| Bell's first licensed card room opened with approximately 60 card tables, making it briefly the largest card room in California. Originally owned by Kevin P. Kirwan (with partners) and managed by Dick Bisbines. It was bought by Sam Torosian in 1985. The club declared bankruptcy in April 1989, and closed in December 1989. It became "The Regency" (see "Became").
Torosian is credited with inventing the game of Pai Gow Poker, which he introduced at the Bell in 1985. Following poor advice from an attorney, he decided not to patent the game. This likely contributed to the game's huge popularity, as any casino could offer it without paying a licensing fee.
Advertisement detail from a matchbook posted below. Photograph from 1/3/1985 (Los Angeles Times). |
