Meet the new owners of Woodland Park’s Swiss Chalet
The iconic Swiss Chalet Restaurant, 19263 E. U.S. 24, Woodland Park, has been sold to restaurant veterans, married couple, David and Carrie Platzer.
According to David, “Between the two of us, we have been in the industry for over 75 years. I started working in kitchens when I was 15 and fell in love with the restaurant business. I have my degree from the Culinary Institute of American in Hyde Park, New York.
The new name of the eatery will be Boards & Barrels – Bistro & Whiskey Bar.
“The barrel part is relatively easy to understand — wine, beer & spirits,” David said. “The board part has a double meaning. First and foremost, I have a love for charcuterie and will have boards beyond salami and cheese. So, secondly, to put it simply, our boards will not be boring. I will be making sausages, pates, terrines and curing meats. Plus making my own preserves and pickled vegetables.”
He added, “Carrie and I are focused on good quality food and drink, exceptional service, and an experience that you do not get but should, when you go out to dine.”
In addition to charcuterie boards there will be a full menu with some dishes designed to be shared among guests.
“We want to bring back the experience of sharing a good meal and better conversation,” David said.
Carrie will be the general manager.
“With her extensive knowledge in front of the house, wines, spirits, and her high service standards, there is no one better suited to lead our service staff. Her background is as varied as mine which includes casual and fine dining, brew pubs, gastropubs, and hotels,” David said.
The couple is hoping to re-open the restaurant in mid-to-late April after completing some interior and exterior building projects.
“Two of the biggest changes will include converting one restroom to be ADA (The Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance and adding an eight-seat bar,” David said. “The bar at the Swiss Chalet was considered a service bar at best.”
For the outside, changes will include refurbishing the patio dining area, adding a pergola, removing shutters, lettering, and updating some of the paint. A wheelchair ramp will also be added to the main entrance.
For the second time in a few months, the Swiss Chalet is up for sale.
With its intimate setting, dining at the Swiss Chalet restaurant offers fine food and a sense of a hometown ambience.
Outback is launching “Cocktail for a Cause” featuring the Aussie Blue cocktail to support CORE (Children of Restaurant Employees) through April 9.