The chain was founded in Oregon in 1991 by Craig Estey, whose family owned a successful vending machine and food distribution service.[3] The Oregon Legislature that year had authorized video poker machines to be installed in bars and taverns, under the aegis of the Oregon Lottery.[3] The first poker machines began operation in March 1992,[4] and by the next month, five Dotty's delis were open.[5]
Dotty's
Dotty's is a 24 hour cafe with a local forward business model, "offering food and beverage choices, with a focus on players having a welcoming environment."[1] The chain has a clean, well-lit atmosphere meant to invoke "your grandmother's kitchen" and is demographically targeted towards women aged 35 and older.[3]
Hoover Dam Lodge
"The owner of the chain Dotty's storefront taverns (in an interview) says he's bought a landmark hotel off U.S. 93 near Hoover Dam and Lake Mead. Nevada Restaurant Services Inc. chief Craig Estey released a statement Tuesday confirming his purchase of the Hacienda Hotel & Casino from the Lakeview Co. Estey calls the Hacienda a "historical jewel."" - August 7, 2013. Hoover Dam Lodge is a 280 room hotel and casino. Hoover Dam Lodge has three restaurants - Big Horn Cafe, Dotty's a 24 hour cafe, and La Villita.[6][7]
