CINCINNATI (WKRC) – Orchids at Palm Court earned the AAA Five Diamond Award late last year, so Local 12 took a tour of the restaurant to find out what’s behind the success.
The Orchids dining room is straight out of an art deco dream, left mostly untouched over the years. You halfway expect to see Gatsby himself seated at one of the dimly lit banquettes.
“This dining room in particular is just all of the history that’s occurred here and kind of the thought that we get to create a new history or kind of create a new story for the space,” says Head Pastry Chef Megan Ketover.
Under the direction of Executive Chef Todd Kelly, the restaurant has earned the AAA Five Diamond Award three years in a row. It’s the only restaurant in the state with that designation.
“It’s really all in the details. Everything from–the foods a big component and the service is a big component–but everything from the type of glass wear, china, everything as far as how far you escort them to the bathroom, the greetings, the reservation process, everything is judged,” says Kelly.
The Chef came to Orchids a decade ago when he was given the chance to paint on a blank canvas. His art is rare and fine. It also takes time. Many of the ingredients are carefully prepared in house days, weeks and months before they even make it onto a plate. A team of trained staff works around the clock to provide a dining experience unlike any other in town right now.
Ketover says they shoot for relaxing, not stuffy. “It’s really kind of a total package of your evening. There’s everything. Every kind of detail is thought through and thought through for you, so you can come and celebrate and have a great time,” she says.
Fine dining is something this city has a history of doing well. Now, Orchids at Palm Court is on a roll and putting Cincinnati back on the foodie map.
“We have a number of people that are here from Cincinnati, but we also have people that have come from outside cities to work here, so these people are really committed. They have the same goals and they just want to continue to grow and be successful,” says Kelly.
Forbes Travel Guide gives Orchids Four Stars. Kelly says they’re working hard to earn that coveted fifth star.
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