Located in Fourways, Sandton, in the north of Johannesburg, Montecasino is known as Joburg’s top entertainment complex. There is certainly more to it than slot machines and card tables. On the contrary, the complex offers a range of options for all ages from theatre performances to restaurants, to nightclubs and children’s arcades. It is this array of activities which have no doubt contributed to the casino’s multi award-winning status.
Within the walls of the Tuscan-style building is a whole different world. One of the main features, evident in the name, are the gaming floors, which are divided into smoking and non-smoking sections. Some of the thrills on offer include 1700 slot machines and 70 gaming tables offering diversions as diverse as roulette, craps, poker, baccarat and black jack, as well as more novel games such as the wheel of fortune and life of luxury.
The complex is also home to a variety of eateries ranging from coffee shops like Mugg ‘n Bean, takeaways such as John Dory’s and sit-down restaurants like the Ocean Basket. There are also more sophisticated establishments such as the Cantare Dinner and Dance club and nightclubs like the old favourite, Café Vacca Matta.
As far as entertainment goes, there are two theatres, the Teatro at Montecasino, which has seen successful shows such as ‘Chicago: The Musical’ and ‘The Lion King’. The Pieter Torien Theatre and Studio is a more intimate theatre venue.
For family entertainment, Montecasino will not disappoint. When the weather is good you can go up in the Hyundai Balloon, a large helium-filled vessel which offers views over Johannesburg as far as the Magaliesberg Mountains, or wander through the Montecasino Bird Garden, which consists of large, walk-through aviaries filled with interesting birds, small mammals and reptiles. The famous musical fountain is also a sight to behold as its fun shapes and patterns are formed in time to select music.
Finally there is the cinema complex and ten pin bowling. With so much on offer, it’s no wonder that Montecasino is touted as Johannesburg’s favourite entertainment complex!
Distances are shown as the crow flies and not necessarily the actual travelling distance.