March 2, 2007 7:00 AM
Dining out on $52.80 per couple
The Rocky is sending staffers to sample the special $52.80 per couple menus offered by 150 restaurants during Denver Restaurant Week.
And we want to hear from you. If you sampled any of the specials, let us know about your experience.
Brian Crecente visited Bombay Clay Oven, 165 Steele Street.
My wife and I have been eating at the same Indian restaurant in Lone Tree practically since we moved to Highlands Ranch, so this seemed like a good time to try another spot for our favorite type of food.
The place was practically empty when we arrived, most likely because we had such an early weekday reservation, so we were able to sit at one of Bombay's booths. The curtain-swathed nook requires you to ditch your shoes before crawling in and cozying up with the pile of pillows, not for everyone, but great if you like to lounge as you eat.
Each of the courses in the five-course menu has two selections one of which happened to be vegetarian, perfect for my vegetarian wife. I ended up picking the other selection just so we could get a taste of everything.
Since I've never eaten at this restaurant, it's hard to tell what their normal portion sizes are, but I'd guess the portions served for the special were likely smaller than usual.
I found the meal filling, but it came across as more of a sampler platter than a meal. Much of what we had was amazing, though a few courses, such as the salads, were a bit lackluster.
While I enjoyed the Tomato Cilantro soup, it paled in comparison to the spicy Mulligawtawny lentil soup. The vegetable Samosa was wonderful with a flakey pastry shell that accented the fluffy and spiced potato filling. The unfortunately named Chicken Lollipop was something I hadn't tried before but I enjoyed the crisp batter that gave the small chicken legs a zesty tang.
The fourth course main was either a selection of Bombay's "best" entrees or an assortment of vegetarian entrees.
Of the four entrée samplings my dish came with I found the Lamb Kadai the tastiest. I was surprised to find that one of my favorite dishes, chicken Tikka Masala wasn't nearly as flavorful as I've tasted at other restaurants and I ended up not finishing it.
The Lamb Rack was also pretty straight forward, seasoned with a bit of ginger, lemon and garlic, compared to the Indian I'm used to.
The Aloo Gobi, a mixture of sautéed potatoes and cauliflower that came with both plates, was the other stand out in my plate.
My wife's vegetarian platter was a far better selection. The Saag Paneer's creamed spinach tasted fresh and the goat cheese was surprisingly delicate, melting in your mouth as you ate it.
But the star of the veggie plate was most certainly the Malai Kofta, the best either of us have ever had, the light dumpling broke away to reveal a hearty mixture of homemade cheese and vegetables.
My wife and I disagreed on the restaurant's Naan bread. I found it too light and a little tasteless, but my wife found that it was far better than the denser Naan we're used to.
Bombay's 52.80 deal offered up a choice of Mango Cheesecake or Galuab Jamun, sweet bread dumplings. The Mango cheesecake was a perfect end to a spicy meal, the mango topping and dense cheesecake was a nice touch to the meal.
The deal was supposed to include cups of Chai tea as well, but we weren't offered it at the end and I was a little confused about what they meant by optional, so I didn't ask.
An early Monday evening seems like a good time to try this restaurant out, only about a half-dozen tables were being used while we were there and everyone seemed to be trying out the $52.80 special.
I was surprised that some of my favorites weren't as good as I had expected, but I was still happy enough with the service and the meal to want to go back sometime with our son.
Worth it? Hard to say. The small, samplings left me feeling like I wasn't really getting a full meal. It was enough to fill me up, but I probably would have preferred to have a full portion of one entrée rather than a selection of three.
Total bill: $72.36, including tax, tip and drinks.
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Jill's
Jill’s at the St. Julian Hotel and Spa, 900 Walnut St., Boulder was where music writer Marc Shulgold and a friend dined at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 27. Total bill: $91.68, including wine, tax and generous tip. 720-406-9696.
Yes, we know – it’s called Denver Restaurant Week. But eateries in outlying areas have jumped aboard, even Jill’s way up in Boulder. Nestled inside the elegant, spacious new St. Julian Hotel and Spa (opened in the spring of 2005), here is a comfortable, attractive, quiet place to dine (once you’ve blocked out the subdued but annoying sounds of disco from the house speakers).
Announcing right at the start that we would partake of the discounted Restaurant Week offerings, our hostess didn’t bat an eye – nor did our waiter. Everyone was friendly and attentive (the manager even stopped by to check on our meals), and the service could not have been better. We learned that business for Restaurant Week offerings has been brisk. On this quiet mid-week evening, there were six or seven other tables occupied.
While making our choice from the single-sheet menu, we sipped a decent chardonnay that was an easy choice at $8 a glass.
Selecting from the Restaurant Week menu proved a bit tougher: Each course offered three tantalizing options. Though tempted by the sticky sweet sherry braised short ribs, I chose a winter salad, dominated by bib lettuce but scattered throughout by caramel apples and topped with a flavorful crushed hazelnut vinaigrette.
My companion chose a hearty Italian soup, listed as ribbolita zuppa, that turned out to be close to a meal in itself: a large bowl filled with a light, subtly sweet broth, tuscan kale and white beans, with a side of ciabatta bread.
For the main course, I enjoyed an impressive-sized leg and meaty thigh of free-range split chicken, perfectly cooked with just a touch of grill browning on the skin, placed atop a mound of country mashed potatoes that offered a pleasing, slightly crunchy consistency. The plate was dressed up with a bunch of watercress that I ignored, some arugula and roasted red onions, topped by a rosemary bordelaise sauce.
My dinner companion passed on the artichoke bouillabaisse (featuring saffron poached fennel, new potatoes and celery hearts) in favor of a nice cut of plank salmon, with a side of stir-fired noodles moistened with just a touch of ginger orange glaze and a dollop of wilted spinach.
Dessert offered a single choice: a flatteur, consisting of a small slice of spiced apple crumb cake, a few almonds and a tiny (and nearly melted) dollup of ginger gelato. Not too gingery and, truth be told, just the right size so as not to overwhelm a nearly-stuffed diner.
Would we return? Absolutely. Chef Jason Rodgers offers a promising Mediterranean-style menu with offerings ranging from $14 to $42. And we hear that, once warm weather arrives, the terrace offers a splendid view of the Flatirons.
SPARROW
Art and architecture critic Mary Voelz Chandler tried the Restaurant Week deal at Sparrow, 410 E. 7th Ave. Here's what she found:
OK, you're asking, how did one person dining on a meal promotion of $26.40 rack up a bill of more than $50 ($51.40, to be exact)? Blame it on the chance to order one of my favorite wines, Gundlach Bundschu, by the glass, which added $13 to the tab. But ignore that small detail; I received incredible value for the money I spent, in terms of food, service and the fact that I sat at the chef's bar and was able to entertain myself by watching somebody else cook.
I began with a baby arugula salad, dotted with currants, ferro, and slivers of parmesan, then drizzled with balsamic vinegar. This is a combination that managed to be sweet, tart and sour - with crunchy bits of grain - all at the same time. Then came an unexpected plus: a tortelli stuffed with butternut squash puree, and doused in butter and sage, with bits of sautéed squash and soft spicing. This is the perfect breakfast food. It also was an offering for the Restaurant Week entree, along with braised veal or sea bass.
I headed straight for the braised veal cheeks cooked in a deep red wine sauce with bits of mushroom and lardons (crunchy bits of bacon that exploded like little salt bombs). The meat was more like butter, nestled in a mound of mashed potatoes and surrounded with a sauce that was rich, not cloying.
The meal ended with a free cup of coffee and a dessert that didn't live up to the fine flavors of the earlier courses: a triangle of flourless chocolate decadence that was served cold and remained somewhat flavorless.
One reason I wanted to dine alone was to see how the staff treated a single diner, especially one there for a break on price. All was well, and my tip reflected that. The service was flawless, attentive, easy and welcoming. Sparrow is a pretty place, rosy and open with tile inserts in the wooden floor. It carries some of the design elements of earlier establishments there (Vega, Sacré Bleu), but has its own feel and warmth.
Worth it? No question: on any other day my entree alone probably would have hovered in the $20 to $25 range; add the salad, pasta course and dessert, and I made out like a culinary bandit. Even with that incredible glass of wine.
Total bill: $51.54, including tax and tip. Call Sparrow at 303-831-1003 or go online at http://sparrowdenver.com/
BUENOS AIRES GRILL
Alex Neth and his wife tried the Buenos Aires Grill, 2191 Arapahoe St. on Sunday, Feb. 25, 6 p.m. Total Bill: $88.83, including tax and tip. 303-296-6709
Website: http://www.denverargentinerestaurants.com/
argentine-grill-in-denver.htm
Buenos Aires Grill offers an honest interpretation of Argentine food in an airy, stylish space that breathes relaxation. The wife and I decided on this relatively new spot for our crack at Denver Restaurant Week--we both like beef and wine, Argentina's major culinary exports. Our choices included not only those South American staples but salmon, salad, risotto and leg of lamb, a three-course meal of high-ticket items not normally available at that price.
Two glasses of Trapiche Oak Cask Malbec, which, while not included in the meal price, were still a very affordable $4.75 per and worth the buy. We chose as starters the Chorizo (Argentine style pork sausage) and the Polenta Gratinada (polenta au gratin). The sausage was a tender wonder but the polenta was, well, polenta: fried golden corn mush.
Our second course consisted of the Entrana (a grilled, 12 oz. inner flank steak sided by fried sweet potatoes) and the Suprema a la Maryland (boneless breaded chicken breast with creamed corn, fried bananas and puff potatoes). The entrana was a marvel of succulence when joined with a flavorful Quilmes (Argentine pilsener) but we did have to learn to eat around the too-chewy casing. The Suprema could have been served in an upscale Southern restaurant and not been at all out of place, except for maybe the soul-warming fried bananas. We nearly came to blows over the puff potatoes.
For dessert we tried the Arroz con leche frito (fried rice pudding with golden raisin sauce) and the Flan con dulce de leche (Caramel custard with dulce le leche, a kind of caramel candy). The rice pudding was a thick and appropriately sweetened after, but simply out of its league in comparison to the velvet wonder of the flan, which left our table emitting sounds straight from a Cinemax special.
Service:Professional, attentive and best of all, nearly unnoticeable. The courses were timed well, our dirty plates and flatware disappeared as soon as we had finished, drinks arrived quickly accompanied by a smile. Our table could have used a scrape following our clumsy tries at sharing, but every other aspect spoke of a restaurant staff with plenty of experience and know-how.
Ambience: This is one of the most beautiful establishments in town. The ceiling is gymnasium-tall and centered with stained glasswork, the red brick walls warm and the sense of space a welcome change from our city's usual closet-sized bistros. Even the cowskin on the wall seems appropriate, given the meat-heavy nature of the menu and Argentine cuisine. The Sunday crowd was light early but picked up quickly, throwing the need for a reservation--even on such a typically slow night with the Oscars on TV--into sharp relief.
Worth it? Absolutely. We would never try so many different things in one meal, so the $52.80 deal was a fine way to sample the expansive menu. We'd like to return in summer for some ribs and a few Quilmes on the spacious patio.
TULA
Tula, 250 Josephine St. where entertainment reporter Erika Gonzalez and theater critic Lisa Bornstein had dinner Saturday night. Saturday, Feb. 24, 2007, 8 p.m. Tula, 250 Josephine St., 303-377-3488. Total bill: $87.28
We started off with drinks, not included in the Restaurant Week price, but well worth it. A $7
house margarita was refreshing, but the $8 Paloma is a find -- fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice with tequila, Triple Sec and a bit of soda.
There are two items available for each course, so two diners can sample the entire Restaurant Week menu. Our first course was roasted corn soup and Tula house salad. The roasted corn soup was pureed to a nearly watery consistency and while savory, lacked spice. The salad was nothing more than mixed greens and guacamole. Even at a discount, we think they could’ve thrown in a few tomatoes.
A main course of blackened tilapia was slightly dry. There was a nice spice rub on it, but its heat level
was far short of blackening, and it rested on a creamy bed of bland mashed potatoes. Tampiquena contained a variety of dishes on a single plate: wonderfully marinated but tough flank steak; a shredded meat enchilada in a small pool of mole with a topping of mild tomato sauce; standard-issue rice and beans.
The desserts were a highlight, but watch out for the Jell-o shots! Yes, little quivery clumps of tequila gelatin accompany the key lime tart (tangy but not pucker-inducing in a shredded coconut crust -- and we hate coconut). Mexican cinnamon churros balanced a moist interior with a crispy crust. They sat in
puddles of “cajeta rum sauce,” the first word referring to the thickened liquid and not, as it does in some Latin American companies, a woman’s nether regions.
Service: Service was never snobby (unlike some other upscale Mexican places we’ll leave unnamed), and we didn’t feel discouraged or sneered at for taking the $52.80 deal. It was erratic, though -- multiple dishes arrived at the same time, leaving some cold when we got to them, while dirty dishes piled up on the table waiting to be cleared. And it took 15 minutes to get chips and salsa.
Ambience: Not that special. There are some colorful weathered-wood folk art pieces on the walls, but the structure of the room and the furniture don’t feel as upscale as the menu would suggest. The noise level is high.
Worth it?: We’d love to go back for drinks and appetizers or dessert. Restaurant Week was a steal --
that tampiquena costs $24 normally. At that price, we’d shy away from ponying up for such inconsistent offerings.
February 25, 2007
11:10 PM
Chad writes:
While I love Tula (albeit a bit pricey), my friends and I went to Kevin Taylor's at the Opera House for the kickoff of the 5280 week... and were roundly disappointed. The food was all quite good, and the service adequate (although they tried too hard), but they had run out of the entree selections for half our party, as well as the selection of pinot noir we chose. To cap it off, they had a misprint on the wine list for the selection we chose in lieu of the wine they had run out of... again, the food and the overall atmosphere was fine, but to have so many problems with a $60-65 per person price tag? I was not particularly impressed.
February 26, 2007
10:08 AM
David writes:
Tula is bad but Sketch is worse. We went to Sketch on Saturday for the kick-off of 5280 week. It was horrible. The service was slow, the food quality was terrible and we puked all over the alley.
February 26, 2007
11:11 AM
Alan writes:
We went to sketch for the kickoff of Restaurant Week on Saturday as well, and I have to say our experience was completely the opposite. The restaurant was full but we were treated well and without delay, and the three-course meal was not only a great value, but executed perfectly and absolutely delicious. To anyone who goes this week - the short ribs entree with mashed potatoes and onion rings is perfection.
And for the record - there is no alley behind sketch...
February 26, 2007
11:11 AM
Alan writes:
We went to sketch for the kickoff of Restaurant Week on Saturday as well, and I have to say our experience was completely the opposite. The restaurant was full but we were treated well and without delay, and the three-course meal was not only a great value, but executed perfectly and absolutely delicious. To anyone who goes this week - the short ribs entree with mashed potatoes and onion rings is perfection.
And for the record - there is no alley behind sketch...
February 26, 2007
11:17 AM
jay writes:
Went to The Keg for some steaks Sat night. Decent food although we've been there many times and this was one of the few times it hasn't been exemplary. Sketch sucks.
February 26, 2007
11:27 AM
Kathie writes:
We went to McCormick and Schmick in the Tech Center on Saturday night and had a wonderful 52.80 meal. Service was excellent and the food was even better.
February 26, 2007
12:39 PM
Violet writes:
We love restaurant week, and did Mezcal on Saturday night. The food was great - the rellenos were the high point (as well as having a marg included in the price tag!). Haven't done Sketch yet for the 52.80 menu, but plan to. The food there is always great!
February 26, 2007
1:16 PM
Julie writes:
We went to The Fort on Saturday night for Restaurant Week. The food and service were both terrific. However, we did make the mistake of ordering an appetizer off of the menu and we really didn't need it because the 5280 portions were just right. The bison and quail were very tender and flavorful, the cheddar mashed potatoes were just right. We liked it so much we can't wait to go back and experience the Fort this summer before a show or movie at Red Rocks.
February 26, 2007
3:18 PM
michele writes:
We dined with friends Saturday as well at The Palm and were very, very disppointed in the whole experience. They limited each person per couple to different entrees. The food was fair, not wonderful, our waitress seemed very disinterested, inattentive to our party. We will never return to The Palm.
February 26, 2007
3:41 PM
ct writes:
We went to the Cork House on Saturday night. It was our first experience, and we will not be returning. The food was good, but the service was terrible. We waited an hour to receive even the appetizer. We never received a menu and the waitress forgot our drinks even after several reminders. It seemed as though we were given bad service since we came in for the 5280 deal. It is a shame becasue this is such a great marketing opportunity for these resturants. You would think they would try harder to capture you. Not only do they have 6 unhappy customers, but word spreads fast and that number will increase-lost opportunity.
February 26, 2007
3:50 PM
FOOD KING writes:
For all you armature connoisseurs a few things to remember.
1. These are professional restaurants (at least as Denver’s standards are concerned) not a quick in-n-out eatery, so don’t rush your experience. Expecting to be in and out in an hour is not only foolish, but also displays to your server that you are a culinary novice.
2. Dress up and enjoy the experience. If you look the part of a sophisticated restaurateur, you will be treated as such. Likewise, go like most Coloradoans do (jeans and t-shirts) and you embarrass yourself and those around you.
3. Learn to eat properly. If you take a $30+ steak and ask for it medium well, or order fish on a Saturday, you are displaying your culinary ignorance and should expect to get treated like amateurs not sophisticated consumers. Remember you will be treated like the personality you display.
4. Remember that restaurant week brings in the cheapskates; those who think that spending $300 on dinner is a huge commitment flock to R.R.W because they want a sample of the fine dining without paying the high price. Only problem is that servers can see you coming a mile away. Order off the menu and you will get treated with better service. Or, if you like the meager selections offered to entice the rabble of the majority, simply upgrade to a fine bottle of wine.
Remember that servers are paid usually by the % of the check and if you only spend 52.80 on dinner, that server already knows what their tip is, so there is no incentive for them to provide you with extra service when they know you are only there for the ‘cheap eat’ and a novice to boot. Live it up a little, spend a little more, and you will suddenly improve your experience on an exponential level. Spend the minimum and get the minimum.
February 26, 2007
5:00 PM
Anonymous writes:
I took my folks to Ruths Chris a couple of weeks ago.
I got a tiny end cut rib-eye that was mostly grissle.
My folks got real nice cuts.
As we were getting ready to leave
the server instinctively gave the bill to my Dad untill I told him I`m taking care of it then it was like OH your paying.
I could almost hear him thinking that he should have given me a nicer cut.
He knew right there that his tip was going to be affected.
February 26, 2007
6:27 PM
Anonymous writes:
Here's a different way of looking at it: Take your $52.80, go to a good butcher shop, and order a nice buffalo New York strip. One the way home with it, stop by the grocery and pick up a rack of fresh asparagus, broccoli, or another vegetable that you enjoy. Also select a nice head of romaine or bib lettuce, a good tomato and cucumber, and a couple new red potatoes. Next, stop by your favorite liquor store on the way home and pick up a good $12 to $20 bottle of your favorite wine.
Go home. Prepare your meal the way you like it, and sit down and enjoy. You won't be putting up with crappy food, poor service, obnoxious crowds, and servers who think that just bringing your things to you entitles them to a fat gratuity. You also will not have to drive home after drinking, and you will still have money left over, that you can donate to Denver Rescue Mission, Feed the Children, or any of a number of other relief organizations who would love to have even $5 or $10 from you every so often.
February 27, 2007
12:47 PM
Nancy writes:
Went to North on Saturday night. The service was excellent but disappointed in the meal portions.
We noticed entrees that were much larger in portion especially the salad. The wine was good but they were skimpy on the portion; whereas others not part of 5280 received a full glass. When the bill came it stated that this meal would normally be $75. That's a laugh because all the portions were cut in half so the price should really be rounded off to $38.00. Will not go back.
February 27, 2007
12:53 PM
Marty writes:
Six friends went to Trapper's Chop House in Parker on Sunday night and were looking forward to it, as this was our first (and, as it turns out, last) time eating there. The appetizers and the fun of finishing the cooking of your steak at the table were the best parts of the meal, but the rest was pretty disappointing. Where to start... I'd have to say the worst thing was that our 'vegetable' was canned corn garnished with a piece of tomato and a piece of green pepper. The only person in our party who got a decent vegetable had asked for steamed veggies in place of the potato choice. Others: the beef filets were tough (the name 'Chop House' in itself conjures up visions of nice tender beef, doesn't it?), they did not have our wine choice, they ran out of Fat Tire, which one of our party was drinking, the waiter seemed pretty much disinterested in us, and they had run out of one of the desserts. If the goal of a restaurant's participation in Restaurant Week is to win customers who will happily return and perhaps bring others, this restaurant did not meet that goal.
February 27, 2007
3:37 PM
Anonymous writes:
Food King, thanks so much for your thoughtful insight. I'm quite sure that I being one of those cheapskates who can't afford to regularly frequent the types of establishments that are participating in the 5280 Week, would never have made it through the evening.
Geeze Dude the whole pupose of the 5280 Week is to allow those of us who wouldn't ordinarily go to these restaurants. Not all of us are the culinary snob you pretend to be.
February 27, 2007
3:37 PM
Anne writes:
We took the in-laws to Del Frisco's on Saturday. They were packed but the staff was friendly and attentive. We ordered the wine special and an appetizer in addition to the 52.80 deals. No snobbery, great food and wonderful portions. There is a reason Del Frisco's is one of the best steakhouses around. We always look forward to RW and enjoy trying new places/entertaining friends for a great value.
February 28, 2007
7:31 AM
Terri Steele writes:
My husband and I and another couple went to Maggiano's for 52.80. We made an early reservation at 4:30 so we would be able to go to comedy works at 6:30. Wrong...the service was very very slow we were not finished until after 7:00. We were treated very differently compared to those around us who ordered off the menu. Our portions were small -- cold from beginning to the coffee. Food was nothing that would ever bring me back into town for. We all felt we had better service and food in the suburbs at the Olive Garden. What a disapointment to drive into the city and pay for parking for......
February 28, 2007
8:19 AM
Cathy writes:
We love fine dining and chose to take advantage of this deal to try a couple of different places this week. We went to Del Mar Crab House Saturday night with the intention that, if we like it, we will return. We ordered the Alaskan King Crab legs and the swordfish. My husband like his swordfish but the Alaskan King Crab legs were quite a disappointment. Lacking in flavor, watery, etc... Plus, most quality places will partially crack them for you. Not here. Also, they did not have enough crab crackers for everyone so I had to share one with someone else in our party. Not very impressive. Beware the $28 bottle of Beringer White Zinfindal! Normally a $6 bottle of wine, we expected to pay around twice that just because of where we were...not more than four times the normal amount! TSeating is quite crowded. You can pretty much hold hands with people at the next table without trhing. Not a great experience.
February 28, 2007
8:38 AM
Sheila writes:
We had dinner at the Welshire Inn with another couple Sunday night during 5280 week. The staff was friendly and very attentive and the food was fabulous (steak & chocolate mousse were are favorite choices). In addition, they offer a bottle of wine per couple which makes $52.80 a REAL bargain! Highly recommended!
February 28, 2007
8:41 AM
FOOD KING writes:
3:37 and all,
Food king is no snob, but does know how to enjoy himself and the requirements it takes to do so. Anyway, I have a few amendments to the tips from eariler.
1. You should expect to have smaller portions, for the restaurants would lose money if they served you normal portions at that price. Plus, since most americans are fat and overweight anyway, they are used to such huge portions, that I am sure a 10 inch plate seems small, but don't worry, the servings you get are plenty. If they aren't big enough for some of you gluttons, then order off the menu!
Also, liquior is priced approx. 3 times what it is at retail, so those seeing a $28 beringer bottle of wine are correct to poo-poo it; however, shame on you in the first place for drinking such crappy wine in the first place. Remember part of the experience is pairing the wine to the meal. If you have no idea how to do this, ask your server or the resident wine Sommelier (wine steward).
February 28, 2007
8:58 AM
Lois writes:
I went to the Keg (downtown) Saturday night with my daughter and son-in-law. The steaks were delicious (although my daughter's filet was rare rather than medium rare) and the wines by the bottle were priced very reasonably. Our waitress was attentive and pleasant and the desserts were delicious. We will be going back to the Keg.
February 28, 2007
10:01 AM
Debbie writes:
We dined at the Palm on Saturday evening and like Michelle, our experience was disappointing. They did limit couples to different entrees and changed the menu from Mahi Mahi to Salmon. Our waitress was not attentive and short with us. I thought 5280 was to introduce the best of to new consumers, instead it left me with not ever wanting to go back to the Palm. There are alot of really good and friendly restaurants in Denver and thats where we will be taking friends and business associates, not the Palm. Debbie
February 28, 2007
10:27 AM
Barbie writes:
Food King may not be a snob--he's something worse. An idiot.
The notion that a restaurant will cheat on your portion size because they engage in a promotional event is simply stupid. Let's remember: no one forced these establishments to do this. This is a way to get new customers through the door. It's not in their best interests to treat customers like unwanted carbuncles.
Clearly, whoever this person is wants desperately to think that they are some sort of tastemaker, some kind of service industry (notice the word "service" there) expert. Any chef or manager worth their garlic-inflected sea salt who realized a server was sandbagging a table because of some perceived sense of superiority would fire said server. Then and there. No questions asked. Why? Because their jobs, their livelihoods, depend on it. They don't care whether the server thinks the table is cool or not.
His (or hers, who knows with these internets?) comments betray a parvenu with an attitude--and spelling--problem. Someone stiff you on your tip at Applebee's, FK?
February 28, 2007
10:54 AM
Jill writes:
My boyfriend and I dined at Elway's last evening. We both opted for the New York Strip -- which was fabulous. One of the best steaks I've had in a long time. The restaurant was definitely hopping but we got prompt service at both the bar and our table. So glad we gave it a try -- and now we have a new favorite spot.
February 28, 2007
10:57 AM
FOOD KING writes:
Well Everyone,
You could listen to a person who shares their namesake with a hollowed, doll shape piece of plastic, or you can listen to someone who not only is a frequent visitor of R.R.W but also owned a restaurant that partook in it, albeit, not in Denver.
Now Barbie, you are a true moron, and one only has to go no further than to look at the menu offered by these restaurants for R.R.W. Notice that the three course are simple, such as salad or soup, then a simple entree, and usually a small dessert? If you were to attend one of these restaurants not during R.R.W. and ordered the same item, you will notice there is a difference in portions. To think that a restaurant will take a loss for some publicity just shows how ignorant you really are of true fine dinning, but of course we should not expect much from you or the rest of the low class diners who wait with unending anticipation for this week so you can pretend to know what you are talking about. Let me help you out, go back to McDs’ and order anything off their value menu, I am sure that is more within your culinary expertise and your budget.
Now, for the rest of you, let me give you a bit of background. Restaurant week is indeed for the mainstream customer, who normally would not or could not go to these restaurants. It is also used in many cities, such as DC or NYC as a way to bring in a tourist crowd to the restaurants. Often the finer restaurants have a difficultly in competing with the crap holes of Outback, Applebee’s, and the rest of the corporate food houses that people like Barbie visit, so they offer discounts to entice more traffic. Restaurant’s who participate in R.R.W do know what they are getting into, but they do it more to expand the taste buds of the masses, then the publicity, for they take food seriously and wish to share that passion with the unrefined, i.e. the Barbies of the world, that is their main motivation.
February 28, 2007
10:57 AM
Anonymous writes:
Food King is a moron, and The Palm is highly overrated.
Next topic.
February 28, 2007
11:02 AM
Jill writes:
My boyfriend and I dined at Elway's last evening. We both opted for the New York Strip -- which was fabulous. One of the best steaks I've had in a long time. The restaurant was definitely hopping but we got prompt service at both the bar and our table. So glad we gave it a try -- and now we have a new favorite spot.
February 28, 2007
11:02 AM
Food KING writes:
10:57 is a coward, try signing your name to you post you puss, or better yet, put a few sentences together to tell me why I am wrong.
I expect that was your last post because you can do neither.
February 28, 2007
11:51 AM
Food King Fan writes:
Food King thank you for your concise and informed posts. The masses who are complaining are definitely not used to dining out beyond McD. If you drink White Zin in a fine dining restaurant they are laughing at you in the kitchen. Next time ask if you can have it decanted. Also if your server brings you your food in a timely fashion and in proper order and keeps your table clean while you lay in the middle eating more bread, "it's free right"?, than that server deserves 20% they did their job. If they were paid a proper hourly wage than your meal would not only double but quite possibly treble. Thanks for joining us for RRW week. Now go back to the burbs and enjoy Olive Garden. :)
February 28, 2007
12:14 PM
Drew writes:
FOOD KING IS A GOD!!! As someone who waited tables to put myself through college and grad school, believe me, what he (she?) speaks is the pure, unfiltered truth. Unless you've worked as a server or bartender, you have absolutely no idea how incredibly uninformed, and to be frank, stupid, the general populace is; ordering filet mignon well done, then complaining when it is dry and tough, drinking white zinfandel, then complaining it's too sweet, going to a fine-dining establishment and complaining there's no kid's menu(don't even get me started on that); Americans in general are completely clueless when it comes to dining.
This whole 52.80 thing is a good idea on paper, but it's obvious that the vast majority of people who go during that time won't go during any other time of the year (too cheap and uninformed). I mean, how many Americans even know what a gelee, a reduction or a buerre blanc is? It's sure not the kind of stuff you'd find at Applebee's or Chili's, or any other of the abominations that suburbaia flocks to in droves...
February 28, 2007
1:29 PM
Annoyed writes:
I don't care about the Food King, or anything that has to do with bickering at each other like children. This forum is about relaying dining experiences during Denver Restaurant Week so that others know what they are getting into, and can make an informed choice when they go out to that new restaurant that they have been wanting to try. I am very interested in reading about others' experiences, not how stupid or ugly somebody is. C'mon people, act your age!
p.s. I have not yet dined anywhere for Restaurant Week, or else I would post a review. I will post one after Thursday night.
February 28, 2007
1:38 PM
michele writes:
Exactly my sentiments! Grow up!! This forum is to post your experience during DRW, not judge others on how "refined" they are based on their experience.
February 28, 2007
1:44 PM
FOOD KING writes:
Food king argrees with the lasts post, but I am offering some suggestions that as customers you can do to improve your experience when dinning out and avoid unpleasent expeiences by not acting the fool in a high class establishment.
February 28, 2007
1:54 PM
Blog Emperor writes:
FK says:
..."experience when dinning out and avoid unpleasent expeiences by not acting the fool in a high class establishment."
How about learning to spell basic words, so as not to look the fool in any type of blog?
February 28, 2007
1:58 PM
Stacy writes:
We went to Prime 121 in Cherry Creek North last night and had a great $52.80 experience. Instead of bread and butter they give you pita bread and tabbouleh (sp?) It was a nice treat. We picked the soup and salad so we could try both. The salad was nothing special, but it was a good size portion. The soup was amazing, champagne brie. It was like sipping a fondue, but wasn't too heavy, just tasty. We picked the prime rib and rack of lamb as our entrees. They were both great and good size portions. We had mashed bourbon sweet tomatoes and fried green tomatoes as our sides. Dessert was also included and we had cheesecake with berries and key lime pie. I thought the key lime slice could have been a little bit bigger, but both items tasted great. We were treated wonderfully even though we didn't order anything to drink except coffee at the end. Valet parking is free which is a plus. Last year we went to the Cork House and had a horrible experience. I'm glad my husband was willing to give 52.80 week another chance. I highly recommend this restaurant!
February 28, 2007
3:05 PM
Joan writes:
My husband and I had dinner at alto as part of Denver restaurant week. We were expecting a pleasant evening out, but unfortunately experienced a number of problems in dining at your restaurant:
1. Our reservation was at 7:30; we weren’t seated until nearly 8pm.
2. My first choice on the restaurant week menu was not available, so I had to choose an option I was less than excited about. It would have been more appropriate to have been offered the option of choosing a comparable item from the regular menu at the same price.
3. The service was extremely slow. I don’t feel that this was the fault of our server as it seemed that everyone around us was growing impatient with waiting for their meals. We were in the restaurant for nearly 2.5 hours, and not by choice.
4. On the restaurant week Web page, the alto site listing states that there will be live music. This is one of the reasons I’ll selected alto above other restaurants. I was very disappointed that there was no music and feel that this was false advertising.
5. We were literally elbow to elbow with the other people in the restaurant. The lovely ambience of the restaurant was ruined by packing the tables like sardines.
6. The portion sizes were very disappointing. I left a three course meal feeling hungry and I’m a 100 lb female.
I’m afraid I won’t be recommending alto to friends or returning.
February 28, 2007
3:58 PM
MM writes:
Had a great experience at Texas de Brazil. Tons of variety. No other DRW participant lets you eat everything off their menu, in unlimited quantities! Great service too.
February 28, 2007
4:02 PM
Kathleen writes:
I agree with the posters above regarding The Palm. We went there last year for RW and were not treated well. It was such a distasteful experience I will likely never return.
This year we went to Sullivan's and had a fabulous time. Although they were quite late seating us (the hostess kind of forgot about us in the bar), our server more than made up for that with her attentiveness.
Yes, the portions were a bit smaller than when we order off the menu, but I left quite full and satisfied.
February 28, 2007
5:35 PM
Not Amateur, but Not Pompus writes:
I got on here to see if the restaurant I am going to on Friday is going to be a good choice. I was frustrated and infuriated at 'Food King'. This whole thing is ridiculous. Just because you 'owned' a restaurant that you wouldn't name doesn't mean you know anything. First of all I am no amateur, I eat out at fine dining restaurants when I feel the need. Sometimes I'd rather buy shoes instead. I work hard for my money and just because I don't always choose to spend it on fine dining does not make me, or the rest of the public ignorant.
First of all, RW was set up to introduce people to new tastes, not to give Food King bragging rights. Everyone starts somewhere. I remember the first time I spent $100 on myself for dinner and I had a companion with me who was a former 'professional' in fine dining restaurants in St. Louis. He patiently explained things to me from the fois gras to the wine and had not even a hint of arrogance in his tone.
Now I am more experienced, I know I don't like White Zin, I love Shiraz despite what it should be paired with, Cab is weak to me and I'd rather have dessert with coffee than port. It doesn't make me ignorant if these things don't always coincide with what the snobbish Food Kings of the world think, because I know the rules, I just choose to defy them sometimes based on my own personal tastes and it makes me no less a food lover than 'the King'.
You can't bash lower income people who can't always make it to these fine dining places. That is thier status in life and it has no place in this conversation. That is just rude and unneccessary. Not having money doesn't always mean ignorance and good for them if they don't know a whole lot and want to give it a shot. You, Food King, were not shot out of the womb knowing all. At some point someone took the time and patience (whether you paid them or not) to teach you all that you know. Don't harp on people who didn't do this for a living. Some of the points you make could be good if they weren't so over-saturated with snobbery. And bad customer service is unnacceptable at all times in all professions, bottom line.
Now that I've said my peice I'd appreciate it if we could keep useless banter and bashing out of the discussion. I read all the way to the bottom of this and still don't know what to expect of Tamayo on Friday. Goodness.
February 28, 2007
6:03 PM
Jewels writes:
We went to Vesta Dipping Grill for our first RW experience, and even my hard-to-impress boyfriend really enjoyed it. I honestly didn't see a single person in the place with something other than the $52.80 menu, besides adding a bottle of wine. The sauces were a perfect fit to their respective entrees and the dishes were delicious. It was nice that we each had a choice of appetizer and dessert because we essentially got to try one of everything on the 52.80 menu. The chicken was incredible, the bass I had was top-notch, and even their house white was great; not to mention the desserts had us bragging to our friends the next day (we're searching for a place to buy the root beer they use for their float!). Price has kept me away from Vesta for a while, but now that I know how worthwhile the experience is, we will definitely be going back, if only for really special occasions!
February 28, 2007
6:04 PM
Jewels writes:
We went to Vesta Dipping Grill for our first RW experience, and even my hard-to-impress boyfriend really enjoyed it. I honestly didn't see a single person in the place with something other than the $52.80 menu, besides adding a bottle of wine. The sauces were a perfect fit to their respective entrees and the dishes were delicious. It was nice that we each had a choice of appetizer and dessert because we essentially got to try one of everything on the 52.80 menu. The chicken was incredible, the bass I had was top-notch, and even their house white was great; not to mention the desserts had us bragging to our friends the next day (we're searching for a place to buy the root beer they use for their float!). Price has kept me away from Vesta for a while, but now that I know how worthwhile the experience is, we will definitely be going back, if only for really special occasions!
March 1, 2007
10:17 AM
Cecil writes:
"10:57 is a coward, try signing your name to you post you puss, or better yet, put a few sentences together to tell me why I am wrong."
Hmm..let's see. At least one person told you why you were wrong, and you responded with a statement that was blatantly untrue, and didn't address anything he/she actually said....how do you, multiple poster under different names, know what he/she ate at any restaurant? Or what the portion size was? Or even if that person was in the industry?
Even better, you call someone out for not using their name. So, your given name is "Food King"? How 'bout we just call you troll instead?
March 1, 2007
10:28 AM
Anonymous writes:
You should not have to "act" a certain way to receive good service or good food. If it's a standard in that establishment, then that's what it is. Just because it's DRW shouldn't mean bad service or bad food! We are all using the same $ to pay for services, and we should get the same treatment!
March 1, 2007
10:29 AM
Blog Emperor writes:
Food Knave is a pathetic little man with little to do during the day. He posts under many names, and likes to refer to himself in the third person as well.
I hereby banish him to a third grade spelling class until he gains some basic skills, or until his recess is over.
March 1, 2007
12:23 PM
Karen writes:
My husband and I went to Mel’s and Red Square Euro Bistro for restaurant week. Both were enjoyable but I have come to the conclusion that it’s not as much of a deal as the Denver Visitor’s Bureau would have you think. When I looked at the regular menu, I realized that we could eat at the same restaurants for virtually the same price any time of the year. From my calculations, they basically threw in free desserts. Normally, we share a dessert to save calories so this didn’t represent much savings. During Restaurant Week, the desserts at Red Square Bistro were less than half-size. The trio of ice cream was literally three spoonfuls. (The crème brulee at Mel’s was a normal-sized portion.) Personally, I would go to the same restaurants again when I could order whatever I want for the same price. By the time you add some wine to your bill, it’s far higher than the advertised deal anyway.
Having said that, we really enjoyed the food at both restaurants. We liked Red Square Euro Bistro the best. The sea scallop appetizer was perfectly prepared. The steak and the duck were wonderful and the spinach and mushrooms were incredible. The main entrée portions were normal sized. Our waiters at both restaurants were great.
Last year we went to The Fort during restaurant week and it seemed like an assembly line and we got a very bad table next to the kitchen. They really packed them in and it showed. On the surface, it seems like a good idea to go to the fanciest places during Restaurant Week but why go to a five star restaurant if you are going to get two star service? We had far better luck this year with the more affordable restaurants. But, that brings me back to my first point. If they are virtually the same price all year, then I will wait until a birthday or anniversary to go again. Restaurant Week is a good excuse to go out for no reason but I don’t think it’s a great value.
March 1, 2007
1:12 PM
Server writes:
I am a server in a restaurant that is participating in RW. And I'm sorry to say, Food King is absolutely right. I am sure it doesn't apply to everyone going out for RW, but it sure seems like the cheapest, un-used to fine dining crowd I have ever seen. RW is also known as Hell Week in our restaurant. We make no money and serve LOTS of white zin by the glass. I can't wait for this week to be over. By the way for those who might not know, servers, even in fine dining restaurants, generally make about 3 dollars per hour, or less. Tips count.
March 1, 2007
2:05 PM
Anonymous writes:
I can apppreciate "servers" comments. However, if you expect good tips, you need to provide good service regardless of RW or not....right?
March 1, 2007
2:23 PM
Karen writes:
My husband and I went to Mel’s and Red Square Euro Bistro. Both were enjoyable but I have come to the conclusion that it’s not as much of a deal as the Denver Visitor’s Bureau would have you think. When I looked at the regular menu, I realized that we could eat at the same restaurants for virtually the same price any time of the year. From my calculations, they basically threw in free desserts. Normally, we share a dessert to save calories so this didn’t represent much savings. During Restaurant Week, the desserts at Red Square Bistro were less than half-size. The trio of ice cream was literally three spoonfuls. (The crème brulee at Mel’s was a normal-sized portion.) Personally, I would go to the same restaurants again when I could order whatever I want for the same price. By the time you add some wine to your bill, it’s far higher than the advertised deal anyway.
Having said that, we really enjoyed the food at both restaurants. We liked Red Square Euro Bistro the best. The sea scallop appetizer was perfectly prepared. The steak and the duck were wonderful and the spinach and mushrooms were incredible. The main entrée portions were normal sized. Our waiters at both restaurants were great.
Last year we went to The Fort during restaurant week and it seemed like an assembly line and we got a very bad table next to the kitchen. They really packed them in and it showed. On the surface, it seems like a good idea to go to the fanciest places during Restaurant Week but why go to a five star restaurant if you are going to get two star service? We had far better luck this year with the more affordable restaurants. But, that brings me back to my first point. If they are virtually the same price all year, then I will wait until a birthday or anniversary to go again. Restaurant Week is a good excuse to go out for no reason but I don’t think it’s a great value.
March 1, 2007
3:44 PM
FOOD KING writes:
Food King went to Panzano on 17th last night with some friends. Although I have been here a few times before, I had never been here during a restaurant week. Expecting a large, diverse crowd, I asked and received a booth rather than a table. This simple accommodation began the night on a good note, which was to only get better throughout the evening. For a first time in ages, both my party and I ordered off the special menu, for Panzano offers four, fairly hearty courses instead of the usual three (remember my hint on portion sizing). Although each of my party ordered something different, each was prepared with the same culinary precision that I have come to expect of one of Denver’s finer restaurants. As for service, at first, our server was overwhelmed by the sheer number of tables and the many needs of a few (armature) guests, but as the night progressed, the server was able to recognize that I was appreciative of his efforts, and by nights end, he was offering a very personalized touch to an already fine meal. Also impressive were the efforts of the food runners, busers, and the rest of the supporting table staff; they were obviously well managed, for my table was never cluttered or dirty. My guests and I never felt rushed, and the timing of the courses was near perfection. All in all, another fantastic meal for 3 with a bottle of great wine and a much appreciated tip of $70 (about 30%) brought the total to $260 for one heck of a memorable restaurant experience.
March 1, 2007
6:02 PM
Server writes:
Even when I wish to give bad service, I can't. That's the kind of restaurant/manager I work for. But it is difficult to give good service to people who are often rude and aren't interested in a "good" dining experience, they're interested in cheap food fast. Again, not all patrons are this way. But most during restaurant week certainly are.
I wish Food King would come in.
March 2, 2007
12:00 AM
too salty writes:
Imagine if a starving person from the Sudan or somewhere read these strange comments.
March 2, 2007
10:33 AM
V. P writes:
"The Food King"
You are supposed to be the King of what? Insults, rudeness, poor manners and worse etiquette? These restaurants choose to be a part of this yearly so as to teach newcomers and expand their regular customer base. It really is a very good way to generate a broader customer base.
Name calling has no place here, and you as the supposed expert are only embarrassing yourself and losing readers.
Whether the dining establishments are upper crust or not, service is what you dine out for. Also trying something new and meeting new people. If you pick a restaurant and the service is not good, the food not available, and or the wine also not available how does that make a potential customer an ignorant cheap skate?
I have dined in several so called “upper crust” establishments, and I was not very impressed with the food. However my dining companions, who are very much wine connoisseurs, just love these establishments. It is a matter of taste. I prefer a nice middle ground restaurant, where I can be myself, and be treated with respect and have a wonderful meal. Pappadeaux in Westminster makes me happy. They do not care what I am wearing, and they are happy to answer my questions with a smile on their faces. My husband loves to share a bottle of Camus and so he is happy.
I by the way am an ex-chef and kitchen manager. Personally I would be more concerned with the cleanliness of the kitchen and their staff. I do not care how the staff perceives me, I am the customer and so should be treated fairly, if I am not it is reflected in the tip, and an informative word with the manager on duty.
We wear jeans and tee shirts when we go out, that includes Prime 121, The Barolo Grill and Mizuna. The service at these establishments so far has been impeccable or pretty close. The tips we leave are always above extravagant, if the service deserves it.
A great "Rule Of Thumb" Don't judge your customers by what they are wearing, and by what they are ordering, they may be your biggest tippers, they just like what they like and are used to getting what they want their way. Bad service hurts the wait staff and the establishment itself. It also makes any future customers back off from "bad word of mouth".
Treat all customers the same, you never know who you are insulting and ignoring.
That goes for “The Food King” also.
March 2, 2007
10:52 AM
Russ writes:
One thing that I tire of during 5280 week is the rolling of the eyes from the server when the special menu is mentioned.
At Elways last Saturday we ordered premium cocktails, wine, and an appetizer, as well as the 5280 specials. Our reservation was at 5:45 so they still turned the table two more times.
But yet, the server thought we carried the plague. If surly is your attitude then take the week off . . . and don't argue with me that prime rib is called a steak.
March 2, 2007
10:53 AM
Anonymous writes:
Just my opinion here, but people spend too damned much going out to dinner if they go more than a couple times a year. I know folks who eat out every weekend, sometimes both days, and at least a couple times a week. Probably spend $400 to $500 per month at a minimum. That would make a fat retirement account deposit, and frankly, the food at most places isn't any better than I can prepare at home. Save your money and learn to do for yourself.
March 2, 2007
11:13 AM
Anonymous writes:
I hope Food King gets a "sneezer" at his next fine-dining experience.
March 2, 2007
12:37 PM
Anonymous writes:
"Food King went to Panzano on 17th last night with some friends. Although I have been here a few times before, I had never been here during a restaurant week."
Posted by FOOD KING on March 1, 2007 03:44 PM
Did I read this right, the food king refering to himself in the third person????
What an arrogant ass____.
I hope hope he gets a squeezer rather than a sneezer.
March 2, 2007
1:44 PM
Michelle writes:
We love to try new restaurants during restaurant week, and this year we started with AIX. What a wonderful choise! The staff was welcoming, attentive, and friendly, and the food was supurb. They gave us a list of special events to try in the future, and we can't wait to go back.
Unfortunately, our next choise was Tula. We braved the storm on Wed. just so we wouldn't miss out. When we arrived after a slow and icy drive, they acted like they couldn't seat us since we were a bit late. This was perplexing since many tables sat empty. It seemed several parties chose not to venture out. Eventualy we were seated, but when the waiter found we declined drinks to ensure a safe ride home on the icy roads, he left us high and dry the rest of the evening. The food was slow in coming, and I've had better at much cheaper Mexican restaurants close to home. Especially bad was the churros witch were cold and doughy. I won't be back after such dissapointing food and service.
March 2, 2007
10:23 PM
Gabe writes:
My partner and I looked forward to our $52.80 dining experience at the Buenos Aires Grill on Tuesday evening, however it turned out not to be pleasant. I made reservations for two well in advance but when we arrived, we were ushered to a tiny 24" square table. We probably could have fit two salads and two drinks on that surface, so I politely asked for a larger table since there were about thirty of them set for four that were empty! The host said he would have to talk to the manager and when he returned , we were offered the same size table in another location. In speaking to the manager, I pointed out that I thought the purpose for the $52.80 promotion was to get new customers into your restaurant. Why will you not accomodate a simple request for a larger table when you have thirty of them empty? His response was, "we are sold out!" I informed him that their service was not satisfactory and we would not be back! He didn't seem to care. I wonder, would we have been treated differently had we been a straight couple?
March 5, 2007
7:53 AM
Anonymous writes:
Gabe - It is whining like your last question that turns people off to your type. Stop turning every perceived sleight into a civil rights matter and maybe you'll get better service.
As to Food King, ignore him. He is our resident wannabe snob.
March 5, 2007
10:45 AM
Anonymous writes:
For most people, a 2x2 table is plenty big enough.
I have a feeling there is some exaggeration to this as well.
I have a feeling you blame alot of your life on people not being sensitive to your perverted lifestyle.
January 19, 2009
8:20 PM
Leslie writes:
Loved Elways the service super and food fantastic.
Never felt as if I was ordering off the 52.80 menu. We were treated as long time clients.