Thanks for the article B4E. I always enjoy reading your blogs.
In this case, I noticed the one response with 10 reasons the respondent didn't like The D, and I find it interesting how two people can have such completely different experiences and opinions of the same property.
My take is somewhere in the middle. I've stayed there on a free stay-cation and the room was clean, although there was damage to the dresser. I didn't know how long prior to my arrival it had been damaged so I can't comment on the fact that it hadn't been fixed. I wasn't terribly fond of the choice of decor but it was well executed for the intended style and I appreciated the fact that Derek used all American-made furnishings.
I've received decent bounce back cash (free play) for the play I've given them but I haven't seen the good slot club promotions you've mentioned. The only decent promo I've seen is the rare 5x points day. I don't consider putting one ticket in a very large drum for every $1000 of play to have a snowball's chance at winning a car or cruise a great promotion, but that's just me.
I agree about the staff and the food, but also agree that service at the D Grille can be spotty. I always get the gyro at Coney Island as I'm not big on paying restaurant prices for hot dogs and yes, those caramel brownies are way too good! Andiamo's is the best steakhouse I've tried in that price range.
I also agree with the respondent that the music downstairs during prime time is way too loud and that the old casino upstairs has suffered with the removal of all of the good VP games -- save the Vue Bar progressives -- and the subsequent elimination of the live change booth.
I've met Derek S. and he is approachable and in touch with his casino. There is no doubt that, like it or not, what you get is what he wants and not the result of bean counter mentality. Good or bad, that counts for something these days.
