One of the best restaurants in NOCO. While it tends to be a special occasion restaurant, it's also fantastic to stop by for happy hour or a Sunday afternoon wine tasting. The very experienced staff always has wonderful suggestions to suit everybody in the party. The wine list is extensive and the appetizers are not to be missed. It's a must try, white table cloth experience.
(5)
Tanis R.
Had an amazing romantic dinner tonight. We had the fish and pork and both were very good and had a lot of flavor! Server was friendly and knowledgable and made great suggestions. Can't wait to try the pistachio lemon cake that we are taking home!
(5)
Traveling T.
This is the finest restaurant in northern Colorado. Staff is so friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive to our needs. James and Scott are the best. The food is exceptional and the presentation is phenomenal. Do yourself a favor and treat yourself to the finest dinner around.
(5)
Matt T.
Dinner with wine pairing was phenomenal! Great food. Great service.
(5)
Maxine C.
Excellent service, even better and consistent food. Decor is simple almost understated. Staff continually strives to grow and learn more about the items they serve. I love they're special event prix fixe menus never a dissapointment. Make sure you make reservations so you dont miss out on a table!
(5)
Steve B.
Homerun!!!! Excellent - superb service!! Excellent food - what a gem tucked in this little town.
(5)
mary ellen s.
We splurged for the chef's testing menu (with wine and foie) and it was nothing short of sublime. Perfect wine pairings (a fig glaze on the foie with Pedro Ximenez sherry was a win!) A complex nicoise salad with picked fresh local beans and baby heirloom tomatoes... Perfectly prepared bison strips on a bed of veggies that included local heirloom carrots (with a foie sauce that made me wonder if I could deserve something so delicious!) We took a big chance on this restaurant and the menu and (as former New Yorkers who have dined in one and another restaurant-written-up-for-excellence) we are happy to have found such local excellence here! Service was friendly, warm and so knowledgeable. Setting was simple and elegant. Weather didn't permit dining outside, but we saw a small deck overlooking the lake. Sweet! For a special occasion, not sure you could beat Chimney Park for a reliably gourmet great.
(5)
Mike G.
This place is awesome! We had amazing apps at the bar with the world's best daughter and her spouse. Plopped down and was greeted by friendly staff and four different menus. We decided on a casual small plate evening and were not disappointed in any of our choices. The Prawn and Pork Belly was fantastic; delicate crab cakes were full of fresh flavors. Those who chose the bison tartare raved, while we we over the moon over our beet and goat cheese salad. If you think antipasto is synonymous with boring, try one here and you will change your mind. Desserts were wonderful. Pistachio cake with key lime custard was moist and the perfect blend of sweet, tart and nutty. The chocolate mousse with mint was enhanced by the addition of whole fresh and finely ground dried raspberries. Marvelous! Be sure to call ahead so you can enjoy this dining experience.
(5)
Frankie G.
The bread is fantastic! I ordered the special salad of the night which I was told was like a caprese salad, which it was, only with a major skimping in the mozzarella. Only 3 very small pieces. The red and yellow tomatoes were delicious. Next, I had asked for the best fish selection on the menu. The halibut was recommended. The fish came out with a white sauce that had no taste. Halibut being bland needs something and there was nothing there. The potatoes and grilled veggies were very tasty. On a side not I tried my wife's grilled scallops which were extremely salty. My experience tells me that the age of the scallops were being hidden by large dosages of salt. I took the sauce from the scallops and pour it onto my Halibut which made for a better meal. We decided to cut our losses and did not have desert. I will not be going back. Too many other restaurant's that are closer to Fort Collins.
(3)
Miranda R.
I loved this restaurant! I had the chef's tasting menu for $60, I did not do the wine pairing, but instead an 09 Shiraz. All the courses were fantastic! My boyfriend had the ribeye, it was cooked perfectly. I had buffalo with a thyme and purple potato mash. I was nervous the buffalo would be too gamey for me, as I do not enjoy elk or venison much. However, to my surprise it was delicious! It was cooked to a medium rare. The restaurant is also excellent and accommodating customers, great customer service. After our meal my boyfriend wanted a cheese and fruit tray, however they do not have that on the menu. The chef set up a great tray, I remember loving vegetable goat cheese and the smoked blue cheese! Hands down the best restaurant in Windsor! Great staff, great food, and great atmosphere.
My husband and I LOVE this place! We have been there several times and each time the food just seems to get better! For the cost of the meals, it is really worth it to take your time and enjoy the atmosphere and the delicious food and wine pairings. My husband usually hates liver, but the chef does a great job of dressing it up to a point that it's enjoyable. I usually hate beets, but same thing....he prepares ingredients so that they exceed expectations! I have not had anything at Chimney Park that wasn't outstanding! I leave my fate in the hands of the chef and he doesn't disappoint. You can tell the wait staff if you have any allergies or food adversions so you can control the tasting menu a little. If I could afford it, I would eat here several times a month if not weekly!
(5)
Steph P.
We ate here based on other reviewers recommendations. Tauts itself as upscale but its not. We dressed up but would have been fine in ripped jeans and grungy tee shirt. Service was poor. It was not busy but our waiter kept disappearing on us for long periods of time with no explanation. We had to ask for water x2, bread etc. Hubby ordered a beer and it took Fernando 15 minutes or so before he came back with it (bottled). He never asked me if I wanted another drink. Couldn't tell you what I had for dinner because we could not understand our waiter. I think I ordered beef but it didn't taste like it. Again we couldn't understand Fernado not sure if accent was real or fake but it was bad. Hubby liked his meal he had scallops. Only thing waiter was quick on was bringing us our check. Too bad it was our 24th anniversary too. Not going back and won't recommend. Going to Denver next time back to the Broker where upscale means just that "upscale."
(1)
Carol M.
Celebrated a special birthday on Saturday the 12th! Mya, our server, was wonderful just as we experienced the first time. The food was great with some of our guests stating firmly that it was the best steak they had eaten in quite some time...both the Colorado beef and bison. thanks for making our celebration memorable. We will certainly continue to return.
(5)
David V.
One the best restaurants in the area. Waiters are very knowledgeable and good. Food is excellent. It is the go to place for special occasions.
(5)
Jonathan W.
Chimney Park We tried out the Chimney park restaurant in Windsor and were very impressed. Chef Jason Shaeffer was an opening sous chef for Thomas Keller at Per Se and just from that we had high expectations. The four course chef tasting menu is 57 and wow it is just fantastic each person gets different items each course and each and every one of them are just great. I know Windsor is a bit north and out of the way for a lot of folks but should you get a chance you should really give it a try. If would like to see picture of our meal feel free to stop by our food blog.
(4)
Jim R.
One of the finest restaurants in Northern Colorado. Perhaps in the entire state. Jason and his staff are excellent at making this a dining experience to remember, not just another meal. Kudos, Jason. You are doing a wonderful thing here.
(5)
Momoftwo C.
It is the only fine dining experience my husband has enjoyed! The food is outstanding- fresh, elegant, best cuts of steak! It has become our favorite special occasion restaurant. A pleasant surprise for a town like Windsor! I feel blessed to have such a great restaurant close to my house! Service is outstanding- give Chimney Park a try for your next anniversary- Jason is a great chef!
(5)
Lindsey P.
Double date night, booked through OpenTable. The last time I had been here was 9 years ago for my senior prom (say, WHAT?!). It was obviously time to revisit. One of the best things about this place? Their menu is constantly changing. How fun! We started off sharing the Bacon and Eggs appetizer. When we ordered it, our waitress told us it was the best eggs and bacon we'd ever have. She was right! It was very different and very delicious.next they sent out a complimentary amuse bouche which wasn't my fave but it wasn't bad either; tapenade bruschetta (I'm not a fan of olives but everyone else loved it). I ordered a bison steak special which was so good. But what I was really impressed with is that many of the other specials had roasted butternut squash which sounded really good but the bison didn't come with it. The waitress then offered to have the kitchen add some squash to my dish at no extra charge. Ummm YES! Loved it. My meal was fantastic. Everyone else at the table loved their meals and we really had a nice time. We were so happy with Chimney Park that we're going back this Friday night for Valentine's Day. Can't wait!
(5)
Mark B.
After reading the last review, right before we left to go to the restaurant, I was a little worried. But I should not have been, food was excellent, service was good. I would go back for the asparagus bisque with blue crab meat and the orange chiffon cake, both unique and excellent.
(4)
Bradley G.
Chimney Park is the best restaurant in NOCO! Do yourself a favor and check this place out! The menu has something for everyone. The wine list is amazing and the service is excellent. I highly recommend the chef's tasting menu for everyone. You get something different and unique. I get this most of the time I go and have never been disappointed. They make you a 4 course meal that isn't on the menu. Also you have to try the Foie Gras. I get it everytime I go. Highly recommend their Happy Hour too!
(5)
Tyler T.
Unreal. Place was amazing. Had one of the best steaks I've ever had. The service was incredible. Everyone went out of their way to make you feel like a king. I would recommend this place to everyone but it is pretty pricey
(5)
Chad T.
Easily the best meal I've ever had in Colorado. Beginning at the bar, which is well-stocked with diverse bottles including amaro like Cynar as well as local favorites from Dancing Pines. The bartender knew his stuff and could craft excellent cocktails with just a few words of direction. For starters we tried the Ricotta Cheese Gnudi (wow!) and Artichoke Bisque. Both were very good. There was a sea-bass special listed which everybody at the table wanted to try, but then they had just run out of sea-bass. Chef was gracious enough to prepare the same dish using halibut, which was excellent. Also, since we were in Colorado, we had to have the buffalo rib-eye. As marbled as you can get, even this cut of buffalo was lean, tasty, and cooked to perfection. We followed it all up with some Western Slope peach upside down cake. A real treat!
(5)
Cassandra L.
Excellent service. Excellent food. What more can you ask for. Definitely a great place for special occasions!
(5)
Melora W.
Some of the best food I've ever eaten has been at this restaurant. I highly recommend the chef's tasting menu; it's well worth the price. The ingredients are fresh and/or local, the dishes are creative and balanced, and the atmosphere is casual yet intimate. If you're looking for a meal for a special occasion, or if you don't mind spending more money for excellent food, this is the place. I read the one-star reviews; ignore those. Don't go to Chimney Park if your idea of fine cuisine is Denny's or Taco Bell. And if you're in a hurry to get somewhere, the relaxed service at Chimney Park will probably not thrill you, but trust me, if you love good food, it's worth the wait.
(5)
A Z.
The food was good, but did not make up for the unacceptable wait between our courses. Our waitress was very apologetic and did end us comping us a glass of wine but we were still miserable by the time we left so I can't possibly leave a good review. We came here simply for the fact that the chef worked under Thomas Keller and we've been to most of Keller's restaurants and been pleasantly happy. The Amuse Bouche started off our meal and was a mini BLT without tomato and instead with truffle oil. It was amazing and we were excited for what was to come. Within 10 minutes, our delicious Parmesan sweet potato gnocchi-type appetizer came out. Again, very happy at this point - the food was delicious. 45 minutes later our tiny salad arrived. Again, delicious, but 45 minutes? Our waitress explained that a lot of people (4 tables) all came at the same time, so the kitchen was now backed up. I didn't understand the 45 minute wait for the salad until it took another 45 minutes for our entree to arrive. Could she have given us our salads in 10 minutes? Sure, but then we would have waited almost an hour and a half more for our entrees. My steak was good, a bit overcooked, but when you're already upset with the service, the food just doesn't taste as good. This was kind of a celebratory dinner and we chose this place for the reason. Unfortunately we left tired and miserable and this place pretty much ruined our night. So why 3 stars then? The food was great and if we came on another night I hope it would have been a much different experience. That said, we were only visiting Colorado so I don't think we'll have the chance again soon.
(3)
Matt L.
Positive Yelp reviews and a very creative menu drew my wife and I to this place. We made a reservation and were seated promptly upon our arrival. We thought almost everything on the menu sounded fantastic, so we decided to do the tasting menu which was $60 a person. We added wine with each course for $30 more per person. We were asked about any dietary preferences/restrictions that we might have had to help them construct our menu. We had very few requests, but my wife and I wanted different courses and somewhere in there, we wanted to try the gnudi. Everything was easily accommodated. I won't go into all of the courses that we got, but they were all original, fresh and perfectly prepared and presented. We have been to a lot of restaurants in Vegas and other places, and a meal like this, especially with wine, would cost at least 50% more in many of those locales and it might not have even been as good as what we received in Chimney Park. As for the wine, it was really a steal. They started us with champagne with the amuse bouche, and then our appetizers came with whites and our salad and entree each had a different red wine. We didn't want any sherry/port with dessert, so they served me a house-made limoncello while my wife's dessert came with a chocolate martini. We will happily make this one of our regular places to eat when we want a nice upscale dinner. While we went all out for $90/person, the menu is very affordable and I'd go so far as to say, it's cheap for what you get with appetizers and salads in the $8-$15 range and entrees from $25-$35. The service was great and I don't have a single bad thing to say about this place.
(5)
Dennis A.
Sorry folks, but I just can not see over paying for upscale fancy tiny portions that are just ok. Just because you pay a bunch does not make the experience good. Now, for the rest of the story. I have been 3 times to this restaurant and every time the service was terrible. Extremely slow and not very mindful to check with the tables between servings. Was next to impossible to get a glass refilled with water or wine. Do not waste your time and money unless you are just trying to impress someone or yourself.
(1)
Andrea F.
Had dinner the other night and it was off. Coffee took forever and when we inquired waiter told us that their hot water furnace broke and had been so for over a month. They had to boil water for coffee. How were they washing dishes! I checked the restroom ...no hot water. We won't be going back.
(1)
Rosemary G.
Great food in a relaxed atmosphere. Excellent wine menu and James can always be relied on for recommendations to suit your taste. Don't go if you're in a hurry; part of the experience is taking the time to enjoy the meal here, including coffee and dessert.
(5)
Henry B.
4.5 Stars: If you find yourself in northern Colorado, I urge you to spend your next special evening at Chimney Park. The northern I-25 corridor has no shortage of diners, chain restaurants and bars. But Chimney Park provides locals the expert attentions of a well trained chef without having to trek down to Boulder or Denver. Located on the main drag of Windsor (less than 10 minutes east of I-25), Chimney Park offers contemporary cuisine with local, seasonal ingredients. Starters tend to cost around $10 - $15, and include the usual suspects for contemporary fine dining; Tuna Tartare, Crab Cakes, Foie Gras. Salads highlight local agriculture and cost about the same. Entrees fetch prices in the upper twenties, though a roasted chicken can be had for $19. All together, one can expect a fine dinner for less than $60 per person. Chimney Park also offers a chef's tasting menu for $57. My wife and I chose this option and Chef Shaeffer cooked different selections for each of us. $26 gets you wine with each dish, and is a steal in my opinion. All together, this meal rivaled similar dinners in Los Angeles that would cost 30% more. Much of the savings come from the great prices on wine and cocktails. We visited on a Tuesday night, and shared the waitress with three other parties in the medium sized dining room. Service was relaxed but not slow- our table never left wanting for water or drinks. With the four course meal, we spent around two hours with the waitress eagerly soliciting our feedback and chatting about the local area between generous interludes of "couple time." The meal was well executed, showing off Chef Shaeffer's respect for the proteins and his tendency to play with savory flavors. In some dishes, I wished for a little more tart or sweet flavors as balance, but this is a personal preference. Highlights: * Foie Gras with apple chutney. My wife loves Foie Gras dishes, but we haven't had the occasion to have it paired with apples. Most chefs tend to use apricot or grape/wine reductions. The chutney gave a surprising twist, paired excellently with a Sauterne and * New York Strip: Perfectly cooked with a tasty wine reduction- not as sweet as I've had before, but still full bodied and rich with the hint of fruity wine flavors. * Scallops on risotto: Perfectly cooked scallop with a rich, crispy seer (why is it so many eateries cannot get this right?). I'm not sure I could call the bed of rice a risotto, since it did not have the creamy texture I'm accustomed, but it was delightful none the less. (I was not thrilled by the pairing of a dry Chardonnay with this one, but no complaints otherwise.) * Mushroom Soup with truffle froth: I'll never be able to have mushroom soup again. Such a simple dish that I would never ordinarily order myself, I savored the earthy richness and creamy goodness. I can imagine helping myself to a bowl of that in early fall. Chef Shaeffer is a great and unique chef. People of Windsor should be proud that he has settled in their neck of the woods, rather than on the coasts or one of the posh mountain towns. I can only hope that in this out of the way location, he can get the business and competition necessary to pay the bills and keep his skills sharp. If so, Chimney Park will be a shining fixture in a quaint little town.
(5)
Amy W.
Love, love, love Chimney Park! The chef's tasting menu is the way to go. Always something new and fun. Plus they have great art on the walls for sale. Just opened their outside patio; very nice!
(5)
Jacob E.
Awesome food, very upscale atmosphere. We have been here 4 times and the food has never disappointed. The Natural Strip Steak is amazing (get the sauce on the side) and my wife loves the scallops. Great date night destination!
(5)
Monique M.
Last night's indulgence was at Chimney Park Bistro in Windsor, was nothing short of a gastronomic orgy. The chef's tasting menu was a delightful surprise. At $60/person, every person at our table was presented with a different mouth-watering dish for each of the four courses - each more phenomenal than the last. Let me be clear: 4 diners, 4 different appetizers, 4 different entrees, desserts, etc. The kitchen staff's joyful artistry, led by chef & owner, Jason Shaeffer, allowed them to experiment with (mostly) locally grown meat, produce and seafood flown in for freshness not frequently found in Northern Colorado. The dishes were so beautifully presented that we proclaimed that we were afraid to disturb them: succulent scallops, lightly seared and seasoned....lobster and mushroom bisques so lovely that we didn't care who saw us sopping up every last drop with crusty rosemary sourdough bread... tender, fresh baby greens, sugar snap peas, roasted beets, grilled cherry tomatoes, citrus and balsamic reductions, soy & wasabi drizzles that announced that Spring had finally arrived...perfectly grilled beef and bison...a two-cheese dumpling dish that literally melted in our mouths and left us arguing over who got the last tasty morsel...chevre berry cheesecake, Irish cream creme brulee with a lovely caramelized crust, grilled and fresh figs with honey, flourless chocolate cake with ganache and fresh cream...so much more that I cannot even remember...Our party swapped plates until we couldn't consume any more. As we groaned and pushed back from the table - three of us with enough leftovers for another meal - we all knew we'd just discovered our new favorite gastronomic haunt...Why travel to Boulder or Denver for a foodie's delight, when the best is right here in our back yard? You MUST give yourself this experience. We have already booked ourselves for Christmas Eve at Chimney Park Bistro. Try
(5)
Susan M.
My adult son and I had a perfect dinner at this restaurant. Started with carpaccio appetizer and then moved on to a caesar salad. Both were fantastic! They offered a great glass of excellent red wine for 4.00 and the atmosphere is very cozy. We both had steak dinners and the cream brulee for dessert. We are returning for dinner on Friday night to enjoy different entrees before returning back to DC. Our waiter (Calvin) gave us perfect service. He seemed to arrive at the table at just the right time. Nothing better than a great waiter to create the perfect dining experience. The chef (Jason) also came out to ensure everything was satisfactory and his visit and personal touch really made us feel welcome. The restaurant is small so make sure you reserve before you go. Loved this place!!!!!
(5)
Kristin M.
We each have a passion that enables us to unwind, relax and recharge. For some, it's reading. Others might be adventurous and go rock climbing. My husband and I each have our own passions that are drastically different from each other, but both leave us feeling excited, re-energized and happy. For my husband, it's fly fishing. For me, it's enjoying a long, creative culinary experience (go figure). While I don't go on many fly fishing outings with my husband (but don't bat an eye at his at-least-three-times-a-week fishing schedule), he's usually a good sport in joining me for an amazing dinner that he's not quite as exited about as I am. Such is the case for our dinner at Chimney Park. Chimney Park began in a historic 1800's building in Windsor, in 2004. In July of 2007, Chef Jason Shaeffer took the helm with his years of experience and renowned awards. Having been trained by Food and Wine Top American Chefs and accolades from San Diego Magazine, Bon Appetite and the Wall Street Journal, Chef Shaeffer has created a fine dining destination in Northern Colorado that focuses on using artisan and locally grown ingredients for a menu that is constantly changing. We decided to order ala carte, however, if you are there for an experience, Chimney Park offers a Chef's Tasting Menu - four courses with the option of a wine pairing as well. If attending these dinners was not so painful for my husband, I would have jumped at the chance to enjoy this menu. I highly recommend it, as it's sure to blow your taste buds. While my husband is not easily impressed with exotic dinners or fine dinning in general, I left Chimney Park that night feeling rejuvenated. The culinary art that goes into an experience like this elevates my soul and brightens my smile. If you love a food adventure as much as I do, I'm sure it will do the same for you.
(5)
Chris R.
Insulting is perhaps the best adjective to describe my recent experience at Chimney Park. Several friends had recommended the tasting menu, and both my wife and I had planned on getting a good sample of the menu, pared with wine. On our visit the top item on the menu was the tasting menu. We asked the waitress to describe it after she had explained the evenings specials. She told us that it is a favorite at the restaurant. The chef prepares several small courses off the menu, all pared with wine. Four courses in all. Then she said "But I don't think it is right for you tonight. This table WILL be set for the next guests at 7:30, and you don't have time to have four courses before our next guests are seated.". At this point, my wife had to convince me that our money was not better spent at McDonalds. I have visited many fine restaurants around the world, and never have I been so disappointed as to write a review. I will never be back.
(1)
Diana W.
I met a friend at Chimney Park last night for dinner. First off, I'd just like to mention that the directions to the restaurant that I got off Google Map were a bit confusing, and maybe even a little wrong. I don't want to outright accuse Google Map of giving out bad directions, especially as I am the worst at following maps and directions, but my friend was confused by his directions as well. If you go, it's on Main Street in between 4th and 5th St. Easy. Even I can handle that. I didn't really get a chance to look over the entire wine list as my friend is not a huge fan of drinking and driving, but I did order some wines by the glass. Their by-the-glass list is not very big (the wine menu on the website is not updated). I ordered a glass of sparkling to start, and my friend ordered the merlot. We started off with the yellowtail sashimi with lime and honey. It came with avocado mousse, radish, jicama, and jalapeno jelly. The appetizer didn't blow me away, but it was a nice starter. I didn't think the avo mousse really added that much to the dish, but the radish and jicama slices, crisp and clean, added nice contrast to the natural oiliness of the fish. The yellowtail was quite good. The jalapeno jelly was more like a relish, and, honestly, I don't really remember any more than that. Next, we shared the roasted beet salad. Again, it was a dish done well, and the presentation was nice. They're into the linear presentation, it seems. It was very colorful, with red and orange beets, white shaved fennel and chevre, green arugula, and toasty pine nuts. The beets were cooked perfectly and they were quite sweet. I love beets, but I have a tendency to undercook them, so it was nice to have someone else cook them so well for me. I ordered a half glass of the sauvignon blanc to go with my salad. It was crisp and summery, but my glass was dirty--dried up red wine on the inside bottom of my glass. I'm a little sad about that. I ordered a glass of cabernet to go with my main course. I know that up to this point I seem kind of nonchalant about my CP experience, and really, the first two dishes were good, the ingredients were fresh and well-put together, but it was nothing for me to get worked up about. However, my main course was excellent! I ordered the bison NY strip special, and it was perfect! Perfectly cooked, perfectly seasoned, perfectly delicious. Sometimes, I worry about ordering steaks because I can't stand it even slightly overcooked. If my meat even hints at medium, even suggests that it may have gone that far, perhaps while resting, my entire experience will be ruined. I didn't have to worry about that, though. It was, as I stated, perfect. The french lentils had a really nice texture and worked well with the julienned carrots, and sliced fennel. What put this dish over the top was the truffle jus (was it jus? it was truffle something...). That flavor, the essence of truffle, was so luxurious! Seriously, I felt like royalty when I ate it. I would bathe in a vat of that truffle jus. My friend ordered the seared jumbo scallops, but I was too busy dreaming about diving into a pool of truffle jus to pay much attention to his dish.
(4)
L M.
Go. Just go. Chimney Park is a gem - fantastic, fresh and creative food, warm and informed service, wonderful wine options, and a perfect cozy and upscale ambiance. My husband and I went for our anniversary and loved every minute. Each course was a hit with both of us. I hope Chimney Park is around for a long time to come!
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : No Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Accepts Bitcoin : No Good For : Dinner Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Dressy Ambience : Classy Noise Level : Quiet Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Kristi M.
One of the best restaurants in NOCO. While it tends to be a special occasion restaurant, it's also fantastic to stop by for happy hour or a Sunday afternoon wine tasting. The very experienced staff always has wonderful suggestions to suit everybody in the party. The wine list is extensive and the appetizers are not to be missed. It's a must try, white table cloth experience.
(5)Tanis R.
Had an amazing romantic dinner tonight. We had the fish and pork and both were very good and had a lot of flavor! Server was friendly and knowledgable and made great suggestions. Can't wait to try the pistachio lemon cake that we are taking home!
(5)Traveling T.
This is the finest restaurant in northern Colorado. Staff is so friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive to our needs. James and Scott are the best. The food is exceptional and the presentation is phenomenal. Do yourself a favor and treat yourself to the finest dinner around.
(5)Matt T.
Dinner with wine pairing was phenomenal! Great food. Great service.
(5)Maxine C.
Excellent service, even better and consistent food. Decor is simple almost understated. Staff continually strives to grow and learn more about the items they serve. I love they're special event prix fixe menus never a dissapointment. Make sure you make reservations so you dont miss out on a table!
(5)Steve B.
Homerun!!!! Excellent - superb service!! Excellent food - what a gem tucked in this little town.
(5)mary ellen s.
We splurged for the chef's testing menu (with wine and foie) and it was nothing short of sublime. Perfect wine pairings (a fig glaze on the foie with Pedro Ximenez sherry was a win!) A complex nicoise salad with picked fresh local beans and baby heirloom tomatoes... Perfectly prepared bison strips on a bed of veggies that included local heirloom carrots (with a foie sauce that made me wonder if I could deserve something so delicious!) We took a big chance on this restaurant and the menu and (as former New Yorkers who have dined in one and another restaurant-written-up-for-excellence) we are happy to have found such local excellence here! Service was friendly, warm and so knowledgeable. Setting was simple and elegant. Weather didn't permit dining outside, but we saw a small deck overlooking the lake. Sweet! For a special occasion, not sure you could beat Chimney Park for a reliably gourmet great.
(5)Mike G.
This place is awesome! We had amazing apps at the bar with the world's best daughter and her spouse. Plopped down and was greeted by friendly staff and four different menus. We decided on a casual small plate evening and were not disappointed in any of our choices. The Prawn and Pork Belly was fantastic; delicate crab cakes were full of fresh flavors. Those who chose the bison tartare raved, while we we over the moon over our beet and goat cheese salad. If you think antipasto is synonymous with boring, try one here and you will change your mind. Desserts were wonderful. Pistachio cake with key lime custard was moist and the perfect blend of sweet, tart and nutty. The chocolate mousse with mint was enhanced by the addition of whole fresh and finely ground dried raspberries. Marvelous! Be sure to call ahead so you can enjoy this dining experience.
(5)Frankie G.
The bread is fantastic! I ordered the special salad of the night which I was told was like a caprese salad, which it was, only with a major skimping in the mozzarella. Only 3 very small pieces. The red and yellow tomatoes were delicious. Next, I had asked for the best fish selection on the menu. The halibut was recommended. The fish came out with a white sauce that had no taste. Halibut being bland needs something and there was nothing there. The potatoes and grilled veggies were very tasty. On a side not I tried my wife's grilled scallops which were extremely salty. My experience tells me that the age of the scallops were being hidden by large dosages of salt. I took the sauce from the scallops and pour it onto my Halibut which made for a better meal. We decided to cut our losses and did not have desert. I will not be going back. Too many other restaurant's that are closer to Fort Collins.
(3)Miranda R.
I loved this restaurant! I had the chef's tasting menu for $60, I did not do the wine pairing, but instead an 09 Shiraz. All the courses were fantastic! My boyfriend had the ribeye, it was cooked perfectly. I had buffalo with a thyme and purple potato mash. I was nervous the buffalo would be too gamey for me, as I do not enjoy elk or venison much. However, to my surprise it was delicious! It was cooked to a medium rare. The restaurant is also excellent and accommodating customers, great customer service. After our meal my boyfriend wanted a cheese and fruit tray, however they do not have that on the menu. The chef set up a great tray, I remember loving vegetable goat cheese and the smoked blue cheese! Hands down the best restaurant in Windsor! Great staff, great food, and great atmosphere.
(5)Julie S.
Entrees were amazing. I had flank steak and hubby had the bison. The dumpling appetizer and carrot soup were good but left me a little underwhelmed. The creme brûlée was not given the proper time to set and tasted soupy unfortunately. Very upscale food and prices, charming atmosphere, nice service, but for Northern Colorado fine dining, I've had better. Definitely a nice dinner date though!
(4)Crystal R.
My husband and I LOVE this place! We have been there several times and each time the food just seems to get better! For the cost of the meals, it is really worth it to take your time and enjoy the atmosphere and the delicious food and wine pairings. My husband usually hates liver, but the chef does a great job of dressing it up to a point that it's enjoyable. I usually hate beets, but same thing....he prepares ingredients so that they exceed expectations! I have not had anything at Chimney Park that wasn't outstanding! I leave my fate in the hands of the chef and he doesn't disappoint. You can tell the wait staff if you have any allergies or food adversions so you can control the tasting menu a little. If I could afford it, I would eat here several times a month if not weekly!
(5)Steph P.
We ate here based on other reviewers recommendations. Tauts itself as upscale but its not. We dressed up but would have been fine in ripped jeans and grungy tee shirt. Service was poor. It was not busy but our waiter kept disappearing on us for long periods of time with no explanation. We had to ask for water x2, bread etc. Hubby ordered a beer and it took Fernando 15 minutes or so before he came back with it (bottled). He never asked me if I wanted another drink. Couldn't tell you what I had for dinner because we could not understand our waiter. I think I ordered beef but it didn't taste like it. Again we couldn't understand Fernado not sure if accent was real or fake but it was bad. Hubby liked his meal he had scallops. Only thing waiter was quick on was bringing us our check. Too bad it was our 24th anniversary too. Not going back and won't recommend. Going to Denver next time back to the Broker where upscale means just that "upscale."
(1)Carol M.
Celebrated a special birthday on Saturday the 12th! Mya, our server, was wonderful just as we experienced the first time. The food was great with some of our guests stating firmly that it was the best steak they had eaten in quite some time...both the Colorado beef and bison. thanks for making our celebration memorable. We will certainly continue to return.
(5)David V.
One the best restaurants in the area. Waiters are very knowledgeable and good. Food is excellent. It is the go to place for special occasions.
(5)Jonathan W.
Chimney Park We tried out the Chimney park restaurant in Windsor and were very impressed. Chef Jason Shaeffer was an opening sous chef for Thomas Keller at Per Se and just from that we had high expectations. The four course chef tasting menu is 57 and wow it is just fantastic each person gets different items each course and each and every one of them are just great. I know Windsor is a bit north and out of the way for a lot of folks but should you get a chance you should really give it a try. If would like to see picture of our meal feel free to stop by our food blog.
(4)Jim R.
One of the finest restaurants in Northern Colorado. Perhaps in the entire state. Jason and his staff are excellent at making this a dining experience to remember, not just another meal. Kudos, Jason. You are doing a wonderful thing here.
(5)Momoftwo C.
It is the only fine dining experience my husband has enjoyed! The food is outstanding- fresh, elegant, best cuts of steak! It has become our favorite special occasion restaurant. A pleasant surprise for a town like Windsor! I feel blessed to have such a great restaurant close to my house! Service is outstanding- give Chimney Park a try for your next anniversary- Jason is a great chef!
(5)Lindsey P.
Double date night, booked through OpenTable. The last time I had been here was 9 years ago for my senior prom (say, WHAT?!). It was obviously time to revisit. One of the best things about this place? Their menu is constantly changing. How fun! We started off sharing the Bacon and Eggs appetizer. When we ordered it, our waitress told us it was the best eggs and bacon we'd ever have. She was right! It was very different and very delicious.next they sent out a complimentary amuse bouche which wasn't my fave but it wasn't bad either; tapenade bruschetta (I'm not a fan of olives but everyone else loved it). I ordered a bison steak special which was so good. But what I was really impressed with is that many of the other specials had roasted butternut squash which sounded really good but the bison didn't come with it. The waitress then offered to have the kitchen add some squash to my dish at no extra charge. Ummm YES! Loved it. My meal was fantastic. Everyone else at the table loved their meals and we really had a nice time. We were so happy with Chimney Park that we're going back this Friday night for Valentine's Day. Can't wait!
(5)Mark B.
After reading the last review, right before we left to go to the restaurant, I was a little worried. But I should not have been, food was excellent, service was good. I would go back for the asparagus bisque with blue crab meat and the orange chiffon cake, both unique and excellent.
(4)Bradley G.
Chimney Park is the best restaurant in NOCO! Do yourself a favor and check this place out! The menu has something for everyone. The wine list is amazing and the service is excellent. I highly recommend the chef's tasting menu for everyone. You get something different and unique. I get this most of the time I go and have never been disappointed. They make you a 4 course meal that isn't on the menu. Also you have to try the Foie Gras. I get it everytime I go. Highly recommend their Happy Hour too!
(5)Tyler T.
Unreal. Place was amazing. Had one of the best steaks I've ever had. The service was incredible. Everyone went out of their way to make you feel like a king. I would recommend this place to everyone but it is pretty pricey
(5)Chad T.
Easily the best meal I've ever had in Colorado. Beginning at the bar, which is well-stocked with diverse bottles including amaro like Cynar as well as local favorites from Dancing Pines. The bartender knew his stuff and could craft excellent cocktails with just a few words of direction. For starters we tried the Ricotta Cheese Gnudi (wow!) and Artichoke Bisque. Both were very good. There was a sea-bass special listed which everybody at the table wanted to try, but then they had just run out of sea-bass. Chef was gracious enough to prepare the same dish using halibut, which was excellent. Also, since we were in Colorado, we had to have the buffalo rib-eye. As marbled as you can get, even this cut of buffalo was lean, tasty, and cooked to perfection. We followed it all up with some Western Slope peach upside down cake. A real treat!
(5)Cassandra L.
Excellent service. Excellent food. What more can you ask for. Definitely a great place for special occasions!
(5)Melora W.
Some of the best food I've ever eaten has been at this restaurant. I highly recommend the chef's tasting menu; it's well worth the price. The ingredients are fresh and/or local, the dishes are creative and balanced, and the atmosphere is casual yet intimate. If you're looking for a meal for a special occasion, or if you don't mind spending more money for excellent food, this is the place. I read the one-star reviews; ignore those. Don't go to Chimney Park if your idea of fine cuisine is Denny's or Taco Bell. And if you're in a hurry to get somewhere, the relaxed service at Chimney Park will probably not thrill you, but trust me, if you love good food, it's worth the wait.
(5)A Z.
The food was good, but did not make up for the unacceptable wait between our courses. Our waitress was very apologetic and did end us comping us a glass of wine but we were still miserable by the time we left so I can't possibly leave a good review. We came here simply for the fact that the chef worked under Thomas Keller and we've been to most of Keller's restaurants and been pleasantly happy. The Amuse Bouche started off our meal and was a mini BLT without tomato and instead with truffle oil. It was amazing and we were excited for what was to come. Within 10 minutes, our delicious Parmesan sweet potato gnocchi-type appetizer came out. Again, very happy at this point - the food was delicious. 45 minutes later our tiny salad arrived. Again, delicious, but 45 minutes? Our waitress explained that a lot of people (4 tables) all came at the same time, so the kitchen was now backed up. I didn't understand the 45 minute wait for the salad until it took another 45 minutes for our entree to arrive. Could she have given us our salads in 10 minutes? Sure, but then we would have waited almost an hour and a half more for our entrees. My steak was good, a bit overcooked, but when you're already upset with the service, the food just doesn't taste as good. This was kind of a celebratory dinner and we chose this place for the reason. Unfortunately we left tired and miserable and this place pretty much ruined our night. So why 3 stars then? The food was great and if we came on another night I hope it would have been a much different experience. That said, we were only visiting Colorado so I don't think we'll have the chance again soon.
(3)Matt L.
Positive Yelp reviews and a very creative menu drew my wife and I to this place. We made a reservation and were seated promptly upon our arrival. We thought almost everything on the menu sounded fantastic, so we decided to do the tasting menu which was $60 a person. We added wine with each course for $30 more per person. We were asked about any dietary preferences/restrictions that we might have had to help them construct our menu. We had very few requests, but my wife and I wanted different courses and somewhere in there, we wanted to try the gnudi. Everything was easily accommodated. I won't go into all of the courses that we got, but they were all original, fresh and perfectly prepared and presented. We have been to a lot of restaurants in Vegas and other places, and a meal like this, especially with wine, would cost at least 50% more in many of those locales and it might not have even been as good as what we received in Chimney Park. As for the wine, it was really a steal. They started us with champagne with the amuse bouche, and then our appetizers came with whites and our salad and entree each had a different red wine. We didn't want any sherry/port with dessert, so they served me a house-made limoncello while my wife's dessert came with a chocolate martini. We will happily make this one of our regular places to eat when we want a nice upscale dinner. While we went all out for $90/person, the menu is very affordable and I'd go so far as to say, it's cheap for what you get with appetizers and salads in the $8-$15 range and entrees from $25-$35. The service was great and I don't have a single bad thing to say about this place.
(5)Dennis A.
Sorry folks, but I just can not see over paying for upscale fancy tiny portions that are just ok. Just because you pay a bunch does not make the experience good. Now, for the rest of the story. I have been 3 times to this restaurant and every time the service was terrible. Extremely slow and not very mindful to check with the tables between servings. Was next to impossible to get a glass refilled with water or wine. Do not waste your time and money unless you are just trying to impress someone or yourself.
(1)Andrea F.
Had dinner the other night and it was off. Coffee took forever and when we inquired waiter told us that their hot water furnace broke and had been so for over a month. They had to boil water for coffee. How were they washing dishes! I checked the restroom ...no hot water. We won't be going back.
(1)Rosemary G.
Great food in a relaxed atmosphere. Excellent wine menu and James can always be relied on for recommendations to suit your taste. Don't go if you're in a hurry; part of the experience is taking the time to enjoy the meal here, including coffee and dessert.
(5)Henry B.
4.5 Stars: If you find yourself in northern Colorado, I urge you to spend your next special evening at Chimney Park. The northern I-25 corridor has no shortage of diners, chain restaurants and bars. But Chimney Park provides locals the expert attentions of a well trained chef without having to trek down to Boulder or Denver. Located on the main drag of Windsor (less than 10 minutes east of I-25), Chimney Park offers contemporary cuisine with local, seasonal ingredients. Starters tend to cost around $10 - $15, and include the usual suspects for contemporary fine dining; Tuna Tartare, Crab Cakes, Foie Gras. Salads highlight local agriculture and cost about the same. Entrees fetch prices in the upper twenties, though a roasted chicken can be had for $19. All together, one can expect a fine dinner for less than $60 per person. Chimney Park also offers a chef's tasting menu for $57. My wife and I chose this option and Chef Shaeffer cooked different selections for each of us. $26 gets you wine with each dish, and is a steal in my opinion. All together, this meal rivaled similar dinners in Los Angeles that would cost 30% more. Much of the savings come from the great prices on wine and cocktails. We visited on a Tuesday night, and shared the waitress with three other parties in the medium sized dining room. Service was relaxed but not slow- our table never left wanting for water or drinks. With the four course meal, we spent around two hours with the waitress eagerly soliciting our feedback and chatting about the local area between generous interludes of "couple time." The meal was well executed, showing off Chef Shaeffer's respect for the proteins and his tendency to play with savory flavors. In some dishes, I wished for a little more tart or sweet flavors as balance, but this is a personal preference. Highlights: * Foie Gras with apple chutney. My wife loves Foie Gras dishes, but we haven't had the occasion to have it paired with apples. Most chefs tend to use apricot or grape/wine reductions. The chutney gave a surprising twist, paired excellently with a Sauterne and * New York Strip: Perfectly cooked with a tasty wine reduction- not as sweet as I've had before, but still full bodied and rich with the hint of fruity wine flavors. * Scallops on risotto: Perfectly cooked scallop with a rich, crispy seer (why is it so many eateries cannot get this right?). I'm not sure I could call the bed of rice a risotto, since it did not have the creamy texture I'm accustomed, but it was delightful none the less. (I was not thrilled by the pairing of a dry Chardonnay with this one, but no complaints otherwise.) * Mushroom Soup with truffle froth: I'll never be able to have mushroom soup again. Such a simple dish that I would never ordinarily order myself, I savored the earthy richness and creamy goodness. I can imagine helping myself to a bowl of that in early fall. Chef Shaeffer is a great and unique chef. People of Windsor should be proud that he has settled in their neck of the woods, rather than on the coasts or one of the posh mountain towns. I can only hope that in this out of the way location, he can get the business and competition necessary to pay the bills and keep his skills sharp. If so, Chimney Park will be a shining fixture in a quaint little town.
(5)Amy W.
Love, love, love Chimney Park! The chef's tasting menu is the way to go. Always something new and fun. Plus they have great art on the walls for sale. Just opened their outside patio; very nice!
(5)Jacob E.
Awesome food, very upscale atmosphere. We have been here 4 times and the food has never disappointed. The Natural Strip Steak is amazing (get the sauce on the side) and my wife loves the scallops. Great date night destination!
(5)Monique M.
Last night's indulgence was at Chimney Park Bistro in Windsor, was nothing short of a gastronomic orgy. The chef's tasting menu was a delightful surprise. At $60/person, every person at our table was presented with a different mouth-watering dish for each of the four courses - each more phenomenal than the last. Let me be clear: 4 diners, 4 different appetizers, 4 different entrees, desserts, etc. The kitchen staff's joyful artistry, led by chef & owner, Jason Shaeffer, allowed them to experiment with (mostly) locally grown meat, produce and seafood flown in for freshness not frequently found in Northern Colorado. The dishes were so beautifully presented that we proclaimed that we were afraid to disturb them: succulent scallops, lightly seared and seasoned....lobster and mushroom bisques so lovely that we didn't care who saw us sopping up every last drop with crusty rosemary sourdough bread... tender, fresh baby greens, sugar snap peas, roasted beets, grilled cherry tomatoes, citrus and balsamic reductions, soy & wasabi drizzles that announced that Spring had finally arrived...perfectly grilled beef and bison...a two-cheese dumpling dish that literally melted in our mouths and left us arguing over who got the last tasty morsel...chevre berry cheesecake, Irish cream creme brulee with a lovely caramelized crust, grilled and fresh figs with honey, flourless chocolate cake with ganache and fresh cream...so much more that I cannot even remember...Our party swapped plates until we couldn't consume any more. As we groaned and pushed back from the table - three of us with enough leftovers for another meal - we all knew we'd just discovered our new favorite gastronomic haunt...Why travel to Boulder or Denver for a foodie's delight, when the best is right here in our back yard? You MUST give yourself this experience. We have already booked ourselves for Christmas Eve at Chimney Park Bistro. Try
(5)Susan M.
My adult son and I had a perfect dinner at this restaurant. Started with carpaccio appetizer and then moved on to a caesar salad. Both were fantastic! They offered a great glass of excellent red wine for 4.00 and the atmosphere is very cozy. We both had steak dinners and the cream brulee for dessert. We are returning for dinner on Friday night to enjoy different entrees before returning back to DC. Our waiter (Calvin) gave us perfect service. He seemed to arrive at the table at just the right time. Nothing better than a great waiter to create the perfect dining experience. The chef (Jason) also came out to ensure everything was satisfactory and his visit and personal touch really made us feel welcome. The restaurant is small so make sure you reserve before you go. Loved this place!!!!!
(5)Kristin M.
We each have a passion that enables us to unwind, relax and recharge. For some, it's reading. Others might be adventurous and go rock climbing. My husband and I each have our own passions that are drastically different from each other, but both leave us feeling excited, re-energized and happy. For my husband, it's fly fishing. For me, it's enjoying a long, creative culinary experience (go figure). While I don't go on many fly fishing outings with my husband (but don't bat an eye at his at-least-three-times-a-week fishing schedule), he's usually a good sport in joining me for an amazing dinner that he's not quite as exited about as I am. Such is the case for our dinner at Chimney Park. Chimney Park began in a historic 1800's building in Windsor, in 2004. In July of 2007, Chef Jason Shaeffer took the helm with his years of experience and renowned awards. Having been trained by Food and Wine Top American Chefs and accolades from San Diego Magazine, Bon Appetite and the Wall Street Journal, Chef Shaeffer has created a fine dining destination in Northern Colorado that focuses on using artisan and locally grown ingredients for a menu that is constantly changing. We decided to order ala carte, however, if you are there for an experience, Chimney Park offers a Chef's Tasting Menu - four courses with the option of a wine pairing as well. If attending these dinners was not so painful for my husband, I would have jumped at the chance to enjoy this menu. I highly recommend it, as it's sure to blow your taste buds. While my husband is not easily impressed with exotic dinners or fine dinning in general, I left Chimney Park that night feeling rejuvenated. The culinary art that goes into an experience like this elevates my soul and brightens my smile. If you love a food adventure as much as I do, I'm sure it will do the same for you.
(5)Chris R.
Insulting is perhaps the best adjective to describe my recent experience at Chimney Park. Several friends had recommended the tasting menu, and both my wife and I had planned on getting a good sample of the menu, pared with wine. On our visit the top item on the menu was the tasting menu. We asked the waitress to describe it after she had explained the evenings specials. She told us that it is a favorite at the restaurant. The chef prepares several small courses off the menu, all pared with wine. Four courses in all. Then she said "But I don't think it is right for you tonight. This table WILL be set for the next guests at 7:30, and you don't have time to have four courses before our next guests are seated.". At this point, my wife had to convince me that our money was not better spent at McDonalds. I have visited many fine restaurants around the world, and never have I been so disappointed as to write a review. I will never be back.
(1)Diana W.
I met a friend at Chimney Park last night for dinner. First off, I'd just like to mention that the directions to the restaurant that I got off Google Map were a bit confusing, and maybe even a little wrong. I don't want to outright accuse Google Map of giving out bad directions, especially as I am the worst at following maps and directions, but my friend was confused by his directions as well. If you go, it's on Main Street in between 4th and 5th St. Easy. Even I can handle that. I didn't really get a chance to look over the entire wine list as my friend is not a huge fan of drinking and driving, but I did order some wines by the glass. Their by-the-glass list is not very big (the wine menu on the website is not updated). I ordered a glass of sparkling to start, and my friend ordered the merlot. We started off with the yellowtail sashimi with lime and honey. It came with avocado mousse, radish, jicama, and jalapeno jelly. The appetizer didn't blow me away, but it was a nice starter. I didn't think the avo mousse really added that much to the dish, but the radish and jicama slices, crisp and clean, added nice contrast to the natural oiliness of the fish. The yellowtail was quite good. The jalapeno jelly was more like a relish, and, honestly, I don't really remember any more than that. Next, we shared the roasted beet salad. Again, it was a dish done well, and the presentation was nice. They're into the linear presentation, it seems. It was very colorful, with red and orange beets, white shaved fennel and chevre, green arugula, and toasty pine nuts. The beets were cooked perfectly and they were quite sweet. I love beets, but I have a tendency to undercook them, so it was nice to have someone else cook them so well for me. I ordered a half glass of the sauvignon blanc to go with my salad. It was crisp and summery, but my glass was dirty--dried up red wine on the inside bottom of my glass. I'm a little sad about that. I ordered a glass of cabernet to go with my main course. I know that up to this point I seem kind of nonchalant about my CP experience, and really, the first two dishes were good, the ingredients were fresh and well-put together, but it was nothing for me to get worked up about. However, my main course was excellent! I ordered the bison NY strip special, and it was perfect! Perfectly cooked, perfectly seasoned, perfectly delicious. Sometimes, I worry about ordering steaks because I can't stand it even slightly overcooked. If my meat even hints at medium, even suggests that it may have gone that far, perhaps while resting, my entire experience will be ruined. I didn't have to worry about that, though. It was, as I stated, perfect. The french lentils had a really nice texture and worked well with the julienned carrots, and sliced fennel. What put this dish over the top was the truffle jus (was it jus? it was truffle something...). That flavor, the essence of truffle, was so luxurious! Seriously, I felt like royalty when I ate it. I would bathe in a vat of that truffle jus. My friend ordered the seared jumbo scallops, but I was too busy dreaming about diving into a pool of truffle jus to pay much attention to his dish.
(4)L M.
Go. Just go. Chimney Park is a gem - fantastic, fresh and creative food, warm and informed service, wonderful wine options, and a perfect cozy and upscale ambiance. My husband and I went for our anniversary and loved every minute. Each course was a hit with both of us. I hope Chimney Park is around for a long time to come!
(5)