Montecasino Review

Review

Every now and then a venue comes along that well and truly blows most others out of the water. Montecasino is one such venue. With a Tuscan theme that rivals big themed casinos in Las Vegas, as well as an enormous range of amenities, Montecasino is off to a fantastic start. And that's before we even talk about the games they have on offer.

The casino boasts almost 2000 slot machines and 70 table games. This number is FAR higher than the average South African land-based casino and means that every type of gambler, whatever the style of game they prefer, is sure to be able to find something to suit them.

Table games include Blackjack (including some variations, like Big Bang Blackjack), Craps, Baccarat, American Roulette and Poker. In fact, Montecasino has an exclusive area that's dedicated to the game of poker. There are also smoking areas and a Salon Privé, a private gaming area for VIP guests.

And then there are the slot machines. As if all those table games aren't enough to keep you entertained, you'll find slot machines of every type – traditional, ultramodern, 3-reel, 5-reel, multi-coin, multi-line – and denomination, from 2c to R100, imaginable. We'd be hard pressed to think of anywhere else in South Africa that you'll find a better range of games.

Add seasonal promotions, like Wheel of Fortune and Cash & Cars giveaways, plus an absolutely electric environment into the mix, and you get what really is one of the best offline gambling experiences around.

Restaurants & Bars

We're not going to list every dining option available at Montecasino here, and that is simply because we'd very quickly run out of space if we tried to do so. Suffice to say that, whatever your palate, you'll find something that will hit the spot here. For a quick bite, you can grab something from a fast food establishment like KFC, Wimpy, Steers or Wakaberry.

If you'd rather take your time and enjoy a sit down meal, you can choose from pizza, burgers and grills, sushi, steak, Thai, Italian or Indian food. The selection is absolutely staggering, and you could easily eat somewhere new every day even if you were staying at the casino for several weeks!

Those seeking alcoholic refreshments are also very much in luck – there's the Jenda wine bar, Irish-themed Cobblestone Pub and cocktails (plus cigars, if that's your thing) at 3SIXTY.

Starting to get the picture yet? If it's possible to get a craving for something, you'll find it on the menu at Montecasino.

Hotel Accommodation

Montecasino has several different hotel options for players who want to be as close to the gambling action as possible, each with its own vibe and style. The Italian themed Southern Sun Montecasino brings some Venetian charm and romance to Johannesburg while the SunSquare Montecasino is a little more rustic, and is located right within the resort for maximum excitement.

Or, there's the truly opulent Tuscan-inspired Palazzo if you're really feeling in the mood to treat yourself. Which hotel you choose will probably depend on your budget and whether you like to be right in the thick of things or prefer things a little quieter. But, to be honest, you're in for a treat wherever you stay.

From Tuscan gardens and leafy swimming pools to restaurants, bars and spas, all of Montecasino's hotels have stunning architecture and amenities to rival some of the best hotels in the world. It's true that there is other off-site accommodation to choose from, but we think you'll find it hard to resist these fabulous on-site options.

Entertainment & Nightlife

If you do tire of gambling while you're at the Montecasino, it's not a problem – you can go and see a movie, take in a show at the theatre, stroll through the Bird Gardens, enjoy some live comedy or go dancing.

With several "after dark" options, including the chance to sip cocktails in WWII pin-up themed surroundings, those who enjoy a late night won't be disappointed either. If you decide to head back to the casino, which is open 24/7, after a few drinks just make sure you don't make any silly bets!

Other Facilities

It's difficult to list everything that Montecasino has to offer, simply because there's so much going on there every day. For the kids, and the young at heart, there's 10 pin bowling and laser tag, and a crèche for the very little ones.

Or, you can hit the Piazza with the family for festivals, show days, live sports, open air banquets and more. The Montecasino also regularly hosts products launches and conferences, so you might be lucky enough to end up coming here for work.

However long you stay for, you'll never be short of things to do. You might even forget that you originally came here to do some gambling, but we're sure that you'll remember that soon enough.