A leisure attraction characterised by a unique combination of nostalgia and thrilling entertainment, Gold Reef City has been relaunched following a multi-million rand refurbishment by Tsogo Sun. The glittering launch event that took place on the 19th of November was attended by Jozi’s most glamorous celebrities and leaders of the gaming and hospitality industry.
The first phase of what will be a R630 million investment by Tsogo Sun into the refurbishment and expansion of one of South Africa’s national tourist treasures has seen the property being elevated to a diverse, world-class entertainment destination. Says CEO of Tsogo Sun Marcel von Aulock, “This investment is in line with the group’s corporate strategy to invest in and expand its operations in South Africa. We are committed to ensuring that our properties stay relevant, fresh and competitive in the leisure market. Added to this, the selection of offerings at our properties are vitally important components in ensuring great experiences for all our guests.”
City of Johannesburg Executive Mayor Parks Tau says,“For many South Africans, Gold Reef City conjures up images of carefree days spent exploring the Victorian buildings and gold mine that provided a perfect blend of educational and entertainment value. Today, Gold Reef City is, without doubt, the premier entertainment destination in southern Johannesburg“.
Operations Director and Complex General Manager of Gold Reef City, Mike Page, says, “There is nowhere else in South Africa, if not the world, where one can experience a world-class Theme Park, the historical significance of the Apartheid Museum, enjoy the thrill of a casino, an opulent theatre, and the family-friendly entertainment value of movies, 10-pin bowling, a games arcade and a diverse selection of restaurants.”
Among the additions to the property are several new and upgraded restaurants, including the stylish Back o’ the Moon, which has undergone a total revamp and offers accessible upmarket dining. The property nowalso offers a Vigour & Verve restaurant, Spur Steak Ranch, Boston BBQ (family buffet restaurant), Calisto’s Portuguese Restaurant, The Raj Indian Restaurant, Ocean Basket, Vida e Café and Col Cacchio Pizzeria as well as a food court.
Young Gold Reef City fans have not been forgotten, with the addition of a Magic Company twelve-lane bowling alley, not to mention cinemas. One of the most spectacular new additions to Gold Reef City is Tsogo Sun’s movie franchise, Movies@Gold Reef City, featuring a cinema complex themed as a Victorian train station. Six theatres, offering a total of 1 048 seats, four of which have 3D capability, provide a variety of cinematic options for Gold Reef City visitors. The largest theatre is Platform 2, called Grand Central, which has 322 seats. Platform 3, which seats 84, boasts luxurious leather seats and a bar, making it an ideal venue for intimate corporate functions and exclusive VIP events.
The new Salon Privé features an opulent gaming ambience with its own private entrances, playing areas, baccarat room, internet and cash desk facilities, lobby and VIP desk, as well as an exclusive lounge.