Merry Christmas, everyone! In the end, few things really matter; and none of them involve condos, restaurants or meaningless reviews on a blog. So I hope everyone is with those they love this time of year. I wish you all a truly meaningful holiday.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Happy Holidays!
Merry Christmas, everyone! In the end, few things really matter; and none of them involve condos, restaurants or meaningless reviews on a blog. So I hope everyone is with those they love this time of year. I wish you all a truly meaningful holiday.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Gallery Seattle
Strange to be reviewing a condo in the current market. I heard the market is not going to bottom out in the area until possibly 2010. In any case, it might be good to sit things out if you are a buyer until the panic truly sets in. With both Safeco and WaMu gone and the economy taking a dive, I'm guessing there are many sellers out there who need to unload.
I first got to know the Galley Condos as it was being planned. I remember fighting the huge crowd of real estate flippers for mini burgers at their showroom opening. Hard to believe that was less than two years ago. The building is close to completion and the sales center has moved to a first floor work loft in their northeast corner. The building sits in what is becoming a solid residential area at the north end of Belltown. The vibe is becoming more and more upper east/west side of Manhattan with this, Parc and Mosler Lofts joining other relatively new condos in the area. Sure, it's not at the center of retail or entertainment but this means it's quieter and calmer which many people, especially those with family, prefer. You are still within walking distance to most restaurants, and downtown is a short bus/taxi ride away. However, being on the northwest corner of 2nd and Broad is not the most ideal location for a view. Unlike Ellington or Concord which sit on top of a large hill on 1st, there is not much gain in elevation as you go to 2nd. I was surprised at the amount of water visible down Broad and up Denny but it is still significantly blocked by Concord. Although there is a 65 ft height limit along Denny, the rental property immediately to their west can go up to 13 floors which would completely block any views in that direction. I would recommend units that have at least some windows facing south or east to avoid being "blocked in" like Cosmopolitan.
They have a large number of floor plans from 600 sqft one level lofts starting around $350K. The lofts felt too small and dark for me considering they are long with windows at the far end. Considering the price, I would imagine they are for young, single professionals starting out. I don't think they would make a good second home considering how far it is from the downtown core. They have 2 bedroom 2 bath with or without den in the corners on the higher floors which are more interesting. I prefer the southwest corner unit which has a glassroom sticking out towards Broad. They can be large (about 1200-1450 sqft) and considering prices start right around $800k, there is value. In any case, considering the buyer's market, I would offer 10-20% below list. If your agent does not advise offering less than list even for new developments, they should be fired. ANYTHING is possible in a down market.
I was pleasantly surprised at the level of finish. The lobby is upscale and modern although obviously not as lush as the top tier condos downtown. There are solid appliances and fixtures in all units although I was worried about the base veneer cabinets. Once you get towards $1 million, the units automatically come with upgrades including top line appliances and solid wood cabinets. This is great since many top tier condos do not offer solid wood cabinets at any price. I did not like that the tub was in the second bath in most units, although this is just my preference. Also, I cannot understand why you would put only one vanity in the master bath of a two bedroom condo.
The list of amenities is pretty solid, as well. They have a decent sized fitness room, underground parking, a business center and two club rooms, one set up as a hip lounge with a view and deck on the 7th floor. They have a 24 hour doorman/concierge which many new condos lack. All this for a home owners due of around $0.50 per sqft; again, you can do a lot worse even at more pricey buildings. Considering Lampreia is moving to their retail space, I can't believe that residents would be disappointed. Yet, they are only 50% sold. What a difference two years makes. Here are the scores; I follow the Zagat format.
Location: 20
Building/unit quality: 22
Amenities: 22
Cost: +$350k
http://www.liveatgallery.com/
I first got to know the Galley Condos as it was being planned. I remember fighting the huge crowd of real estate flippers for mini burgers at their showroom opening. Hard to believe that was less than two years ago. The building is close to completion and the sales center has moved to a first floor work loft in their northeast corner. The building sits in what is becoming a solid residential area at the north end of Belltown. The vibe is becoming more and more upper east/west side of Manhattan with this, Parc and Mosler Lofts joining other relatively new condos in the area. Sure, it's not at the center of retail or entertainment but this means it's quieter and calmer which many people, especially those with family, prefer. You are still within walking distance to most restaurants, and downtown is a short bus/taxi ride away. However, being on the northwest corner of 2nd and Broad is not the most ideal location for a view. Unlike Ellington or Concord which sit on top of a large hill on 1st, there is not much gain in elevation as you go to 2nd. I was surprised at the amount of water visible down Broad and up Denny but it is still significantly blocked by Concord. Although there is a 65 ft height limit along Denny, the rental property immediately to their west can go up to 13 floors which would completely block any views in that direction. I would recommend units that have at least some windows facing south or east to avoid being "blocked in" like Cosmopolitan.
They have a large number of floor plans from 600 sqft one level lofts starting around $350K. The lofts felt too small and dark for me considering they are long with windows at the far end. Considering the price, I would imagine they are for young, single professionals starting out. I don't think they would make a good second home considering how far it is from the downtown core. They have 2 bedroom 2 bath with or without den in the corners on the higher floors which are more interesting. I prefer the southwest corner unit which has a glassroom sticking out towards Broad. They can be large (about 1200-1450 sqft) and considering prices start right around $800k, there is value. In any case, considering the buyer's market, I would offer 10-20% below list. If your agent does not advise offering less than list even for new developments, they should be fired. ANYTHING is possible in a down market.
I was pleasantly surprised at the level of finish. The lobby is upscale and modern although obviously not as lush as the top tier condos downtown. There are solid appliances and fixtures in all units although I was worried about the base veneer cabinets. Once you get towards $1 million, the units automatically come with upgrades including top line appliances and solid wood cabinets. This is great since many top tier condos do not offer solid wood cabinets at any price. I did not like that the tub was in the second bath in most units, although this is just my preference. Also, I cannot understand why you would put only one vanity in the master bath of a two bedroom condo.
The list of amenities is pretty solid, as well. They have a decent sized fitness room, underground parking, a business center and two club rooms, one set up as a hip lounge with a view and deck on the 7th floor. They have a 24 hour doorman/concierge which many new condos lack. All this for a home owners due of around $0.50 per sqft; again, you can do a lot worse even at more pricey buildings. Considering Lampreia is moving to their retail space, I can't believe that residents would be disappointed. Yet, they are only 50% sold. What a difference two years makes. Here are the scores; I follow the Zagat format.
Location: 20
Building/unit quality: 22
Amenities: 22
Cost: +$350k
http://www.liveatgallery.com/
Update: Lampreia did not move to Gallery but changed their name to Bisato at their old location.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Yakitori this
One of the great late night eats in the country is Angel's Share in NYC which serves all forms of japanese street food. If you're ever in the city, bar hopping and hungry at 2am, get in a cab and ask to be taken there (3rd ave and E 9th st); you can thank me later when you sober up. Just like cocoa beans go with milk and sugar, japanese street food goes great with being drunk off your ass.
I have been looking for a place like that in Seattle and one finally opened up. Kushi Bar sits in a newly renovated spot on 2nd ave. The place is shaped like an L with a long narrow room along the street that they open up when full. I think this gives it a very weird, cool vibe enhanced by the bare concrete decor. You sit at simple tables, many of them communal. Perfect, considering the whole point of going to this kind of a restaurant is to order many small dishes to share with close friends as you wind down the night with a few more drinks. It might be a little too clean for a yakitori joint, though.
Yakitori (basically food on a stick) is a very common street food in japan and probably the main reason to go here. They have the common yakitori selections, although not as varied as most. Considering they are one of the few yakitori joints in the northwest, I'm not complaining. You have to order the dark meat chicken and scallions; after that feel free to go nuts. They put a little too much sauce on the meat but seem to be improving. I always order some kind of tempura which is perfectly fried and crisp. The fried rice is also a great choice if you are still hungry. There are a few items I would stay away from. The fish cakes are overcooked and the broth is not seasoned properly. The pancake has the right flavor but cooked too large and thick. Since they just opened, I am hoping things will get better with time.
The service is great and prompt. However, since I am outgrowing my bar hopping days, I end up going here for drinks after work when they tend to be less busy. Near Bell on 2nd. Here are the scores; I follow the Zagat format. P.S.-Unlike Angel's Share, Kushi Bar closes at 2am.
Food: 18
Decor: 20
Service: 22
Cost: $35
http://www.kushibar.com/
206-448-2488
Friday, November 7, 2008
Dunno where I've been
Oh the places I've been, the people I've seen. Good to be back, though. One place I do remember going during my absence is Phoenix. Not sure about the city but at least I got to try what many call the best pizza in the country. Pizzeria Bianco is often credited as kicking off the gourmet pizza craze. I don't know if this is true since I don't usually follow trends in the pizza industry.
Chris Bianco is the celebrated chef and owner. The eatery is set near downtown by the stadium in a small park. The brick building is quaint but clean and has a lot of charm. Parking can be a problem, like any major city, but downtown Phoenix is dead after work hours making it easier. People are surprised at how long I wait to get a table at some of the great restaurants in the world. This is inescapable because many great chef owned restaurants tend to be small. However, the wait at Pizzeria Bianco is beyond ridiculous even for me. First, you have to get there before it opens and stand in line to get on the waiting list. They have only a limited number of seats per night and you have to get on the waiting list before they run out of space. You cannot make reservations or call ahead or order takeout. Once on the list, you have to check-in every hour or they will give away your spot. I got there 15 minutes before they opened (5pm) and was given their last table (10pm). That's right; I waited 5 hours and had to check-in 3 times for pizza.
They serve thin crust pizza which has a surprisingly clean taste for something with cheese. I found the toppings well paired although the crust is slightly too tough and chewy. The chef grows most of what he serves in the restaurant and you can taste individual ingredients coming though. Salads are fresh and small dishes are simple yet savory. However, is it better than Lombardi's in NYC? No. Is it worth the 5 hour wait? What do you think? Bottom line, I don't get what the big deal is. Maybe this place is avant-garde for people who've been eating Pizza Hut but Lombardi's has been making better thin crust for over a hundred years. Lombardi's has been open since 1905 and I've never had to wait more than an hour there for a table.
The service is what you would expect of a place that's chronically packed. The front desk is brisk bordering on rude likely due to having to deal all day with pissed off people waiting for tables. Once you sit down the waiters are friendly although slow. You can wait at their bar next door while your table comes up. Many have speculated the restaurant hasn't expanded and has the check-in policy to keep that bar full. Here are the scores; I follow the Zagat format.
Food: 23
Decor: 20
Service: 15
Cost: $40 + airfare to Phoenix + 5 hours of your life you will never get back
http://www.pizzeriabianco.com/
602-258-8300
Chris Bianco is the celebrated chef and owner. The eatery is set near downtown by the stadium in a small park. The brick building is quaint but clean and has a lot of charm. Parking can be a problem, like any major city, but downtown Phoenix is dead after work hours making it easier. People are surprised at how long I wait to get a table at some of the great restaurants in the world. This is inescapable because many great chef owned restaurants tend to be small. However, the wait at Pizzeria Bianco is beyond ridiculous even for me. First, you have to get there before it opens and stand in line to get on the waiting list. They have only a limited number of seats per night and you have to get on the waiting list before they run out of space. You cannot make reservations or call ahead or order takeout. Once on the list, you have to check-in every hour or they will give away your spot. I got there 15 minutes before they opened (5pm) and was given their last table (10pm). That's right; I waited 5 hours and had to check-in 3 times for pizza.
They serve thin crust pizza which has a surprisingly clean taste for something with cheese. I found the toppings well paired although the crust is slightly too tough and chewy. The chef grows most of what he serves in the restaurant and you can taste individual ingredients coming though. Salads are fresh and small dishes are simple yet savory. However, is it better than Lombardi's in NYC? No. Is it worth the 5 hour wait? What do you think? Bottom line, I don't get what the big deal is. Maybe this place is avant-garde for people who've been eating Pizza Hut but Lombardi's has been making better thin crust for over a hundred years. Lombardi's has been open since 1905 and I've never had to wait more than an hour there for a table.
The service is what you would expect of a place that's chronically packed. The front desk is brisk bordering on rude likely due to having to deal all day with pissed off people waiting for tables. Once you sit down the waiters are friendly although slow. You can wait at their bar next door while your table comes up. Many have speculated the restaurant hasn't expanded and has the check-in policy to keep that bar full. Here are the scores; I follow the Zagat format.
Food: 23
Decor: 20
Service: 15
Cost: $40 + airfare to Phoenix + 5 hours of your life you will never get back
http://www.pizzeriabianco.com/
602-258-8300
Monday, March 31, 2008
Bistro on 35th
Breakfast is a weird time for me. I gave up eating breakfast a long time ago, partly to get more sleep, partly since I don't like being full going into work. Since it is rare that I go for morning eats, I find it odd that I have been to 35th Street Bistro for brunch so many times. I think it speaks to the quality of food and restaurant overall.
35th Street Bistro is known throughout Seattle but part of the charm is it still feels like a local eatery. Most of the people I see there walk in from the neighborhood and seem like regulars. This gives the place comfort and charm. It could also be that the decor reminds me of neighborhood bistros in Paris. The high ceilings, wood and chandeliers do give it a European feel.
Food is fresh and well prepared. The menu changes regularly but they usually have some form of omelets, burgers and salads. The salads are particularly crisp and tasty and a great starter. However, a big reason to go are the unique dishes hard to find not just in town but anywhere. I make it a point to try something new every time and I have never been disappointed. They also have both mimosas and bellinis; a reason to go by itself.
Service is friendly and doesn't interfere with the enjoyment of the restaurant. They open at 11am but again, I prefer it late. Go near opening time to find parking easier. Near N 35th and Fremont. Here are the scores; I follow the Zagat format.
Food: 22
Decor: 20
Service: 19
Cost: Brunch $25
http://www.35bistro.com/
206-547-9850
35th Street Bistro is known throughout Seattle but part of the charm is it still feels like a local eatery. Most of the people I see there walk in from the neighborhood and seem like regulars. This gives the place comfort and charm. It could also be that the decor reminds me of neighborhood bistros in Paris. The high ceilings, wood and chandeliers do give it a European feel.
Food is fresh and well prepared. The menu changes regularly but they usually have some form of omelets, burgers and salads. The salads are particularly crisp and tasty and a great starter. However, a big reason to go are the unique dishes hard to find not just in town but anywhere. I make it a point to try something new every time and I have never been disappointed. They also have both mimosas and bellinis; a reason to go by itself.
Service is friendly and doesn't interfere with the enjoyment of the restaurant. They open at 11am but again, I prefer it late. Go near opening time to find parking easier. Near N 35th and Fremont. Here are the scores; I follow the Zagat format.
Food: 22
Decor: 20
Service: 19
Cost: Brunch $25
http://www.35bistro.com/
206-547-9850
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Wanna go for Thai, Tom?
In a jungle of teriyaki and cheap takeout joints there exists a conundrum in the university district named Thai Tom. On one hand, they have good food if a little too authentic. They heavily sauce their food and considering most dishes involve fish sauce, you can be left over-powered if you are not expecting it. Also, they mean spicy when they say spicy. Don't be a hero, go for 2 stars. However, stick to dishes like pad thai and garlic chicken and I doubt you could do better anywhere else in town. Considering most dishes are around $10, Thai Tom might just be the best thai value in Seattle.
On the other hand, the service is ridiculous. First, the joint is beyond small. Second, it is beyond beyond small. What I am trying to say is that it is SMALL. This means you can't get a seat in less than 30 minutes if anyone else in town wants to eat there that night. Even takeout takes long and forget about calling ahead; I've never been able to get through. The service doesn't get any better when you sit down. I try to give the waiters a break since they are always packed and they constantly deal with customers who are angry about the wait. However, the plain fact is that they are curt and slow.
The decor does have a charm to it. It is cheap but that gives it character. I also prefer restaurants that are too small to those that are too large (within limits). This way you get to see the cook prepare the dishes right in front of you. Where I have a huge problem is in just how dirty they are. The tables are sticky even when they first open and I try not to look at their floor. I've lived in New York so I almost expect bugs in restaurants but it's still not pleasant when you see it. Decide for yourself. On University NE near NE 47th. Bring cash since they don't take plastic. Here are the scores; I follow the Zagat format.
Food: 23
Decor: 7
Service: 5
Cost: Dinner $15
No web site
206-548-9548
On the other hand, the service is ridiculous. First, the joint is beyond small. Second, it is beyond beyond small. What I am trying to say is that it is SMALL. This means you can't get a seat in less than 30 minutes if anyone else in town wants to eat there that night. Even takeout takes long and forget about calling ahead; I've never been able to get through. The service doesn't get any better when you sit down. I try to give the waiters a break since they are always packed and they constantly deal with customers who are angry about the wait. However, the plain fact is that they are curt and slow.
The decor does have a charm to it. It is cheap but that gives it character. I also prefer restaurants that are too small to those that are too large (within limits). This way you get to see the cook prepare the dishes right in front of you. Where I have a huge problem is in just how dirty they are. The tables are sticky even when they first open and I try not to look at their floor. I've lived in New York so I almost expect bugs in restaurants but it's still not pleasant when you see it. Decide for yourself. On University NE near NE 47th. Bring cash since they don't take plastic. Here are the scores; I follow the Zagat format.
Food: 23
Decor: 7
Service: 5
Cost: Dinner $15
No web site
206-548-9548
Friday, March 21, 2008
Perfect Oaxacan
I once heard that the best Pizza in the country is in Arizona. I know; Arizona? Well, I can't tell if this is true since I've never tried (correction; review above). However, considering that one of the best mexican food I have had is in Seattle, maybe it is not so far fetched. I have to give credit of finding La Carta de Oaxaca to my significant other as I had serious doubts of trying any mexican food in town. I used to live in Los Angeles and I have never been able to find anything close to when my mexican friends would invite me to dinner prepared by their mother. That is, until now.
I think one of the best signs of great mexican food is how un-greasy it is. The common perception of mexican food seems to be something covered in grease and cheese. This is usually overdone to the point where the taste gets completely lost. Where La Carta de Oaxaca excels is in how fresh, wholesome and light the food is. Sure they use cheese, refried tortillas, and chilies but in the correct proportions with large amounts of fresh vegetables. The flavors are so well balanced that it surprises me every time I go. The portions are small but this gives me a chance to try many dishes especially considering their prices are reasonable. My favorites are the tacos and tostadas but everything is good.
The atmosphere is fantastic. Not only is it modern and clean but there is usually a large crowd giving it a hip feel. The service can suffer when they are slammed so be prepared to wait both to get seated and get served. It's best to go with a crowd to keep each other company. My biggest beef is again with parking which is impossible in Ballard. On Ballard NW near NW Market. Here are the scores; I follow the Zagat format.
Food: 24
Decor: 21
Service: 16
Cost: Dinner $25
http://www.lacartadeoaxaca.com/
206-782-8722
I think one of the best signs of great mexican food is how un-greasy it is. The common perception of mexican food seems to be something covered in grease and cheese. This is usually overdone to the point where the taste gets completely lost. Where La Carta de Oaxaca excels is in how fresh, wholesome and light the food is. Sure they use cheese, refried tortillas, and chilies but in the correct proportions with large amounts of fresh vegetables. The flavors are so well balanced that it surprises me every time I go. The portions are small but this gives me a chance to try many dishes especially considering their prices are reasonable. My favorites are the tacos and tostadas but everything is good.
The atmosphere is fantastic. Not only is it modern and clean but there is usually a large crowd giving it a hip feel. The service can suffer when they are slammed so be prepared to wait both to get seated and get served. It's best to go with a crowd to keep each other company. My biggest beef is again with parking which is impossible in Ballard. On Ballard NW near NW Market. Here are the scores; I follow the Zagat format.
Food: 24
Decor: 21
Service: 16
Cost: Dinner $25
http://www.lacartadeoaxaca.com/
206-782-8722
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Steaks at Capital Grille
There is a new steak house in town looking to take down the old guard. Capital Grille looks like they are no strangers to the game considering how many locations they have around the country. I saw them getting set for their grand opening as I visited Purple a while ago. Considering the craving for good steak I get, I made a mental note to check them out.
The comparison is going to be against El Gaucho which I consider the best steak in town. Cutting to the chase, they fall slightly short in terms of food. It could be that they have just not been open long but I found the steaks not as tender or as flavorful. I can't tell if it's the quality of the original beef or the way that it is aged but they are a notch down. The Kona crust, a coffee rub you can opt for, is decent but I tend to like my steak au naturale. Also, the steaks are slightly over-cooked than they were ordered. Where they make up some ground is in the sides. They are tasty and are given in large portions. There are other items on the menu and the appetizers are fine but hey, it's a steak house. I will say a word about the desserts, though. I believe they are not made in-house which is fine since it is likely true of most of the restaurants in the area. However, they are so plain and unimaginative that I would fire their buyer.
The decor is upscale and obviously new considering how long they have been open. It is traditional steak house with rich colors and wood. It is a little more bright than I am used to but nice overall. The service was very friendly but also very slow. Again, it could be because they just opened. I also missed the show at El Gaucho where the servers prepare certain dishes at your table. On 4th and University. Here are the scores; I follow the Zagat format.
Food: 23
Decor: 24
Service: 22
Cost: Dinner $90
http://www.thecapitalgrille.com/
206-382-0900
The comparison is going to be against El Gaucho which I consider the best steak in town. Cutting to the chase, they fall slightly short in terms of food. It could be that they have just not been open long but I found the steaks not as tender or as flavorful. I can't tell if it's the quality of the original beef or the way that it is aged but they are a notch down. The Kona crust, a coffee rub you can opt for, is decent but I tend to like my steak au naturale. Also, the steaks are slightly over-cooked than they were ordered. Where they make up some ground is in the sides. They are tasty and are given in large portions. There are other items on the menu and the appetizers are fine but hey, it's a steak house. I will say a word about the desserts, though. I believe they are not made in-house which is fine since it is likely true of most of the restaurants in the area. However, they are so plain and unimaginative that I would fire their buyer.
The decor is upscale and obviously new considering how long they have been open. It is traditional steak house with rich colors and wood. It is a little more bright than I am used to but nice overall. The service was very friendly but also very slow. Again, it could be because they just opened. I also missed the show at El Gaucho where the servers prepare certain dishes at your table. On 4th and University. Here are the scores; I follow the Zagat format.
Food: 23
Decor: 24
Service: 22
Cost: Dinner $90
http://www.thecapitalgrille.com/
206-382-0900
Thursday, January 10, 2008
India Bistro
I am so fond of indian cuisine with beer that I wonder if I'm part english. In any case, I have been pleasantly surprised at the number of indian restaurants in Seattle and many are quite good. My vote for best goes to India Bistro. They have two locations; one in Ballard and one in Roosevelt. I go to the one in Ballard because... actually I don't know why. All the familiar dishes are there, from biriyani and tandoori to my favorites chicken vindaloo and tikka masala. Indian food is all about herbs and spices and India Bistro does not disappoint. The favors are intense and well proportioned and completely infused into the meat. The nan tastes freshly cooked. They have vegetarian dishes for those who so choose. Most of their dishes cost way less than $10 which puts them over the top. My only complaint is that they don't have Guinness.
The decor is clean and on the simple side although looks romantic in candlelight with table cloth and gold/copper tableware. It looks like a good place for a first date and you often see awkward couples getting to know each other. The atmosphere is enhanced as it is always packed with a long wait of people trying to get a table (the best sign of a great restaurant). I have a request for anyone who goes; LEAVE WHEN YOU FINISH EATING! It is incredibly rude to sit around after paying the check when you can clearly see 20 people waiting in the cold. If she does not want to go back to your place at dessert, she's not going to change her mind after 30 minutes of pointless conversation.
The service is spotty and can get slow. I usually don't mind when I am paying this little for good food but it can get ridiculous at times. Finally, it is impossible to find parking in Ballard. On NW Market and Ballard NW. Here are the scores; I follow the Zagat format.
Food: 24
Decor: 18
Service: 13
Cost: $17
http://www.seattleindiabistro.com/
206-783-5080
The decor is clean and on the simple side although looks romantic in candlelight with table cloth and gold/copper tableware. It looks like a good place for a first date and you often see awkward couples getting to know each other. The atmosphere is enhanced as it is always packed with a long wait of people trying to get a table (the best sign of a great restaurant). I have a request for anyone who goes; LEAVE WHEN YOU FINISH EATING! It is incredibly rude to sit around after paying the check when you can clearly see 20 people waiting in the cold. If she does not want to go back to your place at dessert, she's not going to change her mind after 30 minutes of pointless conversation.
The service is spotty and can get slow. I usually don't mind when I am paying this little for good food but it can get ridiculous at times. Finally, it is impossible to find parking in Ballard. On NW Market and Ballard NW. Here are the scores; I follow the Zagat format.
Food: 24
Decor: 18
Service: 13
Cost: $17
http://www.seattleindiabistro.com/
206-783-5080
Monday, January 7, 2008
Canlis
I have visited Canlis several times. The food is good but the reason I keep going is for the view. As a downtowner, I prefer the vibe of the city. However, you cannot deny the beauty of Lake Union at sunset as you see cars pass by on I-5 and sea-planes land. It reminds me of a model train set. The atmosphere of the restaurant itself compliments the view. It is high class although definitely looks better in candlelight. I describe the decor as upscale northwest cabin.
The food is mostly great and the wine list is fantastic. The first courses are cooked and assembled perfectly. I enjoy their foie gras, steak tartar and escargot. Their salads are inventive, savory and playful. I feel their main dishes don't quite live up to the lead in. They are well paired in ingredients and presented well. However, they are lacking in inventiveness and things I could find at any new american cuisine. I have also rarely seen some variability in the quality of preparation. I am not sure if I caught them on a bad night.
The service is about as good as it gets in town. They know which side to serve from and the waiters are informative and courteous. It's not perfect especially in attentiveness but then you have to pay at least double and get on a plane to find that. They make up for it by having a great valet service where they have your car ready automatically as you leave. On Aurora right before the bridge. Careful you don't go too far since getting back is a pain. Here are the scores; I follow the Zagat format.
Food: 25
Decor: 26
Service: 27
Cost: $100
http://www.canlis.com/
206-283-3313
The food is mostly great and the wine list is fantastic. The first courses are cooked and assembled perfectly. I enjoy their foie gras, steak tartar and escargot. Their salads are inventive, savory and playful. I feel their main dishes don't quite live up to the lead in. They are well paired in ingredients and presented well. However, they are lacking in inventiveness and things I could find at any new american cuisine. I have also rarely seen some variability in the quality of preparation. I am not sure if I caught them on a bad night.
The service is about as good as it gets in town. They know which side to serve from and the waiters are informative and courteous. It's not perfect especially in attentiveness but then you have to pay at least double and get on a plane to find that. They make up for it by having a great valet service where they have your car ready automatically as you leave. On Aurora right before the bridge. Careful you don't go too far since getting back is a pain. Here are the scores; I follow the Zagat format.
Food: 25
Decor: 26
Service: 27
Cost: $100
http://www.canlis.com/
206-283-3313
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