Encyclopedia Dubuque
"Encyclopedia Dubuque is the online authority for all things Dubuque, written by the people who know the city best.”
Marshall Cohen—researcher and producer, CNN
Affiliated with the Local History Network of the State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Iowa Museum Association.
IOWA GREYHOUND PARK
IOWA GREYHOUND PARK. In 2017 following eight years as MYSTIQUE CASINO, the casino announced that it would be changing its name to Q Casino Resort and Hotel with extensive remodeling. Dubuque Greyhound Park also became the Iowa Greyhound Park. It was suggested that the name was changed to prevent litigation from Mystic Lake, a tribal casino in Minnesota. Beginning April 1, 2017 Q Casino became a 24-hour facility seven days per week. Diamond Jo Casino in Dubuque already is open 24 hours daily. The Dubuque Racing Association Board of Directors had authorized the purchase of the adjoining Hilton Garden Inn and Houlihan’s restaurant in April 2014. In 2016 the casino completed upgrades to the lobby and other public spaces. Improvements to all 116 guest rooms were planned to start in October and be completed in January, 2018 at an estimated cost of $2 million. (30)
An increase in revenue and a greater share of the local gambling market was shown in the first month under the new name, Q Casino and Hotel. March 2017 showed 7.5% greater gambling revenue than March 2016. In addition, Q received 43.1% of local gambling market compared to 41.8 percent over the same period. Concerts and live entertainment also contributed to greater revenue with the best days of gambling falling on days with shows. (31) In August, 2017 work on The Farmhouse Steaks & Chops, a new restaurant for Q Casino and Hotel, was announced. Planned for an opening on November 1, the restaurant replaced the French-themed restaurant Champagne which closed in July. (32) The total amount wagered at the park in 2017 was $4.66 million which was about 3% higher than the previous year. (33)
The Farmhouse Kitchen opened on January 18, 2018 with a capacity of 130 people. The restaurant would employ between 25-30 people, many of whom had worked previously at Champagne or Bon Appetit!. Plans were announced that an additional 80 seats would be available in the spring in an area that formerly housed Bon Appetit!, a buffet that closed in January, 2017. (34)