Meet Dennis and Derry McCormick, Scott Stanford, Martha Mekeel of The Palace in Prescott

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dennis and Derry McCormick, Scott Stanford, Martha Mekeel.

The Palace is the oldest frontier saloon in Arizona, and the most well-known and historic restaurant and bar in the state. It is the crown jewel of Prescott’s Historic Whiskey Row. Past patrons include Wyatt Earp, Virgil Earp, Doc Holliday, and Big Nose Kate. Virgil was Prescott’s Town Constable. Originally built in 1877, the Palace was destroyed in the Whiskey Row fire of 1900. Patrons moved the bar and lower back bar across the street and drank and watched Whiskey Row burn to the ground. It was rebuilt in 1901. Today, The Palace maintains its history, grandeur and old wild west atmosphere, and attracts visitors from all over the world. You walk through the swinging saloon doors into another time with authentic artifacts, historic photos, period costumes, posters of Hollywood films shot at The Palace and antique gambling, military, cowboy, and mining displays. Gambling was a big part of the Western heritage and some of the gambling pieces displayed were actually used on Whiskey Row at the turn of the century. The centerpiece of it all is the original quarter sawn oak and cherry bar saved from the fire. Dennis, Derry, Scott, and Martha bought The Palace in April of 2018. Scott had been the General Manager for four years and Martha was a bartender. Dennis and Derry were regulars and had fallen in love with The Palace six years earlier when they first visited Prescott. When it came up for sale, they were all concerned about preserving the unique and rich history, and what might happen with new owners. Dennis and Derry had since moved to Prescott permanently, and partnered with Scott and Martha in purchasing the iconic business. We are happy to report that The Palace is growing and thriving, and still honors and maintains its historic legacy. It is a favorite for locals and a must-see for visitors.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Buying The Palace was a dream for all of us and has been an amazing adventure so far. There have been some growing pains, mostly with updating back of the house computer systems, etc., but the business itself is flourishing and we couldn’t be happier.

Please tell us about The Palace.
The Palace is truly unique in both its own history and prominence in the history of Prescott. We are passionate about keeping that history alive while providing a one of a kind experience for our guests. We offer great food, drinks, music, and a monthly dinner theatre in an authentic wild west atmosphere. The staff and many of the locals are in period dress, and we have many regulars who are very knowledgeable about the area’s history and love to share that with others. We have an extensive menu and the best whiskey selection on Whiskey Row. We are also a go-to venue for groups/parties/events and can accommodate very small to large groups. We regularly host wedding rehearsals/receptions, seasonal parties, reunions, birthdays, office parties, memorials, etc.

The Palace has many accolades including:

One of The “Top Ten Historic Bars in America”
USA Today

If you’re in Town For Only One Meal, Have It Here
Frommer’s Guide to Arizona Restaurants

“Most Historic Restaurant in Arizona”
Arizona Republic

“Best Saloon in Arizona”
True West Magazine

“The Palace Restaurant and Saloon Is A Must See”
1000 Places to See Before You Die

“Best Historic Restaurant”
True West Magazine 2018 “Best of The West”

“Best Historic Restaurant”
True West Magazine 2017 Reader’s Poll

“The Palace is the Only Restaurant Listed in Arizona”
1000 Places to See Before You Die

Voted “Best Whiskey Row Bar”
The Daily Courier, Prescott, 2018

“Top Ten Must See Historic Bars Across the United States”
Frommer’s Travel Guide, 2018

19 Cities That Must Be Seen in 2019– Prescott
Special Mention – The Palace
Expedia – 2019

What are you striving for, what criteria or markers have you set as indicators of success?
As owners, we define success as offering a great dining and social experience while keeping the history of Prescott and The Palace alive. We are grateful for the overwhelmingly positive feedback we get both in person and online. People who visit express having a truly wonderful, unique and unforgettable adventure. That tells us we are accomplishing what we set out to do.

Contact Info:

• Address: The Palace
  120 S. Montezuma St., Prescott, AZ 86303
• Website: whiskeyrowpalace.com
• Phone: 928-541-1996
• Email: whiskeyrowpalace@gmail.com bookthepalace@gmail.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WhiskeyRowPalace

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