Fidel's Cocina & Bar — Restaurant in Palisade

I'm not really sure where to start with this review, so I'll start with saying DO NOT GO HERE.

Upon entering "Fidel's" it seemed like a nice atmosphere and environment. However, after looking over the menu we were puzzled because it seemed like the tacos were $8 per taco. We asked the server and were reassured that the tacos were "6 inch tortillas" and "very good sized". We also heard this told to other customers around the restaurant. We asked the server which of the appetizers, guacamole or poblano fries, were better. He responded that he had not had the poblano fries, but they looked very good. He also explained that the guacamole was very good. So we ordered both. I thought it was unusual that a server had not tried, or was not required to try, everything on the menu and commented this to my girlfriend. After being reassured that the tacos were "very good sized", we took a chance and ordered two tacos each. We each ordered the elk chorizo taco and the carne asada taco.

The guacamole, which was $12, was VERY small, and nothing special whatsoever. I'm not sure they even seasoned it. It tasted like chunky avocado with pistachios on top. We're pretty sure the chips came from a bag and were probably lime Tostitos with either chili powder or paprika sprinkled on top. Very disappointing

The "poblano fries" were small pieces of supposedly poblano pepper, coated in Panko breading. I'm not exactly sure what the dipping sauces actually were, but there was very little provided for dipping. Again, extremely disappointing for an $8 appetizer.

The four tacos, totaling $32, arrived on a single taco tray with very small pieces of lime. The carne asada tacos ($8 each) literally had ZERO seasoning. It was like eating a piece of unseasoned meat. The "jalapeño" slaw most definitely did not have any jalapeños in it. The elk chorizo tacos ($8 each) were tiny, miniature quesadillas that had very little meat and cheese inside them and should have costed about $1 max. They included a single "avocado sauce" for dipping between the two of us, even though we both ordered elk chorizo tacos. Again, I'm almost certain they used Tostitos 'dips' avocado salsa. If it wasn't Tostitos dips salsa, I'm certain it was another store bought jared avocado sauce.

Please take a look at the photos that I've included to see for yourself. Compare the photos of the food with the prices on the menu. We should have known better than to go to a restaurant named "Fidel's", which played Cuban music, but serves tacos. It was so cringey and awkward to eat at this restaurant while coming to the realization that the owner/kitchen has zero experience whatsoever with latin food. Also, they spelled "Pozole" wrong on the menu.

Lastly, I want to mention that just prior to eating here, myself and my girlfriend has just completed a strenuous 4 mile hike and were starving. Usually hunger is the best sauce, but even then, this food was not good. The entire drive home, both of us had a horrible taste in our mouths, both figuratively and literally.

In conclusion, I am disappointed and actually a little bit angry that I just spent $60+ on this experience. In addition to writing this scathing, but very honest review, I'm considering complaining about this restaurant at the next Palisade city council planning meeting for allowing this restaurant to operate with such deceitful practices. Although, I'm sure this won't be necessary because there is no way this restaurant will remain in business within the next 3-6 months once word of mouth gets...

A Culinary Delight in Palisade, Colorado's Wine Country!

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Fidel's Cocina & Bar, nestled in the heart of Palisade, Colorado's scenic wine country. From the moment I stepped foot into this charming establishment, I was captivated by its warm ambiance and friendly staff. But it was the incredible culinary experience that truly stole the show!

Let's talk about the huevos served in a skillet — oh my, where do I even begin? The moment the dish arrived at my table, I was greeted by a tantalizing aroma that made my taste buds dance with anticipation. The presentation was rustic yet elegant, perfectly showcasing the vibrant colors and fresh ingredients. The skillet itself added a lovely touch, adding an extra layer of sizzling excitement to the whole experience.

Now, onto the taste! The huevos were cooked to perfection, with the eggs retaining their delicate tenderness, complemented by a medley of flavors that harmonized beautifully. Each bite was a delightful explosion of savory goodness, with the combination of spices and ingredients weaving together effortlessly. The inclusion of locally sourced produce added a fresh and vibrant touch, elevating the dish to new heights.

Beyond the huevos, I must commend Fidel's Cocina & Bar for their exemplary service. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and passionate about their craft. They went above and beyond to ensure that every aspect of my dining experience was exceptional, from recommending the perfect wine pairing to accommodating dietary preferences with ease.

The ambiance of Fidel's Cocina & Bar is something to behold. The warm and welcoming atmosphere, coupled with the rustic yet sophisticated décor, created an inviting space that encouraged relaxation and enjoyment. Whether you choose to dine indoors or on their charming patio, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards, adding an extra layer of enchantment to your visit.

In conclusion, Fidel's Cocina & Bar is a culinary gem that should not be missed when exploring Palisade's wine country. From the moment you step through the door, you'll be transported to a world of culinary delights. The huevos served in a skillet are a must-try, bursting with flavor and prepared with the utmost care. Combine that with impeccable service and a picturesque setting, and you have an unforgettable dining experience that earns Fidel's Cocina & Bar a well-deserved...

I understand that high-end "Tacos N' Tequila" type places are a dime a dozen these days. Their made-for-instagram boho-chic decor pair well with hilariously high price tags for lobster burritos and pours of the currently trending tequila. Fidel's Cocina & Bar admirably stand apart from their peers, remaining a singular experience. This quite simply is as good as food gets in Palisade, with an agave list and cocktail program so perfectly executed that it should be taught in a "restaurateur 101" class at the college.

Yes the woven basket lights and white-washed walls are all here, but tastefully done for a chill beach vibe instead of a gratuitous bohemian nightmare. This relaxing atmosphere is essential, helping mute the energy from the commotion that comes with a place that is usually rocking and rolling at full throttle with full tables. The multitude of handpicked staff run this room with precision and grace however, and I've often marveled that the service has largely remained this flawless even after so many years in business. Their sheer knowledge of the ever-changing alcoholic agave products alone is beyond impressive, providing recommendations that are always thoughtful and on point.

Speaking of agave, they have curated the single greatest mezcal and tequila list I have ever found in a bar or restaurant. It is quite the contrast from the usual bottles of Patrón, Julio, and insanely expensive ceramic bottles with shiny bells on top. Fidel's is instead a marvelous place of education and a wonderous celebration of Mexico's agave cultivators and distillers. The focus here is on artisanal and ancestral Mezcals, and natural small batch Tequilas free of additives or coloring. These can be tasted in half ounce flights, giving the drinker much more freedom to explore new brands and varieties. This is an inspired choice that I wish was an industry standard.

The food is a perfect fusion between conventional Latin American cuisine and modern culinary practices. Flavors and presentations can be surprising in all the right ways, honoring the traditions of the dishes' origin without ever being a slave to them. The dependability of the food's quality for the entire run of years I've been eating here is nothing short of remarkable. This doesn't just make Fidel's Cocina & Bar the best restaurant in Palisade, but one of the very finest eating and drinking establishments you could hope to find anywhere in Colorado....