Assaggio Ristorante
Every time Brett and I have guests in town, we just have to take them to one of our favorite restaurants, Assaggio Ristorante. We just love it, and love to show it off to visitors.
So, with the arrival of our fabulous house-guests April and Steven, two of Brett’s best and long-time school mates, we knew exactly where to take them!
We decided to make it a double-date-night, since April and Steven were also just recently engaged!
Until now.
We just can’t keep it a secret any longer.
The four of us arrived around 8pm to an overly crowded entryway. There must have been about 25 people standing around waiting for a table. No problem! We found a spot at the bar and sipped on a few drinks while waiting for our table. While waiting, we were asked at least twice if we’d been helped [the staff here does all they can to make sure their guests are attended to]. We were seated promptly at our reservation time (8.15), coats and umbrellas taken from us and hung up to dry.
[Just check out the art on the wall above Brett in this photo!]
The detail in the decoration, from beautiful murals on the ceiling to extravagant chandeliers and lighting… it all blends together perfectly to make you feel as though you are actually in another world. Not only in the atmosphere, the bustling hustle of the wait staff (who is always prompt and helpful), and the decor, but also apparent in the friendliness of the staff. I think we heard, “enjoy your meal” from at least 3 of Assaggio’s employees as we were walking to our table. You truly feel as though they want more than anything for you to have an amazing time.
Our waitress was great. It was clear that it was busy and she was stretched, but she answered all our questions with patience and grace, and even repeated ALL seven specials for us after having already told us once before. After all was said and done, she ended everything with an “It’s my pleasure.”
And the thing is, I believe her.
From the garlic-infused olive oil and bread we started with, to the crisp white wine that paired perfectly with everything, or the antipasti platter we ordered to fill the gap in our stomachs before dinner. There was no platter on the menu, but the waitress told us she could scrounge something together, and it turned out wonderful. Meats, cheeses, olives and breads for us 4 to share.
The mains were exceptional. I had the salmon with strawberries [an unexpectedly fresh combination!], Brett and April both enjoyed the beef risotto, and Steven had the seafood linguini. They were all amazing. Good sized portions, thoughtful flavor combinations, well worth the price.
To end this perfect meal, we each shared a plate of canolis. I’ve never EVER tasted anything better in my life. They were amazing.
Assaggio never fails to disappoint.
Great food, great wine, great ambiance, GREAT service, great company, great conversation.
You walk away from here knowing that you always have somewhere to go if you just want to feel the comfort of some authentic Italian food, friends, and family.
Because truly, when you’re at Assaggio, you feel like you’re part of the family.
Benissimo!
Mandy's done a great job here wrapping up the Assaggio experience. Seattle has a lot of great Italian joints but for me this is the one.
To add a little to Mandy's review, I'd like to note that Assagio is fantastic anytime of the day.I luckily work in the building adjacent and have spent many a wonderful lunch hour enjoying there menu. I've never been let down yet!
The service, food, wine and ambiance is consistent every time. Do yourself a favor a get down there ASAP!
Cheers,
Brett
Assaggio Ristorante 2010 4th Ave
(Between Lenora and Virginia on 4th in Belltown)
Seattle, WA 98121
(206) 441-1399
Romance: 4
Cool Ambiance/Interior: 4
All Around Service: 5+
Cost: $$$ = entrees from $14 - 22
Would we recommend it? 5: Yes! And can we come with you?
