Visitreno

[remano]

Siri's Casino and Whitney Peak have been mentioned in other posts recently so I thought I would fill in some of the blanks.

Siri's has been open for a couple weeks now, as a slots only casino in the middle of downtown where the Primmadonna/Golden Phoenix used to be. The first thing I noticed on entering is that the machines are not lined up in a standard row or bank configuration. Instead, they are placed around the floor at different angles or circular clusters of 3 to 6 machines. The designers probably thought this would make the floor seem more active and attractive. Maybe it would in a large casino but this is a pretty small area and my feeling is it makes the place seem more cluttered and confusing.

The bar is where it always has been - along the North wall (right hand side as you enter from Virginia). Frozen daquiris seem to be their specialty, with 9 machines on the back bar serving up different flavors. They also have 8 different beers on tap. After the bar is a small lounge area with upholstered chairs, benches, tables and large screen TV's. This would seem to be a natural location for the sports book if they go that way.

Food service is in the back and is basically a snack bar or fast food setup. They have a Philly cheese steak and some hot dog options, but most of the food seems to be Mexican - nachos, quesadillas etc. Prices are in the $3 to $6 range. From the restaurant you can exit the back way into the alley for a little of the old Reno flavor.

I didn't see any facilities for entertainment unless they clear out the lounge area for a band or something. There is an upstairs area that used to lead over to the Golden Phoenix that for now does not seem to be open to the public. There has been talk of building a bridge across the alley to Whitney Peak which would have to go through that area, but for now that seems to be on hold.

Over at Whitney Peak things are pretty close to being finished. Lots of construction workers, trucks, deliveries etc. coming and going but not open to the public yet. This week there were signs on the doors advising employees which entry to use for the food and beverage orientation, the hurricane fence blocking the sidewalk has come down and the boards are off the doors and windows. Here's more:

http://www.downtownmakeover.com/5-12-14-Whitney-Peak-Tour

[BC Dave]

Thanks for the update, Romano. I sure hope these places make it. Success of these new operations would do a lot for that sad section of Virginia Street.