He could almost play on the tour if he wanted to put himself through that.' On this day, head pro Don King has a signed picture of McGwire laying on his desk, waiting to be framed. Big Mac's been out to Barona Creek Golf Club several times. No wonder Barona is one of the places Mark McGwire goes for his golf getaways.

It is apparent this staff is used to making high rollers feel like high rollers and low rollers feel more special than they usually do in real life. You get that slot-side meal with a smile. It is worth it for all these people to go out of their way because of the way they're treated when they're here.īarona's staff - from the managers to the woman who cleans the table in the food court - do everything to make people feel welcome.

Yet you aren't on the grounds long before the lure becomes apparent. The drive can be a harrowing experience in rainy weather, made all the more trying by the gambling-eager folks who don't hesitate to ride bumpers. That's right, Barona has its own auto center in the parking garage.įirst-time visitors making the trek to Barona often arrive wondering what attracts all these people to a resort set back on a narrow two-lane highway that runs through mountainous, dipping roads. You can also get your car washed and your oil changed while you play. Slot-side dining is just the start of the catering at this casino. It is even harder to debate the truth in advertising of Barona's 'Where The Real Players Play' slogan (repeated at near ad nauseum on San Diego area radio by celebrity spokesman Kenny Rogers). 'I've got to watch my blood sugar, honey, and sometimes I get so excited about my games, I lose track of time and don't eat. 'I get a good meal while I play my games,'' Rosie Carthorn said, enjoying her usual fish and slots. It's a little unsettling at first sight, seeing all these little tables on wheels pushed up against slot machines. It doesn't matter if you're playing penny slots or high-limit baccarat, they'll bring the food and the table to you. At this sprawling casino/golf resort/spa complex on an Indian reservation about 35 minutes and another world away from downtown San Diego, you don't have to chose.

Barona removes that troublesome play or eat debate for the serious gambler. This is what the Barona Valley Ranch Resort & Casino offers unapologetically with its tableside dining. One hand remains poised over the slot machine button, the other guides a fork to scoop up the last piece of salmon. The lady rarely takes her eyes off the slot machine's computer screen, even as she finishes a hearty two-course meal.

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