Alright, so I am aware that Palmer Lake isn't in Denver...but I just HAD to do a post on this charming establishment. Amuze Bistro is set against the hills of Palmer Lake in what used to be a station agent's house for the Rio Grande. It is the oldest building in Palmer Lake and a unique and inviting setting for a fabulous little bistro.
On a normal night, the restaurant's dining room has a total of four tables: two four-tops and two two-tops. However, my visit to Amuze was a special occasion, in which they put all four tables together for a large group to experience the "Chef's Tasting."
Owner, William Sherman began the evening by reviewing the seven course tasting menu with the group. Sherman was charming and extraordinarily knowledgeable. To illustrate - when discussing the dessert, a New Mexico Red Chili Creme Brulee, he explained the role of olfactory senses and the ability the red chili has to activate those senses, giving the diner an opportunity to experience every flavor to it's fullest.
After listening to Sherman discuss the menu, my olfactory was dying to dive in! The meal began with an "Amuse-Bouche", which is a french phrase meaning "to entertain the palate." My palate was delighted with the Watermelon Cube with Soy Syrup & Black Lava Salt. After my entertained mouth completed it's dance, the seven course parade commenced. Throughout the evening there were constant murmerings of oohs and ahs, compliments bestowed upon the chef with full mouths and even fuller bellies. We were served Cream of Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup with Blue Crab Toast, Diver Scallop & Cheese Ravioli, a Colorado Lamb Chop & Israeli Couscous in addition to a Prime Filet Mignon with White Truffle Mashed Potatoes, that made my mouth sing AND dance. To top it all off, the Red Chili Creme Brulee. U-N-B-E-L-I-E-V-A-B-L-E!
I have never experienced a dinner so thoughtfully prepared and delicious. I more than recommend this restaurant. I request that you make the trip to Palmer Lake to experience this gem. In fact, you don't have any excuse, as the restaurant's one year anniversary is quickly approaching and to celebrate, Amuze is hosting a party on September 26th. The party will be held at the art gallery next door. There will be wine, food, and a contest. The contest will not be a contest for best tasting dish, but rather a competition in "food architecture" as Sherman puts it. Anyone can enter for a nominal fee.
Whether you go to visit the restaurant for dinner or attend the anniversary party, I guarantee that you will be nothing but amuzed...
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