Driving down South Center Street, we came across the Cal Neva Hotel and Casino.
It was a sight that is for sure. I bet a giant pink building really draws a lot of attention. The hotel was essentially a look into old town Reno. The building was obviously aged, the signs on the building looked like they had not been touched for years, they still have great value deals on the meals in the restaurants, and they still used the individual letters on a white board with wire to hold them in place as advertisements for their specials.
This building, better yet the Top Deck Restaurant, is what Allison considered her getaway from her apartment, Jimmy, and her thoughts because they never did anything good for her, or so she believed. No one knew her and she could pretend like she was someone else. I believe that after she began to obtain regulars, she felt accomplished and like things were looking up for a change. I wouldn't necessarily deem the Cal Neva to be my comfort when I needed to get away from myself, but it worked for Allison.
The restaurant was not huge and the people could easily make local regulars. It seemed like the kind of restaurant to do so; obtain the regular comers who have been eating there and playing their slots for years.
One thing that made an impression as I went by the hotel and casino was how busy the streets were during the day, although I am not sure if that was solely due to the parade. Also, it doesn't really capture the essence of Allison's normal work day because she worked graveyard shift so I imagine the difference between night and day is quite substantial.
In a sense Reno reminds me of Vegas because of all the flashy lights, spinning signs, busy streets, and gigantic parking garages. It brings back the feeling of the older days and adds a little biography to the location. The Cal Neva had a whole section on the other side of the street for a parking garage. I admit I did not imagine the Cal Neva was going to be as big as it was either.
Onward!
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