A Five Star Restaurant That Makes Weekend Getaways A Dream

Photo courtesy of Kevin Austin 

Welcome back my fellow foodies!  I don’t know about you, but every February I am in need of a little staycation to rejuvenate myself.  I found such a place so close to home at The Monarch Casino Resort Spa in Black Hawk, CO.  Only a bit over an hour drive from Denver, this hotel seemed to be just the little getaway I needed.  I have heard the hotel is stellar with five star restaurants right on property.  I had to have dinner at Bistro Mariposa, then relax and enjoy a night of fun. I packed a little bag and off I popped.

Photo courtesy of Defy Them All

Black Hawk is the cutest town. Think of it as a little Las Vegas in the gorgeous mountains of Colorado.  As I walked into the Monarch Hotel, all I could think about was how beautiful it was.  I checked into my scenic room overlooking the mountains, and was hungry and ready for dinner.  Bistro Mariposa has been open for two years.  This restaurant boasts Latin flavors with a modern twist.  Chef Alex Lopez went down to Denver to research Latin cuisine to make Bistro Mariposa the best. The dishes evoke memories of Alex’s childhood, so I was so excited to go try this beautiful restaurant that so many people have been talking about.

Photo courtesy of Kevin Austin 

I lucked out because it was their Wednesday “Social Hour”.  Every Wednesday from 5-9, they have half price appetizers and margaritas.  How fun!  I started with two different appetizers that were interesting and so tasty.  Fry Bread Esquites, which is charred corn, cotija cheese, chipotle and lime on the most delicious fresh bread.  It was like nothing I have ever had. Next was a dish called Pastel De Cangrejo.  It is a Dungeness crab cake with fresno chilis and chimichurri.  This was the best crab cake I have ever had, and I have had many! It was full of lump crab and bursting with Latin flavors.  You must get this when you go. The entrees were equally as good and consisted of Pollo Asado, Carne Asada, and the most amazing Chile Relleno stuffed with porcini mushrooms, Oaxaca cheese and charred corn. This relleno was addicting, and a great vegetarian option. I was full, but I had heard about their signature dessert. The Cajeta consisted of a goat milk cheesecake, mango ice cream and a white chocolate crumble topped with Dulce De Leche. I was glad I saved a bit of room because it was outstanding and like nothing I have ever had.

Photo courtesy of Kevin Austin 

The Monarch Casino Resort Spa is not just a casino.  The hotel has a beautiful indoor pool with jetted spas and fire pits outside. The spa here is award winning.  Voted #4 in USA Today’s  Top 10 Best Hotel Spas, there is an extensive list of treatments that will make your stay that much better. Other restaurants here include the five star Chophouse, a beautiful buffet, a coffee shop and 24/7, the place to go anytime for delicious bites. Just added at 24/7 is a ramen menu that looks delicious!

Photo courtesy of Defy Them All

Getting away for a night or a weekend is so nice and the Monarch Casino Resort Spa did not disappoint. Take some time out of the hustle and bustle of everyday life, grab your hubby, friends or both and head out to Blackhawk. Whether you like to gamble or not, you will find so many things to do at The Monarch Casino Resort Spa.  When you need a recharge, this is the place, and it’s so close to Denver.  

Until next time my fellow foodies, eat well, drink well, and be well.