Back from the GFR's RPC reopening:
Repeat guests will notice many new CMs, since several of the excellent veteran CMs have retired, like Lauretta, Gayle, and Janice, among others; some familiar CMs are now at other resorts (Abdul, for example).
Only one concierge desk on the 3rd floor. To address guest concerns, other concierge CMs move about with iPads. However, the iPads don't always work. Since the RPC was at about 35% capacity, the need for that second desk will become obvious in time.
A different food lineup with some changes:
Coffee: 6:30 a,m. until 10 p.m. [The same as before.]
Grand Beginnings: 7 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. [Similar to before but an upgrade with the hot offerings. The bread pudding is outstanding! However. no periodic Mickey Waffle/pancake station.]
Refreshments: 11:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. [Tea time with its superb scones, tarts, etc. is gone! The few prepackages snacks, like bags of salt & vinegar potato chips, are disappointing.]
Twilight Refreshers: 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. [An obvious upgrade in the two hot offerings. The Olive Poached Salmon with Herb Polenta & Olive Tapenade and the Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Aioli offered on opening night (Cosmo and Scott were on hand!) were superb, and last night's shrimp stuffed with crab meat, and a reimagined Chicken Cordon Blue were excellent. Managers and chefs Nick, Thomas, and Matthew were always about.]
The lineup of value wines were satisfactory: Selbach Riesling, J. Lohr Chardonnay, Babich Sauvignon Blanc, Murphy Goode Merlot, R Cabernet Sauvignon, DeLoach Pinot Noir, and the Domaine Ste. Michelle Brut. [Mumm Napa Cuvee M needs to return as the sparkling wine.]
Cordials and Desserts: 8 p.m. until 10 p.m. [The same as before.]
Overall, a lot of effort was put into the reopened RPC. Some previously aforementioned hot food offerings were among the best we have ever had.
Note #1: Housekeeping service is daily once again.
Note #2: No more newspapers.
We'll compare and contrast the RPC experience upon our return: GFR visit #55.
We hope that all of you have a great time upon your next visit.
All the best!