The former 40-year old, 56,000 square foot Fraser Downs Racetrack Casino in Surrey, British Columbia, has reopened as Elements Casino following a six-month, million renovation. A statement noted Elements will “serve as the entertainment destination of choice for many entertainment seekers as the new venue offers exciting gaming, racing, entertainment and dining options accompanied by unrivaled personal service.” Director of Operations Michael Kim added, “We want to be a destination venue, not just for Surrey but for our whole trade area. We wanted to up our game, for sure, because in our research, that’s what people wanted here.”
He said the name “Elements” reflects that “we are going to have so many new elements in here. Whether you’re going out with a group of two or 10, we now have something that caters to what you’re looking for.”
That includes adding 12 more table games on the gaming floor, bringing the total to 24. Kim said, “We have old favorites like blackjack, roulette, four card poker and Ultimate Texas Hold ‘em, but we will be adding a second roulette, double deck blackjack, Pai Gow and, most importantly, Squeeze Baccarat in a semi-private area.”
Spectacular new LED lighting on the ceiling above slot machines will change colors to match special events. “When the Canucks play, for example, we can change those lights to blue and green if we want,” Kim said.
The new live-entertainment venue, Escape, can accommodate 300 guests. “We know the market is looking for a space this size. It can be used for a variety of events and gatherings, including weddings,” Kim noted. He added the 60-seat Molson Canadian Lounge, featuring a view of the harness racing outside, “will be a place to unwind after work or catch a game on TV.”
Dining options, overseen by the casino’s new executive chef, Raymond Mah, include the 150-seat Diamond Buffet and the new quick-service restaurant, Foodies.
Kim added as in other casinos, Elements design includes feng shui—the Chinese practice of harmonizing an architectural environment–is in play at Elements. “We added some colors and other elements in here, for feng shui approval.” He added although the grand opening was billed as 8:00 p.m., it actually occurred at 8:08 p.m., “because eight is a lucky number,” Kim said.
