I'm conflicted over how to review Left Bank -- went with the Bennetts the other night, my favorite family of fabulous eaters and my "in-laws", and while the Left Bank is always their favorite place, it left me quite unimpressed. To be fair, apparently it was an off night, but for $85-100 each w/o wine, I would have expected a bit more polish. The decor is a bit dowdy (yes, that awning INSIDE of the dining room was appropriate in 1980, but probably not in 2011) -- and as it was December, Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas Is You" was blaring -- totally adding to the authenticity of the place -- those out of sync details aside, the menu is thoroughly French and I do believe that you can get good food there, just apparently not when I'm present. While my hearts of palm salad came doused in a cocktail sauce that would have been at home at the Red Lobster, the elk carpaccio was much enjoyed, as were the lamb chop starters. For mains, if you want to have a heart attack, hit to vol au vent -- my bouillabasse was fine, but for $40, I wanted more than 5 mussels, 2 scallops, and maybe 3 shrimp. Oh, and Nathan's order was clearly just throw together -- I think he missed the mussels entirely. Desserts were uninspired -- souffle tasting of nothing and two entirely different versions of the same pear tarte arrived at our table. And get this, the pastry chef did the worse version. Perhaps something is lost in translation? To continue my debbie downer review, the service was really scattered with multiple people taking our orders and a clear lack of internal communication present, Leaving me to implore the fussy consumer to spend your food dollars and caloric intake elsewhere.
We dined here this evening. Food was superb. The service was absolutely awful. I had to ask the hostess for help. She kindly took our order. We paid the check, again only after asking for it an hour and a half after we had been seated, without our dishes being cleared. The decor is ugly, the art worse. Not even close to being worth what paid for the meal. Not going back.
(2)
Tony H.
We had travelled from Breckridge (there on holiday from New Zealand) for the day to ski and my wife had scouted out Left Bank from some research she had done prior to our holiday with the main prerequisite being that Froi Gras (not something on any menu in NZ) was on the menu. We did not make reservation but the manager was extremely accomodating as we looked like we had just come of the slopes other than having changed ski pants for jeans. The restaurant has an up market feel to it, it is very tastefully decorated but not over the top pretentious. The service was excellent all night and the only niggly observation is that one of our party had not finished their meal but the rest of our plates were cleared. The food was excellent all night and the Froi Gras was amazing! Great night out thanks to everyone at The Left Bank.
We came here a couple of times just after Christmas, although it is pricey, the service and food is amazing. You really do get what you pay for here. The lamb shank was to die for, the escargot was amazing. i would highly recommend this restaurant to anyone who wants a truly amazing dining experience, service is faultless, food is amazing, and the atmosphere is romantic and upmarket!
It's pricey - but unlike most resort restaurants, you actually get what you pay for. This is our go-to fine dining spot when we're in the Vail Valley. I dream about the bisque. Mmm.
(5)
Marilyn T.
The princess of Thailand was leaving this restaurant the day we checked into the Sitzmark, and it came highly recommended by the mixologist at another restaurant, so I had to come. Left Bank was a very charming space, and right when we walked in, we were greeted warmly by the owner (wife of the chef), Kimberly. She made us feel completely welcome. They had a very impressive wine list with many premium French selections and some hard to find bottles. The mark ups are very reasonable, and the wine list made for good reading. We ended up with wines by the glass, and the Gin Fizz off the cocktail list was my personal favorite. The menu is very classically French, and the chef is straight up from France. Our server was also French, and it just felt like a very European experience. Starters: - Beef tartare: made with filet, very tender, fresh, nicely seasoned, and the cornichons added good texture and some tartness. It was slightly spicy and went well with the grilled bread - Tomato soup: for once, a non-cream based tomato soup, so it actually tasted like unadulterated tomatoes. The puff pastry on top was crisp and kept the soup super hot - French onion soup: vegetable based but still with tons of flavor. The cheese was melted perfectly and not left in big chunks the way many restaurants leave it Each entree came with a house salad, which was lightly dressed. Entrees: - I chose the scallop appetizer as my entree, and the scallops were huge. They were cooked perfectly, and the curry sauce was an unexpected surprise. I was most impressed with the knife work of the chef, as each tiny cube of vegetables in there was the exact same size. The portion was definitely enough for my main course - Bouillabaisse: amazingly fragrant broth, tons of plump shrimp, lobster, scallops, and a ton of clams. It came with a side of rice and garlic croutons with rouille It was very filling and was a really good value - Pasta: not on the menu but made by the chef for my mom, who's a vegetarian. It had lots of vegetables and the same impressive knife work. My only complaint was that there was a bit too much butter. Dessert: I was so happy to find perfectly risen souffles. They were super light and with just the right amount of sweetness. We got one of each (chocolate and grand marnier), and it's hard to say which one I liked better because they were both uniquely good. The chocolate one had a deeper chocolate flavor, and the grand marnier had subtle orange and a good amount of liqueur flavor to it. Of course they sent us cookies and meringues at the end. I was so stuffed. I tend to eat less French food because it tends to be heavy, but the chef here does many traditional dishes in a "Mediterranean style," without cream or butter, which was awesome. I didn't expect to find such an authentic place in Vail, let alone in our hotel. This husband/wife run operation is definitely worth checking out.
(5)
Shawn B.
We came here on the recommendation of the concierge after our first choice was fully booked. We walked to the convenient location, and was greeted immediately by a friendly host and the owner. The decor was nice but not to terrible gaudy. The lighting fixtures reminded me of champagne bubbles idk why but they did. The atmosphere was nice and pleasant and not pretentious. The wine list was good and a had an extensive choice of French reds however; they were marked up quite a bit, but that's to be expected. The fall menu was small but had enough variety to suit nearly all tastes. I enjoyed the fall menu special which included an appetizer a main course and a dessert. All of which where perfectly portioned (I don't like extremely large portions) and provided a taste of every course without feeling over filled. My saffron pasta with shrimp was cooked perfectly and had a well thought out balance of flavors. I would say that the left bank is a solid fine dining experience with a creative menu and nice atmosphere
(4)
Diana F.
We had to ask to order drinks, after being passed by several wait staff, then asked for our salads. We never really had a waiter, just a hit and miss, whoever we could catch going by. We did not have a reservation, so I guess we were second class diners. Although there was ample wait staff, our service was poor to say the least. I can't say the food was all that. We can say we have been there, done that...no need to return.
(2)
Michael V.
The food was great but the service subpar. The coat check gal was the friendliest and most attentive of the bunch, however turned us over to the hostess who didn't show up for 10 minutes with 3 groups waiting. Basic server etiquette and timeliness were non-existent. However the food was very good once the wheels got in motion. The 2 tables next to us were complaining about similar service. I'd go back because the first impression with the coat check girl was great and the food was good.
(3)
Paul C.
During a recent visit to Vail, we dined two evenings at The Left Bank. The ambiance was wonderful and the view of Gore Creek, from our table, added greatly to the pleasantness of the evening. The food was superior, though extremely pricey, like all Vail. The wine list was excellent but, again, pricey. The Tiger Shrimp in a ragout were wonderful. The trout was excellent. However, the Grand Marnier Souffle topped everything. It was as nice a desert as I have had, anywhere.
(4)
John M.
This wonderful restaurant has always provided excellent meals with elegant service. It is an institution in eh Vail Valley and a favorite of locals. We have had two delightful dining experiences within the last week. The Left Bank has just completed a total remodel with a beautiful more contemporary look. All new lighting, furniture and capet and a very clean less cluttered environment. This is a french chef owned (Jean-Michel) restaurant with the front managed by his very friendly wife Kimberly. Both of us had the green pepper steak on our first visit which was melt in your mouth tender. The sauce is to die for. On our second visit with friends we all enjoyed the Prix Fixe menu which was exceptional and a great bargain with a very reasonable wine pairing.
(5)
Jason B.
OK, I have been to this place twice now and twice it has been the #1 most indulgent and amazing meal I have ever had. Strangely enough going in January 2011 and 2012, I had the same waiter and same table like it had been waiting for me to come back. The chef is truly gifted and spares nothing in making the meal perfect. The wine list is comprehensive although a little too heavily French and the unique cocktails are as unique as the food. This last trip, I really wanted the chocolate souffle. The rules say 4 people minimum which I totally understand given the technically complex nature of the creation. They made an exception for me this time and I am so glad they did, it was amazing just like everything else. I had the Coquilles St. Jacques, Vol au Vent de Homard et Crevettes Sauce Homardine and I got the special fresh made saffron pasta with black truffles as my meal. My wife had the prixe fixe menu and absolutely loved it as well. We will come here every year we return. They give a cooking class on Sunday evenings but unfortunately didn't have one the Sunday we were there. I'm sure this guy could up my cooking game with an evening lesson.
(5)
Ashley B.
Last night in Vail we had dinner here since my brother loves all things French after living in France for 4 months during freshman year of college. The restaurant is old school and the decor a little dated, but it hardly takes away from the place. The service was wonderful and very helpful. The sommelier was very French, very cute, and very knowledgeable. The wine list is very extensive, but they have good affordable bottles to the extravagant bottles. They have a very nice cocktail list and started off my meal with a specialty martini which was very freshening and strong, not sweet. Everyone fully enjoyed their meal; everything was very well prepared. Although, I was a little surprised with how big the portions were. For the food, I would certainly recommend this place to anyone and would have given this place 4 stars if not for one horrible thing at the end....A little note to the owner/owner's wife or possibly just a horribly irresponsible maitre'd (not entirely sure who it was), you don't let your drunken friends come into the restaurant and allow them to ruin everyone elses' meal with their loud, rowdy behavior (we are talking bar room loud, not sitting down in a timely fashion, and bumping into other people's chairs). We told our sommelier on the way out who was completely astonished and very apologetic, but it was too late at that point to salvage our meal.
(3)
Richard R.
We ate here on an early season $39 for three course special and were happy with the food, though the selection was limited. However, the wine list is outrageous even by Vail standards, with one red under $40, and hardly any under $60. ($59 for Cotes du Rhone???)
(4)
Jay C.
My wife and I went here to give it a shot. As seen in other reviews, the decor is a tad bit on the campy side; but hey, it is a ski town after all. That has nothing to do with my review though. First a little background, my wife and I are huge foodies, it is practically an extension of our jobs anyway, so spending a night at a restaurant where the service and food is perfect is pretty close to our idea of heaven. Sadly, Left Bank is closer to that other place. Fortunately our service was good to excellent, otherwise the whole evening would have been a total loss. All of the dishes were significantly sub par and hugely overpriced, but nowhere was that more evident then the chlorine washed truffle pasta for a whopping $80 a plate..it tasted like a swimming pool. I've had fresh truffles, canned truffles, shaved truffles, truffle oil, Italian truffles, summer truffles, winter truffles, black truffles, white truffles, and truffle salt. What I was served was either the worst truffle of all time or a substitute. I will never return here, ever.
(1)
Christina J.
Go to the many other better places in vail, like McDonalds for example..... Horrible decor, smells old and has tacky wallpaper and fake flowers. The owner/hostess is rude, unprofessional and maybe even bipolar. Over priced. Had to send back my fishy fish. Was rushed through dinner because they needed our table for the poor fools that were uneducated enough to eat here. Need I say more. Don't waste your money.
we dined at the Left Bank in Dec 2010; we have again booked in Vail for Jan 2013, and of course a dinner at the LB. I am shocked by the review regarding this upscale resturant and I will post my next dexperinece there
I am a huge foodie and give praise where it's deserved and don't often complain...But, this food was horrible, don't order the truffle pasta "special"...I've NEVER had truffles that tasted like that before (appetizer size $80) TOTAL rip off...The decor was worse than the food. The only positive was the service.
(1)
Rebecca G.
Awesome dinner from start to finish. Best service I've had in a LONG time. We had the $40 prix fix dinner, which we chose to include: me: duck pate (really good and they gave me a LOT of it) small salad (wasn't expecting this; a nice touch) beef wellington (perfectly sized portion) brownie cake with ice cream him: (was very happy with all of the below) mushroom and parmesan appetizer small salad beef wellington ice cream Yes, it's an old school restaurant and probably not where the "cool kids" would go. But that is hardly a drawback IMO. I'll be back, again and again. Added bonus: they have a great/affordable wine list complete with half bottles.
(5)
Melissa F.
I would never recommend this place... it's outdated, old fashioned, over priced and the food is just subpar. The carpet and decor looks like it has not been touched since the 80's. It is in serious need of a major remodel. The food was ok... nothing great. I think I've had a better filet at Texas Roadhouse. Everyone was given the same sides - what is this, a banquet hall or a gourmet restaurant?? DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY. The only thing that went well was service but that would not make the overall experience any better.
(1)
Anne C.
If you want what you can imagine Vail stodgies, New England preppies, and confused foreigners think is an opulent dining experience, Left Bank might be right for you. Sort of like a country club gone skiing. Or perhaps the owner is just a bit out of touch with modern. But maybe that's the point. This is fine dining circa 1980. And maybe that's okay sometimes. Rewinding a bit can be fun. You certainly won't feel any urge to be "hip" or "trendy." Overpriced? Absolutely. Go when someone else is paying for your standard French fare. Funny side note: I ordered a bellini because the waiter had already mentioned them. Then he came back and said they were "out of peach sorbet". Excuse me? You were going to make my bellini with peach sorbet?
(3)
Mel B.
This was the best steak au poivre i"ve ever had! The service was excellent and it was reasonably priced for a fresh, made from scratch meal.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : No Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Bike Parking : No Wheelchair Accessible : No Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Classy Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Rachel N.
I'm conflicted over how to review Left Bank -- went with the Bennetts the other night, my favorite family of fabulous eaters and my "in-laws", and while the Left Bank is always their favorite place, it left me quite unimpressed. To be fair, apparently it was an off night, but for $85-100 each w/o wine, I would have expected a bit more polish. The decor is a bit dowdy (yes, that awning INSIDE of the dining room was appropriate in 1980, but probably not in 2011) -- and as it was December, Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas Is You" was blaring -- totally adding to the authenticity of the place -- those out of sync details aside, the menu is thoroughly French and I do believe that you can get good food there, just apparently not when I'm present. While my hearts of palm salad came doused in a cocktail sauce that would have been at home at the Red Lobster, the elk carpaccio was much enjoyed, as were the lamb chop starters. For mains, if you want to have a heart attack, hit to vol au vent -- my bouillabasse was fine, but for $40, I wanted more than 5 mussels, 2 scallops, and maybe 3 shrimp. Oh, and Nathan's order was clearly just throw together -- I think he missed the mussels entirely. Desserts were uninspired -- souffle tasting of nothing and two entirely different versions of the same pear tarte arrived at our table. And get this, the pastry chef did the worse version. Perhaps something is lost in translation? To continue my debbie downer review, the service was really scattered with multiple people taking our orders and a clear lack of internal communication present, Leaving me to implore the fussy consumer to spend your food dollars and caloric intake elsewhere.
(3)Renato R.
I've been coming to the Vail Valley every year since 1974. There are very few places in Vail that have stood the test of time. It's one of my "go-to" restaurants when I'm in town. There is a reason why the Left Bank has been in Vail for 40+ years so don't let these negative reviews from so called "foodies" fool anyone. It's real simple, if you don't like the Left Bank, you don't like French food. I am a foodie by every definition of the word. I live in NYC where my wife and I eat out every single day (breakfast, lunch and dinner). We have eaten at every Michelin star restaurant and over 75% of Zagat in NYC. We travel all over the world to eat at the best restaurants and then tour the cities that house them... in that order. The Left Bank serves traditional french fare from various regions of France with a touch of American taste thrown in there to accommodate everyone.The Gigolette d'Agneau and Côte de Veau aux Asperges are my favorites here. Just save room for the chocolate soufflé. Its the best I've ever had, anywhere in the world (yes, France too).
(4)Pamela M.
We dined here this evening. Food was superb. The service was absolutely awful. I had to ask the hostess for help. She kindly took our order. We paid the check, again only after asking for it an hour and a half after we had been seated, without our dishes being cleared. The decor is ugly, the art worse. Not even close to being worth what paid for the meal. Not going back.
(2)Tony H.
We had travelled from Breckridge (there on holiday from New Zealand) for the day to ski and my wife had scouted out Left Bank from some research she had done prior to our holiday with the main prerequisite being that Froi Gras (not something on any menu in NZ) was on the menu. We did not make reservation but the manager was extremely accomodating as we looked like we had just come of the slopes other than having changed ski pants for jeans. The restaurant has an up market feel to it, it is very tastefully decorated but not over the top pretentious. The service was excellent all night and the only niggly observation is that one of our party had not finished their meal but the rest of our plates were cleared. The food was excellent all night and the Froi Gras was amazing! Great night out thanks to everyone at The Left Bank.
(4)Rick P.
Outstanding! The renovated dining room is lovely. The menu has great variety and we thoroughly enjoyed each first course and entree. Steak tartare, oysters, lobster bisque, smoked salmon all excellent. Rack of lamb for two, Dover sole for two, lobster in pastry again all superb. Soufflé is a must. Service very friendly, appropriately paced and professional. The wine list has an extensive offering of French wines, less so new world and other and is pricey.
(5)Peter C.
We came here a couple of times just after Christmas, although it is pricey, the service and food is amazing. You really do get what you pay for here. The lamb shank was to die for, the escargot was amazing. i would highly recommend this restaurant to anyone who wants a truly amazing dining experience, service is faultless, food is amazing, and the atmosphere is romantic and upmarket!
(5)Al B.
My family and I ate here during our spring break vacation. It was amazing. The food was a little pricey but nothing out of the ordinary for the area. The restaurant has been completely updated, the staff were very nice, and the food was delicious and delivered in a timely manner. Notably the frois gras was incredible as was the tomato soup. Also, the chocolate soufflé was some of the best I've ever had (and I've had a lot). We will definitely be coming back on our next trip to vail.
(5)Tyler L.
It's pricey - but unlike most resort restaurants, you actually get what you pay for. This is our go-to fine dining spot when we're in the Vail Valley. I dream about the bisque. Mmm.
(5)Marilyn T.
The princess of Thailand was leaving this restaurant the day we checked into the Sitzmark, and it came highly recommended by the mixologist at another restaurant, so I had to come. Left Bank was a very charming space, and right when we walked in, we were greeted warmly by the owner (wife of the chef), Kimberly. She made us feel completely welcome. They had a very impressive wine list with many premium French selections and some hard to find bottles. The mark ups are very reasonable, and the wine list made for good reading. We ended up with wines by the glass, and the Gin Fizz off the cocktail list was my personal favorite. The menu is very classically French, and the chef is straight up from France. Our server was also French, and it just felt like a very European experience. Starters: - Beef tartare: made with filet, very tender, fresh, nicely seasoned, and the cornichons added good texture and some tartness. It was slightly spicy and went well with the grilled bread - Tomato soup: for once, a non-cream based tomato soup, so it actually tasted like unadulterated tomatoes. The puff pastry on top was crisp and kept the soup super hot - French onion soup: vegetable based but still with tons of flavor. The cheese was melted perfectly and not left in big chunks the way many restaurants leave it Each entree came with a house salad, which was lightly dressed. Entrees: - I chose the scallop appetizer as my entree, and the scallops were huge. They were cooked perfectly, and the curry sauce was an unexpected surprise. I was most impressed with the knife work of the chef, as each tiny cube of vegetables in there was the exact same size. The portion was definitely enough for my main course - Bouillabaisse: amazingly fragrant broth, tons of plump shrimp, lobster, scallops, and a ton of clams. It came with a side of rice and garlic croutons with rouille It was very filling and was a really good value - Pasta: not on the menu but made by the chef for my mom, who's a vegetarian. It had lots of vegetables and the same impressive knife work. My only complaint was that there was a bit too much butter. Dessert: I was so happy to find perfectly risen souffles. They were super light and with just the right amount of sweetness. We got one of each (chocolate and grand marnier), and it's hard to say which one I liked better because they were both uniquely good. The chocolate one had a deeper chocolate flavor, and the grand marnier had subtle orange and a good amount of liqueur flavor to it. Of course they sent us cookies and meringues at the end. I was so stuffed. I tend to eat less French food because it tends to be heavy, but the chef here does many traditional dishes in a "Mediterranean style," without cream or butter, which was awesome. I didn't expect to find such an authentic place in Vail, let alone in our hotel. This husband/wife run operation is definitely worth checking out.
(5)Shawn B.
We came here on the recommendation of the concierge after our first choice was fully booked. We walked to the convenient location, and was greeted immediately by a friendly host and the owner. The decor was nice but not to terrible gaudy. The lighting fixtures reminded me of champagne bubbles idk why but they did. The atmosphere was nice and pleasant and not pretentious. The wine list was good and a had an extensive choice of French reds however; they were marked up quite a bit, but that's to be expected. The fall menu was small but had enough variety to suit nearly all tastes. I enjoyed the fall menu special which included an appetizer a main course and a dessert. All of which where perfectly portioned (I don't like extremely large portions) and provided a taste of every course without feeling over filled. My saffron pasta with shrimp was cooked perfectly and had a well thought out balance of flavors. I would say that the left bank is a solid fine dining experience with a creative menu and nice atmosphere
(4)Diana F.
We had to ask to order drinks, after being passed by several wait staff, then asked for our salads. We never really had a waiter, just a hit and miss, whoever we could catch going by. We did not have a reservation, so I guess we were second class diners. Although there was ample wait staff, our service was poor to say the least. I can't say the food was all that. We can say we have been there, done that...no need to return.
(2)Michael V.
The food was great but the service subpar. The coat check gal was the friendliest and most attentive of the bunch, however turned us over to the hostess who didn't show up for 10 minutes with 3 groups waiting. Basic server etiquette and timeliness were non-existent. However the food was very good once the wheels got in motion. The 2 tables next to us were complaining about similar service. I'd go back because the first impression with the coat check girl was great and the food was good.
(3)Paul C.
During a recent visit to Vail, we dined two evenings at The Left Bank. The ambiance was wonderful and the view of Gore Creek, from our table, added greatly to the pleasantness of the evening. The food was superior, though extremely pricey, like all Vail. The wine list was excellent but, again, pricey. The Tiger Shrimp in a ragout were wonderful. The trout was excellent. However, the Grand Marnier Souffle topped everything. It was as nice a desert as I have had, anywhere.
(4)John M.
This wonderful restaurant has always provided excellent meals with elegant service. It is an institution in eh Vail Valley and a favorite of locals. We have had two delightful dining experiences within the last week. The Left Bank has just completed a total remodel with a beautiful more contemporary look. All new lighting, furniture and capet and a very clean less cluttered environment. This is a french chef owned (Jean-Michel) restaurant with the front managed by his very friendly wife Kimberly. Both of us had the green pepper steak on our first visit which was melt in your mouth tender. The sauce is to die for. On our second visit with friends we all enjoyed the Prix Fixe menu which was exceptional and a great bargain with a very reasonable wine pairing.
(5)Jason B.
OK, I have been to this place twice now and twice it has been the #1 most indulgent and amazing meal I have ever had. Strangely enough going in January 2011 and 2012, I had the same waiter and same table like it had been waiting for me to come back. The chef is truly gifted and spares nothing in making the meal perfect. The wine list is comprehensive although a little too heavily French and the unique cocktails are as unique as the food. This last trip, I really wanted the chocolate souffle. The rules say 4 people minimum which I totally understand given the technically complex nature of the creation. They made an exception for me this time and I am so glad they did, it was amazing just like everything else. I had the Coquilles St. Jacques, Vol au Vent de Homard et Crevettes Sauce Homardine and I got the special fresh made saffron pasta with black truffles as my meal. My wife had the prixe fixe menu and absolutely loved it as well. We will come here every year we return. They give a cooking class on Sunday evenings but unfortunately didn't have one the Sunday we were there. I'm sure this guy could up my cooking game with an evening lesson.
(5)Ashley B.
Last night in Vail we had dinner here since my brother loves all things French after living in France for 4 months during freshman year of college. The restaurant is old school and the decor a little dated, but it hardly takes away from the place. The service was wonderful and very helpful. The sommelier was very French, very cute, and very knowledgeable. The wine list is very extensive, but they have good affordable bottles to the extravagant bottles. They have a very nice cocktail list and started off my meal with a specialty martini which was very freshening and strong, not sweet. Everyone fully enjoyed their meal; everything was very well prepared. Although, I was a little surprised with how big the portions were. For the food, I would certainly recommend this place to anyone and would have given this place 4 stars if not for one horrible thing at the end....A little note to the owner/owner's wife or possibly just a horribly irresponsible maitre'd (not entirely sure who it was), you don't let your drunken friends come into the restaurant and allow them to ruin everyone elses' meal with their loud, rowdy behavior (we are talking bar room loud, not sitting down in a timely fashion, and bumping into other people's chairs). We told our sommelier on the way out who was completely astonished and very apologetic, but it was too late at that point to salvage our meal.
(3)Richard R.
We ate here on an early season $39 for three course special and were happy with the food, though the selection was limited. However, the wine list is outrageous even by Vail standards, with one red under $40, and hardly any under $60. ($59 for Cotes du Rhone???)
(4)Jay C.
My wife and I went here to give it a shot. As seen in other reviews, the decor is a tad bit on the campy side; but hey, it is a ski town after all. That has nothing to do with my review though. First a little background, my wife and I are huge foodies, it is practically an extension of our jobs anyway, so spending a night at a restaurant where the service and food is perfect is pretty close to our idea of heaven. Sadly, Left Bank is closer to that other place. Fortunately our service was good to excellent, otherwise the whole evening would have been a total loss. All of the dishes were significantly sub par and hugely overpriced, but nowhere was that more evident then the chlorine washed truffle pasta for a whopping $80 a plate..it tasted like a swimming pool. I've had fresh truffles, canned truffles, shaved truffles, truffle oil, Italian truffles, summer truffles, winter truffles, black truffles, white truffles, and truffle salt. What I was served was either the worst truffle of all time or a substitute. I will never return here, ever.
(1)Christina J.
Go to the many other better places in vail, like McDonalds for example..... Horrible decor, smells old and has tacky wallpaper and fake flowers. The owner/hostess is rude, unprofessional and maybe even bipolar. Over priced. Had to send back my fishy fish. Was rushed through dinner because they needed our table for the poor fools that were uneducated enough to eat here. Need I say more. Don't waste your money.
(1)Neal C.
Surprisingly bad bread which is a big no no for a french restaurant. the bouillabaisse was outstanding as were the trio of cold soups, Other entrees at our table were very good. A; couple of complimentary appetizers and some freebie small pastries. Don't forget the soufflés. This is a very traditional french restaurant and could use a little remodel after 30 plus years.
(3)Andrea F.
Unfriendly and rigid
(1)Jim J.
we dined at the Left Bank in Dec 2010; we have again booked in Vail for Jan 2013, and of course a dinner at the LB. I am shocked by the review regarding this upscale resturant and I will post my next dexperinece there
(5)Paul S.
Oh, how the mighty have fallen! There was a time when The Left Bank may have been Vail's premier restaurant. Under Liz and Luc Meyer, you could count on meticulous service and superb French cuisine. However, under new management, the restaurant is a shadow of its former self. We were seated at a table where he waiters bumped my wife's chair each time they entered and exited the kitchen. When a number of guests at our table ordered escargot, they were only able to provide proper utensils for half the guests. Our waiter spilled red wine not once, but twice, and did an amateurish job in cleaning the table afterwards. And when the hostess, the co-owner Kim, came over to apologize, instead she told us that the waiter felt badly, that he would be paying for one of the bottles of wine himself, and then reminded us that we should forgive the waiter since it was holiday season. Rather than making a sincere apology, her behavior was more directed to make us feel guilty for being upset; in fact, she "threw her wait staff under the bus." Fortunately, the food is still pretty good, although one could criticize the escargot for not having adequate garlic, the salad dressing for being bland, the veal chop for being fatty, and the soufflé for not being hot enough.
(2)Suze Q.
I am a huge foodie and give praise where it's deserved and don't often complain...But, this food was horrible, don't order the truffle pasta "special"...I've NEVER had truffles that tasted like that before (appetizer size $80) TOTAL rip off...The decor was worse than the food. The only positive was the service.
(1)Rebecca G.
Awesome dinner from start to finish. Best service I've had in a LONG time. We had the $40 prix fix dinner, which we chose to include: me: duck pate (really good and they gave me a LOT of it) small salad (wasn't expecting this; a nice touch) beef wellington (perfectly sized portion) brownie cake with ice cream him: (was very happy with all of the below) mushroom and parmesan appetizer small salad beef wellington ice cream Yes, it's an old school restaurant and probably not where the "cool kids" would go. But that is hardly a drawback IMO. I'll be back, again and again. Added bonus: they have a great/affordable wine list complete with half bottles.
(5)Melissa F.
I would never recommend this place... it's outdated, old fashioned, over priced and the food is just subpar. The carpet and decor looks like it has not been touched since the 80's. It is in serious need of a major remodel. The food was ok... nothing great. I think I've had a better filet at Texas Roadhouse. Everyone was given the same sides - what is this, a banquet hall or a gourmet restaurant?? DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY. The only thing that went well was service but that would not make the overall experience any better.
(1)Anne C.
If you want what you can imagine Vail stodgies, New England preppies, and confused foreigners think is an opulent dining experience, Left Bank might be right for you. Sort of like a country club gone skiing. Or perhaps the owner is just a bit out of touch with modern. But maybe that's the point. This is fine dining circa 1980. And maybe that's okay sometimes. Rewinding a bit can be fun. You certainly won't feel any urge to be "hip" or "trendy." Overpriced? Absolutely. Go when someone else is paying for your standard French fare. Funny side note: I ordered a bellini because the waiter had already mentioned them. Then he came back and said they were "out of peach sorbet". Excuse me? You were going to make my bellini with peach sorbet?
(3)Mel B.
This was the best steak au poivre i"ve ever had! The service was excellent and it was reasonably priced for a fresh, made from scratch meal.
(5)