Located in the vibrant city of Medellín, Colombia, Casino Caribe is a notable establishment within the "Winner Group" (Cirsa) chain. This casino aims to provide a diverse entertainment experience, combining traditional gaming with dining options. Based on recent and past visitor feedback, its reputation appears to be undergoing a significant shift, particularly concerning player policies.
Historically, Casino Caribe has garnered positive remarks for several aspects:
It's described as "fairly big for a casino in Medellin," boasting a two-story layout. The ground floor and a second floor feature a variety of gaming options, including numerous machines and dedicated tables. Some machines on the upper level are noted for being hand payout only, which might appeal to some traditional players.
Many visitors have praised the "Great staff" and the overall "good vibes." The attention from the staff and the kindness of the people working there contribute to an enjoyable visit. The casino tends to get "VERY busy in the afternoon," suggesting a lively atmosphere.
A significant highlight is the casino's restaurant, 'Gato Pardo,' which has received high praise for its "great good vibes" and "good food." Menu items like baby beef platter and salmon have been specifically mentioned. Furthermore, being part of the 'winner group' allows for "beers at a decent price," adding to the value for patrons.
At least one long-term visitor mentioned that it's "a fun place to go and you can win here," indicating that payouts are possible.
While Casino Caribe has positive attributes, recent feedback indicates significant issues that potential visitors should be aware of:
One recurring comment, albeit from an older review, noted that "The machines are old." While this might not deter all players, it's worth considering for those who prefer modern gaming equipment.
The most critical and recent concern stems from a dramatic policy change regarding money exchange. A long-time patron, who had visited the Winner Group casinos over 100 times, reported being told by a manager that they could "only change $50 each" (referring to approximately 200,000 COP) and only if they lost that amount could they exchange more. This is described as "nonsense from a casino ever" and led the patron to leave without playing, stating, "won't be back here." This restrictive and unusual policy, if consistently enforced, could severely impact the player experience and is a major deterrent.
Casino Caribe has historically been considered a solid option in Medellín, praised for its size, staff, and food offerings, making it a potentially "top 4 casino in Medellin" according to some. However, the very recent and highly restrictive cash exchange policy represents a significant step "downhill."
For visitors looking for a clean place with good food and a lively atmosphere, Casino Caribe's restaurant and general vibe might still appeal. However, for serious gamblers or those accustomed to more flexible casino policies, the reported new cash exchange rule is a major red flag and could lead to a frustrating experience. It is advisable for prospective patrons to verify current policies before planning an extensive gaming session.
5/21/25 update. And downhill it goes. This is my 16th visit to Medellin. My wife and I have been to the winner group casinos easily over 100 times. Today we stopped in to Caribe. I know some of the workers, because I always buy beer here and leave a tip. And a gringo en el centro? Not common - this isn't the poblado. Anyway, went to change 1 million pesos ($250) between the two of us. The manager comes up to us and tells us that we can only change $50 each. And if we lose that then we can change more. I'm sorry...what??? I've not heard such nonsense from a casino ever. We left without playing; won't be back here.Original review:Great! It's part of "winner group" (cirsa) casinos so you can buy beers at a decent price. It's fairly big for a casino in Medellin. It gets VERY busy here in the afternoon. I would put this in my top 4 casinos in Medellin with Rio, Hollywood (Poblado), and Broadway on 70 being the others. There is a 2nd floor with tables and more machines. There are a few machines on the 2nd floor that are hand payout only.
Went there for lunch only. Very clean good prices and good food had the baby beef platter. My friend had Salmon. He gambled video poker I did not.
The machines are old but Great staff. It's a fun place to go and you can win here. Upstairs and downstairs with machines and tables.
I enjoy the attention and the food, its restaurant "Gato pardo" is great good vibes, people are so kind, enjoy every visit I pay there.
