Atelier by Radex

Rating within the ‘nice dinner spot’ category. Fairly middle of the road. Above average wine selection and good presentation. Not very unique dishes and slightly over seasoned for my taste. Plus some hidden “sustainability fee” at the end. Overall, there are many superior spots within the neighborhood and across Denver.

We were here for Restaurant Week. Everything on the menu sounded great, except for the fine print at the bottom advising of the mandatory 20% "gratuity," AND the 3.5% "sustainability" service fee. Bread is also an additional $5.50. My wife had the beef tartare, bouillabaisse and creme brûlée. I had the pâté, wapiti (elk), and chocolate tart. We shared, and we both thought everything was quite good. The elk was cooked a perfect medium rare, and the sauce paired perfectly. The bouillabaisse had curry in it, which was different, but not bad. Strangely it didn't come with any bread to dip, but it did have a salad and veggies lumped on top, which my wife didn't care for. Service was actually pretty good despite the mandatory tip. We would still have left at least 20% regardless. The service fee on top of that is just insulting though. Given that tips are now deductible only if optional, the practice seems even more questionable. If the place decides to put its food and service first, rather than its nickel and dime approach, we would gladly come back. Until then, there are better options out there.

Overall good experience. The service was wonderful. Our food was very tasty. I highly recommend the drunken mushroom appetizer!

I live a couple blocks from L’atelier and have gone a couple times, deeply enjoyed the meal, warm atmosphere and good service. I accidentally forgot my bank card one night and they were so kind even before I paid, which would be funny on a sitcom but is scary in real life. They handled my panic with graciousness I learned I can depend on.