In Detroit, there are two things that are in the raise position. Eyebrows are the first, and are lifted in direct response to the second - souring room rates at the MotorCity Casino's newly anointed hotel. The Detriot casino, turned "resort casino", seems to have the right idea following well treaded Las Vegas casino tracks with a distinct theme (cars), complete with flashy decor and a mammoth buffet. But many locals are calling out this Vegas wanna-be on its over three-hundred dollar room rate, citing that despite the flashy lighting this casino just ain't in Vegas, baby.

In Las Vegas, casino goers have come to expect a level of opulence and a price tag to match. But they also take into account that there are going to be more things for them to do, see and play than is feasible to accomplish in a lifetime. MotorCity isn't quite able to boost the same...not by a long shot. The casino can indeed hold a candle to Vegas' plush casino resorts.

However, it appears to be lacking in other areas. MotorCity's restaurants consist of one steak house, a BBQ joint, and a throw-back to the original poker snack - a sandwich deli. Something tells me that even in Detriot, if someone is paying over three hundred a night, they are probably going to want more then a pastrami on rye and a "fancy" one pound baked potato to go with their carnivorous fix.

The casino itself is a site to behold with lighting that achieves a sleek and sexy retro boldness, while the hotel rooms are equally lovely and decedent. It is just the casinos fairly obvious lack of genuine entertainment and innovative dining that throws a wrench in MotorCity's plans to be "Vegas" quality. No mind-blowing Cirque shows, folks.

One way or another, the MotorCity Casino seems to be getting the last laugh, considering all of its rooms are currently sold out for the upcoming North American International Auto Show. And with good chances of getting some pretty high rollers in the current auto industry, MotoCity Casino just better make sure their deli can roll a nice Spicy Tuna Sushi roll.