It's nice to know what to expect.
In a fantastic city that is known as the entertainment capital of the world, the Monte Carlo Casino was less than impressive. We had expected something much more spectacular. If this was, as the other casinos were, a replica of the true-life experience, then Monte Carlo would not be on my Grand Tour itinerary.
It was almost a relief to find a little food court in the back of the casino, near the hotel lobby, filled with American concessions. Starbucks was there.
We ordered a grande Tazo shaken tea, a tall nonfat latte, and a raspberry tart for $9.95. As we enjoyed our snack in a common dining area -- this was a real food court, like you'd find in any mall -- we planned our escape to the next casino.