Casino Club Colonial Review

Located in the vibrant city of Alajuela, Costa Rica, Casino Club Colonial presents itself as a more intimate gaming experience compared to larger establishments. This casino primarily caters to slot enthusiasts but also offers table games, all within a generally quiet and comfortable setting. While it boasts a loyal clientele and a commendable restaurant, potential visitors should be aware of a few operational nuances, particularly concerning closing procedures.

Atmosphere & Gaming Experience 🎰

Visitors frequently describe Casino Club Colonial as having a nice, carpeted atmosphere that is typically rather quiet, especially on its second floor. This makes it an appealing option for those seeking a more relaxed gaming environment. While slot machines appear to be a primary draw, "board games" (likely referring to table games) are also available, though they can become noisier later in the day. Some patrons have found it enjoyable for an hour or two of casual play, with the potential for exciting wins, such as free game drawings that have offered significant colones.

Service & Staff Interactions 👍👎

The casino generally receives high marks for the demeanor of its serving staff. Patrons consistently praise the servers as being nice, friendly, and courteous, often providing great-tasting drinks. However, a notable and recurring concern revolves around interactions with certain employees, particularly during closing hours. Several reviewers describe experiences with staff members, especially upstairs, who were perceived as rude, stern, or abrupt when prompting guests to leave, sometimes before guests had received their change or drinks. This contrasting behavior between the floor staff and some closing personnel has led to frustration and a deduction of stars in some reviews, suggesting an area where customer service training could be improved.

Culinary Offerings 🍽️

Beyond the gaming floor, Casino Club Colonial is home to a highly-regarded restaurant. Long-time patrons attest to its quality, with one reviewer calling it "superb." It's also noted to be busy for lunch, indicating its popularity among both casino guests and local diners looking for a good meal.

Things to Consider 🤔

1. Size: It's described as a small slot casino, which might appeal to those who prefer less overwhelming environments but could disappoint those expecting a sprawling gaming complex.
2. Entrance: A minor but important point raised by one user is that the entrance can be hard to find. First-time visitors might need to pay extra attention to locate it.
3. Closing Procedures: Be mindful of closing times. While staff generally are friendly, some experiences indicate a less-than-gracious approach to ushering out guests, particularly upstairs, even if they are still waiting for services like drinks or change. This has been a source of significant dissatisfaction for some.
4. Time of Visit: One long-term reviewer suggested it might be better to "not go at night," implying a potentially different atmosphere or crowd compared to daytime visits, though without elaborating further.

Overall Recommendation ✨

Casino Club Colonial is a solid choice for a casual gaming experience in Alajuela. Its comfortable, generally quiet atmosphere, friendly servers, and excellent restaurant are significant draws. While the issues with certain closing staff are a downside that the management should address, many loyal patrons continue to frequent the establishment, some for decades. If you're looking for a low-key casino with good food and a generally pleasant environment, and are prepared for a potentially abrupt closing experience, this spot is worth considering.