I was presented with both the lunch and dinner menus; although I thought that a bit strange since it was after 5 p.m., I did appreciate the extra choices. There were a good many tasty sounding items to choose from; Reuben sandwich, quesadilla, chicken Oscar, prime rib and a variety of seafood dishes. I also happened to note a wide array of different wines available. I pondered for a few minutes and then finally chose the Salt & Pepper Squid (9.99) as an appetizer and the Ultimate Burger (12.99) for my entree.

While I awaited my food I took a look around at the room. The atmosphere seemed both casual and classy at the same time. There were several big-screen t.v.’s showing a baseball game and V.L.T. over in a corner alcove. The music playing over the loudspeakers was loud enough to be heard clearly and yet quiet enough that one could carry on a conversation without having to raise one’s voice. I recognized the songs as being ’80’s “soft-rock”.

The squid arrived at my table after only a very short wait. The portion size was quite good, with large lightly breaded pieces sitting on a bed of dry Chinese noodles and topped with sauteed strips of red and green peppers and red onion. I tasted one and was very pleased to find that it was almost perfectly cooked; not too chewy and the seasoning was just light enough to enhance the flavour of the calamari without masking it. It was accompanied by a medium-hot, tomato/ranch dipping sauce that accented the squid nicely. I tasted the Chinese noodles and discovered that they were intended strictly for decoration as they were very cardboard-like.

Within just a few minutes of finishing my appetizer, my burger arrived. The burger patty itself was overflowing the toasted kaiser bun and it was topped with bacon, mushrooms, cheese and bbq sauce; along with lettuce, tomato, pickle and onion. It was accompanied with a generous portion of steak cut fries. Taking one bite of the burger I realized that the bbq sauce was Bullseye brand and I could also taste a hint of garlic, which I believe was in the mayo-type burger sauce. It was cooked to perfection, still juicy and tender. The fries were just a little bit under crisp for my personal taste but otherwise acceptable.

My server was very attentive, coming over several times during the meal to see if everything was okay or if I needed anything else. After I finished my burger, I declined a second beer and she immediately asked if I would like the bill. My total came out to be $29.26 (including tax). I left a generous tip and walked out feeling full and satisfied.

My rating: Food – 4 out of 5
Service – 5 out of 5
Atmosphere – 4 out of 5
Overall Experience – 4.5 out of 5

Tiffany’s Steakhouse and Lounge
3515 – 50th Ave., Red Deer
(403) 341-3366

Check here for more Red Deer Restaurant reviews and locations!

Bookmark us to find Red Deer Westerner information.

It’s a nice place just off of Gaetz Avenue right at the top of Red Deer’s south hill. There was a handful of other people enjoying lunch already and I only had to wait a few moments to be seated. My server, Anna, soon came over to the table, poured a glass of water and presented a small plate of complimentary nacho chips and salsa.

While I awaited my lunch, I started in on the nachos. The chips themselves were crispy yellow corn tortillas. The salsa (which appeared to be made in house) was very flavourful; an excellent balance of a little heat and just the right amount of cilantro. It was thick and tasty. I also took a few moments to notice the decor. There was an assortment of Mexican looking artifacts and artwork and I noticed replica avocados and chilli peppers hanging on the walls. Over the speakers there was Spanish “soft-rock” playing. Even though I couldn’t understand it, I found it enjoyable.

After only a short time my soup came out first (as per my request). I could see large pieces of vegetables in a semi-dark broth. In the centre was a large dollop of guacamole. I stirred it up and saw a generous amount of chicken. From the first spoonful it was an absolute delight. Although the avocado flavour was barely noticeable it did enhance the overall taste of the soup. The was just a little bit of spiciness underlying the chicken broth. The pieces of chicken and vegetables were perfectly cooked and tender.

The burrito was a crispy baked flour tortilla. Inside was a lot of chicken smothered in a rich tasty tomato based sauce. Again there was just a little bit of heat to the dish; enough to warm up the tongue and taste buds but not enough to burn. It was very well seasoned and cooked almost perfectly. It was accompanied by a corn tortilla bowl of sour cream, salsa and guacamole. I was tempted to just wolf it down, but I took my time and savoured it instead.

After I had cleaned my plate and finished off the tortilla chips, the server brought me another coffee and my bill. Much to my delight the coffee was either free of charge or included in the price of the meal. Either way I felt that I had certainly received a bargain and I was well satisfied.

My rating: Food – 3 out of 5
Service – 3 out of 5
Atmosphere – 3 out of 5
Overall Experience – 3 out of 5

Las Palmeras Mexican Restaurant
3630 50th Avenue S, Red Deer
(403) 346-8877

Mon. – Thurs. 11:30 a.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Fri. – Sat. 11:30 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Sun. 12 noon – 9:00 p.m.

Subscribe for updates! Or follow this link for more Red Deer Restaurants!

The Red Deer Digest is produced locally, by two Central Alberta Residents. Be sure to come here again for more local information.