Reno's finest? Not exactly...
Written: Nov 15 '00
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Wide variety of games, food, and entertainment
Cons: Food can leave something to be desired
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| hhassell99's Full Review: Eldorado Hotel & Casino |
If you would like to totally enjoy the aesthetic qualities of this casino, enter via the skywalk at the Silver Legacy. Here you will be greeted by majestic fountains done in what I call a "Greek" type of theme i.e. cherubs, etc. You may notice coins at the bottom of these fountains, giving you the opportunity to throw your money away in a beautiful setting rather than through playing the slots (couldn't resist!) You will now proceed down the stairs and notice yourself on the mezzanine level.
The first thing you see will most likely be Tivoli Gardens, the Eldorado's Coffee shop. This place is normally very busy, and you will normally find a wait. However, while waiting, you can sit in the adjacent Keno lounge and play a few games. There is also a bar available if you would like a beverage while waiting. A little tip from a local - get a roll of coins and play the machines if you are going to drink at the bar, that way you won't need to pay for your drinks. If you are playing Keno, you will need to ask for drink tokens from the keno attendant in order to have complimentary beverages. When your name is called to be seated in the restaurant, don't expect much in the way of service. I can't really blame the help, it is just that this restaurant is so busy they can't seem to find the time to be friendly. The menu includes a variety of food from a realm of ethnic backgrounds, including Oriental, Mexican, Italian, and of course, standard hotdogs and hamburgers. The coffee is a house specialty and is ground on location - you may have noticed the huge grinder at the front of the restaurant. As appealing as all of this sounds, the food is not the best quality. I would rank it a 3 out of 5 for taste and a 2 out of 5 for value, as it is very expensive. The decor isn't great, I find the restaurant to dark for my liking.
After you are through you may consider ordering a dessert - the best part of this restaurant. I highly suggest the Black Forest Cake for chocolate lovers, although it is very rich. The deserts are of the finest quality and there is also a cappucino bar in the restaurant to complement the sweets.
There is another restaurant on this level that I like very much - La Strada. Featuring fine Italian cuisine, you will need to open up your checkbook for this one, as the average price for a meal can range from $15-$20. But believe me, between the food and the service it is worth it. The waiters will have you pampered and the food will leave you satisfied for days to come. This is a local's favorite for graduations, proms and weddings.
The Eldorado also has a buffet on this floor which I would advise passing on - it is horrible. The food selection and quality is poor and seating is always confusing. I definitely do not feel it is worth the money.
The mezzanine also has a gift shop which is typical of most casinos - overpriced items you could by on the strip for a lot less money except they won't feature the casino logo. The help is often substandard, people who didn't quite have the IQ to work in the main casino.
The arcade is small with little selection of video games. If you are travelling with children, I would say take them to Circus Circus, located on the other side of the Silver Legacy - you can get there without having to go outside - just take the skywalk.
Perhaps the best thing about Eldorado is the shows that are offered there. I have seen everything from Irish Dance Groups (Riverdance wannabes) to Linda Ronstandt. Keep your eye out and call in advance for tickets - they sell fast.
The main floor is comprised mostly of gambling attractions. There is a wide variety of table games, including some that are exclusive to Eldorado. There is also a players club where you can earn points based on your gambling that can redeemed for room, food, and other discounts. There is a lot of slots, ranging from nickel play to $100 bets. You will also find several progressive slots including MegaBucks and Quatermania. The service is adequate, though not always the best. However, I have very rarely had to "wait" for a machine or a table. The dealers are friendly and the casino does offer single deck blackjack. In fact, this is the casino in which I learned to play Pai Gow poker, thanks to a friendly dealer.
There is also live entertainment on the main floor, ranging from comedy routines to musical impersonators (which are normally quite good). If you choose to sit in the lounge for the performances, be prepared for a two drink minimum, standard in the industry.
Overall, Eldorado is probably one of the best casinos in the downtown areas for adults. I would recommend it especially for couples, as everytime I have gone there with a date I have really enjoyed myself. The security is good, there is a self serve parking garage that is free to use with validation, and valet parking is also available. Most of all, it is within walking distance of the major downtown attractions, so it should fit into your schedule nicely!
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
hhassell99
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Member: Heather Sawyer
Location: Lakewood, CO
Reviews written: 56
Trusted by: 45 members
About Me:
Home Schooling, Breastfeeding, SAHM and a whole list of other qualities that annoy people.
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