and stay competitive.
However, the Borgata has faced controversy. In 2014, professional poker player Phil Ivey was involved in a scandal where the casino refused to pay him $9.6 million he won in baccarat, accusing him of cheating. Ivey filed a countersuit against the casino in the summer of 2015, claiming that the casino destroyed key evidence in the case.
Despite this, the Borgata continues to be a catalyst for growth and a benchmark for luxury and innovative gaming in Atlantic City. It transformed the city by introducing a modern, upscale resort experience that helped redefine the city’s entertainment and nightlife scene. The Borgata also houses 11 retail stores, a 5,000 square-foot Spa Toccare, and a fitness center, making it a destination not just for gambling enthusiasts but for anyone seeking entertainment and relaxation.
What is the Borgata's casino-culture like, blending high-stakes gaming, entertainment, and luxury experiences?The Borgata-Hotel Casino & Spa is renowned for its casino-personalities, drawing attention with high-profile lawsuits involving casino-games and casino-personalities like Phil Ivey.
