Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Altitude Restaurant in the Hyatt Regency

The Altitude Restaurant is the formal dining venue in the Hyatt Regency in downtown Denver. I had never heard about this restaurant until my parents took me there for my 19th birthday, and it was unexpectedly awesome.

Personally, I weigh the atmosphere and decorations of a restaurant more than the food or location. Right as you come in, it is serenely quiet in the restaurant. Not only are the waiters and consumers quiet, the music is almost inaudible. Since I expect nice restaurants to present a quiet atmosphere (to heighten the opportunity for indulgence and relaxation) the Altitude's atmosphere was excellent.

The decorations of the Altitude are very straightforward. Carpeted floors, beige color scheme, big wooden tables and big comfortable chairs. This decor made it different from the typically modern industrial decor of other fancy restaurants in Denver. However, the simple decor at Altitude was made up for by the excellent location and views.

Like I had mentioned, the location is in downtown Denver in the Hyatt Regency; the two glass walls of the restaurant have views of Denver's high rises and the convention center. These views are the perfect compliment to an immaculately cooked filet mignon.

The food was absolutely brilliant at the Altitude restaurant. All 7 people with whom I went here with were really impressed by the entire package of the meal-- the presentation, taste, and creativity. Of course my filet mignon was immaculate: peppery, buttery, and melted in my mouth. The steak came with roasted asparagus that was soft with a smoky aftertaste, and mashed potatoes that were velvety and perfectly seasoned. However, the best part of the meal was the appetizer. We got a plate of charcuteries: salumi, speck, prosciutto, aged cheese, and a variety of fresh mustards and bread. I have never had such an appetizer but it intrigued my tastebuds and left me wanting much much more!

Overall this restaurant is a hidden gem. Somewhat overlooked, but well worth the visit!



The Altitude Restaurant at the Hyatt Regency
650 15th Street,
Denver, Colorado, USA 80202

Monday, March 28, 2011

Cheeburger Cheeburger

My first review!

Cheeburger Cheeburger is a little retro joint located behind Park Meadows mall in Lone Tree. From the delicious design-it-yourself meals to the retro diner feel, this restaurant keeps me wanting to come back for more.

I recently went here for dinner and ordered a burger and fries. I got the 7 ounce burger with pepper jack cheese, lettuce, tomato, guac, onions, and jalapeƱos and it was absolutely delicious. They have five weights of patties ranging from 5.5 ounces to a whopping 20 ounces. From their 8 types of cheeses and 34 toppings, an almost unlimited variety of burgers can be designed to a specific taste. Though their sides are a la carte, its worth the extra few bucks to get a big basket of fries. I prefer dousing mine with the zesty seasoning-- it adds an extra kick.

Along with burgers and sides, Cheeburger Cheeburger offers invent-your-own chicken sandwich, grilled cheese, wraps, salads, and shakes & malts. If that isnt satisfying enough, they also have entrees and platters for those who prefer more punctual meals.

The atmosphere is half of the reason why I love this place so much. It is a retro diner complete with neon pink lights, vintage posters, retro furniture, and old 50's jams. This really rounds out the specificity of the name: Cheeburger Cheeburger. They give you a throwback to the 50's when everything was a lot simpler, and the best restaurants were the ones that served delicious burgers and fries.

The prices are more than satisfactory: for a burger and fries it is about 10 dollars. The toppings and the cheese are included in the price of the patty-- so pile on any variety and its all free!

Overall this restaurant keeps me coming back for more. I would recommend it for anyone who is looking for a great burger joint with a diner feel. It is very informal, but still has the restaurant quality dining everyone loves. The food is phenomenal, the atmosphere is nostalgic, and the prices are just right. Cheeburger Cheeburger is worth the trip!



Cheeburger Cheeburger
9234 Park Meadows Dr
Lone Tree, CO 80124

Sunday, March 27, 2011

Welcome!

Over the past year and a half, I developed an rapid interest in restaurants. I became more aware of the food, the atmosphere, and the service than I ever had before. I started going to less chain and more small, privately owned places all over the Denver metro area.

My repertoire of restaurants I visit has grown, and in light of that, I decided to start a blog recording my opinions. From my perspective of being a 19 year old college student, I will review all aspects of going out to eat.

Enjoy!