I used to go in the El Cortez just to admire the art deco decor
even though the Trocadero was long gone. In the 40s and 50s
it was a top notch nite club featuring acts such as Sophie Tucker,
Chico Marx, and Victor Borge. They even had a camera girl as
evidenced by photo holder designed by Lew Hymers. The casino
featured two roulette wheels to accommodate the divorce trade.
When Bill Fong closed the New China Club he opened a Chinese
restaurant in the old casino. There was a fountain in the middle
of the floor with a sign that read “Fongtain of Fong”. Maybe it was
for good luck or something I never did know. The place is now
closed and I think the hotel rooms are short term rentals.