by tony reverditto
Harrah’s Resort Southern California is one of the most popular resorts and casinos in the region. With 1,600 of the latest and classic slots and 50 table games, the casino floor is a wonder to behold. Harrah’s has garnered multiple awards recognizing its philanthropic efforts, its dining venues and its rewards loyalty program. A multitude of amenities include a lazy river, swim-up bar, three outdoor pools and seven Jacuzzis. The Spa at Harrah’s is the place to pamper yourself, and the fitness center is state-of-the-art.
THE ROOMS
From double queens to deluxe kings to ultra-sweet suites, every one of the 1,087 rooms is designed for luxurious relaxation. Last summer, Harrah’s completed a $24 million renovation of its Dive Inn Tower, which features 203 guest rooms and suites. The remodel, which began in October 2023, includes modern designs, luxurious finishes and a Southern California beach-inspired aesthetic. The renovation also includes updated amenities like larger TVs, new furniture and unique artwork.
We stayed in the deluxe Surfside Suite. The 987-square-foot Surfside Suite is on the ground floor and comes with a pool view. Our favorite amenity was, by far, the outdoor hot tub with our own private patio. I spent two hours in the Jacuzzi staring at the stars and felt completely rejuvenated.
I also loved the spacious, well-appointed suite, which included a separate bedroom and living room, as well as a workspace for those who must conduct business. They have newly renovated showers with a separate soaker tub and a well-lit bathroom. We truly did not want to leave this spectacular suite, but there was gambling to be had and cuisine to be eaten.
THE CUISINE
Because we had an early check-in, we got a quick bite to go at the new Corner Counter. They offer delicious Italian favorites plus some unique specialties. We opted for a slice, but sandwiches and salads were available. They also had a nice selection of gelato. I had a huge slice of Pepperoni and John went vegetarian. It was a unique preparation and quite tasty.
It happened to be my birthday on the evening of our stay, and one of my favorites is KJ’s Chinese Restaurant. Their Asian cuisine expands out of China, and the chefs are trained in preparing multiple dishes throughout the surrounding regions. One of our favorites is the Rice Noodle-Salted Fish & Chicken; it is a spectacular dish and one of the Chef’s Specials.
We ventured on the menu to Thailand and ordered Pad Thai Noodle with Shrimp & Chicken. I don’t consider their preparation authentic Thai street food, but it is always yummy. The Sizzling Tender Beef in black pepper sauce melted in your mouth and was phenomenal. Finally, the Chicken with Orange Peel is a classic and was super fresh and flavorful.
Every item that I have ever eaten on The Café menu has been of excellent quality. For breakfast, some standouts are the unique Pancake Tacos, three pancakes wrapped around scrambled eggs, bacon and shredded cheese served with salsa and choice of hash browns or tots, and the Avocado Toast Everything Bagel topped with whipped cream cheese, sliced avocado, baby heirloom tomatoes and balsamic glaze. Served with two poached eggs and a side of fruit and turkey sausage.
But, because it was almost noon, we ordered burgers. I previously enjoyed the Backyard Burger, American cheese, lettuce, tomatoes and onions and I added bacon. It did not disappoint, and it is a huge, top-quality burger patty cooked to perfection. John went for the Herbivore Burger, Gardein chicken patty on a vegan bun with lettuce, tomatoes and onions. We both opted for the fries because they are truly some of the best that we have ever had. We get those crispy delights every time we go.
One of the newer grab-and-go places is Best of Cluck, a Nashville-themed eatery. From strips to sandwiches, this unique pleasure is hatching delicious meals on select days. Fortunately, we were there for a late lunch on a Thursday (closed Monday through Wednesday), and ordered the six-piece Chicken Tenders, which come with two sauces, prepared regular or Nashville Hot style.
The combo comes with one side, either Clucky’s Mac-n-Cheese, avocado ranch slaw, tzatziki slaw, seasoned waffle fries or fried pickles. John and I ordered ours Nashville Hot, and he ordered the Mac-n-Cheese, and I went for the tzatziki slaw. The spicy version of this comfort food was the bomb, and oh so crisp on the outside, tender on the inside.
Other on-site upscale eateries include the incomparable Hell’s Kitchen (closed Monday and Tuesday), Salt and Fin and The Oyster Bar (closed Wednesday and Thursday). Rita’s Cantina (closed Tuesday through Thursday) has tasty Mexican food, and other quick bites include The Earl of Sandwich, Smash Burger and Starbucks.
LIBATIONS
For those who prefer to explore the world of libations, there are several options: Corked, which features rotating taps, high-end wines and carefully crafted cocktails; The First Down, a cool sports bar; Rincon Reservation Road Brewery, an on-site brewing facility; Spiked, a world of craft cocktails; and Tini’s, martinis with a “funner” twist.
ENTERTAINMENT
Harrah’s offers concerts, comedy and other entertainment. Upcoming shows at the Event Center feature Charley Crockett on June 6, Ryan Bingham and The Texas Gentlemen on June 13, Clint Black: Back On The Blacktop Tour on July 4, David Foster and Chris Botti featuring Katharine McPhee on July 18, and The Docksiders on July 25. Mark your calendars for RuPaul’s Drag Race Werq The World Tour 2025 on October 10.
Harrah’s Resort Southern California is located at 777 Harrah’s Rincon Way in Funner, California. harrahssocal.com | 760.751.3100