Paula Deen opens Tunica MS Buffet
Harrah's Tunica Opens May 2008, Debuting New Food Network Restaurant
The first celebrity named Buffet in an American Casino opens in May 2008 in Tunica, MS. Food Network Star Paula Deen will be onsite with food from the "Grand Ole South."
On May 25th, 2008 the first official "Paula Deen Buffet" will open at Harrah's Tunica Casino (Formerly known as The Grand Resort and Casino). Food Network Celebrity Chef Paula Deen will be onsite for the grand opening ceremonies. Reportedly, this will be the first celebrity chef-branded buffet at an American Casino resort. The new buffet is part of the $45 million renovation of The Grand Casino Resort Tunica, that will culminate with the official name change to Harrah's Tunica in May.
Deen: From Bag Lady to Merchandizing Queen
Paula Deen, known for her down home southern charm and style, is the queen of merchandising with a multitude of her products available at retail stores across the United States. Deen came from humble beginnings, finding herself a single parent to two children, and in need of income. She opened her own small catering company in Savannah, Georgia called The Bag Lady with just $200.00 to her name. Following success with The Bag Lady, and after encouragement from her supporters, Deen opened her first restaurant aptly named "The Lady and Sons". Check out Paula for more information.
The new 560-seat buffet is the beginning of the transformation for the entire second floor of the former Grand Casino, into an luxurious entertainment level consisting of three retail outlets, and three food venues including Replays Sports Bar and Grill, Murano's Italian Restaurant and of course, Paula Deen.
Stations on the new buffet will include:
- Granny Paul's Garden- A full fresh salad bar featuring Paula's favorite salads and her signature "Skillet Cornbread."
- Uncle Bubba's Oyster House- Featuring menu item served at Bubba's restaurant in Savannah, Georgia including signature item "Char Grilled Oysters."
- Hoe Cake and Biscuit Station- Cooked all day long and served with butter and syrup if you so desire.
- Lady and Son's- Featuring Southern Comfort Foods such as Paula's famous Fried Chicken, Collard Greens and Lady's Cheesy Mac.
- Captain Michael's Smokehouse- Featuring an assortment of meat prepared using Paula's rubs. Gourmet meats smoked daily including BBQ pulled pork, smoked sausage and ribs.
- Little Jack's Corner- Featuring a wide array of desserts including Paula's famous Gooey Butter Cake, Grandmother Paul's Sour Cream Pound Cake, Peach Cobbler and creamy hand dipped ice creams.
The former Grand Casino is offering "Paula Deen Getaway Packages" which include tickets to the buffet and promising that visitors "will be treated to mouth-watering temptations including a variety of Paula Deen's favorite dishes from the 'Grand Ole South'." More information on packages available at Harrah's Tunica in May. When you visit the Casinos don't miss How to Get Easy Comps.
