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Z Cuisine Bistrot
Category: Restaurants French French [Edit]
2239 W 30th AveDenver, CO 80211
Neighborhoods: Highland, Northwest
(303) 477-1111
- Hours:
Wed-Sat 5 pm - 12 am
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street, Private Lot
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- No
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Romantic, Classy, Intimate
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
147 reviews for Z Cuisine Bistrot
Review Highlights
"Ordered cocktails to start: La Vie en Rose for the Mrs."
(in 9 reviews)
"We enjoyed great cocktails and a charcuterie plate."
(in 13 reviews)
"This is the most perfect duck confit you can have IMO."
(in 10 reviews)
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147 reviews in English
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Review from Kiran C.
The Colony, TX
1/16/2012
This is one of the best places I have ever been to. Too bad I was by myself since I had visited Denver on a Business Trip. But, this place would be an amazing place for a Romantic Dinner/Date with your partner. Very small and very intimate.
May be about 20 ppl can fit in this restaurant at a time. First come first serve. No reservations. So, if you wanna a table you gotta get there early on a Friday or Saturday night.
I had "boeuf bourguignon" over here. And it was delectable.
And to top it off, I had 'Crème brûlée'. This was amazing.
Would definitely take my wife next time I visit Denver, CO. -
Review from Flora H.
My sister and I wanted to have one nice, sit down dinner while we were in Denver, and chose Z Cuisine based on the yelp reviews, and, because I really love foie gras. Although it is not illegal in California YET, it is already hard to find.
We read through the reviews and got the message: get here early or expect a long wait. So, we got here just before 6 pm on a Saturday night and got seated without a problem. Within the next 30 minutes, the wait went up to an hour, then to up to two hours, depending on the size of your party.
We were fascinated by the way that they handle the tables: there are some 2 person tables (that can be pushed together to combine to a 4 person table), one 4 person table, one large table that can accommodate a group of 6 to 8, then 4 stools at the bar. They do not take reservations, and will hold a table until a party of that exact size shows up to take it. The large table had a group when we first arrived, then sat empty for quite a while until another large group showed up - so it's a total crapshoot for large groups - you could get seated right away, or it could take hours, or you could never be seated at all. They don't take names or keep a list, the maitre'd just remembers your face and sends you to the bar next door to wait. When your table is ready, he comes and gets you. From my understanding, you can get most of the same items off the menu at the bar next door, so a lot of people opted to do that when they heard the wait time. So I guess it all depends on how much you want to sit inside the restaurant.
Part of the reason for the long wait is that the restaurant is really small, and the other part is that it is French, so the dining experience can take hours.
Parking was a breeze - there was tons of street parking right around the restaurant. It was kind of in the middle of nowhere, but not "far" from the city as some have indicated (maybe I just have a different barometer for far, being from LA, but a 10-15 minute drive is not far).
Having lived in France, I came here fully expecting the French experience and was not disappointed. I wouldn't say the service was bad or slow (my water was always refilled and they came by often to check on us), but it definitely had the feel of a meal in Paris - slow and relaxed, as if no one is in a hurry. I was surprised that the waiter was not French and had no hint of a French accent, but he knew his stuff and had a bit of the French snobi-ness (he was quite annoyed at a table that wasn't following etiquette and didn't want to order everything at once, and then had an extra person show up after they had already ordered). I was kind of on his side here - they want to prepare the food so that everything comes out at the same time, and they need to know what everyone ordered to be able to do this.
There are no menus here (except for dessert) - the server recites to you all of the appetizers and the mains and then gives you a minute to decide.
I went for the duck Cassoulet as my main dish, which takes an hour to prepare, and, obviously, the foie gras for my appetizer. And for dessert, we had the profiteroles (made exactly the way I like, with ice cream inside instead of cream).
Everything was amazing and I felt like I was back in France for the evening. The foie gras was a very generous portion and I honestly probably could have stopped eating at that point (obviously I did not). The profiteroles could have been larger, but other than that, quite delicious.
There are no prices to be found so I braced myself for the bill.. and was pleasantly surprised to have it come it at around $60 a person (we didn't have any drinks, which I'm sure makes a huge difference).
I left this meal feeling like I had had an experience.. a really great experience... so definitely come here if what you are looking for is a long, relaxed French dinner. I loved that I never felt rushed out of my table even though there were loads of people waiting for it. -
Review from Jason L.
11/12/2011 1 Check-in Here
Really awesome food. Rich and tasty. I had a special that was a version of a shepherd's pie. Quite awesome!
Also had a great absinthe experience with Leopold's. They do a proper service along with the absinthe consisting of a slow-drip fountain, sugar cube and slotted spoon. We had a really great night here. -
Review from Nikole T.
Denver, CO
2/3/2012
I love love love this place! So cute and unique! The French onion soup is well worth the wait! The staff is so outgoing and friendly! I had absinthe for the first time here and it was delicious!
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Review from N D.
Arvada, CO
Food is a 5! Service is a 4.5. Desserts are a 3. Coffee is a 3. Price and value is a 3. Goat cheese salad is amazing. Menu is always changing- no printed menu and no reserved seating. First come first serve. Very authentic.
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Review from Judson R.
Denver, CO
1/22/2012
This place might have taken out top spot in Denver. Food is fantastic and service is great. Very intimate atmosphere. Get there early as there are no reservations but you can grab a glass of wine next door at their wine bar while you wait.
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Review from Gitana G.
Arvada, CO
Updated - 10/3/2011
This review is for A Cote Bar only. Overall, it felt kinda lame. Less than meh.
My friend was already there when I arrived. She had been served a cocktail. I waited about twelve minutes before I was even approached for a drink order. The tables were not completely full. I waited another 12-15 minutes for my beer to arrive...WTF? Even a waitress at a greasy spoon is more efficient. Two waitresses and service was really slow; they were bad at making eye contact; no smiles (or phony smiles) and they just seemed like it was putting them-out-to-be-there-vibe.
The bartender with the mohawk was already doing shots with the older couple at the bar at 5:55 p.m. Really? He was completely clueless about being a bartender too because everyone else in the room was invisible sans the people sitting at the bar. He was getting really loud. I know some bartenders think they are "artists" but it was real turn-off. He seemed like a jerk and not that professional either.
The charcuterie sampler has gone down hill. Meh. Maybe the restaurant next door gets different ingredients? The plate seemed smaller and the quality/presentation seemed mediocre - like something I could easily throw together myself. Skip the mussels; much better places in town that do it better. Small; no flavor; tepid at best. Not impressed.
I had high expectations. Its been two years since my last visit to the restaurant and this was a big let-down. I've sung Z Cuisine's praises numerous times but I'm going to re-think that now. The need to refresh the drink menu too. I finally ordered a beer because NOTHING was remotely appealing, even for overpriced cocktails.Listed in: Exotic Locales......Locally, Blowin My Own Horn.....TOOT…
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/29/2009
Fuckin Forty.
I didn't know if this place was worthy of my "40th B-Day." Even after being seated. We… Read more »
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Review from dana r.
10/29/2011
Cute place in great neighborhood (and much easier to find street parking here than some of the other nearby spots). After my very first sip of absinthe at A Cote on Thursday I decided to come back the next day with my hub, and we did. I must mention that both my friend and hub said that absinthe tastes like Jager, which shocks me as I've purposely never tried Jager before because I thought I would hate it since I detest black licorice. Guess I need to try this now too?
Let me refocus...arrived early last night and Brittany remembered my name and seemed genuinely happy to have us there. That was not surprising, as I realized that many guests were frequent A Cote visitors, know the staff and use the space as a way to get to connect with their neighbors/fellow man. We ordered a special to share...acorn squash stuffed with creamed spinach, lentil soup with veggies and bacon and a side salad. The salad was 10 pieces of lettuce and 5 radishes BUT the other 2 items on the plate were delicious. Can't wait to come back. -
Review from Jack p.
Denver, CO
9/9/2011
People warned me..
You will wait to get your food. You will wait to get into this place. You will be there over 2 hours. It will be expensive..
It is far away.
I loved every second in this place.
Every bite was amazing. It is an experience. go with someone you want to rip there clothes off after you eat be cause this place just gets you in the mood.
The waitress in the restaurant was a chef or something.. She knew everything about food. 10 minutes answering our dumb questions... :)
The waiter in the bar was an alcoholic foodie. I felt like I really belonged here.
I had the Duck with sausage and beans (they had a fancy name). I called it Delicious Dream plate.
The lady that ripped my clothes off back at the car had something amazing too. We got out of there spending $110. One drink each and 2 plates.
Take your time. Go late. Stay later. go to the bar, stand in the door way if you have to and look around. It feels right. -
Review from Lauren M.
Denver, CO
9/30/2011
Delish. The wait for a table is long at the bistrot, so make sure you get there early, put your name in, and do drinks and apps the the bar.
The food is rich and flavorful, so make sure not to eat too much at the bar while waiting for a table.
Good for a date or a two-top, not good for a group. -
Review from Luis L.
Poynette, WI
7/26/2011
My favorite restaurant, bar none.
I spent one year in Denver after college and was lucky to go to Z Cuisine three times and A' Côté twice. Every time I went, the food was delicious, the wine was great (fairly priced), the atmosphere was great, the service was attentive and KNOWLEDGEABLE, and Patrick is awesome.
The menu changes often, but if you go, you must try the charcuterie plate and the cassoulet... lifechanging! -
Review from Claudia B.
Littleton, CO
5/20/2011 ROTD 7/17/2011
Before I say anything else...GET THERE EARLY!!!!! Like Assisted Living EARLY!!! Early Bird Specials EARLY!!! Seriously people...get there at 5pm, 5:30pm, 6pm at the latest if you want to be sure to experience this fabulous cuisine. Oh...and preferably on a weekday!
Sound like too much of a hassle for dinner? You're right, it is, don't go here. Don't ever ever eat dinner here. In fact, tell all your friends to stay away!
(more room for us...LOL)
Okay...so that was a joke. It is most definitely, one thousand percent worth the trouble to experience the "experience" that is Z Cuisine.
We went super early (5:30 i think) on a weeknight for our anniversary and it was an experience I'll remember forever. At first I was surprised by how ridiculously tiny it is (not only the space but also our table - it was a juggling act making room for all the plates and bottle of wine and glasses, etc.) but then once you settle in you really do forget you are in Denver. I truly felt transported to another country.
I don't remember which appetizers we ordered exactly, just that they seemed like very complicated and technically advanced culinary apps and were very good, just not mind blowing.
For dinner, however, I decided to try the Boeuf Bourguignonne having recently seen that movie "Julie and Julia." Wow. Wow. And another Wow. I wish I could preserve it in the freezer like people do wedding cake and every once in a while just pull it out and have a few bites. It would lift my spirits on any day. It was mind alteringly (is that a word?) good. The beef just fell apart and the potatoes underneath were divine.
We were there for a really long time (over 2 hours I think) so don't expect rushed service. This is an all night experience! We ended up going next door to their separate bar area for an additional glass of wine after dinner to "round off" our night.
I wish I could eat here all the time. Until next time...I enjoy it in my dreams when I close my eyes at night. -
Review from Chrystal T.
Denver, CO
9/12/2011
This place mixes an awesome cocktail and have extensive list of cocktails, absinthe, good wine selection.
Good pairings in the bar, nice small plates. Arrive early for dinner, they are always packed, great romantic spot -
Review from Amanda M.
5/27/2011
3 1/2 stars.
I just got back from A' Cote Bar for happy hour and I'm actually feeling a little (okay a lot) ripped off. 3 glasses of wine ($5 each), 1 glass of beer ($3), one tartine (glorified but delicious open-faced sandwich $14), "fondue" ($16), and a split trio of desserts ($11). With tax and tip it came to $75 for HAPPY HOUR.
I have been stalking the online menu and eyeing the "Assiette de Charcuterie, cheese & dessert : $12" for about a week now. We literally planned our day around going to A' Cote for happy hour. But when we got there and tried to order the happy hour charcuterie plate the server came back (after putting it in the computer) and told us they don't do that anymore. It seemed as though no one knew when this change came into place as no one would answer WHEN they actually had that special. It was also irritating getting the bill and seeing that they had charged us for the plate and then removed it... so it was obviously still in their system. Why they couldn't have just honored what it says on their website AND their postcard (that they handed us), I don't know.
HH priced wine-good. HH Kronenbourg-good.
The tartine was the best thing we had and came with a salad, well worth the money. The fondue was okay, but started off super runny, and then coagulated into a chunky mess after 10 minutes. The Trio of Desserts ($7) was delicious and came with Pot de Creme, Creme Brulee, and Profiteroles but the $4 surcharge per person is a little ridiculous. We should have just ordered 2 full sized desserts for $3 more.
Our server was very sweet to us, and I liked the ambiance, but that does not = $75.Listed in: Yeah, but how much does it…
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Review from Maria S.
Denver, CO
5/15/2011 1 Check-in Here
I feel like I need to write this so that other people are aware and don't make the same mistake I did, which resulted in no birthday dinner for me.
They say they are open till 10 (at least on Sat) but they run out of food early. We were turned away at 8:30. They also do not take reservations, so I guess you need to get there really early. Why they cant just get more food every day, is beyond me, but they don't. He said they "farm" it each day.
So , I'm sure I will love the food, when I do finally go, but just be aware and don't count on getting to eat, esp if it is a special occasion.
I'm sure someone will get mad for me writing a review when I haven't eaten there, but this is all part of the "service" of a restaurant. So don't write me and chew me out. -
Review from Brian T.
8/4/2011
Came here at the recommendation of my roommate who loves this place. The ambiance and service are top notch. The food was very good but the cassoulet (which is what they're known for) tasted very strongly of salt and not much else. The duck confit was very tender and fell off the bone however, the dominating flavor again is just salty.
The foie gras was delicious and their mixed drinks are awesome. I had 3 of them and every one had a distinctive taste and bite but went down smoothly. -
Review from Isibella A.
Littleton, CO
7/14/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Where to start?
I love Z cuisine! And I don't say things like that lightly. Especially I am attracted to the Bar next door being the Absinthe addict that I am.
I am pleased to say that their champagne is also excellent, the fondue is acceptable and the french onion soup is quite delightful.
There are plenty of other delicious dishes in this establishment including the elusive Pot du creme, this is all accompanied by a burlesque french infused atmosphere with a slight sense of art nouveau. Expect this place to be both hip and packed on a good evening, and be prepared to get there early as the kitchen closes early in the bar section.
The hungry kitten says: Funny? This review isn't meant to be funny! *Angry kitten face.* Don't make me eat you then review you poorly. -
Review from Anthony R.
Denver, CO
11/13/2011
Thank you for making delicious food. That is all.
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Review from Monica C.
Littleton, CO
10/13/2011
OMG. Z cuisine. Love of my life. I don't even know where to start. How about with: This is by far the best restaurant in Denver and probably the best food I have ever tasted in my life. I AM NOT EXAGGERATING.
It is a bit expensive since I'm a poor college student but for the love of all fine foods, it is totally worth every penny. Let's start off with the atmosphere. Super small intimate and cozy. Plan on waiting an hour or two unless you get there at 5. There's a bar next door where you can grab a drink. There's only like 6 tables in the whole place, which makes it really romantic to come for a date.
Next, finally when you get to sit down, the waiter/ waitress spends ten minutes reciting the menu to you and explaining everything. Try not to drool when this happens because everything sounds so delicious that it will be hard not to.
The food: they use mostly all local and farmers market ingredients. I've been here four times now and it never ceases to amaze me. I've had the cassoulet, which is duck and beans and sausage. I have never tasted anything so rich and amazing. The gnocchi are also to die for and finally, omg, I can't imagine anything better than on a cold winter Saturday, going in for the beef bourguignon. It takes them all week to cook it and the flavors all meld together and melt in your mouth.
For dessert, creme brûlée= delicious.
You will want to eat here every day (but you would also get really fat if you did). -
Review from Neena W.
Positive: The same great place, wine and food! And a new found favorite dish: braised pork belly with crispy skin on a bed of salad greens and lentilles.
Negative: Me and my boyfriend may had over eaten and drunk during that more than 3 hrs long parisian style of eating and drinking marathon.Listed in: Top Restaurants
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/6/2010
Z cuisine, an excellent little bistro, only has about less than ten tables. However, you can start… Read more »
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Review from Wanda T.
Denver, CO
4/15/2011
First time at Z Cuisine and it was delicious. We got there early (5:30- we eat like we're 60 but we're really in our thirties), and we were the first people seated. Although the Yelp info lists them as taking reservations, they do not (we heard this directly from the head chef tonight).
It's a small space, very charming but if you're not comfortable rubbing elbows (and possibly other body parts) with your neighbors, it may not be for you. We ended up talking to the couple seated near us so it was kind of fun. French-y music was playing the whole time- I recognized the theme from Amelie which I thought was cute.
The food was great- we had some sort of meat salad thing for an appetizer, which was heavy on the meat (if you're a meat coward this is not the place for you- this salad had tongue, blood sausage, and other things I couldn't identify). The main courses were excellent- some of the best "fancy" food I've had in Denver.
A couple of negatives- we ordered a different salad than what we were brought. I didn't notice, but my husband did. Also when we ordered a second round of drinks, he received a different beer than the original one he was drinking. Neither of these things were a huge deal to us, but to others they might be, so be forewarned.
All in all, a fun night and we'd definitely go back. -
Review from Betsy J.
Denver, CO
7/14/2011
I adore this place and just wish I lived closer to it.
I loved their appetizer with the foie gras... to die for and I can't wait to have it again. Their bar next door is nice too... a little absinthe made me love it even more.
Patrick, the owner, was a dear... great company as well. -
Review from Adam M.
Denver, CO
3/31/2011
I had a flashback to the socialist commune duck I ate at a secret hideaway in Paris one time.
This place is laid back. French 40's decore. The extremely friendly waitstaff sit down with you and walk you through the entire menu. Everyone is friendly. The music is great. All local sourced food, with menu determined by what they find that day.
They warn you ahead of time if you order the Z Duck Cassoulet, their specialty, that it will take 45 minutes to cook. Clearly they were bringing a challenge, so I said game on.
We started with the Z Assiette de Charcuterie de la Maison. The Pâté in that needs to be mounted on the wall in the Louvre. It's a taste explosion and combining it with any of the other various treats on the plate it makes it twice as delicious. Which is hard, since by itself its turned all the way up to 11. Imagine looking at the Mona Lisa and then someone gives you The Last Supper as a side dish.
The duck was worth the wait. The meat falls off the bone completely, while the skin is crunchy and a complete counter to the tenderness of the meat. The seasoning is perfect, the bacon sauce, beans and sausage just sort of rub in your face how truly delicious it is.
In fact, if I were a more crass person I would quote this movie:
http://www.imdb.com/ti...
But I'm not.
These people are a threat to free market capitalism. If everyone ate here more often, they'd slowly accept the french way of life, we'd all become socialists, slowly sip coffee, have 3 hour meals, take up lovers, we'd get all existential, and then start building a barricade and demand the King's head. Maybe even get some universal healthcare.
Je vais vendre mon enfant, si vous me donner un autre canard Cassoulet. Viva le Resistance! -
Review from Ben W.
Denver, CO
10/18/2011
Consistently amazing food. I've never had a bad meal here. Romantic setting. Friendly service. Great meals every time.
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Review from Laurie S.
Updated - 9/17/2011 3 Check-ins Here
Wonderful place to eat and have good friends. Some friends and I went last night, and it was amazing, as usual. We were a bit indulgent and ordered three appetizers. One was cheese melted in grape leaves, the foie gras and the tomato salad, all of which were stunning. I had the gnocchi which was really good, and came in a light sauce. It was the tastiest of meals, and each time I eat there, I know that without a doubt in my mind that it will be an amazing and memorable experience.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/2/2010
My husband and a few friends visited for my birthday, and it was pretty special. We started off next… Read more »
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Review from James S.
Denver, CO
4/7/2011
As a semi-professional foodie and former restaurateur with 15 years experience I was really excited by the prospect of trying Z Cuisine. I'd read the reviews and talked to friends who had been and was really looking forward to going. Then I made the mistake of calling and talking to Lindy - i called to try and get a sense of how busy they would be on a Thursday night and if it would be possible for two of us to get in between 7:30 and 8:00.
Lindy was VERY rude. She interrupted me every time I tried to ask a question and provided little information.
The person who answers a restaurant's phone makes the first impression many times. My impression is there are far better restaurants with far more professional people working there.
We won't be going to Z Cuisine and certainly won't recommend it to our foodie friends or visitors. -
Review from Kristin K.
Arvada, CO
3/24/2011
I don't know what I can say about this place that hasn't already been said. This restaurant is amazing! My husband and I got here at about 5:30 last Saturday and grabbed the last 2 available seats at the bar. We were there for almost 2 hours, and so were most of the other people at the 10-15 tables in the tiny restaurant. Get there early if you want a seat.
We got 2 appetizers - a Charcuterie plate and Foie Gras. For dinner I got duck and my husband got Beef Bourguignon. And finally for dessert we just got vanilla ice cream. All of it was excellent! I don't normally crave chocolate, but the warm chocolate (mixed with butter) that came with the ice cream was heavenly. I'm drooling thinking about it right now.
The restaurant itself is adorable and charming. I'm definitely going to come back, and bring all of my out of town guests here. It's worth the splurge. -
Review from Ming C.
Denver, CO
2/28/2011
A great lil gem in the highlands! I was introduced to it by some friends that work around the area. It has been on my lists of favourite restaurants ever since. From a far it blends in to the local surroundings, but on a closer look the bristro stands out with the old colonial windows and doors. Get there early because it gets crowded there pretty soon.
As you walk in and sit in the restaurant and look out the window, it transports you to the lil mom and pop hole-in-the-wall places in france. The menu is artisticaly written by the chef and owner every day. The server are amazing and they will guide you through the simple menu that is so creatively written no one can really read it.
The food is seasonal, and fresh. Go with what they recommend, it has been my experience that they are the best choices. The Absinthe was an interesting experience, but do try the desserts!
Excellent food and great ambience. A must try! -
Review from Amy M.
9/2/2011 1 photo
My bf and I had driven past the bar several times and finally decided to stop in one day. We were certainly glad we did! We had recently tried absinthe for the first time at an un-impressive speakeasy in San Fran. The house absinthe at A' Cote Bar was delicious and changed our minds about absinthe. The presentation of the drink was great and the staff was very friendly. We did not try to food other than the creme brulee dessert which was done perfectly. We are anxious to go back.
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Review from Tawnya M.
Albuquerque, NM
10/17/2011 1 Check-in Here
I really love this place, I enjoyed waiting for my table in the absynthe bar next door where you can order appetizers. (Try the pork belly and lentyls) The only reason they don't get a 5 star from me is that we ordered a bone marrow appetizer and they told us they were out, then checked with the cook ( note I don't say chef because they said he was not in town that night) who decided he could squeeze one in for us...it was still pretty red and bloody when we got it which is not how this dish is served. The duck and sweets were wonderful! Eat here!
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Review from Ashley J.
Denver, CO
10/18/2011
Recently discovered this gem of a place after being ignored at a restaurant down the street. We caught the great happy hour and couldn't help but stay a little longer than we expected to because we enjoyed being there so much. Great food and wine, too!
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Review from Erin N.
Denver, CO
5/22/2011
Sigh. I live about a half a block from this restaurant and eat out nearly every night. Everyone I know has good things to say about the food at this place but sadly, I will probably never find out because the service has been piss poor the two times I've been there. Poor as in basically ignoring you when you walk in and sit down. Poor as in you have to beg someone to take your drink order. Whatever. There are a million other restaurants in this neighborhood that have better service, I will spend my money there.
I've even tried making a reservation but apparently that isn't possible....?? No listing on OpenTable, the phone is never answered when you call. Again - whatever. There are a million restaurants out there, glad this one is doing so well they can take customers for granted. -
Review from rebecca b.
Denver, CO
1/12/2011
This is a review for A' Côté Bar à Absinthe only, not Z Cuisine Bistrot. After throwing around the idea of hitting this place up for a night of nibbles, cocktails and rich french desserts for many months now, the planets aligned last night and my friends and I were able to enjoy a long lingering evening at this very cute neighborhood bar/cafe. Tuesday evening has happy hour drink prices all night long, as well as a few food specials to make your wallet happy, starting at 4:30p!
The space itself offers different seating options - the bar (of course), some cafe tables, a few high tops with bar stools, and a large high top with bar stools that could accommodate a larger group. There are also some small cafe tables in the front with bench seating on one side in the window, which, on a night that was not 2 degrees, would have been quite lovely. My big complaint about the high tops is that the bar stools have no backs on them, which I really need to thoroughly enjoy myself, due to lower back issues.
The service was a little self-involved, in that there was a lot of socializing going on behind the bar and with regulars, and more than a few times during the evening did we have to physically wave to our server to get her attention. While I do love being "left alone" to enjoy my food, drink and companions, there is a point where a refill on wine, clearing of plates, etc. is appropriate. It seemed hard to find that balance early in the evening when the place was empty, but when the place was hopping (around 7-9pm), we had a much better synchronicity with the staff...
A few of my friends complained about the menu, but I thought it was spot on as a french cafe/bar with some nibbles, some dinners, and a few things in between. I was disappointed with the onion soup (which takes 20 minutes to make - they do warn you).... the broth is roasted vegetable broth and not beef broth, and the onions were not carmelized, so the depth was really missing from this dish. The claim of authentic french cuisine was a bit in conflict with the amazing amounts of cheese that was on top of the soup crock, and then fired to a mountain of molten blistering mass, keeping the soup inedibly hot below. This mass of cheese is such an American twist on this dish and I was surprised to see it here. I wouldn't order it again, to be honest.
The charcuterie was fabulous. I would order it again in a heartbeat. Two cheeses, three meats (altho very very stingy with the locally made sausage, I note), and some house made conserves and munchies made this interesting and delightful to sample. It was just the right size for two or three to share.... Other dishes enjoyed at the table: pork belly on lentils over salad - was a hit, fondue was a bit bacony tasting which isn't all that bad, but did not quite bowl over the crowd. Dessert crepes with banana did not impress, but I was pleased with the creme brulee and glad they didn't try to muck it up with some crazy flavor (I had a lavender creme brulee once and it was a floral mess). Lots of fresh vanilla bean specks in the custard made me a happy camper.
Wine for happy hour is $5/glass for the house - I was happy with the offering. Friends ordered cocktails and apertifs and were very happy with the mixologist's skills.
The interior decor of this place is artsy, without being too dear. The crowd was young - I certainly didn't see anyone over the age of 50 while we were there - and the later it became, the more LoHi/Berkeley hipster influenced it seemed.
Overall, a wonderful evening with friends and an atmosphere that was very conducive to enjoying delicious food, great booze and friendly conversation. I look forward to returning! -
Review from Brandon T.
Nashville, TN
5/27/2011
Went here as a casual date about 7:30 on a Thursday night. We got to Z Cuisine and they said it'd be about half an hour, that we should go next door to the bar and they'd come get us when ready.
Our waiter, Warren, at A Cote Bar was extremely friendly and helpful. It made me feel bad to leave him for the restaurant next door when he was giving us such a good time. We had an appetizer of meats and cheeses that was very good and I tried a Colette beer from the local Great Divide Brewing Co.
We made our way over to Z Cuisine about a quarter after 8. Warren escorted us over and introduced the waiter. The waiter spent about 5 minutes explaining each item on the menu in detail and convinced us to try the Gnocchi and Beef Bourguignon in succession. Both dishes were good but the Beef Bourguignon was especially delicious.
This was definitely one of the best dining experiences I've ever had. A quaint small French atmosphere with wonderful staff. I would definitely visit again. -
Review from Angelo G.
Boulder, CO
10/8/2011
Excellent!
The food here was great, the service was friendly, and the ambiance was a small, authentic, great french bistro.
The fois gras terrine was decadent, the duck confit was exceptional.
Good price wine, great food, and casual bistro atmosphere make it one of my favorites in Denver. A great place to spend hours for a casual dinner. -
Review from Cliff T.
3/15/2011
WOW!
I knew this place was fancy and all, but normally that equals overpriced crap. Not at Z. We had the best 2.5 hours at a restaurant ever.
If you can, sit at the bar. Warren is the BEST bartender in the world. By the end of the night, we were hugging him good bye. I think this isn't a rare sight, considering that people were stopping in just to give him presents while we were there.
Anyway, we usually can't afford to eat like this, and when we do splurge, I'm usually kicking myself for being duped into spending money on overpriced/overhyped food. But I walked out of Z completely happy with departing from a months worth of my food budget.
We had a couple cocktails to start. I recommend their manhattan to anyone who even remotely enjoys whiskey, but the real treat is their La Vie en Rose. An amazing little cocktail, but here's the twist, it's frozen. Yup, they start with a frozen mixture of grapefruit juice and vodka, then they top it with rosé champagne (there might be another ingredient I'm missing).
We ate an amazing gnocchi, pan seared in brown butter with goat feta, pesto sauce, oyster mushrooms, winter peas and blue cheese. While technically an appetizer, it was heavy enough to share as an entree along with the flank steak salad. Also amazing.
I can't wait until next year, when I've saved up enough money to enjoy Denver's best restaurant again. -
Review from Carly B.
9/24/2010 ROTD 4/25/2011
I had the extremely good fortune of getting to go to dinner here on the company's dime this week for a client dinner. I'd been once before, but amazing food is even better when you don't have to hold back due to price.
There are a million reasons to love this place - everything from the small Highlands space, the cozy/casual dining room, the ever-changing menu board that the server recites to you in lieu of a menu, the mismatched dishes, and most importantly, THE FOOD. Everything feels like it's made with extra love.
Tables are first come first serve and even though they had to hold the table a few minutes before we got our whole party together, nobody at the restaurant seemed to mind.
Last night I got to try:
Boulevard St. Germain cocktail - really refreshing with hints of pear and just a bit of champagne to give it some fizz.
Charcuterie plate - while I didn't sample the pates, I did get some of the tiny housemade pickles, cheese, and jam.
Mussels - they use Ingrid's mussels and are very fresh tasting and high quality. In the herbed pool of broth there were hints of citrus, maybe orange. A delicious take on one of my standbys and I found myself sopping up broth with the grilled bread on the side.
French onion soup (and the broth is vegetarian) - WOW. I've had veggie French onion soup twice....once when I made it and once at Jason's deli. They load the little bowl up with a hunk of bread and tons of cheese, broiling it until there are hunks of crispy cheese burnt to the bowl that you can't help but peel off and eat. So glad I ordered this.
Halibut - I ordered this for my entree. It arrived poached in a broth similar to the mussel appetizer broth but just a little bit different. Light, but a tad creamy with a tarragon flavor and lots of cooked greens. A few mussels, mushrooms, and fingerling potatoes were hanging out in there as well. I loved it....a good light follow-up to the more decadent soup.
I also tried a bite of someone's gnocchi. It comes with a little pot of cheese fondue and is topped with wild chanterelle mushrooms. I liked it, but liked my fish more. But I couldn't let her waste the remaining mushrooms when she was finished so I was sure to take care of them.
The service is unhurried and not concerned with flipping tables - the way a meal like this ought to be enjoyed. Some of the entrees even take at least 45 minutes for preparation...so much care goes into every dish.
Not an everyday meal as it can be cost-prohibitive to eat here often, but a truly delicious dining experience and one of the best restaurants in Denver, in my opinion. -
Review from Nicole M.
Denver, CO
10/30/2010
Loved it!
My husband and decided to head out for decent dinner around 9:00pm on a Wednesday. Denver is notoriously not late-night dining friendly, so I was a little concerned that we might end up eating pub food at a bar, again. When husband suggested we check out Z Cuisine, it was worth a shot.
We arrived at about 9:30pm and went to the Bistrot where we were greeted and sat immediately. The service was exemplary. Our waitress clearly has the same passion for food and drink that you would expect from a restaurant owner, but don't always get from restaurant staff.
My cocktail that was a mix of vodka, St. Germain, champagne and other deliciousness was just what I needed in the middle of a long week. My husbands martini was also delicious...gotta love a bar that has Lillet and knows how to use it.
The food was incredible. We started with mussels, and I've had a lot of mussels, but these were done just right. Next, french onion soup...I have been craving it ever since. Main course: beef tri-tip with marsala sauce that was simply amazing. Cork dork wine snob husband was even impressed with the wine list and the pairings that were suggested.
I love the feel of the restaurant. Its so small and cozy. Even though it can get a bit noisy with other diners around you, you get a since of a more communal vibe than other small restaurants where everyone seems to just be shouting over one another.
While Z Cuisine is on the pricey side, I didn't feel like it was overpriced at all. If you go to the store and by mussels, fresh baked bread, grass-fed beef, locally grown mushrooms, organic baby squash, etc, etc. you are probably going to drop a good amount of money to feed two people. I'll gladly pay their prices to have such great ingredients prepared with skill and touch of a French chef.
I will definitely be back and I look forward to also trying out the Absinthe bar next door (hoping that onion soup is also available over there!). -
Review from Christa B.
Pueblo, CO
2/28/2011
After reading many reviews about the pure awesomeness of this place, I decided to take a trip up to the highlands. It was late, so only the absinthe bar was open. It was the first time I've ever had absinthe and it won't be the last.
The whole experience is fun, the girls who work there are waaayy cool.
I only had a salad, but it was pretty fantastic, it made me wish I was in france and the decor/atmosphere makes you feel like you are. French movies projected on the wall, dark wood, modernist paintings.
So far, I'm in love. -
Review from Kristine H.
Houston, TX
12/5/2010
This is seriously one of the best meals I've ever had in my life.
I am glad we got there early for dinner (5:30) because every table was occupied by 6:30ish.
For $140ish, the hubby and I had the following:
- A pitcher of a syrah + grenache blend red wine
- THREE entrees (yes, I know..) @ $29 each: (1) their special of duck confit, (2) sea bass "stew" which had a marvelous tomato soup, (3) a beef stew-type entree that you mush together with mashed turnips. ALL three delicious.
- Dessert of the day - pear tart with chantilly cream.
- 2 Manhattan cocktails made with local whiskey.
It was all good. Really. Their menu changes everyday so I'm sure it's not too much of a loss that I don't remember the names of all 3 entrees. How often is it that you eat an exquisite meal WITH drinks and get in under $150? Never.
Thanks, Denver Yelpers, for the recommendation!!Listed in: Denver Eats
