Renowned restaurateur “Famous” Dave Anderson is setting his sights on a project that blends history, high stakes, and high-end dining. His latest pitch? A luxury restaurant and casino with a roaring ’20s twist, centered around the infamous Al Capone’s Hideout in Wisconsin.
A Bold Proposal With a Nod to the Past
Anderson, the founder of the well-known Famous Dave’s BBQ chain, isn’t just talking about another dining spot. He’s proposing a full-scale restoration of Al Capone’s historic hideaway near Hayward, transforming it into a lavish speakeasy-style restaurant with a casino. His idea, presented to the Lac Courte Oreilles (LCO) Tribal Governing Board, promises an immersive Prohibition-era experience.
Picture this: guests stepping into a world of vintage glamour, greeted by servers in flapper dresses and newsboy caps. A hidden entrance, jazz music drifting through the air, and high-stakes gambling in a setting reminiscent of the days when Capone himself allegedly roamed the Northwoods.
Famous Dave’s Track Record in Business
If anyone can turn this vision into reality, it’s Anderson. He built Famous Dave’s into a powerhouse barbecue brand with over 100 locations nationwide. His background in hospitality and entertainment runs deep, and he’s no stranger to ambitious ventures.
Anderson, a member of the Lac Courte Oreilles Band of Ojibwe, has long supported tribal economic development. His latest idea isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about creating jobs, boosting tourism, and injecting life into the local economy.
The Lure of Al Capone’s Hideout
The proposed location isn’t just any building—it’s a piece of history. Al Capone’s Hideout, nestled in the woods near Hayward, has long been a source of fascination. Stories of the mob boss using it as a retreat have swirled for decades. While some of the lore remains unverified, the site’s mystique makes it a perfect fit for an upscale speakeasy and gaming lounge.
Here’s what Anderson’s vision includes:
- Luxury dining with a Prohibition-era menu featuring gourmet takes on classic speakeasy dishes.
- A high-end casino with an intimate, high-stakes gaming experience.
- Authentic 1920s decor, complete with hidden doors, vintage furnishings, and live jazz performances.
- A tourism boost for Hayward, drawing visitors intrigued by Capone’s legacy and upscale entertainment.
Community and Tribal Considerations
Bringing a casino into the mix means tribal involvement is key. Anderson has pitched his proposal to the LCO Tribal Governing Board, hoping to align the project with the tribe’s long-term economic interests. Tribal gaming operations have played a major role in Wisconsin’s economy, and adding a unique, themed experience could set this project apart.
Of course, there are hurdles. Local zoning laws, state gaming regulations, and public reception will all play a role in determining whether this plan moves forward. But Anderson’s influence, along with the historical appeal of the hideout, could make a compelling case.
What’s Next?
Anderson’s proposal is still in the early stages, but interest is already growing. A project of this scale—combining fine dining, gaming, and historical intrigue—would be unlike anything else in Wisconsin.
Will the LCO Tribal Governing Board give it the green light? Will Al Capone’s Hideout become a modern-day speakeasy and high-stakes casino? That remains to be seen, but if Anderson has his way, Wisconsin’s Northwoods might soon be home to a roaring ’20s revival with a touch of mobster legend.
