The El Cortez casino is the complete opposite of the strip casinos. They have some great games -- and I think it's the best place in Vegas to play Blackjack. They only deal single and double deck games. No 6 or 8 deck shoes. They have low minimums -- as low as $3 or $5 all the time. Single deck blackjack pays 3:2 (single deck at most other places pays 6:5). They also have lots of full pay video poker machines. The atmosphere is pretty smoky, but this place is the way Vegas is supposed to be done.



The food and drinks in the restaurants and bars are very reasonably priced. They have invested a lot of money over the past few years renovating the rooms and although I've never stayed there, those who do rave about them. It's an excellent value.



I encourage you to support places like this, and keep them around! I have had some great experiences here, and look forward to going back.