We were invited to a stay at the Hotel Monaco and attend a cooking class with Chef Nic Lebas at Panzano (the Italian restaurant connected to the hotel). This was the staycation we never knew we needed! We enjoyed it so much, we wanted to share the deets with you all. 

Hotel Monaco

First, we checked into the (DOG FRIENDLY!) Hotel Monaco in the heart of downtown Denver. We were warmly greeted with some complementary wine - they offer a nightly hosted wine hour from 5 pm to 6 pm featuring wines, beer, and apps from Panzano. We were definitely off to a great start! Their rooms were recently renovated--we’d the call the style bold and stylish vibe that’s totally adorable and cozy. The beds were super comfy and we had a huge window spanning the size of one wall with amazing city views. Don’t even get us started on the bathroom. From it's funky textured wallpaper to modern and sleek appliances, we were in love. We basically wanted to move in! One of the cutest touches was the dog bed and treats they left in the room for our pup, Rocco. In the morning, we went to the lobby for daily complimentary morning coffee and tea. It’s not your average hotel lobby though - it feels more like you’re in a fancy living room. We kicked our feet up and relaxed there for over an hour! It’s the little touches at the Hotel Monaco that made our stay so enjoyable. 

Cooking Class at Panzano

The cooking class was something straight out of the Food Network. We got to sit down and relax as we watched Chef Nic Lebas prepare two different dishes - Beef Tartare and Eggs in Purgatory. He explained he’s from Southern France but grew up cooking with his Italian grandmother, so he enjoys mixing the flavors of the two regions.  Chef Nic is really passionate about what he does and was so excited to share it with us.  He walked us through making both dishes step by step, with tips and tricks along the way (all while we sipped some delicious champagne!).  After he prepared each dish in front of us, we each got our own to try. We loved learning about his cooking style and also how to make some killer food! Each dish was unique and so flavorful.  We totally thought we’d be getting our hands dirty and preparing the dishes ourselves, but this was SO much better! It was educational and relaxing and just overall really enjoyable. 

Interested in trying a cooking class? Check out Panzano’s website for dates! Each course, Chef Nic will prepare different dishes so you’re sure to find something you’ll love. The classes are really intimate, and we think it’s the perfect girl’s day or date day event!

Next up on our agenda is to try Panzano’s brunch! We are big brunch gals (mimosas, anyone?) and we’ve heard some amazing things about it. Based on the food we sampled at the cooking class, we know it will be nothing short of exceptional!