This is our second Easter Sunday at La Forge Casino Newport. The Social Diary has dined here for two solid years, enough to form viable impressions. La Forge Casino is more about the historical importance of this restaurant and less about food impressions, service or table settings.
Methodology
La Forge Casino Newport
Our opening remarks might come as a surprise, especially to our forum members. But this review is not about the food, service or table settings. We take every review on a case by case basis.
The Social Diary doesn’t believe in award shows, for the same reason we don’t always believe in “paid” reviews. Even “luxury” items aren’t up to standard when you peel away the layers. Having a string of accolades such as AAA Diamond, LVX Preferred or even Relais & Châteaux isn’t that impressive either. This is especially true when you lived in that social circle your whole life.
Rather, these accolades that reads like a thread on a website looks rather suspicious. The Social Diary always wondered what were they hiding? Because if you have to mention how important you are, you probably aren’t.
Even a former Michelin inspector says it’s about food on the plate and not service. AAA Diamond inspectors care more for cleanliness and closet space than table settings. It’s also difficult to believe reviews, unless you are on the inside, personally experiencing it. Therefore, we allocated a budget per annum to the pursuit of truth. And we review them from the inside, sometimes as members and guests, in one capacity or another.
Sometimes, we go Beyond Yelp. These are reviews that Yelp “suppresses,” mostly directed by the business themselves, in order to manipulate ratings, by elevating the positive ones, whilst minimising the negative feed backs. It’s a racket and a SCAM!
Checklist
La Forge Casino Newport
Here is a checklist to consider when evaluating the quality of this restaurant. Guests who are unfamiliar with La Forge Casino Newport will base reviews on food alone, or include service as well. They don’t consider what the restaurant represents to the community, or the history.
- The Gilded Age. According to Audrain Hospitality, La Forge Casino restaurant has been serving the community since 1880! Additionally, diners who are members of Audrain receive 10% off their bill. There are many benefits to becoming an Audrain museum or Audrain Motorsport member.
- No Frills Dining. By food standards, it’s basic. However, The Social Diary has yet to experience a “bad meal.” Don’t expect any complex ingredients or a “wow” factor in food presentation. The styling is in tempo with pub fayre. This includes fish and chips, burgers, meatloaf and Shepard’s Pie. You can even get an elevated Truffle Lobster Macaroni & Cheese.
- No Self-aggrandising. La Forge Casino restaurant doesn’t believe in their own “legend.” Their website is functional, not self-aggrandising. Their servers may not be the most “polished” but they are kind, accommodating and thoughtful. The Social Diary always had good rapport with the staff.
- Unpretentious diners. Having lived in a world of posers, La Forge Casino caters a friendly, family type dining experience. On several occasions we “befriended” nearby diners. Furry family members are also welcome. This includes well-behaved dogs on the patio. Newport is a dog-friendly city.
Easter Sunday at La Forge Casino
No Muss, No Fuss
The Social Diary chose La Forge Casino Newport for Easter. Granted there are many choices, but La Forge Casino was the clear choice for us. Actually, we were looking forward to Easter the whole month. Easter is a big deal because it signifies fresh blooms and Spring!
The unassuming menu struck the right notes. It was the type of meal you can enjoy with family and friends around the table. Best of all was the price point at $35! There is a reason La Forge Casino doesn’t advertise their Easter buffet brunch. They mostly attract the locals who are in the know. Some are regular La Forge Casino diners.