Palmer Lake's Secret Treasure

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...

Splendid Pizza Pie

Proto's Pizzeria Napoletana located on 15th and Platte is an established treasure. While not a new restaurant, I always find myself pleasantly surprised by their offerings. When I went there for lunch today, I did not plan to post about my experience However, after a delicious meal I wanted to share my pleasing experience with all of my faithful followers (one anonymous follower, to be exact).

Upon arriving at the airy, streetside establishment along the banks of the South Platte River, I was reminded of how much I enjoy this area. Today was a unique lunch, as I was dining with seven other coworkers. While I was concerned about Proto's ability to accommodate us, they were unphased and had our table ready immediately. Our friendly waiter was a beefy fellow who aimed to please. He was quick to take our order and tended to all of our needs, which were plenty, seeing as how we were a group of eight women.

After throroughly studying the menu (online, before arriving and once we arrived as a refresher) we decided upon sharing several delectable pies. My favorite was The Lowrider, topped with bacon, pineapple, honey tomato chipotle sauce, cilantro, and cheese. The traditional italian thin crust, made for a wonderful canvas to cover with some of the best ingredients in the world...bacon, cilantro, and chipotle. In addition to this masterpiece, we gorged ourselves on The Proto - sausage, basil, mozzarella, tomato sauce; The Pontiff - spinach, feta, sundried tomato, olive oil and a special pizza that is not on the menu, LASAGNA. What?!?! Yes, that's right...lasagna pizza. Hell yes! It was soooo good. Topped with mini meatballs, mozzarella, ricotta, and tomato sauce, I couldn't get enough. I highly recommend that everyone get their booty into Proto's to try this slice of heaven before it's discontinued.

After completely stuffing myself like the indulgent carnivore that I am, I was unable to treat myself to their tempting Gelato for fear that I wouldn't fit into my pants if I did. I guess I will just have to pay Proto's another visit, and this time I will wear sweatpants. Two words...elastic - waistband!