Food & Lifestyle
Agua Caliente Casinos Introduce New Unified Brand and Unveil New Amenities

ENHANCEMENTS INCLUDE ALL-NEW DINING AND BEVERAGE OPTIONS IN AN UPSCALE GAMING ENVIRONMENT
Rancho Mirage and Palm Springs, Calif. (February 28, 2019) – The Agua Caliente Casinos in Rancho Mirage and Palm Springs have today announced a new brand that unifies the properties under one name. Under the new unifying Agua Caliente Casinos name, the Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa will now be known as Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage and the Spa Resort Casino will now be known as Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs.
Visualizing this unification is the Washingtonia filifera, or desert fan palm, the only indigenous palm to the area, rising above the springs. Both of these symbols have significant relevance to the Agua Caliente Casinos as these elements have been a part of the surrounding California landscape for time immemorial. The new brand mark distinguishes the Agua Caliente Casinos and stands as a unifying moniker for the casino properties, symbolizing the best of what the Coachella Valley has to offer.
Leading up to the introduction of this new unified brand, the Agua Caliente Casinos have unveiled a number of new amenities at the Rancho Mirage and Palm Springs properties offering more for guests at both locations, all in an upscale gaming environment. At the Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage, enhancements include the addition of the luxurious Pívat Cigar Lounge along with a newly reimagined design at the resort’s award-winning fine dining restaurant, The Steakhouse, the openings of a new centrally located Casino Bar and of 360 Sports, a state-of-the-art sports viewing complex with a full bar and dining menu, updates to the Coachella Valley’s only live Poker Room, new High Limit Slots and High Limit Table Games Rooms, and the opening of Club Mezz, a new nightlife destination located inside The Show. The Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs welcomes the opening of Java Caliente Café and the reopening of the Oasis Buffet, which underwent a number of renovations that brought both a new design to the restaurant and also opened up more space on the casino’s gaming floor.
“This is an exciting time for the Agua Caliente Casinos as we refine and enhance the guest experience at our luxurious resort in Rancho Mirage and our gaming and dining offerings at our Palm Springs property, and it’s also the perfect time to introduce a new unified brand where one name truly says it all,” Agua Caliente Casinos Chief Operating Officer Saverio R. Scheri III says. “We are thrilled to invite guests to enjoy all of our extraordinary additions and enhancements in an upscale resort environment with excellent service. Both of our properties have everything casino guests are looking for, and it’s all happening now.”
New and reimagined amenities at the Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage include:
The District
Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage’s new dining marketplace, The District, presents a diversity of dining options to satisfy any appetite, all in a fast-casual setting. At The District, guests find a bounty of fresh flavors to choose from, with each outlet within offering its own distinct menu: the Ace Deli, serving up burgers, sandwiches, soups and sides; La Olla, featuring authentic Mexican cuisine; and Jade, offering a diverse Asian menu with influences from Vietnamese, Chinese, Filipino, Korean, and Thai cuisines. The Ace Deli is open daily, 24 hours. La Olla and Jade are open daily at 11 a.m.; Sunday-Thursday until 11 p.m. and Friday-Saturday until 12 a.m.
The Steakhouse
The Rancho Mirage resort’s award-winning dining experience, The Steakhouse, has an exquisite new look inside and out. Overlooking the property’s central interior atrium, the updated dining patio (pictured below) reveals the restaurant’s bar, known for its top-shelf cocktails and extensive selection of wines. The Steakhouse has received the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence each year since 2007 and features prime steaks and fresh seafood along with a Sunday brunch menu. Enhancements new to the dinner menu include a delectable Caesar salad, prepared table-side. Guests will soon be able to enjoy the ambiance of a piano playing while they savor a great meal served with impeccable service. Open daily for dinner at 5 p.m. Open Sunday-Thursday until 10 p.m. and Friday-Sunday until 11 p.m. Patio hour menu Sunday-Thursday, 4-6 p.m. Open for brunch on Sundays 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Pictured above: The Steakhouse at the Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage.
Casino Bar
Where the vibe happens, the new Casino Bar at the Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage creates a center of excitement on the gaming floor. Located at the north end of the casino and in close proximity to the resort’s premier concert theater, The Show, the unique oval-shaped bar with its selection of superbly-crafted cocktails is the ideal spot to both start and also wrap up the perfect night out. Video screens surround the center of the space while twenty-one countertop slot machines encircle the bar creating a new and exciting gaming area for guests to enjoy.
Pictured above: The new Casino Bar at the Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage.
360 Sports
We’ve got your game! 360 Sports at the Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage surrounds guests in state-of-the-art screens perfect for catching all the games, along with a robust lineup of special events tailored especially for sports enthusiasts. Comfortable seating abounds, and a full bar including signature cocktails and a specialty dining menu, which features festive dishes such as jumbo stuffed tater tots with buttermilk dipping sauce, offer the ideal cap to an extraordinary experience. Open daily at 11 a.m. Kitchen open Sunday-Thursday until 11 p.m. and Friday-Saturday until 12 a.m. Bar open daily until 2 a.m.
Pictured above: 360 Sports at the Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage.
Pívat Cigar Lounge
Pívat — named after the Cahuilla Indian word for “smoking tobacco”— offers a selection of more than 100 premium hand-rolled cigars, signature cocktail and cigar pairings, and a menu of delectable small bites and entrees in an elegantly styled lounge tucked within the award-winning Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage. Perfect for pairing with a full-bodied cigar, the Pívat Old Fashioned features Woodford Reserve bourbon and a memorable presentation with an Applewood smoke infusion. Large screens for viewing sports are featured throughout the comfortably appointed cigar lounge along with patio seating; friendly and knowledgeable cigar servers; cigar accessories available for sale; a walk-in humidor; and the option to purchase yearly access to private lockers inside the humidor. A monthly e-newsletter signup option keeps guests up-to-date on cigar events and specials for the cigar aficionado and those who aspire to become one. Open daily at 11 a.m.; Sunday-Thursday until 10 p.m. and Friday-Saturday until 11 p.m.
Pictured above: Pívat Cigar Lounge at the Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage.
Poker Room
Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage’s updated Poker Room — the only live poker room in the Coachella Valley — features 10 tables with nine player spots at each table, for a total of 90 player positions available. Video displays surround the inside perimeter of the private poker room, which offers close access to many of the Rancho Mirage resort’s additional new amenities. Offering daily, nightly and weekend tournaments.
Pictured above: The Poker Room at the Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage.
High Limit Slots and High Limit Table Games Rooms
Guests step through elegant entries into a world of luxury in the Rancho Mirage resort’s new High Limit Slots and Table Games Rooms, each dedicated to serious players who want to concentrate and enjoy their privacy. Inside the comfortable and stylishly designed rooms guests find all of the player favorites in addition to the newest and most sophisticated games.
Pictured above: The High Limit Slots Room at the Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage.
Club Mezz
Club Mezz is where the night heats up in Rancho Mirage. An exclusive lounge experience in a luxurious private suite without the cover charge, Club Mezz is located inside The Show, Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage’s premier 2,100-seat theater. Club Mezz features a house DJ and specialty cocktails, such as the expertly crafted Mezz Old Fashioned made with Bulleit bourbon, orange bitters and muddled Luxardo cherry served over a large ice block and finished with a Luxardo cherry garnish. Also on the cocktail menu is the Center Stage, impeccably staged with Absolut Citron Vodka, Grand Marnier, orange bitters, orange Juice, and soda water served in a martini glass with a tajin rim; and the Desert Sunset, which, aptly named for its beautiful hue, mixes Absolut Elyx Vodka, raspberry puree, fresh mint, fresh lime juice and soda water with a lemon twist garnish. Open every Saturday, 11 p.m.-2 a.m.
Pictured above: Signature cocktails at Club Mezz at the Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage.
New and reimagined amenities at the Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs include:
Java Caliente Café
Get back to the action quickly during the day or night at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs’ newly opened Java Caliente Café. Offering downtown Palm Springs the ideal spot for late-night (or anytime!) bites, Java Caliente Café is located right off the casino floor and offers signature beverages along with a menu of made to order all-day breakfast and deli favorites as well as quick grab and go options. Open daily, 24 hours.
Pictured above: Java Caliente Café at the Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs.
Oasis Buffet
The revamped Oasis Buffet at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs allows for more space on the casino floor and features updated décor. The buffet offers an expansive international menu, including active cooking stations for custom-ordered entrees. Open for lunch Monday and Thursday-Saturday, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Open for dinner Monday and Thursday, 4-8 p.m. and Friday-Sunday, 4-9 p.m. Open for breakfast Saturday and Sunday, 7-10:30 a.m. Open for Sparkling Brunch, Sundays only, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
Pictured above: Oasis Buffet at the Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs.
Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage, a AAA Four Diamond and Forbes Travel Guide Recommended property, ranked top 10 for “Best Casino Outside of Las Vegas” in USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice 2018 travel awards, and the Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs offer the hottest slots, a variety of table games, and high-limit gaming, plus fine dining and shopping, all in a gorgeous resort setting. The Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage is also home to the Forbes Four-Star Sunstone Spa and The Show, the premier concert theater in Southern California featuring a legendary lineup of performers. The Agua Caliente Casinos in Palm Springs and Rancho Mirage are owned and operated by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, which also owns the world-renowned Indian Canyons and Tahquitz Canyon hiking trails, and Indian Canyons Golf Resort.
Business
Sunset Soirée 2023: A Night of Collaboration and Celebration in the Inland Empire

Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce, in Partnership with Riverside Convention Center and NFL Alumni Association, Hosts a Memorable Evening of Networking, Music, and Community Engagement.
On September 7th, the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with the Riverside Convention Center and the NFL Alumni Association of Southern California, successfully hosted their much-anticipated annual event, the “Sunset Soirée.” The event was proudly presented by isolved, a leading company dedicated to transforming the future of work through a unique blend of software and services tailored for payroll, benefits, and HR professionals.
Over 200 esteemed guests graced the occasion, immersing themselves in an evening filled with business networking, summer festivities, and the promise of forging meaningful connections. The Sunset Soirée has always been a beacon for professionals to exchange visionary ideas, collaborate, and expand their networks.
The evening began with a warm welcome, as each guest was greeted with a complimentary drink, setting a tone of camaraderie and relaxed interaction. An array of delectable complimentary hors d’oeuvres was served, each expertly crafted to tantalize the taste buds and fuel engaging conversations.
The event was graced by notable speakers, including Edward Ornelas, Jr., President & CEO of the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce; James Washington, President of the NFL Alumni Association of Southern California and 2x Superbowl Champion with the Dallas Cowboys; and Barbra Rogers, Director of Operations at Riverside Convention Center.
Mr. Edward Ornelas, Jr. remarked, “The Sunset Soirée is more than just an event; it’s a testament to the spirit of collaboration and community in the Inland Empire. We’re honored to bring together such a diverse and dynamic group of professionals, and I’m personally thrilled to see the connections and partnerships that will undoubtedly emerge from tonight.”
The atmosphere was further elevated by the presence of a talented musician who serenaded the attendees with live music, adding a harmonious touch to the evening. The highlight of the night was a special performance by the acclaimed Country Music Artist, Presley Tennant. Known for her powerful vocals and unique blend of California-Country music, Tennant has shared the stage with music legends like Tim McGraw, Kelly Clarkson, Carly Pearce, and Blake Shelton. Her commitment to animal welfare through her Riffs & Rescues virtual charity tour showcases not just her immense talent but also her golden heart.
The Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce extends its heartfelt gratitude to all attendees, partners, and sponsors for making the Sunset Soirée a resounding success. The chamber remains committed to fostering business growth, collaboration, and community engagement in the Inland Empire region.
Entertainment
Inland Empire Collaborative Launches with Grand Celebration

Powering the Future of Sports & Entertainment through Collaboration
The Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce (IERCC) is pleased to announce the successful launch of the Inland Empire Sports & Entertainment Collaborative (IESEC). The vibrant launch party took place yesterday at the popular Topgolf in Ontario, attracting an enthusiastic crowd of approximately 200 attendees.
The event was graced by a lineup of notable speakers, including Dave Allen, West Region President for NASCAR, James Washington, President of the NFL Alumni Southern California Chapter, Michael K. Krouse, President & CEO of the Greater Ontario Convention & Visitors Bureau, Nikki Gatch, CEO of the Southern California PGA, Mike Burrows, CEO of the San Bernardino International Airport, and Edward Ornelas, Jr., President of the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce.
These distinguished figures shared their insights on the potential of the IESEC to stimulate growth, foster community engagement, and enhance the local economy through sports and entertainment.
IESEC is proud to acknowledge its sponsors, Bank of America and the San Bernardino County Economic Development Agency, for their invaluable support. The Collaborative is a testament to the power of synergy, with agencies such as the Southern California PGA, NFL Alumni SoCal, NASCAR, GOCAL, San Bernardino Int’l Airport, Ontario Reign, Empire Strykers, Inland Empire 66ers, Rancho Cucamonga Quakes, Ontario Clippers, and Southern California’s Greater Ontario Sports & Entertainment Authority actively participating.
In true festive spirit, guests were treated to an evening of sumptuous food, refreshing drinks, and engaging golf play. The energy and enthusiasm echoed the IESEC’s vision of fostering a sense of community through sports and entertainment.
IESEC, spearheaded by the IERCC, is committed to promoting, supporting, and facilitating partnerships between local businesses and regional sports teams, and entertainment venues throughout the Inland Empire. The initiative aims to create memorable experiences while generating revenue, stimulating economic growth, and positively impacting the community.
“Our goal with IESEC is to build a stronger, more connected community united in its love of sports and entertainment,” said Edward Ornelas, Jr., President of the IERCC. “By bringing people together to celebrate the best that the Inland Empire offers, we are creating a platform for exciting new opportunities and experiences.”
IESEC, initiated by the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce, is a consortium of experienced professionals dedicated to supporting sports and entertainment events in the Inland Empire region. Through partnerships with local businesses, community organizations, and government entities, IESEC serves as a central hub for promoting a wide variety of cultural and entertainment experiences. By encouraging community participation and economic growth, IESEC aims to build a stronger, more vibrant Inland Empire.
For more information about the IESEC and its ongoing projects, please visit our website at www.iechamber.org
By Press Release
South Coast Winery Resort & Spa Newly Appoints Albert Park as Executive Chef

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa has named seasoned culinary professional Albert Park as its new executive chef at this multi-award-winning winery and luxurious wine country resort.
#peopleonthemove
Prior to this appointment, Park served as executive sous chef at The Pacific Club in Newport Beach, Calif., overseeing Talbot Grill. In his new position, Park’s responsibilities include overseeing culinary operations of the resort’s signature all-day The Vineyard Rose Restaurant, where he is supervising the kitchen team as they launch newly created menus featuring innovative California cuisine sourced seasonally, responsibly and locally.
Examples from the chef’s new spring dinner menu feature entrees such as “Birria” Short Rib accompanied by Manchego grits, thumbelina carrots, curtido and queso fresca and a delightful Fisherman’s Stew composed of clams, mussels, fish, crab claws, fennel and tomato-fennel broth.
In addition, Park is in charge of the poolside Vineyard Grill at South Coast’s sister property Carter Estate and Resort. He oversees in-room dining at both winery resorts and onsite menus for meetings, weddings and special occasions.
“Chef Albert brings a wealth of culinary expertise, impressive managerial and organizational skills, valuable mentoring and leadership acumen to our Temecula winery resorts,” said Jeff Carter, president of Carter Hospitality, owner and operator of South Coast Winery Resort & Spa and Carter Estate Winery and Resort. “With South Coast being a top 20-year-old winery in beautiful Temecula, we are certain his contributions will lead to further success and acclaim for our culinary program.”
Park’s past kitchen experience includes his position at Newport Beach’s prestigious The Pacific Club for the last six years. Previous to that, he was chef de cuisine at Bosscat Kitchen and Libations also in Newport Beach and held the same position at now-closed Six Park Grill at the former Hyatt Regency Irvine.
Park graduated magna cum laude from the International Culinary School at the Art Institutes of California-Orange County with a Bachelor of Science degree in culinary management. Leisure time includes traveling with his wife and their three children and assisting his sons’ baseball teams.
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