My fiance and I popped into the Chinook, famished. I've lived in Denver all my life, and never heard the place mentioned. We were initially pleased by the relaxed and warm atmosphere, but the charm began to wear off after sitting unattended for about ten minutes. When at last our server sped by, we blurted out a request for mussels and a glass of wine. My pinot arrived, and I found it very palatable. Another server dropped off the steamed mussels. They were ice-cold and about the size of houseflies. We endured. We were very hungry. My fair companion ordered the liver, and I ordered a filet. The entrees arrived and my Fiance found hers satisfactory. My filet was criss-crossed by thick strata of gristly tendon. I think a $30 steak should cut easily, but I really had to lean into it. I gave up and sent it back, in a friendly and casual tone. I asked for a 1/2 portion of liver in exchange, and told the server it wasn't a big deal. My fiance finished her meal, and 20 minutes passed. I decided it was time to write this one off - we headed for the hostess' station and asked for the check. I was presented a bill by the manager, which included the cost of the meat I had sent back as inedible. He became quite strident when I suggested that I was not about to pay for the low-grade beef that I had left virtually untouched. Accustomed to professionals who take things like this in stride, I was shocked and amazed as he began to argue and berate me for not enjoying the miserable, overpriced fare. I insisted that I just wanted to pay for what we had consumed - I wasn't looking for a comp, I just wanted to go home and have a sandwich. The owner was visibly enraged, shaking his head and muttering. Just being located in Cherry Creek doesn't cut it. Some people still insist on service and quality. Next week we're going back to Prime 121, where the prices are comparable, the service is impeccable, and the kitchen doesn't release sub-par filet...
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