If it wasn’t obvious, the world has gone virtual – just look at the way you’re consuming this content. Everything from shopping to banking and even the way we absorb our entertainment is online. We stream movies instead of going to the theater, we order groceries at the tap of a button, and thanks to online gaming – we now don’t even have to leave our homes to hit the casino floor. But just because the digital age has taken over does not mean that we have to miss out on the real-life thrill of an in-person casino experience with real people gathered around us.
And what better way to do it than blending everyone’s love of food with the excitement of the casino?
Bringing the best of both worlds together, we’re dishing up gourmet bites and handcrafted cocktails with a casino twist. Gather all your nearest and dearest; we’ve got the perfect menu for a high-stakes (and steaks) night.
1. The Blackjack Bite – Classic Steak & Potatoes
We will start our casino-themed night with the OG of all casino games – blackjack. When this game comes to mind, you think of timeless strategy and plenty of fun. Indeed, if you play casino table games online, this is probably one of your go-to games, as it’s both simple and amazingly in-depth when you really get into it. There’s no question, therefore, that it’s one of the casino table games you should consider for your casino night – but what should you pair it with?
A juicy, perfectly seared steak with garlic butter and a side of crispy rosemary potatoes. It’s a classic, just like the game itself.
Opt for a reverse-seared ribeye that’s been slow-cooked to perfection — then you must finish it with a high-heat sear for that rich, caramelized crust. Act like you would in blackjack with this: take your time, because the patience will pay off!
For the steak:
- 2 ribeye or filet mignon steaks (or your favorite cut)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped
For the Crispy Potatoes:
- 3 large russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
2. The Roulette Platter – Tapas For Sharing
Not sure what to eat? Then let fate decide with a sharing platter for all! Just as you would spin the wheel in roulette, a platter of assorted tapas is a fun way to keep things exciting. If you’re feeling fancy, try to locate a lazy susan (turntable for your dining table), where you can reenact your own roulette with tapas. Spin a wheel and let fate decide with a little casino-style fun with your food!
Try this mix:
- Spicy chorizo bites
- Mini bruschetta with fresh tomato and basil
- Truffle parmesan fries
- Bacon-wrapped asparagus
- Patatas bravas
- Prawn pil-pil
3. The Poker Night Pizza
Poker is all about reading the table and bluffing your way to the end. There are many different ingredients in this challenging game… and that’s why the best thing to offer up alongside it is pizza, whether you make it yourself or order from somewhere like Emmy Squared Pizza. Pile on the toppings and watch your guests enjoy tucking in. Pizza is also super easy to share, so it will make your casino-themed night flow perfectly… and you can even go one step further and create a build-your-own pizza poker night.
To do this, set out a different variety of toppings and let each guest create their own unique masterpiece. Some classic pairings that we love include:
- Spicy pepperoni & honey drizzle
- Prosciutto & arugula
- BBQ chicken & caramelized onions
- Three cheese – you can’t go wrong with a classic
4. The Slot Machine Sundae Bar
You can’t host your own Vegas without a dessert, of course. Vegas is synonymous with lashings of food, and extra desserts – so make sure you mimic the real deal. There’s nothing more exciting than pulling the lever on a slot machine and waiting for the reels to land. Recreate that same thrill with a DIY sundae bar!
Here’s what to do:
- Start with an ice cream base like vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry.
- Let players pull the imaginary lever (i.e., roll a die or spin a wheel) to determine their toppings.
- Options could include hot fudge, caramel drizzle, crushed Oreos, sprinkles, and fresh fruit.
Each sundae is a total gamble – and that’s where all the fun is!
5. The Drink of Choice
A jam-packed casino night in isn’t complete without a signature cocktail, of course. No matter whether you’re toasting your poker win or starting the night off with a bang – nothing is needed more than a sip of something sophisticated.
And for this, there’s only one option….
The Old Fashioned:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 sugar cube
- 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
- Orange twist & cherry for garnish
All you have to do is mix the sugar with bitters, add ice, pour in bourbon, and stir. Simple and classic – just like 007 himself.
See? You don’t need to use up all your air miles to get to Vegas when you can have your own fun at home. There are plenty of ways to mix the casino theme with the kitchen, so get your pen and paper ready and start exploring. The options are endless!
