GULFPORT — Island View Casino kicked it up a notch Monday, opening the second phase of its resort and reminding the crowd there is more to come with an appearance by chef Emeril Lagasse.
“We’ve got something special to show you,” owner Rick Carter said as he unveiled the expansion that nearly triples the size of Gulfport’s only casino.

The addition that opened Monday adds 50,000 square feet of gambling space, and more than 1,000 slots and 32 new table games. The casino has hired an additional 600 workers.

Phase II, constructed by Roy Anderson Corp. of Gulfport, also includes C&G Grille, a 24-hour restaurant, plus The View entertainment lounge and a sports bar.

Emeril’s Gulf Coast Fish House will open about June 20.

Since the announcement of Lagasse’s affiliation with Island View, other Coast casinos have brought on signature chefs and celebrity affiliations.

“I’m with the local guys,” the chef said of Gulfport natives Carter and Terry Green. “They’re great people. I think we make the perfect fit.”

To see more photos from the Island View’s expansion, go to sunherald.com

By MARY PEREZ
SUN HERALD

Filed Under: Press Releases