What a waste of money (and time). With a reservation we were seated. eventually a drink order was taken. 20 minutes later my martini arrived 1/2 spilled from the glass.
The waiter was very uninterested in our 2 top. After two hours waiting for our $70 apiece filet wellingtons they finally arrive. I asked the manager if he was aware of our wait. Yes. "let me pour you a glass of B.V. Cab". I think BV Cab is about $13 bucks a bottle. No apology - no nothing. I'll never go back to this place again!
Save your money and time and enjoy a good meal with good service somewhere else!!!!!!
This is a very classical dining experience; by that, I mean it reminds me of an experience you may have in a traditional French restaurant or at an upscale restaurant in the 50's. They don't really do it like this anymore, which depending on your tastes, may be a good or a bad thing.
Staff/Service--5 stars. Attentive, polite, and genuinely interested in making sure that you are enjoying yourself and your food. Keep in mind though, this is a dining service meant to be enjoyed over about 2 hours, so don't arrive starving and ready to chow down. It's going to be a while.
Ambiance/Style--3 stars. It's an interesting room. Much smaller than I expected it to be, and I'm surprised they keep the lighting so high. I would expect the chandeliers to be dimmed for dinner. This is a very traditional room, some kind of cross between an early 1900's library or parlor room. Lots of dark wood, interesting wallpaper, and flags everywhere. It's not in any way modern, and it feels like the last thought to decor might have been in the 60's. Â
Food--3 stars. This is a very classic dinner menu. As a vegetarian, I'm disappointed in the lack of options. Yes, it's a traditional place, but come on, this is also Denver we're talking about. I can't imagine that it would be too hard to throw in some kind of pasta dish just to keep the vegetarians satisfied. As such, my option was either to forget an entree, or have the chef "throw together" what he could in the kitchen, which sounded like it would be a veggie plate. I passed on the entree and got a soup, salad, and dessert. My soup, the parsnip, (2 stars) was on the whole okay, but the candied ginger was really really sweet and kind of threw me off. The Lyonnaise (sp?) salad (sans bacon) was surprisingly good and I wish I'd had a bit more (3 stars). For dessert, I shared the pina colada, sticky toffee pudding, and fudge brownie with my husband. The fudge brownie was very forgettable and had a strange taste (1 star). The pina colada was deconstructed (the most modern thing I saw on the menu), but not very tasty (2 stars). The sticky toffee pudding was the most promising, but didn't scream "amazing" (3 stars).
This might be a place that you just have to experience once to say you've done it, depending on your tastes. As a more modern cuisine/foodie kind of girl, it wasn't my taste, style, or in my palette wheelhouse. Ultimately, I think the food is pretty hit and miss, and with prices like this, I think that's enough to keep me away.
This is a rating that includes service and food quality, but not value.
The service is excellent. They really make you feel special.
I ordered the four-course menu: crab appetizer, bouillabaisse, ribeye with potato cake, and brownie dessert.
The crab and ribeye were excellent. I could have done without the sauce on the ribeye, but it wasn't bad. The soup and brownie were fine, but not outstanding. The ability of the chef was excellent and presentation was impressive as well.
The problem is I don't think the food is worth the price. The four-course menu is $85. I've had much better steak + soup dinners for about $50 or $60.
So I wouldn't come back. But I had a gift certificate. And it was an enjoyable time.
Hands-down the best restaurant in Denver, and by far the best meal I've ever had anywhere. Yes, it's really expensive -- but for the first time ever, the entire experience was well worth it.
Upon being seated and given a brief but informative history of the restaurant, the host brought us two glasses of Dom Perignon -- definitely a nice way start the night off right! We then enjoyed some delicious bread from an impressive selection and shared the crab cake, which came with a lemongrass-infused sauce and was fantastic. I also ordered a glass of a Super Tuscan (wish I could remember the name!) and enjoyed the description offered by the friendly sommelier -- they have an extensive wine list, and I was very happy with the choice I made!
However, the bison steak that I ordered for an entree was the true star of the show. Oh. My. God. It was so amazing, I literally dreamed about it that night. I wouldn't have traded it for anything, but my boyfriend's lamb was delicious as well and he was very satisfied. We finished the meal with their signature Bananas Foster, which definitely didn't disappoint -- and just when we thought things couldn't get any better, our wonderful waiter brought out a dessert wine that paired perfectly with the bananas.
Palace Arms defines the true meaning of a 5-star restaurant in every aspect of the term: impeccable service, stunning ambiance, and most importantly, incredible food. Looking forward to going back for the next special occasion!
The food is great, not the best I've ever had, but very close. Â
Service is above and beyond anything I've ever experienced. Â
Highlight: bananas foster prepared tableside
Lowlight: the bill (expensive, but not unexpectedly so)
Overall I'd say totally worth it. Â I will probably go back for a special occasion at some point.
my wife and i came for dinner and got the degustation menu.. i had mine paired with wine.. the food was impeccable and their wine selection paired perfectly with the meal.. i've had better food  at michelin star restaurants and better wines in Napa.. but their pairing of food and wine blew me away.. it is easily one of the best meals my wife and i have shared together... although i had high expectations for this restaurant.. i was still completely blown away.. service was of course excellent and well deserved of my large tip
Review Source:My boyfriend and I just went for our anniversary and the whole experience was wonderful. It was much fancier than what we are used to but everyone there was so kind and willing to answer all of our questions about the food, wine and decor. (We happened to sit in front of Napoleon's dueling pistols which is very cool). They made us feel so comfortable. The waiter was both friendly and knowledgable. The wine sommelier was funny and very helpful. Every single person who worked their went out of their way to make our experience delightful and make our anniversary special.
The food itself was delicious and I thoroughly enjoyed every course. I got the crab cake, the caesar salad, the shrimp and rigatoni and then the sticky toffee pudding. Every single dish was delicious and plated beautifully. Definitely order the crab cake  if you go.
Our waiter was seriously wonderful. He overheard me say that I don't like bananas so he offered to make the bananas foster just for my boyfriend even though the dish is supposed to be made for two. It was so nice of him and it allowed both of us to get exactly what we want. Once the wine sommelier found out it was our anniversary, he brought us a lovely dessert wine to celebrate. If there is a special occasion coming up in your life, I definitely recommend Palace Arms. You'll be in for a special night.
I could see how this place 20 or 50 years ago was the best place in town, however in a town were there is a deluge of world class restaurants. The regal palace arms melts away into the general noise of restaurants. Â
The food reminds me of Central European. Â It's okay and worth coming to once. Â And the service is good.
My husband and I dined at Palace Arms last night for our first anniversary. We had dined here before selecting the Brown as our wedding venue, but last night's meal exceeded our already high expectations. We ordered the 5-course tasting menu, starting off with a shrimp and polenta amuse bouche. My husband had the short ribs appetizer and I had the steak tartare, which was prepared table side to perfection. We each had the tomato soup, which included a centerpiece of ricotta and watermelon on a crostini, and the Caesar salad also prepared table side. As entrees, he ordered the lamb and I had the bison Rossini, a filet of bison served with seared foie gras and a truffle Bernaise sauce and a Demi glacé on the bottom. Each dish we had was prepared beautifully and cooked perfectly. The service was impeccable-- my water glass was never less than 3/4 full and the sommelier was helpful, patient, and so friendly. Our waiter Roy was pleasant, accommodating, and made the dining experience enjoyable. Overall, I think this is one of the best, if not THE best, dining experiences in Denver. Be prepared to take at least 2-3 hours for dinner, as it's certainly part of the experience to enjoy the atmosphere, sip cocktails, and have multiple courses. This restaurant is the perfect dining experience for a special occasion, and I can't recommend it enough. It was a beautiful and special meal, and we will certainly back time and time again.
Review Source:I hope the Palace Arms stays just like it is forever. What a treat, and kind of like going back in time. Â Service is superb, food is good to great, and really have nothing to complain about. Â The decor, thorughs me back to what i would think the 40's was like, and is so cool. Love the red leather booths, the lighting , everything! Â Little details like the Martinis, poured out of the little silver pitchers, the presentation of everything is well thought out & presented with loving care. Â Deserts are pretty good too, but ask for one of there famous macaroons at the end of your meal, another nice throwback touch! Â Pricing, not cheap, but since everything is so special worth the price and really no more than a high end steakhouse.
For group special occasions, they have a cool private dining area I would love to book sometime.
My boyfriend and I went to Palace Arms on Wednesday to celebrate our anniversary. Â We chose the Five Course Tasting Menu and each had a drink. Â I had: Loch Duart Salmon appetizer, Wild Mushroom soup, Ceasar salad (made tableside), Diver Scallops and I can't remember the name of my dessert, but it was basically a chocolate cake and chocolate ice cream. Â I also tried (off my bf's plate): cheese sandwich, chestnut bisque and sorbet. Â The Five Course Tasting Menu portions are rather small, but if you eat all 5 courses plus a piece of bread with butter and have a drink, then you most likely will be full. Â Personally, I was full by the end of the dinner and I really like to eat : )
The service was excellent. Â There was a number of people coming to our tables delivering food and silverware, refilling our glasses, etc. Â We received a lot of attention. Â The food was very good too. Â I loved everything that I ordered. Â My bf's cheese sandwich was good, but it's basically a grilled cheese sandwich. Â I did enjoy my bf's dessert better than mine though. Â It was one scoop of berry sorbet, one scoop of lemon sorbet and a few berries. Â It was the best sorbet I have ever had in my life. Â I "helped" my bf with eating his sorbet ; )
Overall, this place is very classy and has fancy and delicious food. Â It is very spendy too. Â Expect to spend $200 for a dinner for two. Â It is a special occasion type of a place. Â I would love to come back for another dinner. Â You can also have Classic Banana Foster prepared tableside for you. Â They flambe the dessert (set it on fire) tableside. Â A table next to mine ordered this dessert and it was an interesting experience. Â I would like to try this next time.
To die for. I dined alone, but they made me feel like a queen. I had the best foie gras of my life, which i can only describe as grilled warm mouse with a glass of sherry. For dinner, the bison filet mignon. I couldn't finish everything. The food was intoxicating. The clientele stuffy and conservative. I did feel like I had returned to the set of Sunset boulevard, a dining room in someone's forgotten palace. Plan to pay a pretty penny, but it's worth it.
Review Source:I had my birthday dinner here, and I have to say that I was generally very pleased with the meal. This place is what I would describe as "old school elegant.". It has the feeling almost of another era (reminded me a bit of being in delmonicos in NYC). Service is very friendly. Love that they wear tuxedos (yep, it's that kind of place). Â
As for the food, all of it was good and some of it was great. We opted for the 5 course tasting which basically gives you your choice of appetizer, soup, salad, entree, dessert. We had quite a few items, so for brevity's sake, I will suggest that if you dine here you should get the chestnut bisque and the filet Rossini. Both were exceptional dishes. Like I said earlier, all the dishes were good, but my least favorite of the night were the mushroom soup and the frisée salad.
The prices here are expensive, but not exceptionally so. Bottom line is that you can get a high quality meal here for special occasions.
You can't live in Denver without hearing stories of the Brown Palace. Â I was sure it would be amazing, but thought it couldn't possibly live up to the hype. Â But guess what? Â It did.
The atmosphere and service are remnisent of "the good old days," and I now know why my 85-year-old aunt laments that going out to dinner just isn't like it used to be. Â I discovered this before we even walked in, when the valet not only ran around to open my car door, but offered his hand to help me out. Â This is my first experience of this other than in the movies. Â The lobby of the hotel is beautiful, with excellent service from the bar and a 3-man band playing music in the background. Â They also give all females a long-stem rose at the end of the night-- possible the classiest thing ever-- but I'm getting ahead of myself.
The restaurant itself is exquisite.  Our needs were anticipated (my fiance's dad's drink was never less than 1/4 full)-- at one point we counted seven servers for the fifteen or so tables that were there.  The wine list is literally a book, complete with a table of contents. Of course, the food was amazing.  The amuse bouche was a lobster salad, and it only went uphill from there.  The onion rolls were to die for, and I would have had more bread but I decided to save room for everything else.  The mushroom soup, creamy while cream-less and topped with lump crab, was one of the most amazing soups I've ever had.  My fiancé loved the chestnut soup as well.  For my entree I had the fish, which was perfectly cooked: crisp on the outside, moist on the inside, topped with a delicious garnish I didn't recognize and a wonderful light sauce, served with crispy risotto.  Apparently the Wagyu beef and filet were fantastic as well.  If you somehow have room for dessert, they're excellent (we tried the chocolate souffle-like one as well as the gelato), plus you're given some truffles and cookies at the end of the night.
It's definitely a huge splurge, but Palace Arms is definitely deserving of its five stars, and worth experiencing without a doubt.
It was the five star experience I was hoping for.
We arrived early, having done a little window shopping on the 16th street mall. We arrive about an hour before our reservation, so we sat in the hotel's foyer and admired the decor and holiday decorations. They had a very entertaining 3 man band, a pianist, drummer and cello player playing guests requests ranging from blues to jazz. We had a soda and ice tea and complimentary almonds while waiting, the drinks were a modest $7 but for the experience, was well spent.
The staff was superb. Our waiter was incredibly nice, taking the time to cover the high-lights of many of the dishes and explaining the wine list to us. He checked on our progress the entire meal. We enjoyed the breads they served and a server brought over the tray several times prior to the main course. We never felt rushed and as my guest and I completed each course, the plates and utensils were replaced promptly for the next. Our waters were topped off, my friend even noted our glasses never were more than half empty before another top off. And we knew this was no tap water! Each dish was as visually exciting as they tasted. It was sheer joy to enjoy each bite and after that meal, you understand the concept of 'layers of flavors' within the meal itself.
My friend and I ordered separate courses, we shared a crab cake appetizer, then he had the bisque while I had the Wild Mushroom soup. For the main courses, he had the fish (can't remember the name) and I had the Bison Filet (7 oz of pure nirvana). We each had a glass of wine with the main course. By the end of the meal we were full and as much as we liked, we didn't have room for the Banana's Foster but the couple seated next to us did, so we got to see the presentation.
While the price was high, between the two of us, 1 appetizer, 2 soups, two entrees and two glasses of wine came to about $200 and with tip (25%) it was about the most expensive meal I've ever paid for, it was well worth the price. Our waiter even asked us if we needed to have our Valet Parking validated (we did) and offered to called ahead so our car was waiting outside the hotel when we left.
If you're looking for the Five Star restaurant experience to check off your own personnel bucket list, this would be the place to go.
I haven't been here for the last...8 months? or so because I really don't have any girl who's special enough to go with, but I'm going to write a review anyway. This restaurant is probably in the top 5 in metro DEN area. I'm not going to specifically comment on quality of food / service because 5* usually means they were outstanding. If Michelin ever decides to publish their guide in Denver (which I kinda doubt), this restaurant might be able to get 1 star. Also, if you happen to be one of those who has either Amex Cent / Plat, you have a better chance of scoring reservations at the last minute as Palace Arms is one of the participating restaurants in DEN with Amex's Concierge, although it is not 100% guaranteed.
Review Source:I thought about singing the Hallelujah Chorus during each one of the 8 courses, for the Lord God omnipotent must reign for the food to be this stinking good. Â
It took us almost three hours to finish all of our courses, and there was something so special about spending an entire night with my husband just enjoying new tastes. Â The octopus was interesting, and the three types of desserts were my absolute favorite. Â The service was super great (even though no one scraped my crumbs... what can I say, I'm spoiled!) Â It's a meal that we're still talking about, and I can't wait to go back again.
I have been here twice and twice have had my socks totally blown off. Â Easily one of my favorite restaurants ever.
Decor
The place looks like a high end British pub exploded inside. Â Coats of arms, crowns, British painting, oh my! Â It's totally out of control, yet still elegant - I love it.
Service
Top notch. Â Just fantastic. Â See food for some more commentary.
Food
My wife and I are vegetarians and both times (once alone, once together) asked if they could do something special. Â I felt like a judge on Iron Chef with the unique creations they created. Â
Let me be more specific - their Executive Sous Chef - Thanawat - is THE MAN. Â He told us to call ahead next time and give him 2-3 days notice. Â He would then make us an 8 course meal to whatever our needs (vegan/gf/etc) using ingrediants they would go out and purchase. Â What?! Â How amazing is this. Â I have never had a restaurant tell me this.
Value
You're getting Alex at the Wynn ($300/person) for well under $100. Â I don't think Denver has any idea how lucky they are!
This was honestly the best full meal I've ever eaten. Â That said, here's the details:
We went for my 28th birthday - on 11/11/11. Â My DH had the reservation, then canceled it, since I told him we had spent too much, then re-booked it when I changed my mind (love that guy) - the restaurant was accommodating for all that changing.
We decided to have the 5 course meal. Â Plus bread, plus amuse buche, plus intermezzo, plus little cookie and little chocolate at the check... We didn't know about all those extras but they were great.
I started with the fois gras and my DH had the octopus - they did mix up at first and bring us both octopus but pointing that out was ok and the replacement was AMAZING!
The next course was soup - DH had artichoke and I had tomato. Â My DH does NOT like soup - and he finished all but one small bite (my trial) very fast and loved it. Â The soup was rich and creamy and cheesy and great. Â My tomato soup was very cool - it had iced horseradish and tabasco mini balls and a clear consume.... at least I think that's what those things were ;-)
The third course was salad - DH special ordered an arugula salad and they were able to get him something he really enjoyed. Â I had the beet salad - the flavors matched perfectly and I really enjoyed it.
The fourth course, I had abalone and DH had bison steak - both were great and rich and hearty. Â I couldn't talk much, I was too busy enjoying my food - and by this point I was very full so I ate slower but it still was warm and great the whole time!
The fifth course was dessert - I had the key lime "pie" and DH had the chocolate cake. Â The "pie" was AMAZING!!! Â I couldn't talk at all for the first few bites - just "mmmmm" and *big smiles* - I highly recommend trying this one! Â DH, who doesn't like key lime pie, also thought this was a fantastic dish. Â He also loved his cake - I had a bite and it was creamy and rich and chocolaty - great presentation too.
We did not try wine or coffee - the reason we went was for the food.
The bread options were all very good, I think the flatbread was my favorite - it was cheesy and crisp.
Give yourself several hours (I think we took just over 2) and enjoy! Â If you want to mark a special occasion, tell them in advance.
They were very quick with water, I ended up drinking a ton since they filled it up so fast I had no idea how much I'd had - the bathroom is near the front of the hotel, they will show you where it is the first time (if you go through the revolving doors, it's on your left right before the Tavern entrance)...
I loved their little molecular gastronomy additions, the old world charm of the room, and the perfect merging of flavors - do yourself a favor and try this place out!
Just immaculate and outstanding!! My husband and I did some research on "top-notch" restuarants around Denver, since it will be our first time there and found this place. After reading lots of reviews, we thought we'd try this restaurant. This restaurant is worth every penny on food and service!! If you're looking for something simple, this is not the place, but if you're leaning toward a memorable evening, you should definitely go here.
We were very impressed with the gentleman who seated us laying our napkins on our laps and moving the table side to side for seating access. The waiter handed us a novel of wine lists which was a little overwhelming but they covered each and every wine on this planet. However, thank goodness for Eric (sommelier), who was super knowledgeable on the wine list and was able to dial in our palates on what we wanted and then suggested wines we wouldn't even have thought about and ended up loving and drinking instead.
We had the 8 course meal, due to celebration of our wedding anniversary and MBA graduation of my husband. It started off with a fresh and crisp lobster salad and ended with a table-side preparation of cherries jubilee-and since it was a special occasion, Eric stepped in again and suggested a great full-flavored Port that matched it perfectly.
Everything was great about the restaurant and servers! The only disappointment was the deconstructed keylime pie, which was super tart and the sorbet hidden in the middle didn't match our taste well at all.
I also have to commend the Chef who came out and said "hi" to us. It is very nice to meet who is cooking for you instead of always hiding behind the scenes. Â
Overall it was a great experience! However, the next time we come back, we'll do the 5 course meal instead due to we checked in at 5:30 pm and didn't leave until 9:00 pm due to the long meal, but it was still worth every penny and experience!!!
Since we did a trendy dinner on our first night in Denver, I wanted to go the more traditional route for dinner #2. Most of the Yelp reviews have it right. It's definitely a special occasion restaurant... it's a little old school... don't expect a quickie meal by any means.
We opted NOT to do the prix fixe and instead ordered a la carte because honestly, it just sounded like so much food.
I started with the artichoke soup and then had the veal saltimbocca for my entree. Both dishes were superb. I had never had saltimbocca before and am glad I gave it a try. It was a little too thick cut for my taste (for whatever reason I thought it was served pounded - my mistake) but the flavor was good.
Impressive wine catalogue. We started with a California sparkling and then shared a California red. It's funny how we always tend to lean toward California wines...
The real standout of the meal was when the chef came over to check on us... not once, but twice! Sometimes the chef comes to your table at other restaurants and it comes off a tad phony. Not here. Chef Thanawat Bates is a genuine guy, very friendly and the way he described the desserts to us... I'm surprised I didn't order all of them!
The desserts are classics but deconstructed, if that makes any sense at all... for example, we ordered the key lime pie. It comes in a parfait dish. There is some crunch on the bottom which is warm but the filling is warm and cold at the same time. It was beyond amazing (see the picture).
The service was impeccable. The ambiance is warm and comfortable. Dress up for sure! I loved the red rose I received at the end - nice touch for a special occasion (our 8th wedding anniversary). I wholeheartedly recommend Palace Arms for a special dinner... they definitely aim to please.
Very disappointed after all the rave reviews posted here. Â Went for my birthday last night. Â Price to Quality ratio very poor. Â $$$$ - Amazing Hawaiian cod, good tasting but swimming in sauce. Â Isn't lesson one in fine cuisine to not cover up the flavor of a wonderful piece of fish or meat but to enhance it? Same with my husbands steak - absolutely swimming in goop. Â He was shoving it all off to get to the meat below. Â Good service, if you like 5 people breathing down your neck. Â One guy - I guess the waiter who only serves the beer - talked incessantly about all he knows about beer. Nice guy, but please leave us alone. Â
If the price tag had not been $170 for two people I wouldn't be as upset... but it was. Â I will say the beer and my wine were both excellent.
Wow! Â I was so blown away by every aspect of our experience at the Palace Arms. Â I had mentioned, on <a href="/redir?url=http%3A%2F%2Fopentable.com&s=897c359bd752b4f5407d5ea86453c82be2d1913c8d0b51b18d81fc58f52a6497" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://opentable.com</a>, that it was our anniversary and my husband graduated with his masters degree. Â Upon being greeted at the entrance, the hostess congratulated us on both events. Â We were seated and I was given a rose. Â Through out the night, every staff member came to our table to congratulate us. Â The service was impeccable. Â
So here is what we ordered....at the recommendation of our waiter, we ordered the smoked pheasant soup. Â Get this soup. Â It was voted one of the top 100 dishes to have in Denver. Â It is creamy, smokey and delicious. Â For our main courses, I got the scallops. Â They were perfectly done. Â Perfect portion size. Â Beautiful presentation. Â My husband got the sea bass. Â Perfect, again. Â We split their "interpretation" of cheesecake. Â It involved bites of cheesecake with several different types of sauce. Â Strawberry, chocolate, lime, etc. Â At the end of the meal, they also served us homemade macaroons. Â
The whole experience far exceeded our expectations. Â I hope we have a reason to celebrate soon, so that we can come back! Â Definitely a place for special occasions.
Wow Denver! Color me impressed!
I must admit, even after reading all the glowing reviews I still had my doubts. The menu appeared uninspired and lacking any creativity, but I'm easy going ok? I went with the flow and just thought to myself that this would be just another business dinner with the hopes of helping closing one last deal for 2010.
This restaurant is situated right smack in the middle of a large downtown hotel. For those of you back in San Francisco, think St. Francis. I am anti Michael Minna and am grateful he moved his flagship restaurant out of the hotel and to Aqua's old space, but now I am rambling. You get the point. In theory, a 5 star restaurant that sits inside of a hotel is typically a red flag for me but this time it delivered and exceeded my expectations.
We arrived via a cramped taxi ride from our hotel and dropped off in front of the Brown Palace Hotel. We walk inside and were greeted to a beyond festive holiday decorated lobby complete with a giant tree and hanging decorations that were tastefully dangling about the room. Soothing piano player in the far right corner playing familiar holiday tunes which immediately made me forget of the high stress work day.
Tucked away in the corner is the Palace Arms, greeted immediately by name and taken to our table. The champagne cart arrived soon after which offered up a complimentary glass of Billecart Salmon brut rose. An amuse bouche appeared that included a slice of salmon over a basil leaf. There was no silverware in sight so we all used our hands and inhaled one of the most amazing tasting pieces of fish I have ever tasted. The champagne was the perfect compliment and much appreciated.
After a few minutes our server introduced himself and recited the menu along with a detailed description of each dish. My mouth was watering as explained each preparation and the recommended wine pairing with each course. Our potential customer at this point says loudly "I have never eaten at a place like this, can you help me". Awkward? not in the least. Our server was beyond professional and took him under his wing and started probing and asked questions about foods and drink that he likes. Turns out, he is not a wine drinker but does love his cocktails and within a few minutes crafted a five course dinner complete with 5 different cocktails that would match each of his courses.
I can go on and on just how amazing this place is and I feel like I am rambling right now but you people in Denver need to realize just how truly special this place is. Everything from the service to the wine list to the food to the finishing touches. Attention to detail is practiced here to perfection. I am not a coffee drinker, but at the end of the evening I witnessed some oohhs and awes to how good the coffee was. Coffee may be for closers but port is for tall lanky dorky guys who secretly want hot cocoa.
Amazing food and service. The restaurant was not busy at all the night we went (we were the only table for the first hour), and the staff was great. They told us about the restaurant's history, and were very funny and engaging. And what a history the room has--LOTS of authentic, museum quality Napoleonic relics.
The seafood was delish!
Wish we could have stayed longer, but we had a plane to catch, and they sped up the service without sacrificing service. Â All in all, a great way to end our Denver trip!
So, unless it's so awful that I know I won't be back, I try to get to a place at least twice before reviewing. Â In this case, that means it's taken a year for me to have two trips to base a review on, because the Palace Arms is a fancy, special occasion place. Â I have been twice, both times on our anniversary.
The first year everything was outstanding! Â The food was amazing, the service was impeccable.
The second year was just a shade less impressive. Â The servers seemed hurried, and it was a bit of a let down from the year before, though the food was just as incredible.
But overall it's still an outstanding experience and it's just fun to go somewhere super fancy to celebrate a special occasion.
I had low expectations for Palace Arms during restaurant week (It's a pretty limited menu), but was BLOWN AWAY by the service, atmosphere, and the food.
Yes, we visited for RW 2010, and before we left I glanced at their menu online. Â You have a choice of 1 appetizer - Caesar Salad for 2 prepared tableside, 2 entrees - Salmon or Beef, and 2 desserts - Chocolate soup or macaroons. Â (In the case of the dessert there is really only 1 choice, because I'm not going to go to Palace Arms and just have cookies for dessert. Â It's just not happening.) Â Basically, I felt like I was going to a wedding, and I had to choose my main course - beef or fish?
I had very low expectations because of the very few choices, and seeing as it was rated at 5 stars on Yelp, I had much cognitive dissonance going on in my head. Â I was also expecting the restaurant to be dead, being Tuesday night and all. Â When we arrived, I was pleasantly surprised at how busy the restaurant and lobby of The Brown Palace was. Â It was buzzing! Â We were seated and had to wait a few minutes before I could order my drink, but besides that wait we received very attentive service throughout the night. Â
The Caesar salad for 2 prepared tableside was a little bit of show, and a lotta bit of delicious. Â I almost licked my plate, but then remembered where I was. Â Both me and my wife had the Beef offering for our main course. Â It was basically a deconstructed Beef Wellington, and it was out of this world! Â Topped with foie gras that had been pan seared to keep its shape and a beautifully flavorful demi-glace, the beef was cooked perfectly to my asking and juicy and tender to boot. Â Everything about this dish screamed luxury. Â It was plush.
Finally, for dessert, Chocolate Soup! Â Oh, what a treat this was. Â I was intrigued when I saw it on the menu, and it totally delivered. Â You know the scene in "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" (The Gene Wilder one, not the Tim Burton one, although it had this scene too) when the winners first enter the factory and see the chocolate river? Â Ever since I first saw that when I was a kid I wanted to drink from that river, and Chocolate Soup finally let me live out that dream. Â Rich, velvety chocolate washed over my tongue in an explosion of perfect sweetness and chocolate. Â I had to peer into the kitchen to see if they had the chocolate river flowing through it, and if they did, I was planning to dive in. Â
All in all, we had a wonderful evening at Palace Arms, and highly recommend them, especially for Restaurant Week.
Hands down the single best dining experience I've ever had. Â As mentioned in the other reviews it is pricey but that should be fully expected and is worth every penny IMHO. Â
The service was professional, efficient, and pleasant. Â I overheard our waiter telling on of his other tables that he'd been at Palace Arms over 11 years. That is a lot table side ceaser salads and bananas foster, both of which were expertly made for us and were delicious.
The Foie Gras was excellently prepared as was the Buffalo Rossini. Â My wife had the Wyagu Beef that was also incredible. Â The only thing that I didn't absolutely love was the lobster bisque, I felt it was average for lobster bisque. Â My wife had the Consomme and said it was fantastic.
The atmosphere is impressive as they have art and other paraphernalia that once belonged to Napoleon Bonaparte, pieces that should literally be in museums.
You can't go wrong with the Palace Arms or really anywhere at the Brown Palace for any occasion.
Well, just to state the obvious, this is a world class splurge, not a place to catch a weeknight bite. Â Arguably, it is the most elegant dining destination in Colorado. Â Some might prefer the Broadmoor or the Flagstaff House, but the Palace Arms is really in a class by itself, IMO. Â
The history of the hotel and the Palace Arms is long an interesting and the list of former guests is formidable indeed. Â I think it is one of the loveliest formal dining room I've ever been in. Â Some may find it excessively formal though and may not be comfortable here. Â Until quite recently men were required to wear a coat and tie, and, I certainly still do. Â Waiters in tuxes, flawless formal service (some table side - Caesar salad, steak tartare, bananas foster, etc.). Â This is fine dining at it's most luxurious and professional. Â It has been an educational institution for decades, in the sense that many young people received valuable lessons about how to negotiate the intricacies of the high end dining experience without making total rubes of themselves.
On our last visit, they were at the top of their game. Â It was a magical evening. Â Totally gracious staff and exquisite food and wine. Â From the first bite of their homemade Melba toast (created here) to the last nibble of their house made macaroons. Â They offer a number of tasting menus with wine pairings but we ordered a la carte this time. Â We were four celebrating a birthday, so, I'll only mention the dishes I had since this really isn't the sort of place you pass plates around. Â
Started with the Abalone (you never see it anymore and, when, on the rare occasions that it shows up - I'm a goner). Â Their preparation included green peppercorns, pistachios, artichokes and parm - totally decadent and delish, Â Considered sharing a Caesar as others in the group did but decided to save room for a hearty main and dessert, of course. Â Entree choices are fairly limited but cover all the bases - scallops, halibut, chicken pot pie (not your mom's), lamb loin, bison, and Kobe short ribs. Â Oh, what to do? Â Ended up with the very succulent lamb loin served with rye spaetzle, fennel sauerkraut and a Gruyere frico. Â Finished up with, what else? - the bananas foster. Â Can we all say oink?
We did some severe damage with the wine list as well. Â It is huge and heavily French. Â Started with a terrific white bordeaux followed by two (yes, two) bottles of Rauzan-Segla Margaux. Â Others may have even had a cognac but I was getting fuzzy by this point.
I was not too fuzzy to note that the check for this little extravagance was in excess of $1200 plus gratuities. Â Probably a little more than half of that was the wine though, so you don't have to take out a second mortgage. Â But still, not for the faint of wallet. Â I wasn't paying - thank god. Â If you really want to pull out all the stops, or if your wealthy Aunt Ethel is in town and wants to treat, by all means get all gussied up and hit the town in high style.
The Palace Arms restaurant in the Brown Palace Hotel is perhaps the last bastion of luxury dining left in Denver. Â The dining room evokes the feeling of old money and the kind of civility that has long been left behind by more modern establishments. Â I found this grand dining room to be a treasure. Â The lighting is dim but not dark. Â On every wall there are beautiful antique flags and prints. Â But, don't let the antiques mislead you; this restaurant may have kept it's fin de siecle flair, but the food is very progressive. Â
The chef is one-of-a-kind as he infuses time honored dishes like lamb medallions and crab cakes with subtle asian flavors. Â He even came to our table twice to chat and ask how we liked the food. Â It was that kind of attention that we really appreciated. Â Moreover, I can't remember the last time I had a caesar salad prepared tableside and it's probably the best caesar I've ever had - well balanced, subtle lemon flavor and crispy. Â
The staff is cordial and helpful without being the least bit stuffy. Â And, did I mention that you do not need a jacket? If you have a very special occasion, do not hesitate to put the Palace Arms on your short-list of places to go. Â You will not be disappointed.
This is a place to celebrate a special occasion. Â Be ready to splurge. Â
The ahi tuni appetizer I had was quite possibly the best dish I have ever eaten *in my life*. Â It was one of those things where with every bite you are saying "This is unbelievable." Â Then on to the bison with foie gras . . . very rich. Â Finally, the chocolate soup. Â They brought us freshly baked macaroons to go with it (make sure you ask for those if they don't)-- another amazing experience. Â
I'll be honest, I did feel a twinge of buyer's remorse when I saw the bill, but for two of the best dishes I've ever eaten, at a romantic dinner with a handsome man in an opulent setting, it was definitely worth it.
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