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A Las Vegas casino buffet will not reopen, only to be replaced by a food court.
Circus Buffet at Circus Circus closed March when the state called for all nonessential businesses to temporarily shut down to prevent the spread of COVID-19, but tentatively scheduled to reopen on December 31. Newly filed paperwork reveals the Circus Buffet and the adjacent back of the house space at Circus Circus will be remodeled to make way for a new food court.
Assigned an estimated $2.5 million in construction costs alone, locals Feel Good Brands will be overseeing the new space, known for its roster of fast-casual tenants at the Excalibur and the team already behind Krispy Kreme and Auntie Anne’s Pretzels at Circus Circus.
Yet to announce the changes, or possible new dining arrivals, Feel Good’s partners include Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Pick Up Stix, Schlotzsky’s Deli, Hot Dog on a Stick, and the Frites Las Vegas food truck.
Earlier this year, Treasure Island closed its buffet to move a sport book into the 12,575-square-foot space less than two years after the buffet went through a $3.6 million renovation. Corner Market Buffet took over the former Buffet at TI space in 2018 with stations spanning a farmer’s market for salads; new American, continental, and Asian dishes; and a country bakery with desserts, soufflés, and gelato. The buffet served breakfast, lunch, and dinner, emphasizing international flavors and the ability to order unlimited drinks and a bloody Mary bar.
Billionaire Phil Ruffin owns both Circus Circus and Treasure Island.
Update: The food court will only take a portion of the Circus Buffet space. It is not a full replacement, a spokesperson says. “Circus Circus Las Vegas is looking forward to opening a food court, bringing new dining experiences and options for guests. The Circus Buffet re-opening is being evaluated, and will open if business demands increase and if it is safe to resume operations in accordance with state regulations and CDC guidelines.”
• All Coverage of Circus Circus [ELV]
• Every Restaurant and Bar That Closed in Las Vegas: 2020 Edition [ELV]
