Casino is a modern term for an establishment where gambling takes place. While elaborate hotels, lighted fountains and replicas of famous landmarks draw people to casinos, the majority of a casino’s profits come from games of chance such as slots, blackjack, roulette, craps and keno. Casino games have a built in statistical advantage for the house, known as the “vig” or a “rake,” which can vary from game to game. The small advantage earned by the casino from bets by patrons can add up to billions of dollars in annual profits.

Casinos also earn millions of dollars from their food and beverage operations. Unlike other restaurants, casinos offer many options for gamblers: a full range of cocktails, wine and beer, as well as several buffets and gourmet dining restaurants.

The most popular casino games are slot machines and poker. Slot machines are easy to understand; a player puts in money and pulls a handle or pushes a button to spin the reels. If a winning combination comes up, the player receives a predetermined amount of money. Poker, baccarat and trente et quarante are also common casino games.

Casinos employ a variety of security measures to prevent cheating and stealing. Security personnel watch the floor and tables, observing for suspicious betting patterns or marking of cards. Casinos are also equipped with high-tech surveillance systems, allowing security workers to monitor the casino from a room filled with banks of security cameras that can be adjusted to focus on specific patrons.