Monarch Chophouse
Story by Caren Austin
Blackhawk, Colorado is a beautiful town to live in or visit. The town is home to a variety of activities, historical places and the magnificent Monarch Chophouse, in the Monarch Casino Resort Spa. Today the was named the No. 7 Best Casino Restaurant in the nation in USA TODAY’s 2026 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. It was the restaurant’s first nomination, and it’s the only Colorado restaurant to place among this year’s Top 10.
The recognition comes just weeks after Spa Monarch took the No. 1 spot nationally for Best Hotel Spa. This stunning restaurant is one of my favorite places to dine in Colorado, and after you go there, it’s guaranteed to be high on your list of favorites as well. Clearly a favorite among many in the recently released poll.
Nestled in the Monarch Casino Resort Spa, The Chophouse more than delivers on ambiance, food quality, and exceptional service. The Chophouse is the perfect restaurant for a special occasion, family get together, or a dinner out in one of the most scenic places in Colorado. This restaurant is so special, and attention to every detail is their top priority.
The menu consists of aged steaks, wagyu beef, delicious seafood, and many other options. In my opinion, the star of the show here is the Steak Diane, and the Lobster Crab Cake. The Lobster Crab Cake was full of melt in your mouth lobster with an Herb Salad and a lemon aioli crowning the creation.
The Steak Diane is prepared tableside, so get ready for a show! The mushroom demi-glace that goes on top is flambéed with cognac, heavy cream, and butter, it is beyond divine. This dish alone will keep me coming back to The Monarch Chophouse.
There are plenty of sides to go with your entree, and a huge wine and cocktail list to complement your meal. Save room for the Valrhona Chocolate Cake for dessert. Served warm, this dessert topped with chocolate sorbet will satisfy your sweet tooth and is a perfect finale to a wonderful meal.
A standing ovation is in order, because this restaurant truly exudes greatness. Reservations are highly recommended. They are open 7 nights a week for dinner service. Whether you are a guest at The Monarch Casino Resort Spa, or just coming to the hotel for dinner, The Monarch Chophouse is a must. What a gem in Blackhawk CO. I can’t wait to return!
Photos by Kevin Austin
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