Al Capone’s Hideout: Famous Dave’s Founder Proposes High-Stakes Casino on Tribal Land

The renowned restaurateur behind the popular Famous Dave’s barbecue chain is making a bold move into the world of gaming. Dave Anderson is spearheading a proposal to transform a historic property on tribal land in Wisconsin into a luxurious high-stakes casino and lodge, drawing inspiration from the notorious gangster Al Capone.

The project centers around a 407-acre estate, rumored to have once been owned by Al Capone, located within the sovereign reservation of the Lac Courte Oreilles Indians. This sprawling property features over 400 acres of forest, including the picturesque Lake Pine and 11 buildings. One of these structures is a stone lodge, widely believed to be where Capone sought refuge during his days in Chicago. The proposed development, dubbed Al Capone’s Hideout, aims to revitalize this historical site into a premier destination for gaming, dining, and accommodation.

A Vision for Entertainment and Economic Growth

Dave Anderson, a proud tribal member of the Lac Courte Oreilles Indians and a former administrator for the Bureau of Indian Affairs, has presented a comprehensive plan to the tribal government. The vision includes not only a high-stakes casino but also a fine-dining restaurant emphasizing locally sourced ingredients, a winery, a brewery, and a prohibition-style speakeasy – all designed to immerse visitors in the era of Al Capone. On-site lodging is also planned to enhance the visitor experience.

“I will build the tribe a restaurant of Famous Dave’s quality where everything is served fresh,” Anderson stated. “We would have fresh vegetables from local farmers, an award-winning winery, and a high-quality wine room.” This commitment to quality and local sourcing underscores the project’s dedication to both entertainment and economic development for the tribe.

Strategic Location and Historical Significance

The Lake Pine property was acquired by the tribe in 2009 for $2.8 million and subsequently recognized as sovereign land following its inclusion in the federal trust. Its location, approximately 100 miles northeast of Minneapolis/St. Paul, 250 miles northwest of Milwaukee, and 325 miles northwest of Chicago, positions it strategically to attract visitors from across the Midwest.

Elevating Gaming Options: A New Casino for the Lac Courte Oreilles

Anderson’s proposal includes a strategic shift in gaming focus. He is advocating for the closure of the tribe’s existing Grindstone Creek Casino, which currently features 115 slot machines and a quick-service restaurant catering primarily to low-stakes players. The new high-stakes casino at Al Capone’s Hideout aims to attract a wealthier clientele with a more sophisticated gaming experience.

The allure of Al Capone’s history is expected to draw affluent travelers, making this development a significant economic driver for the Lac Courte Oreilles tribe. The proposed casino will offer a range of high-stakes games, aiming to compete with other major casinos in the region.

Beyond Gaming: A Comprehensive Resort Experience

While gaming is a central component of the project, Al Capone’s Hideout aims to be a comprehensive resort destination. The tribe’s current primary economic engine, the Sevenwinds Casino Lodge & Conference Center, features 75 rooms, a convention facility for up to 900 people, two restaurants, an indoor pool, a golf course designed by Pete Dye, and a casino floor with 600 slots, a poker room, and various table games. The new casino will complement these existing amenities, offering a wider range of entertainment options.

It’s worth noting that Wisconsin currently prohibits sports betting, making the casino’s focus on traditional gaming a key element of its strategy. However, the inclusion of a high-quality wine room and fine dining options ensures a diverse appeal to visitors seeking more than just gambling.

From BBQ to High-Stakes: Dave Anderson’s Journey

Dave Anderson’s background as the founder of Famous Dave’s adds a unique dimension to this project. He established the barbecue chain in Hayward, Wisconsin, in 1994 and expanded it to multiple locations before taking the company public in 1996. While Anderson later stepped down as CEO, he remained chairman until 2003. In 2022, Famous Dave’s and BBQ Holdings were acquired by MTY Food Group for approximately $200 million.

Anderson’s experience in building a successful restaurant chain provides valuable insights into creating a high-quality dining experience, which will be a key differentiator for the new casino. His passion for fresh, local ingredients and his commitment to excellence are expected to translate into a premier culinary offering at Al Capone’s Hideout.

Conclusion

The proposal to develop Al Capone’s former hideout into a high-stakes casino and lodge represents a significant opportunity for the Lac Courte Oreilles tribe. By combining the allure of history with premium gaming, dining, and accommodation options, this project has the potential to drive economic growth, create jobs, and enhance the cultural landscape of the region. The combination of a renowned restaurateur like Dave Anderson leading this venture suggests a strong focus on quality and a unique visitor experience. This ambitious undertaking could transform the reservation into a major destination for entertainment and tourism.

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