Permits filed Monday point to a $5.7 million buildout at the Circus Circus Buffet. Its closure was first announced in November, following the shuttering of Treasure Island’s Corner Market Buffet.
Both Circus Circus and Treasure Island are owned by real estate mogul Phil Ruffin. Circus Circus changed hands from MGM Resorts International to Ruffin in late 2019, and the businessman has since hinted at plans to construct a Cirque du Soleil theater and a swimming pool complex.
The food court buildout, on the other hand, is a product of the pandemic economy. Eater Las Vegas reported in November that the buffet renovation would cost $2.5 million, a significantly different estimate than the number provided in today’s filing.
Circus Circus has yet to respond to requests for comment, but they were quoted in November to still be considering reopening the buffet alongside the new food court:
“Circus Circus Las Vegas is looking forward to opening a food court, bringing new dining experiences and options for guests,” a spokesperson told Eater. “The Circus Buffet re-opening is being evaluated, and will open if business demands increase and if it is safe to resume operations in accordance with state regulations and CDC guidelines.”
The Nevada Independent reported last year that Ruffin owns roughly 4 million square feet worth of property, with a great deal of that being on the Las Vegas Strip.
