Despite its dramatic Napoleonic decor--antiques dating from 1670 include a dispatch case and a pair of dueling pistols that may have belonged to Napoleon--the Palace Arms' cuisine is a combination of traditional American, new American, classical French, and Southwestern. To begin, the lobster bisque is a special treat, or maybe you'd rather have the superb Caesar salad, prepared tableside for two. For an excellent main course, try the seasonally available Dover sole meunière (prepared tableside), pan-seared venison with foie gras, or roasted rack of Colorado lamb. There are a number of tasty "heart healthy" items on the menu, and the wine list has received Wine Spectator's "Best of" award.

If you're short a coat and tie, try Ellyngton's, also in the hotel (tel. 303/297-3111), with a similar, less expensive menu. The lunch menu has some great gourmet sandwiches. This is also the site of the Brown's luxuriant Sunday brunch.