The country's largest resort is preparing to invest more than $10 million to enhance its cuisine options, Atlantis President and Managing Director George Markantonis announced yesterday. It's a move that will create an additional 50 permanent jobs at Atlantis and several other temporary construction jobs, Markantonis said. Construction will begin in November. Markantonis made the announcement yesterday during a press conference at the executive offices in Coral Towers.
The Atlantis Resort will use existing spaces on the casino floor - Atlas Bar and Grill and the Baccarat Lounge - for the developments. Senior Vice President of Food and Beverage Ian Reid revealed that Atlas will be transformed into Todd English's Olives, which is a restaurant known in parts of the U.S. for its mediterranean cuisine. English has over 20 restaurants across the U.S. The employment level at Atlas will jump from 100 to 143 as a result of the redevelopment, Reid said. Employment levels at that lounge will also increase from three to 10 when it is reopened.
Reid said the developments will not only revitalize the casino but will also add a new dimension to the food and beverage options. Olives is expected to be complete by May 2013 while Baccarat is expected to be complete by April 2013. Reid said while construction is ongoing the current staff at both locations will be absorbed into other areas of the resort. Markantonis said the development represents the resort's new owners' commitment to enhancing the property.
"Our owner, Brookfield, is very committed to putting capital dollars into not only the maintenance of everything we have on Paradise Island but also to enhance the product which means a constant evolutionary process - and that takes dollars. And why is that good for the whole of The Bahamas is because it keeps our guests coming back because it's something new to do and it makes sure that we stay on the cutting edge of any competition we have," he added.
Brookfield Asset Management, a Canadian conglomerate, consummated a deal earlier this year with Kerzner International whereby it took over ownership of Atlantis and the One&Only Ocean Club on Paradise Island after forgiving $175 million of Kerzner's debt. There was some concern initially that Brookfield would sell the mega resort. And while Brookfield has already declared that it is not interested in selling the property, some observers remain wary. Markantonis also attempted to allay lingering fears yesterday. "You wouldn't be doing this if you were planning to flip it one week from now," he said referring to the developments.
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