A “drop-in” style bar top gaming machine that includes a support frame having at least two opposed support walls, and a top panel assembly supporting a display device. The top panel assembly is further configured to cooperate with the support frame for movement between a closed position and an open position, enabling access to the support frame. A handle assembly is provided for each support wall, each of which includes a handle member and a mounting portion that is movably mounted to a corresponding support wall of the support frame between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the handle member is positioned in a manner that enables the top panel to be oriented in the closed position. In the second position, the handle member is exposed in a manner that permits gripping thereof to vertically support and lift the gaming machine assembly.