Buffet at Niagara Falls casino shuts down to be replaced by sports bar

A 20-year tradition in Niagara Falls’ Fallsview Casino Resort will close its doors this weekend but the owners say it will be replaced next week in a different form.

The Grand Buffet will officially close on Oct. 15 at 9 p.m. but will be replaced by the OVERTIME Sports Lounge on Oct. 19.

In a message to customers, the buffet said it had tried its best to rebuild the business when it reopened after the pandemic on July 21, 2022.

“However, despite increasing prices, controlling waste, attempts to contain costs, and re-introducing good offers, we have determined that the business is not sustainable. For this reason, we have had to make the difficult decision to close the Buffet.”

Before the pandemic, the buffet charged $25 per person for entry. The current price is $55, excluding taxes, gratuities, or alcoholic beverages.

That said, in the same announcement, they touted the arrival of the new sports bar, which will be open from 11:30 a.m. to 2 a.m. in a different location closer to the gaming floor and have the usual pub fare such as burgers, pizza, and wings.

“We are confident that OVERTIME Sports Lounge will quickly become a fan favourite as we will continue to deliver memorable moments, provide remarkable service, an unforgettable experience, excellent food quality, and of course, an amazing location to watch your favourite game.”

The OVERTIME Sports Lounge will have 1,500 square feet of HDTV screens, as well as an 80-foot bar that accesses the gaming floor.

“Whether you’re ordering a meal or grabbing a drink and pizza at the bar, OVERTIME Sports Lounge’s lively, casual yet upscale atmosphere will offer the perfect dining experience with friends and family, while catching your favourite game.”

As for the buffet’s space, the owners are still deciding. “We are currently focused on opening the new OVERTIME Sports Lounge and will be taking the time to re-imagine the use of the Grand Buffet space in the future.”

For those worried about losing the food venue, the casino is still well-stocked with 25 eateries from coffee shops right up to steakhouses.