• Adam’s Mountain Cafe in Manitou Springs, a MUST for any visit to Manitou
• Jose Muldoons…best margaritas in town
• Marigolds Cafe and Bakery
• Mona Lisa Restaurant… a perfect romantic dinner
• Quaint small town restaurant in Palmer Lake 

Denver Restaurant Week is an annual event – a Colorado favorite.   It’s now in it’s 6th annual celebration, and it’s been changed to be a two-week celebration of the culinary scene in Denver.   Participating restaurants will offer a multi-course dinner for the fixed price of $52.80 for two, or $26.40 for one (not including tax or gratuity).   Yes, I did type that correct, $52.80 for two.  What a deal.

When you go to official the web site, you can search by cuisine, by neighborhood, or by all restaurants.  I don’t know how many restaurants are participating this year; but last year there were over 225 restaurants involved.

Since I live just as close to Denver as I do to Colorado Springs, we’re definitely going to go take advantage of the great specials and try out some new restaurants.  But for my Colorado Springs readers, Denver is an easy 60 minute drive from Colorado Springs, don’t miss these great restaurant specials.  Use is for an excuse to try something new and different.

Here’s the top 3 restaurants on my list:

Root Down  I’ve heard great things about this restaurant, so it’s definitely on my list.  The reviewers say “It has a terrifically hip, stylish décor — studied yet casually fun. It touts that locally farmed and organic products are used whenever possible. It recycles everything. Oh, and the food is downright impressive.”

 Rodizio Grill The Brazilian Steakhouse -- My hubby and I have been to Brazil and have enjoyed their fabulous steak houses — so this is definitely on my list.   It’s an authentic Brazilian Steakhouse featuring a parade of waiters holding 3 foot skewers stacked with a variety of rotisserie grilled meats carved tableside by Brazilian Gauchos, can’t wait to try it out and compare it to the real thing.

Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse -   I’m always looking for an excuse to eat at Del Friscos, on of my all time favorites restaurants.

Do you want to try some Cuban food, check out Cuba Cuba Café & Bar.    In the mood for Irish, Tilted Kilt, they call it the best looking sports bar you’ve ever seen.

Make reservations quickly, as reservations fill up fast for this culinary event. Gratuity is not included in the fixed price.

How do you choose which of their award winning restaurants to go to?  Charles Court?  Penrose Room?  The Summit?  The Golden Bee?  Also, make sure to check out one of their Romantic packages.

Briarhurst Manor Estate
404 Manitou Ave in Manitou Springs
719-685-1864
Don’t just celebrate Valentine’s for a day this year – celebrate it for a whole week at Briarhurst Manor.   They will be featuring a menu that incorporates a fare of “Love and Passion” with a pre fixe six course menu.   (If you don’t make it for Valentine’s Day, maybe you’ll want to come for one of their Murder Mystery Dinners.)

Melting Pot
30-A Pikes Peak Ave. in Colorado Springs
719-385-0300
Looking for a special way to spend the most romantic night of the year? Then The Melting Pot is the place for you. You and your date can dip into four courses including a spinach artichoke cheese fondue, lobster, filet mignon, bananas foster, plus much more!

Mozaic Restaurant
The Inn at Palmer Divide
719-481-1800
Make your Valentine’s Day last for more than one day! You can enjoy a wonderful dinner at MoZaic Restaurant then enjoy a romantic evening staying at The Inn at Palmer Divide.   You can even pre-order roses to be included with dinner.  (This may be my restaurant of choice for Valentines, maybe I’ll see you there!)

Of course, there are many other great restaurants in area to choose from including The Cliff House at Pikes Peak, The Blue Star, Walter’s Bistro, MacKenzie’s Chop House, The Craftwood Inn (one of my favorites for amazing local cuisine), The SteakSmith, Carlos Bistro,  Nosh, Dale Street Cafe, Mona Lisa Cafe and Fondue, The Warehouse , Marigolds Cafe and Bakery, and The Famous SteakHouse.

Or, if you really want to do something fun check out some of the specials at the local Bed and Breakfasts including The Holden House, and Two Sisters Inn.

Celebrate the day of love for your friends and family — remember the people who are your many Blessings in Life.

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Kathy (719-287-1049)   KTorline@msn.com

Search for Homes in Palmer Lake

Are you looking for a restaurant a little off the beaten path?  If so, try the Depot in Palmer Lake.   It’s a small place right located on the west side of Highway 105 as you drive through Palmer Lake.

They’ve also started to embrace Social Media, as I found out they have a Facebook Page while I was doing research for this blog.

Here’s the facts:

(719) 481-8668 ‎

• 33 unique things to do in Colorado Springs — #1
• 33 unique things to do in Colorado Springs — #2
• 33 Unique things to do in Colorado Springs…#3
• 33 unique things to do in Colorado Springs — #4 Air Force Academy Chapel
• 33 Unique things to do-#5 Van Briggle Pottery and Museum
• 33 Unique things to do #6 Colorado College Hockey

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Kathy (719-287-1049)   KTorline@msn.com

Like the warmth of the sun
And the light of the day,                                                    
May the luck of the Irish
shine bright on your way.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day to one and all!  I’m thinking we’re all a little Irish today.  Want to know of some places to hang your hat tonight and have a little bite and some great beer?  Here’s a few suggestions that will bring out the Irish in all.

No Irishman will ever turn down a request to head to Jack Quinn’s, a nationally recognised pub and alehouse in downtown Colorado Springs.  The restaurant offers a full menu of Irish fare along with all your favorite brews.  Better get there early as they are full up most of the day.

In the mood for something a little more upscale?  How about Mackensie’s Chop House located in the historic Alamo building.  You can find some of the finest and freshest steaks and seafood that Colorado Springs has.  Fine dining but with a more casual feel.

Of course there’s always O’Furry’s located on Fillmore.  It’s The Omelet Parlor by day and a fun bar at night where they have awesome burgers and ice cold beer.

So, whatever you do today, enjoy and remember to drink responsibly.

Some other restaurants that you might like reading about:

• Adam’s Mountain Cafe in Manitou Springs, a MUST for any visit to Manitou
• Jose Muldoons…best margaritas in town
• Marigolds Cafe and Bakery
• Mona Lisa Restaurant… a perfect romantic dinner

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Kathy (719-287-1049)   KTorline@msn.com

In the mood for a truly romantic getaway?  Come to The Mona Lisa in Manitou Springs and you won’t be disappointed.

Mona Lisa is a fixture of West-Side Colorado Springs cuisine.  The restaurant is in an old building with small rooms, creaky, crooked floors and steep stairs (check out the bathrooms where you’ll feel like you’ve gone back in time about 100 years).  It was originally built as a hotel in the late 1800’s.  Old, signed wine bottles from previous guests line the walls and cubbies where a few of mine are there somewhere.

The food is magnificent.  The four course meal  includes salad; your choice of a regular salad, Caesar or their salad of the day (which when we went was a spinach with goat cheese, yummy), cheese fondue (we had the New World and a Greek with blue cheese), and chocolate fondue (choose milk, dark or white chocolate and add flavors).  The thing that makes this place different from a traditional Melting Pot is that Mona Lisa  replaces an oil main course with a raquette ( similar to a hot plate).  For the main course you can choose traditional (which has a variety of beef, chicken, seafood and a sausage), seafood only or wild game (which is really wonderful and fun to try if you’re in the mood for something different).  It’s a departure from the fondue formula, but to me a welcome one.

The wine list is truly impressive and we polished off two bottles by the time our meal was done.  They also have a quaint wine cellar where you don’t need reservations and can enjoy some wine along with a cheese or chocolate fondue.

Mona Lisa is expensive,  but it’s atmosphere is utterly charismatic and romantic to the core.  They are closed on Monday and its a one price for complete dinner starting at $40 per person.  The service was exceptional as our waitress was there when needed but didn’t hover.  She made great suggestions for the wines and explained to our guests who have never been there how the evening would work.  We walked our contented and happy after spending a leisurely 3 hours over a wonderful meal.

Reservations are required, so call 719-685-0277 to schedule.  Let me know what you think.

Some other restaurants that you might like reading about:

• Adam’s Mountain Cafe in Manitou Springs, a MUST for any visit to Manitou
• Jose Muldoons…best margaritas in town
• Marigolds Cafe and Bakery

  If you enjoyed reading this article, why not Subscribe to be notified of the next one? 

Kathy (719-287-1049)   KTorline@msn.com

With Valentines Day just around the corner, I thought you might like to know of some fun things to do or buy for the special someone in your life.

Want to have a special dinner and maybe a stay overnight?  How about a night at The Broadmoor and then stay for one of their wonderful Sunday Brunches the next morning.  What could be better than that?  They even add chocolate and champagne at bedtime.  Yummy!

Want a romantic dinner?  How about trying the Briarhurst Manor where they are offering romantic dinners all week with a six course prix fix meal.  They definitely spoil you there, so give them a call.

If dinner isn’t in your plans, don’t forget the flowers!  We have one of the best floral shops around at Platte Floral, a family owned business that really puts their customers first.  If you hurry, you still might be able to get it delivered in time for the special day!

If a show is more your speed, how about a night at The Pikes Peak Center where you can see one of the finest comedians around. 

No Valentines Day would be complete without some special chocolates.  One of the best loved shops is Patsy’s Candies, where you can get intoxicated on the aromas alone, if you’re addicted to it like me.  Of course you can always order on-line, but personally I adore just walking in and seeing the candies being made at the factory located on-site.

If your special someone happens to have four paws instead of two legs, there’s even something special for the pooch in your life.  Head on over to Saboz, where you can get yourself a new canine motif purse and a “Bella” bag for your pooch.  There will also be a benefit for Mill Dog Rescue.  Furry Friends Inc.  will also be on hand and offer where they will be offering Paw Rubs (think massage for dogs).

Try to have a fun Valentines Day and I hope you find something on this list to entice you. 

• 33 unique things to do in Colorado Springs — #1
• 33 unique things to do in Colorado Springs — #2
• 33 Unique things to do in Colorado Springs…#3
• 33 unique things to do in Colorado Springs — #4 Air Force Academy Chapel
• 33 Unique things to do-#5 Van Briggle Pottery and Museum
• 33 Unique things to do #6 Colorado College Hockey

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Kathy (719-287-1049)   KTorline@msn.com

For a free Buyers Guide, Email Kathy Torline at KTorline@msn.com

As the holidays are quickly approaching, it’s time to start making your plans for Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Colorado Springs.  I’ve listed some of my favorites restaurants here.   Also, make sure and read the information at the end of the post about FREE cab Fares available on New Years Eve.

Melting Pot

• Interactive Dining Experience with Fondue
• 30 A E. Pikes Peak
• Phone:  719-385-0300
• New Year’s Eve Dinner:  $130.00 per couple, menu on web site
• www.meltingpot.com

Walters Bistro

• Fine Dining in a Relaxed Bistro Atmosphere
• Address:  146 E. Cheyenne Mountain Blvd.
• Phone:  719-630-0201
• New Year’s Eve Dinner:  $75.00 per person
• www.waltersbistro.com

Nosh

• Inspired yet informal dining experience centered on small plates
• Address:  121 S. Tejon
• Phone:  719-635-NOSH
• New Year’s Eve Dinner:  $45.00 per person, menu listed on web site
• www.nosh121.com

Craftwood Inn

• Known for amazing regional cuisine with views of Pikes Peak
• Located in a Historic Tudor Mansion
• 404 El Paso Blvd.   Manitou Springs, CO
• Phone:  719-685-9000
• www.craftwood.com

Briarhurst Manor

• Dine in a Stately Victorian Manor House
• Address:  404 Manitou Avenue
• Phone:  719-685-1864
• 5-course champagne dinner
• www.briarhurst.com

Blue Star

• Innovative Unique Food
• New Year’s Eve Dinner $55.00 per person, menu listed on web site
• Address:  1645 S. Tejon
• Phone:  719-632-1086
• www.thebluestar.net

Cheyenne Mountain Resort

• Celebrate the New Year with a sumptuous seasonal buffet dinner and dancing.   A contribution will be made for each ticket sold
• Address:  3225 Broadmoor Valley Road
• Phone:  719-538-4000
• www.cheyennemountain.com

Broadmoor

• Ring in the New Year at The BRO^ADMOOR with Ken Miller and the dazzling 35-piece BRO^ADMOOR Pops Orchestra Address:  1 Lake Avenue
• See web site for more details and pricing
• Address:  1 Lake Avenue
• Phone:  719-634-7711
• www.broadmoor.com

McDivitt Law Firm will once again team up with Yellow Cab of Colorado Springs to provide free transportation to those who can’t drive or feel they don’t have a safe way home this New Year’s Eve. The Safe and Sober Free Cab Ride Home program will be available within Colorado Springs city limits from 10 p.m. on Wednesday, December 31, 2008, through 4 a.m. on Thursday, January 1, 2009.   To request a free Colorado Springs cab ride home, individuals can call Yellow Cab Company of Colorado Springs at (719) 777-7777 and tell them McDivitt Law Firm is paying for their safe ride home.

All of these need reservations, be sure and call ahead (some may be booked already, but put your name on the waiting list for cancellations)

• 33 unique things to do in Colorado Springs — #1
• 33 unique things to do in Colorado Springs — #2
• 33 Unique things to do in Colorado Springs…#3
• 33 unique things to do in Colorado Springs — #4 Air Force Academy Chapel
• 33 Unique things to do-#5 Van Briggle Pottery and Museum
• 33 Unique things to do #6 Colorado College Hockey

  If you enjoyed reading this article, why not Subscribe to be notified of the next one? 

Kathy (719-287-1049)   KTorline@msn.com

The Broadmoor not only offers their wonderful food and service but they also have delightful packages to stay at the hotel at discounted prices.

Briarhurst Manor where you can get a wonderful meal in quaint Manitou Springs

Cheyenne Mountain Resort treat yourself to one of their famous Holiday Buffets where the classic beauty of the Main Lodge is even more beautiful at this special time of year

The Cliff House where there’s not only fine dining, but you can purchase the most expensive cocktail in the world (Love-tini)

Mimi’s Cafe I know this is a chain, but with their fresh food I thought it was worth putting into this article

Sunbird want your Thanksgiving meal eaten from above the clouds in Colorado Springs?  Then check out this wonderful place

MacKenzies Chop House offering a special menu for the day

Antlers Grille offering a wonderful brunch located in The Antlers Hotel in downtown Colorado Springs

Edelweiss offering a traditional meal with chestnut dressing in this Colorado Springs institution

Front Range Bar-B-Que desiring a traditonal southern Thanksgiving feast?  This is the place

Mozaic offering a wonderful buffet in Palmer Lake

Most of these need reservations, so do be sure and call ahead (some may be booked already, but put your name on the waiting list for cancelations)

So, enjoy your holiday and eat hearty!  HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!!

Would you like some additonal information on local restaurants that we like?  Call Kathy at 719-659-1087 or Nancy at 719-659-4380.

If you liked this entry you might also like some of these restaurant reviews:

Adam’s Mountain Cafe in Manitou Springs, a MUST for any visit to Manitou

Jose Muldoons…best margaritas in town

Marigolds Cafe and Bakery

Front Range Barberque in Old Colorado City

Nosh in Colorado Springs… small plates offer artistic fun

Search for Homes in Manitou Springs

The other day, Kathy and I decided to go to Manitou Springs for some much needed R & R.  While we were soaking in the scenery and taking pictures of the building and mineral water locations, we decided to stop in at Adam’s Mountain Cafe, located in the historic spa building, for lunch.    Four mineral springs are within 50 yards of the café include the Cheyenne, the Navajo, the Wheeler and the soon to be operating Soda Spring.

Located in the heart of Manitou Springs, its definitely a favorite of the locals in both Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs.   Its quirky decor of eclectic tables and chairs around floor to ceiling windows offers an unbelievable view.  Its menu is mostly vegetarian and Adams uses only the freshest ingredients in everything it makes.  Food does take awhile to be served, but Adams does not use microwave ovens or heat lamps and makes everything to order.    While waiting for your entrees, try some of their original spice tea with hints of orange in it.  You’ll be wanting to take some of that home.  Kathy and I both loved the tea and they told us that its soon going to available to purchase online at their web site.

Adams Mountain Cafe is best known for its breakfast but also serves light lunches and delicious dinners.  (do try one of their perfect fish dishes).  Even though it was mid-afternoon, we both opted for omelets and were not disappointed.    We also chose to add the fruit plate to our order and that by far was my favorite.  It’s a huge selection of in-season fruit.  The dates were sweet and juicy and came with an array of peaches, apples, strawberries, and bananas.  It was so big that between the two of us we couldn’t finish it.  Yum, I’ll be dreaming of those dates for awhile now.  The omelets were cooked to perfection, not too dry and the cheese was melted through.  The sunflower toast was the perfect accompaniment.  We’ll definitely be back there again and again!

Web Site:  www.adamsmountaincafe.com

• Fall/Winter Hours: Closed Mondays
  Breakfast/Lunch
  served 8 am - 3 pm  T-SN
  Dinner
  served  5 pm – 9 pm  T-S
• Address:  934 Manitou Avenue
• Phone:  719-685-1430

Related Articles: 

• Jose Muldoons…best margaritas in town
• Marigolds Cafe and Bakery
• Manitou Springs celebrates Emma Crawford with annual coffin races and wake

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Search for Homes in Colorado Springs

In the mood for a great margarita?  They’re a staple here in Colorado Springs and there’s no place better than Jose Muldoons, located across from Acacia Park in downtown Colorado Springs.

This institution of Colorado Springs has been opened since 1974 and is named after the supposed legendary bandit, who was said to have roamed the southwest part of the state robbing from the rich and giving some of his spoils to the poor in Walsenberg, Trinidad and Raton. Good authority says he’s all in the imagination of owners Dave Lux and Frank Day.  No matter if its true or not, it gives Jose Muldoons a wonderful story to tell. 

The authentic Mexican fare along with their large burgers, inventive salads and large vegetarian selections will keep you coming back again and again.  They even have a wonderful children’s menu.  You can dine alfresco (outdoors) on their quaint patio or inside by one of their cozy fireplaces with its unique southwest decor.  They even have a couple of private rooms for banquets or special events. 

Happy Hour and their Sunday brunch (served 9:30-2 with a free house Margarita and kids eat free) ensure that the place fills up quickly, so do plan on a wait during the busy times, though but well worth it.  So, if you’re in the mood for some great Tex-Mex food and a wonderful margarita to enjoy with friends, wander on down to Jose Muldoons located at 222 N. Tejon, Colorado Springs, CO  80903.  You won’t be disappointed. Even their chips and salsa are fresh and tasty.

Hours:  Lunch:  Monday-Saturday 11am-4pm

            Dinner:  4pm-10pm (Sunday -Wednesday)

                                open till 11pm Thursday-Saturday

            Happy Hour:  Monday-Friday 4pm-7pm

Jose Muldoons:         222 N. Tejon

                             Colorado Springs, CO  80903

                             (719) 636-2311

                             www.josemuldoons.com log on for a free appetizer

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Kathy (719-287-1049)   KTorline@msn.com