Enjoy a Cold One at Choctaw Casino and Resort
Article originally published in the Durant Daily Democrat
DURANT — The Choctaw Nation will begin serving alcohol at the new Choctaw Casino and Resort.
”We just got our alcohol- controlled ordinance approved on Monday,” said Executive Director of Gaming Janie Dillard. “To compete in the marketplace, it’s really expected by the people that come to our casino. This is a business and this is just one of the things that goes along with it.”
The nation had to go through federal channels to get the license approved, including the Bureau of Indian Affairs in Washington D.C. The license is through the concessions company at the casino, Delaware North, and will allow the company to sell beer, mixed drinks and wine.
“It will be handled through our tribe in a controlled environment,” Dillard said, meaning that the alcohol will be served and can only be consumed in the restaurants and lounges, not on the casino floor.
”Choctaw employees will not be handling any of the alcohol sales,” she said.
The 1832 Steakhouse had already been serving wine but, as of today, will offer beer and mixed drinks. Tomatillos will be selling beer as of today and will be up and running with a full liquor menu by May 17.
The Platinum Lounge and the Sixth Street Lounge (in the poker room) will begin serving by the same date, with plans for the Diamondback Lounge (on the north end of the casino floor) to be selling later this year.
“Alcohol will also be available through room service and at catered events,” Dillard said.
Alcohol will be sold in compliance with ABLE laws, county laws and will also be governed by the rules of the Choctaw Nation Alcohol Regulatory Authority.