Eldorado Country Club, McKinney, TX

club house closed, pro shop closed, course in poor shape, slow play is the norm with no marshal and when we let the pro know nothing was done. Basically a busy muni course, would suggest other course in the area. Pete Dye course has great service and the keep the pace of play going.

Eldorado is a decent country club to be a member at as long as;

1. You are patient. Their service tends to be a bit on the slow side. They routinely run out of specials (ie. they ran out of steak on "Steak Night"! Go figure.)

2. You're expectations are low. This place is pretty laid back. If you go with the flow you'll be ok. Glasses and plates are clean atleast! Can't say much more about their food and beverage service.

3. Take the good with the bad. Management, especially their GM, tends to defend himself and his staff even if they clearly are in the wrong. I guess he thinks he has to do that to retain his workers. But, this will eventually be at the expense of retaining memberships. They've had to drastically reduce their member dues. I suppose this is one of the reasons. However, I'm sure his staff thinks he is cool and nice! That's all that matters. Don't ya know? :)

4. Don't make any special requests. Though, they will try to accomodate you. The management team is not strong enough to handle much more than day to day standard operation.

5. Golf course is decent. It really is for McKinney Texas. Some rolling holes mixed with narow fairways and lots of trees and water (you'll lose your share of balls here). Pace of play is decent. Lots of hubby/wifey 2 somes and kids.

6. If you're a drinker- you'll find plenty of regulars to get hammered with here. Be careful though. They tend to gossip. shhh. You didn't hear that from me!

7. And, of course, if you are a backroom gambler who tries to appear like you are more loaded than you really are- this place is definetly for you! Quite a few of those guys hanging around the mens lounge and bar. You know- the 52 1/2 year old guy who thinks he's still 20. Yeah...

8. Finally, the cougars. Quite a few. 51 1/2 year old women who don't watch their kids, and drink martinis and canned beer with their GIRLS! Yee Haw!!

Pros- Its Cheap. A few cute (good attitude and fun) servers. Some pretty cool party people, if you dance their dance......Its cheap! Did I say its cheap!
Cons- Poor management. Some staff report having to cater to certain members because they feel like they may lose their job if they don't. Hence, if you are not one of the Eldorado "VIP's", your service, respect, and attention will be minimal.

If you are picky and expect great service for your 2- 300 bucks a month member dues plus whatever you spend there to eat (no minimums! :)) - I'd stay away from this particular country club. However, if you are ok with the service on American Airlines in coach and think Chili's is the bomb!- This place is for you.

Just my opinion.