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Major casino operators admitted that buffets were losing millions annually—up to $3 million per property—and saw the opportunity to cut costs. What they didn’t openly confess is that buffets served a crucial role in maintaining customer loyalty and community spirit. Their closing signals a shift from an inclusive, family-friendly atmosphere to a focus on high rollers and wealthy tourists.
Many beloved local favorites, such as Station Casinos' Buffets, closed forever. These were neighborhood gathering places where locals celebrated milestones or simply enjoyed affordable, hearty food. Their loss isn't just about meals; it's about the erosion of communal spaces that built Vegas' reputation.