$20 Million Remodel of Old Caesars in Tahoe

Purchased in June 2005 by the Columbia Sussex Corp. for $45 million, renovations at the property began in October. In the months since, Caesars evolved into MontBleu via a $20 million-plus remodel that includes new restaurants, two nightclubs, a full-service spa and a yacht. The intended effect, says Joe Young, director of development for Columbia Sussex, is a "sophisticated mountain environment."

"We want to bring the outside indoors," Yung says. "We also wanted to provide an upscale environment for the 21- to 45-year-old market - one that hasn't been seen before in South Lake Tahoe." Casears Tahoe - a fixture on the strip since 1980 - transformed into MontBleu last month with a grand-opening ceremony that included ribbon cutting, fireworks and a visit from Howie Mandel.

Many if the casino's changes seemed subtle, in fact the rooms, remodeled by Ceasars just a few years back, are also mostly the same. There were the same old slot machines being played by the same old fanny-pack-wearing tourists - most of who seemed to be well beyond any "hip and edgy" phase of life.

As its name suggest, HQ acts as a hub; situated as the ostensible meeting point between all those slot machines and blackjack tables, it's an oasis for thirsty gamblers. The HQ Center is for example, practically buzzed with a trendy energy.

The blue light is visible rising tall throughout the casino, these bright neon lights are supposed to emulate Tahoe's famed lake - indeed, the effect is refreshing and pretty.

There were the enticing signs for the new spa, promising all the "girlie stuff" that work-weary heart could desire (pedicure, massage, etc.). Some male patrons not quite sure what a casino needs with a spa anyway.

MontBleu's putting a new spin on the old something-for-everyone ethos. To wit: There's the requisite buffet, but even that comes with a twist. The Unbuffet features "live action stations" where chefs prepare dishes while you wait in line. Among the other offerings: a Mexican grill and a coffee bar.

A leftover from the Caesars era, it's a reminder that no matter what a casino does to its restaurants, its nightclubs and its gambling rooms, those who expected the high-roller lifestyle will not be satisfied with anything standard-sized. For $1,250 tp $1,500 a night, you can live it up in a 1,200-square-foot pad.

Where does your hard-money get you? For starters, MontBleu offers wide variety of casino games to kill the night away. Dine at finest restaurant and retire at a glamorous suite that has a perfect view of the mountain-ringed lake.