It wasn’t long ago that ‘Reno Cuisine’ might have sounded like an oxymoron, but the biggest dining challenge today is probably sorting through all the choices. To help you cut through the clutter, here are some of the top options for groups to currently consider.
An instant favorite upon its 2010 opening, the Atlantis Seafood Steakhouse (775.824.4430; www.atlantiscasino.com)is a dazzling dining destination that showcases a trifecta of superb service, electrifying atmosphere and—best of all—perfectly prepared fare made with only the finest ingredients.
The snazzy setting is highlighted by a 1,100-gallon columned aquarium teeming with marine life. An attention to detail and service includes the tableside preparation of several menu items—including some desserts and cocktails—and wine lovers will appreciate the nearly endless selection. And while the bastion of electrifying elegance is aimed an unforgettable evening of dining fun, those with meeting needs will be pleased as well.
A spacious Club Room can host between 45 and 50, and the cozy ‘Cove’ is an ideal option for mixing business with pleasure—with room for up to 16, and Wi-Fi and a large flat screen making presentations easy.
A classy-but-comfortable crowd-pleaser, Rapscallion (775.323.1211: www.rapscallion.com) stands head-and-shoulders above the local competition when it comes to seafood. But groups gathering at this wood-paneled oasis will have more to choose from than the 20+ varieties of fresh fish served up every day. The establishment also prides itself on its crowd-pleasing pasta, plus high-grade cuts of steak perfectly seared inside its 1800-degree broilers.
Groups coming for a special occasion have three very pleasant private dining areas to select from, and flexible menu options and banquets are also available.
One of the latest new dining hot spots is undoubtedly the hip and happening Old Granite Street Eatery (775.622.3222; www.oldgranitestreeteatery.com), which opened in July 2010 on Sierra Street. A spare-but-inviting setting provides the ideal atmosphere for the establishment’s tasty and unpretentious fare, ranging from fish and chips to wood-grilled burgers and steaks. And groups on the outlook for some likeable libations will savor the pride taken in the restaurant’s creative cocktails.
The relatively compact space makes it tricky for Granite Street to handle larger groups during the week, but Sunday evenings are available for buyouts and private parties. Capacity is around 65 inside, with a newly added patio making space for about 25 more.
Fine French fare in a friendly setting near the Truckee River is what Beaujolais Bistro (775.323.2227; www.beaujolaisbistro.com) is all about. Its setting in a century-old brick-walled bungalow provides a charming ambience as well, with a private back room adding a nice touch for group occasions.
The Bistro’s extensive menu shows off classic French dishes with added flair, from an Escargots Bourguignonne appetizer to entrées like Coq Au Vin with Cinnamon Noodles. And foodies will be reassured to hear that excellent reviews have been bestowed upon the Beaujolais by everyone from Frommer’s to bon appetit.
Formerly restricted to members/residents of the Tahoe Mountain Club, Wild Goose (530.546.3640; www.wildgoosetahoe.com)—in Tahoe Vista on the North Shore—is now open to all. With its lakeside setting, casually elegant ambience, and some of the best cuisine in the region, this seasonally open establishment is tough to top when it comes to destination dining spots in the area.
Offering New American Cuisine with an emphasis on fresh local ingredients, the sleek and stylish dining spot is open from late May through Mid-October. Planners will appreciate the private dining room upstairs, which has a capacity of about 40 and includes a dedicated bar area and exceptional lake view.
Newer dinner entrées for 2011 include Seared Diver Sea Scallops with Pomme puree, Szechwan Pepper Sauce and popcorn shoots; and Mussels a la Plancha with jalapeño pepper, breadcrumbs and clarified garlic herb butter. The establishment also boasts well over 300 selections of fine wine.