I was very much looking forward to my final visit of 2008, to Northern Nevada. I am always treated "royally" by my excellent host at Atlantis, even if I have not been "over-royalled" by the VP machines. My host has never failed to greet me with warmth and enthusiasm. More tangibly, I have never spent even one dollar on room or food while in residence at the Atlantis.
A few times I have been lucky enough to take a VP vacation that starts off AND ends up in a positive winning way. This was to be one of those all too rare occasions. From the first machine that I played, on the day of my arrival in Reno, I was ahead of the game. Though my fortunes varied on a daily basis, my bankroll never descended into negative territory for the balance of the five day trip. A very unusual and pleasurable experience indeed!
After doing my usual initial reconnoiter of the VP inventory, I was most pleased to find that all of my old fave machines were still exactly where I had left them in August. This is always a relief since so many casinos have cut back drastically on their good offerings.
Additionally, the Atlantis has now kindly provided a new spacious first level non/smoking area, directly across from the Java Cafe. Previously, non/smoking play was only available in the Sky Terrace, with a smaller variety of VP. The new N/S area has all the same good games available in smoking areas, in most denominations. I played a LOT in this space. I hope others do as well so that it continues to exist!
I played about 50% quarters, 45% halves and 5% dollars, mostly at 9/6JOB, 8/5BP, 10/7DB (only available in quarters) and my new fave DW game, NSUD. I also played .25c 9/6JOB Spin Poker, and 3 & 5 line 9/6JOB Super Times Pay as well as straight
multi-line. All told, a lovely selection of VP machines. IMO, a bigger, better variety than is available in most LV casinos.
Should any of you find yourselves in Reno, at the Atlantis, in the not too distant future, I heartily recommend a casual brunch, lunch or dinner at the Manhattan Deli. I ate at least one meal there on most days, and found both the food and service to be excellent. The "New York style" sandwiches and Jewish deli specialities are particularly delicious. The portions are such that one entree easily serves two moderate appetites. Additionally, everything is reasonably priced.
During my visit, I particularly enjoyed a huge Pastrami on Rye sandwich, offered with a choice of potato salad, slaw or fries. ($11) I was barely able to finish half of the sandwich.
Another day I had excellent, pristinely fresh Fish & Chips, served with great tartar sauce.
It was so tasty that I ate much more than I usually do. (($12)
One day I ordered a chicken, walnut and grape salad, dressed with citrus mayo and served with ripe melon slices and delectable banana bread. Truly outstanding! ($10)
The only meal that was not pleasing to me, was a hamburger sandwich, which I ordered rare, and unfortunately received overdone and dry. I could have sent it back, but choose not to do so. ($9)
In the tradition of real NY delis, despite the copious amount of food served in each order,
a relish tray of delicious, crunchy pickles and other pickled vegetables is brought to each table, as soon as one is seated.
After calculating my coin/in vs. points earned on the trip, I verified again that the Atlantis is still awarding one point for each $40 of coin-in while playing VP.
It is still my opinion that the Atlantis provides an excellent selection of VP, generous offers, fine accommodations and good food. For the most part, they also have a very
friendly and helpful staff. This is particularly true once you have established a good playing history, utilized the services of a good host, and gained access to the VIP lounge.
~Babe~
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]