Will Gamble for Food

Professional poker players gamble to put food on the table. Now, casual poker fans in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, can gamble to take money off of their restaurant checks.

Ace’s Food and Spirits, a poker-themed restaurant, has recently opened at the local CenterPoint Marketplace. According to owner Joe Elia, who also owns Joe Mama’s Restaurant at the same mall, Ace’s will soon begin a promotion where patrons can “gamble” for discounts on their meals.

"I think it's going to work," Elia said. "I've had a lot of people come to me and say 'I haven't been here in years but I'm coming to see you.'"

Mall management, as well as retailers, is hoping the fun eatery can spark business, as several tenants have left the mall in recent months. The shopping center has been looking to bring in high-quality retailers as part of a revitalization effort.

"People need to have a place to grab a bite to eat while they're shopping," said CenterPoint MarketPlace Manager Irene Taves. "The bar will be a nice little extra for people who want to take a break."

While Ace’s is currently open for business, the restaurant will wait until June 24 and 25 to hold its grand opening celebration.

Originally published June 3, 2005