Exclusive Interview
Anthony Barbato – Downtown Grand Casino [Las Vegas]

Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino - Las VegasFor our Las Vegas Casino Survey, we visit every venue to make sure our guide has the most complete and up to date information. One of our regular stops is the Downtown Grand Hotel and Casino. Close to Fremont Street, this casino offers great casino games for players.

On this particular visit, the OUSC team was lucky enough to run into Anthony Barbato, the Casino Marketing and Special Events Coordinating Manager, and were able to sit down and talk to him.

Anthony Barbato Chats with OUSC

After updating our survey information about their blackjack tables, we chatted with him about what makes this one of our favorite casinos to visit when we go to Las Vegas. From rewards programs and tournaments this is an inside look into one of Las Vegas’ classic casino venues.

What is the greatest benefit of being part of the Downtown Grand Rewards program?

Downtown Grand Outside ViewThe greatest benefit of being part of the Grand Rewards Program are all of the perks that it includes. This free program is your key to getting deals, promotions, event invites, and exclusive offers. The Grand Rewards program has some of the richest offers and highly tiered promotions anywhere in Las Vegas.

Just for signing up, guests have their own slot tournament and the ability to earn up to $300 in free play instantly with the Downtown Dough instant reward promotion.

Does the casino offer blackjack tournaments? Can you provide some basic information about them, how can players register, how big and frequent are they?

We do offer Blackjack Tournaments! Our major tournaments occur twice a year. The prize pool ranges from $20,000 up to $50,000. With the 1st place winner walking away with cash prizes.

Everyone is welcome to register and would just need to arrive at the Grand Casino on the first day of the tournament. The next tournament is occurring this March and then we will have the next big tournament in December.

One of the writers for OUSC played at the casino a few years back. This is what he had to say:

“The rules are not the only reason to choose Downtown Grand over Fremont Street casinos. The ease of getting comps for simply showing cash was impressive. The pit bosses made sure we had everything we needed. The dealers were all efficient and made no mistakes. The speed of the game was typically fast. The drink service was, too. Players can get higher-end liquor and Red Bull at table games.”

This is probably what every casino player wants. Fair rules and great, honest service. What is the secret to being considered one of the friendliest casinos in Las Vegas?

I wouldn’t say it’s a secret, it’s just the willingness to go above and beyond to make sure that every guest is treated in a friendly and professional manner. It is one of the core beliefs at the Downtown Grand. We are here to make sure our guests have the best experiences and the most fun possible.
The Grand Rewards program has some of the richest offers and highly tiered promotions anywhere in Las Vegas.

Anthony Barbato

What would you say is the best thing about playing Blackjack in Downtown Grand?

The best thing about playing blackjack here at the Downtown Grand is the combination of rules we allow to be played. This includes always paying blackjack at three to two. We truly are one of the few places in the city to do that!

We also allow players to double after splits on all games, surrender and split aces up to four hands-on our six-deck games as well as allowing to double down on any two cards.

Which is the favorite table game at Downtown Grand? What table do players seem to favor?

Downtown Grand Casino Craps TableOur players seem to favor Blackjack due to our rules and friendly dealers. Second to that would our Craps games due to our 5X odds and dealers that are always willing to help new players learn the game.

Is the Grand a better option for business travelers that prefer to keep it quiet and calm?

The Downtown Grand is a great option for any type of traveler. We have a range of guests that span from people coming to Vegas looking for parties and fun, to Business people looking for a nice, clean, quiet room. Also, our locals love the Downtown Grand for a staycation as well as our international visitors coming from afar to enjoy our city.

The casino is just 2 minutes away from Fremont Street. What are some of the best things to do outside of the casino and hotel?

We are at the heart of Downtown Las Vegas. There are incredible sights just a short walk away. These include the Mob Museum, Fremont Street Experience, Fremont East, Container Park, and Neonopolis. All things that we would highly suggest to check out on your visit to Downtown.

Which restaurants can players use comps/rewards programs on?

Our players can use their points, their resort credit from their offer, or receive a comp from one of our casino hosts at our restaurants. These include the 24-hour American-style restaurant, Freedom Beat, and the famous Triple George Grill for delicious steaks, seafood, and more.
We are here to make sure our guests have the best experiences and the most fun possible.

Anthony Barbato

What can an online user expect by registering to email offers on the site?

Our website is where we let our loyal guests know about the incredible events coming up at the Downtown Grand. Our email subscribers can expect to receive early notifications on fun promotions and events. The best part about being with our email system is the offers we send out. We offer some of the most abundant offers in all of Las Vegas.

Any coupons online users can find?

Our online users won’t find coupons searching the web but that’s not to say we don’t have any. They are sent out using our soon-to-be-released web-based app where guests can redeem gaming credit, rooms, dining offers, and much more. Our website is a perfect tool to stay updated on our current and upcoming Casino promotions and events.

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