2015 Seattle Valentine's Day Date Ideas!

Well, hello friends!!

It's been WAY too long. Apologies. Life has gotten away with us and, while we are still honoring date night, we are falling a wee bit behind on blogging them.

HOWEVER, there is one post that we canNOT skip out on, and that is the Valentine's Day List of to-do's!

Valentine's Day falls on a Saturday this year so of course, there are heaps of fun events you can spend part of your weekend doing, all celebrating this lovely little holiday of love.

List below - we'll continue to add to it as we discover more great happenings. Enjoy!

V-Day 2015 In Seattle


Get Active:

Cupid's Undie Run! / Feb 14

St Valentine's Day Dash (Greenlake) / Feb 14

Love ‘em or Leave ‘em Valentine’s Day Dash @ Green Lake Park | 5K Fun Run, Tunnel of Love, Free Food & Drink, Exhibitors / Feb 14

Dinner/Theater:

Tons of fixed price menus showcasing the best that this city has to offer. Seattle Restaurant VDay Specials can be found here: Seattle Valentine's Dinner Events 2015

The Dinner Detective @ The Hotel Deca | Largest Murder Mystery Dinner Show In The U.S., Saturdays, Everyone’s Suspect / February 13-14

Comedy Benefit for the Autism Society of Washington @ Tacoma Comedy Club | Auction, Dinner, Andrew Norelli / Feb 14

Dirty Dancing at the Paramount

Burlesque!! at the Triple Door / Feb 14

Valentine's Day in Wonderland at the CanCan (Burlesque) / Feb 14

Columbia City Burlesque / Feb 14

Valentine's Day Improv at the Market Theater / Feb 14

Literary Boxing Match / Feb 13-15

Valentine's Day Underground! / Feb 14

Y0-yo Contest (because really, what's more romantic than that??) / Feb 14

Wine and Cocktails in the Conservatory / Feb 14

Chop Shop Dance Festival / Feb 13-14

Dinner Cruise / Feb 14


Party!:

Bollysutra Valentine’s Day Party @ Club Contour | Presented by Wicked Karma, DJ RDX , Roses, Performances / Feb 14

“Turn On Your Lovelight” @ Nectar Lounge | Grateful Dead Tribute featuring Andy Coe Ban / Feb 14

Georgetown Art Attack | Second Saturday, Neighborhood Art Walk, Participants, Map, Free / Feb 14

Flower and Garden Show / Feb 11-15

Get outside!

Free entrance to all national parks! (Feb 14-16, President's Day Weekend)

Free Entrance Days for Presidents Day Weekend | Mt Rainier National Park, Olympic National Park / February 14-16

Further Out:

Valentine's Day Symphony in Burien

Valentine's Day in Tacoma at the Botanical Conservatory / Feb 13

Sumner Wine Walk / Feb 14

Spirit of the West: The Spirit of the West Cowboy Gathering celebrates traditional cowboy music, poetry, art, gear, and chow in Ellensburg. (Feb 13-15)

Yakima Valley Red Wine and Chocolate Event / Feb 14

Take a romantic train ride to Portland for the weekend

...or, do what Brett and i are doing, and head to THIS RIDICULOUS PLACE!! More on that later. ;)


xo,
B&M

Buy the above image here

mkt. = omg.

She Said ...

For those of you who are familiar with our blog, you’re aware that to us, Ethan Stowell [How to Cook a Wolf, Tavolata, Staple & Fancy, to name a few] can do no wrong. So when we heard last September he was opening a small intimate eatery in the already obscure neighborhood of Tangletown, I knew we HAD to go. 

[mkt. opens the garage door in warmer temps; source]

Holiday madness now behind us, it was time. I made reservations [TIP: Make reservations – this teeny eatery seats about 20 comfortably, 28 total so reservations are a MUST] for 7:45 on a Thursday – the earliest I could get – and then we waited impatiently for Date Night to arrive.

We showed up a bit early knowing that Tangletown was also home to an Elysian Brewery, which ended up being our first stop for some pre-dinner tipples. [TIP: Ample street parking so no worries there] 

If you do end up having to wait a while for a table, I’d recommend heading next door as there is very limited ‘waiting’ space in mkt., and you’ll probably just be in the way (but their staff won't make you feel that way).

A few Elysian pints in our belly and now starving, Brett and I headed next door to mkt.

Now, a bit of back-story from their website and chats with our incredibly informed waiter Seth:  

“Mkt. gets its name from Meridian, which was the traditional name for the neighborhood; the historic Keystone Building it’s housed in; and Tangletown, as the area is now known. With just 28 seats, Mkt. is an intimate space serving thoughtful, contemporary American fare with a dedication to Northwest products.” 

Their menu, which we studied in depth before arriving, includes a great variety – from olives, green beans or cheeses to start, a great mix of seafoods (try the ceviche, it was incredible!), beef, duck and lamb for meats, and a handfull of vegetarian dishes, which Brett and I got a few of to share [TIP: if there is one thing you must take our advice on, it’s the smoked mushroom and gnocchi – I’ve honestly not had a dish that complex and delicious since Gordon Ramsay himself served us in London].

[Kitchen, front and center; source]

But more on the food in a sec. 

When you first walk in, this place is tiny and intimate, dimly lit, with a calm bustle happening all around you. In Ethan Stowell style, the kitchen plays front and center, with seating happening all around it. 

You are able to get that sneak peek into how the food is prepared – nothing hidden here – and you feel like part of the action. All this combined makes for a brilliant date night. 

The staff is incredible. Super attentive but not overbearing. While we waited just a few minutes for our table, we were offered drinks and a seat at the front bar until our table opened up. 

[Small dining area creates intimacy; source]

Looking around at the décor, it’s not pretentious – you almost feel as though you’re dining in a chic friend's loft – single-bulb chandeliers line the dining area (allows for sexy, low lighting), shelves holding everything from boxed red wine used in their dishes (rad), to a pressure cooker, kegs and cookbooks. 

The back corner of the dining room there is letter art on the wall showcasing some of the main ingredients used in the dishes here.

We were seated and promptly started ordering (having memorized the menu days before). [TIP: There is the option here to tell the waiter to just bring recommendations (alert him/her of any allergies, of course) which, if Brett and I didn't already have our sights set on a few dishes, we would have partook in.]

[Winter squash Fitters and Pesto, source]

The plates here are quite small so, as the waiter may recommend, 2-3 per person is likely sufficient – and be prepared to share! Brett and I got the grilled and marinated green beans, sea salt, lemon (a small cup full for $7) and winter squash fritters, coriander, herb-pumpkin seed pesto (8 fritters for $9) – both a brilliant medley of flavor – and perfect to whet our appetites for what was to come. 

They bring the dishes out as they are ready so you are never waiting. For our ‘mains’ we got the Hamachi ceviche with citrus-cucumber ice, coriander, and pickled red onions (small serving for $15). The plate was small, not recommended as a stand-alone main, but the flavor was OUT of this world. Had a cool cucumber ice topping that added a 360-degree sensorial experience. 

Brett got the braised lamb shank, wild mushrooms, herb spaetzle (lamb from Anderson Farm in Oregon, $27, good portion) which was cooked to perfection; we also ordered a few of the veggie plates to share – the aforementioned smoked wild mushrooms with sweet potato gnocchi ($13) and Vegetable tagine, with rosemary, olive oil, medjool dates (holy shit these were good), and preserved lemon ($12), which paired perfectly with the lamb.

[Vegetable Tagine; source]

As far as drinks go – they have an extensive wine list to choose from. Brett and I went with red wine by the glass. It was a school night, after all. J

The food – God damn the food – it was all so good. We were blown away each dish that was brought out. We were stuffed by the end, but knew we HAD to try dessert. We shared a chocolate mousse which offered just the right amount of sweetness-meets-richness to finish off this brilliant meal.

Our check came – and while it’s a bit pricey for the amount of food you get (all of the above, plus tip, came to just under $200) it's SO worth it, as the food was some of the best we've ever had. And i think Brett said it best: "This is a 'Guaranteed to get in her pants meal'" –  and i'd have to agree.

Highly recommend mkt. for a date night – its intimate setting, complex food flavors, and exceptional service all make for that perfect evening we've been waiting so long for!

Xo,

B&M

THE FINE PRINT


mkt.
Address: 2108 N 55th St, Seattle, WA 98103
Phone:(206) 812-1580
Prices:
$$$$
Hours:



Monday	5:00 – 10:00 pm
Tuesday	5:00 – 10:00 pm
Wednesday	5:00 – 10:00 pm
Thursday	5:00 – 10:00 pm
Friday	5:00 – 11:00 pm
Saturday	5:00 – 11:00 pm
Sunday	5:00 – 10:00 pm
Menu: ethanstowellrestaurants.com
Recommend?: YES! Intimate, amazing food, a bit pricey but WORTH it. Go now!!! 

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Seattle Valentine's Day Date Night ideas

Hello, chickens!

As we all know, Valentine’s Day is THE day to show you care. Now, while I fully disagree and think that you should show you care EVERY DAY (“just because” flowers are WAY better than VD flowers), it’s still a good excuse to go out and have some fun with your lovie.

And there’s not a city that plays a better backdrop for a night of romance than our very own Seattle. I mean, come on – Sleepless in Seattle?!?  Only one of the best love stories of all time.

Anyway, this year, the special day falls on a Friday – and a long weekend at that! (if you’re lucky enough to get Monday, President’s Day, off) So there’s NO excuse for slacking. But fear not – we’ve compiled a list of some great restaurants and events that are pulling out all the stops this Valentine’s Day. So book quick! You’ve only got a few short weeks to go!

Xo

B&M

V-Day Dinner atLocal 360

"A lovely 3-course menu designed to create romance. 3 courses - $50 per guest. Or enjoy the Chef’s Cut for two - Market Price. Reservations recommended."

V-Day Dinner at Altura Restaurant

Offering a 4-course set menu on Valentine's Day

Menu here

$162/person

($77/person to add paired wines)

Royal Argosy’sValentine’s Dinner Cruise

Come aboard for a romantic evening for two aboard the Royal Argosy. Guests will enjoy a live band during this three-hour sailing. Dinner is a special 5-course seated-served meal, prepared by James Beard award-winning Executive Chef Christine Keff.  Rate includes: Romantic Elliott Bay Cruise, Champagne greeting, seated 5-course dinner, coffee and tea, and live band.

Note: couples sit at their own table. $115 per person.

Valentine’sDay Dinner Cruise  (Brunch and Dinner options)

Waterways Cruises and Events, Seattle and Kirkland departures

Treat your sweetheart to a romantic 4 course dinner aboard a beautiful Waterways yacht! Relax and enjoy breathtaking views as you cruise on Seattle’s lakes... Live harp music and your Captain’s narration will add to your enjoyment of these very special cruises. 

$84pp

"Let's Dance:A Valentine's Ball"

The Crocodile 

Put on your red shoes and dance the blues this Valentine’s Day! The Crocodile presents the debut of BowieVision, an eight-piece band bringing the best of Bowie to life in sound and vision with the aid of stunning multimedia effects. Special guests the Braxmatics will fill the dance floor with old-school funky goodness and Purr Gato opens the show with sweet Eighties-influenced electronica. Let’s dance!

$13pp

Whiskey Valentine

Barrel Thief

"The Barrel Thief is a great place to bring a date for Valentine's Day. We have over 150 wines by the glass, cocktails, food, desserts, and an elegant, comfortable atmosphere. We have over a dozen Ports and other dessert wines by the glass, sparkling wine by the glass and bottle, and a great selection of artisan chocolates."

Valentine's DayWinery Couples Cooking Class

Parties that Cook, Woodinville

Perfect for Valentine's Day: Treat your special someone to a romantic evening of wine sipping, hands-on cooking and delicious fun at the beautiful Efeste Winery! At this exciting hands-on cooking party, guests are greeted at the door with a nibble and name tag. Then, guests enjoy a lively introductory cooking lesson featuring tips such as the fastest way to dice an onion without a tear.

You and your partner will heat up the kitchen as you listen to upbeat music, learn cooking techniques and work in teams to prepare 2 recipes from the evening's tantalizing tapas menu. When the cooking is over, guests savor the 'fruits' of their labor hot from the oven! Copies of the recipes and digital photos are emailed to the group after the event. 2 glasses of complimentary wine are included.

Valentine's DayDinner at Chihuly Garden & Glass

Chihuly Garden

Valet parking, champagne toast and passed starters upon arrival, followed by a delectable four course dinner designed by one of Seattle’s top chefs, Ivan Szilak of Collections Café. Included is a complimentary bottle of wine or champagne, with choices including Billy O Dunham Collections White or Red or Capitello Brut.

Live music by local jazz musician Jacqueline Tabor and her Band.

And, after dinner, tour the galleries and garden, leaving with a keepsake commemorating your unforgettable evening.

Love, Chaos, andDinner at Teatro Zinzanni

Teatro Zinzanni

Treat your sweetheart to an experience not soon forgotten with music, merriment, chocolate-covered strawberries, a glass of champagne and a multi-course feast!  Valentine’s Day is twice as nice with special seating and sweet surprises for your sweetheart.

Comedy of Love

Unexpected Productions

Love is in the air at Unexpected Productions this year... Join us for our special Valentine's Day themed improv show, Comedy of Love, as we explore the passions of the holiday through hilarious comedy improv. Watch our veteran improvisers take on love, lust and everything in between, all based on audience inspiration! It takes place at the Market Theater, in romantic Pike Place Market! All ages are welcome. Comedy of Love has been a hit since 2005.

Cupids HeartAttack: A valentine’s Day special

The JewelBox @ Rendezvous

Featuring a headlining performance by Eric Blu & The Soul Revue, musical performances by Jack Mozie, ELoh, and Karin Parks, comedy by Edi Zanidache, pole dancing by Dimeatra Dee, fashion presentations by Backpack Girl Bikini's and A Little Risqué, burlesque by EmpeRoar Fabu Lous, and more TBA.

$10/GA

Mindi Abair Valentine’s Celebration
Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley

Sax player Mindi Abair has sold half a million solo albums, but also served as the featured saxophonist for American Idol in 2011 and 2012. Kick back at Dimitrou’s and enjoy a mellow Valentine’s concert.

$34.50pp

HardLove: Valentine’s Day with Stripped Screw Burlesque

Columbia City Theater

A little bit of comedy and a little bit of spice makes Valentine’s Day a night you won’t forget. This evening of popular acts from Stripped Screw features Stella D’Letto with an all-new act, Lady Drew Blood, Violet Tendencies and Seraphina Fiero.

$20pp

Savage Love LIVE

The Neptune Theater

Live Sex advice show and podcast recording about sex and death hosted by syndicated columnist Dan Savage with special musical guest: The Wet Spots.

$23pp

RED – Seattle’s Flirtiest Bash
Showbox at the Market

If you want to party for Valentine’s Day, RED is the event for you. Seattle’s top DJs will spin Top 40 and old-school R&B to keep the dance floor lively!
$30-$50 pp

Brian McKnight
Emerald Queen Casino

An R&B artist with several platinum albums behind him, McKnight will be at the Emerald Queen Casino just in time for Valentine’s Day.
$40-$90pp

Valentine's Day Tango 

Century Ballroom

$15-$20

8:30pm Couples Intro Lesson

9-10:30pm Argentinian Wine Tasting

9:30pm-1:00am Dance

Free Wine Tasting

Taste wines from Argentina! Bottles & glasses of your favorites will be available to drink that evening or to purchase retail and take home with you. 9-10:30pm in Century or 6-9pm in The Tin Table. We will also have Argentina-inspired Valentine's Day specials in The Tin Table, so join us for dinner, as well!

SeductiveValentine's Day Dinner Party 

The Goodwin Library at Pike Place Market

Spend a special evening with a unique, one-of-a-kind dining experience enjoyed by couples, foodies and friends. The Valentine's Day Seductive Dinner Party spotlights seductive foods with an extravagant 7-course meal, with each small course intended to pique your appetite and satisfy that longing for the perfect first bite. The dinner party takes place at the historic and gorgeous Goodwin Library in Pike Place Market.

$95pp

Valentine's Day Cocktails at the Conservatory!

The Volunteer Park Conservatory / Seattle Asian Art Museum

Looking for Unique Tropical way to start your Valentine's Day? Join the Friends of the Conservatory at a very special cocktail tasting experience on Valentine's Day, set amongst romantic and starlit houses of the Volunteer Park Conservatory. Bring your sweetie, or come by to make a new friend or two!

$20pp

Dreamboats: A Valentines Soiree and Man Auction

The Blue Moon Tavern, Seattle 

The Blue Moon Tavern is proud to announce, Dreamboats: A Valentine’s Day Soiree and Man Auction. This show will feature the talents of some of Seattle’s dreamiest musicians. Following the performance, we will auction off the musicians for a private concert. There will be an intimate setting, a Valentines Making Craft Table, Kissing Booth, Champagne Toast, Dancing, and the chance to bid on an amazing musician for the night. Formal dress encouraged. All proceeds go towards local art and music.

$10pp

A 5K in your undies

Fremont

And if you’re not too fuzzy Saturday morning, why not join in on some MORE fun in your undies with Fremont’s Cupid Undies Run. 

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This weekend's Date Ideas!

Happy Friday, dear readers!
Please find below some interesting events happening around Seattle this weekend. Whether you treat your honey to a new boat, or celebrate the Lunar New Year, there's somethign for everyone.

xo,
B&M

Seattle Boat Show [BOATS!]

Wing Luke Museum Lunar New Year Lion Dance  [LIONS!?]

Seattle Opera’s OpeningPerformance of  Rigoletto [OPERA!]

Vietnamese Lunar New Year Event  [FOOD!]

EMPs Brick Party [ARCHITECTURE!]

Strange Brewfest [BEER!]

     

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This Weekend's Date Ideas

Looking for something fun to do with your honey BESIDES rooting on the Seahawks on Sunday (as this is a given!)? Look no further. Here are some fun happening events around Seattle that are sure to deliver good fun.

Contemporary Dance with WhimWhim

Central Cinema's Beatles Trivia Night! (Thursday)

Hawaii Weekend at the Seattle Aquarium

Justin Timberlake (Friday)

Friday Concert Calendar (courtesy KEXP)

Saturday Concert Calendar (courtesy KEXP)

Final weekend of the World's Quickest Theater Festival (at the ACT)

The 10th Annual Elvis Birthday Show at Tractor Tavern (Make a themed weekend out of it with Elvis' Birthday Dash that morning!)

Or, why not take a trip? Here are 52 grand ideas on places to go!

xo,
B&M





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Seattle Weekend Date Ideas: Splurge vs. Steal

Happy Thursday, little chickens!

The weekend is approaching (thank Jesus!), and we thought we’d share with you TWO weekend date ideas for your reading pleasure. A Splurge date, for those of you throwing caution to the wind, and a Steal date, for those of you who, like us, are trying to save our pennies for a rainier day.

Now, you all know that Brett and I are obsessed with the Food Network. And any time one of our beloved Seattle restaurateurs/executive chefs/bus-boys/whatever’s are featured on one of the network’s shows, we simply MUST try their spot immediately.

Well… what if we told you that, this Sunday, several of them, along with other AMAZING Seattle chefs from our List – are teaming up and cooking – gasp! – TOGETHER!

Yes, you heard us right.

Seattle Chefs Collaborative Presents 'Urban Picnic'— A fundraiser for the Quillisascut Farm School Scholarship.

Enjoy a Sunday afternoon of fun and food on the rooftop deck at Rainier Square and help send local rising culinary stars to the Quillisascut Farm school in Rice, WA.

Top Seattle chefs will prepare a 'Picnic to Remember' of culturally important Northwest foods from the Renewing Americas Food Traditions (RAFT) list of endangered foods. Eat it to save it!

Check out all the details—and the amazing line up—(including Top Chef’s Robin Leventhal!) HERE. $99 a ticket, but for a REALLY great cause!

Okay, for those of you NOT wanting to fork over $99 for a dinner, fear not. We’ve found something just as fun for you!

Most of you have heard that our beloved Patrick Swayze passed away last Monday. We all remember his work in Dirty Dancing, Ghost, and my favorite, To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything, Julie Newmar.

But, there’s another Patrick Swayze treat that’s worth a mention. It’s Road House. It’s GOOD. And, it’s playing at the Central Cinema on Capitol Hill TONIGHT!

Central Cinema is the perfect place for your total Date-Night experience! See your favorite cult classics the way they were meant to be seen, on a big screen, with big sound, in a room full of people. Have a fun night out without having to spend a bundle.

They have a full menu, so you can grub while you watch the film. I always keep an eye on their show times, since they are always bringing in old classics (Dark Crystal, Say Anything, Amelie… just to name a few!). Road House is no exception.

So grab your sweetie, put on your I Heart Patrick tee-shirts, and head over to Central Cinema for a night to remember! Or, if you want to wait for the weekend flick, that's fine too, since they're showing the awesomely greusome independent guerilla film, Poultryguist. Who doesn't love chicken zombies? I know we do. Director/Producer Lloyd Kaufman will be there in the flesh (punn intended) to meet his fans on Friday and Saturday nights!

Click HERE for more information, including show times.

Happy Dating!

xo,

B&M

Seattle Date Night Idea!

Next time you're digging for something fun to do on a random date night, why not try out some swing or salsa dancing?

What? You don't dance? Not a problem!

Century Ballroom (located upstairs in the Oddfellows building at East Pine and Broadway on Capitol Hill) offers a plethera of dance lessons, for all skill levels, shapes, and sizes!

[source]

Whether you want to try your hand at swing dancing (Sunday and Wednesday nights, lesson from 9p-9.30p, dance from 9.30p to 1.15a) or salsa (Thursday nights, lesson from 9p-9.30p, dance from 9.30p to 1.15a), $7 will get you a beginners' 30 minute lesson and entrance to the dance afterwards!

Plus, right next door to the ballroom, you'll find the CUTEST little restaurant called the Tin Table, where you can nibble on grilled stuffed eggplant rolls ($7), some thai pork ribs ($12), or sip on their world famous ginger mojito ($9) to build up enough energy (and nerve) to keep your dance partner on his/her toes for the entire evening!

[source]

If you have some time, too, after dinner and before your dance lesson, be sure to head downstairs (follow your nose towards the smell of freshly pressed waffle cones) for some of the most amazing (and interesting!) ice cream at Molly Moons, who is famous for her handmade (and hormone free) ice cream ranging in flavors as simple as vanilla bean, to as eccentric as balsalmic strawberry or salted caramel!

[source]

Click HERE for Century Ballroom's calendar of events.
Click HERE to check out the Tin Table.
Click HERE to check out Molly Moons.




(PLUS! If you are an old dancin' pro and interested in advanced lessons, Century offers several series, which include myriad dance styles, like swing, salsa, the walz, tango and more! They even offer private lessons, if the group thing isn't your gig. Check out their website for more information!)

Seattle Date Night: Worst. Date Night. EVER.

June 11, 2009:

Sazerac

She Said:

Okay, this made Brett happy, because he thinks our reviews have been 'too nice' so far. So, he thought we needed to roast someone badly. "But honey!" I exclaim, "All our experiences have been great thus far!"

Until now. (Should've knocked on wood!)

Don't get me wrong, it certainly wasn't TERRIBLE. But we certainly won't be back.

I had my misgivings from the get go. I've never trusted a hotel restaurant. Ever. There's just something so cliche about it. Sazerac is on the ground floor of the Hotel Monaco -- a gorgeous luxury hotel located on 4th Ave and Spring Street in the heart of downtown Seattle.







Brett had his eye on this place for a while, and after a guy at his office had recommended it to him yesterday, he decided this was the place to go for our Date Night.

We arrived and were seated straight away--our first red flag should have been that it was pretty empty for 8pm on a Thursday night. But no matter. We were very impressed with the interior--it was decorated very cool: rich reds and browns, huge blown glass chandeliers, great big cozy booths, a nice large bar, and in the back, an open fire wood stove for making the pizzas. This place looks cool!



We were seated in a nice high-backed booth, and made ourselves familiar with the wine list (no beers listed, we had to ask what was on draught). We ordered 2 Pyramid Heffeweisens ($5 ea) and worked on deciding what to order. The menu has a good mix of proteins, pretty much covered the meat gamut: pork, beef, chicken, fish, pizzas, salads, soups and some great appetizers (cheese and meat plates). Also, the restaurant had two of the prerequisites that Brett uses to judge a good eatery: personal pepper grinder on each table, and cloth napkins. So, by the looks of things, we were off to a pretty good start!



Just as we had decided what to order, the waiter arrived with our two beers. Brett, being the beer connoisseur that he is, immediately noticed that the color of the beer was darker than what a Hef should be... and asked the waiter if this was indeed, hef. "Oh, no, it doesn't look like it, does it... this is the IPA. Do you want me to return it?" (?!?!!?) Brett, being the nice laid back guy he is, responded, "Nah, mate, no worries, we'll drink it. Cheers. Mandy's hot." We also noticed that the beers were not pints, but schooners. Which are noticeably smaller than your average pint glass. Brett was not pleased with this.



So, then we ordered -- i ordered the Chilled Asparagus salad ($9) and the Simplicity Pizza ($9) and Brett ordered the Celery Hearts and Sweet Pea salad ($8) and the half order of the Braised Beef Short Ribs ($8 half order/$15 full order). The waiter left us to our devices, and we sat back and enjoyed our IPAs. Our salads arrived, and they were very good. Both were a bit different than anything i'd had before.


[Celery and Pea Salad]


[Chilled Asparagus Salad]

After finishing our salads, we glanced around and noticed that all the other tables had bread. 15 minutes after we had ordered, we still hadn't received the bread, and finally had to ask for it. It was terrible (VERY salty. and a weird density) so we actually didn't end up eating it.

Seconds later, our entrees arrived. Brett's was very small (he did order the half-order, but still) but had good flavor. My pizza, which i had requested 'minimal cheese' still had a LOT of cheese on it. It was good, but nothing special. VERY oily, and only 3 tomatoes on the whole thing. Hmmm. We were both disappointed in the food. Ordered 2 more hefs, and they were actually hefs this time. So, that's a plus!


[Simplicity Pizza]


[Short Ribs, half size]

Now, for those of you who know me, you know how much i love my pizza crusts. It's my favorite part of a pizza (i know, I'm a weirdo). If you don't eat your crusts, i will. Even if you're at the table next to me and i don't even know you... guard your crusts, i will eat them. SO, you know how disappointed i must've been when the waiter came and took my plate while I'm MID-BITE into my crusts, with 3 crusts still left on the plate. i was CLEARLY still working on it, and he came and snatched it right out from under me. I WAS STILL CHEWING, FOR CHRISSAKE!! wtf? that is a HUGE no-no.

We finally were like, okay, we're done with this place. Cool interior, but that's about it. We got the check, and much to our chagrin, the two mistake IPAs were on the bill. And at $5 a pop for the small schooners, this really chapped our hide. We paid (came to $60) and got the hell out of dodge, bitter taste (of IPA) in our mouth, but excited that we finally get to do a negative review!

RATINGS:

Sazerac
1101 4th Ave
Seattle, WA 98101
(206) 624-7755

Romance: 3
Cool Ambiance/Interior: 4
All Around Service: 1
Cost: $$
Would we recommend it? 2: Once was enough

Seattle Date Night: Iron Elemental

June 5th, 2009:

Elemental @ Gasworks

He said:

Furnished with cheap Ikea furniture. Plain white walls and dark grey, well overused (especially in Seattle), exposed pipe industrial ceiling. Strictly no flash photography, seating for 13 people and a location that Google maps even struggles to find! Sounds shite as my Scottish grandma used to say! Elemental is definitely an experience. More like an event rather than a restaurant. A place to let go.

This week was Mandy’s choice for date night, and choose wisely she did. I’m going to throw it out there early, this was bloody fantastic!


[Dressed in our finest, ready for the experience!]


Elemental @ Gasworks in Fremont is actually part of an apartment building. Specifically designed to be found only by those who want to find it, you wouldn’t even know it was a restaurant until you walked inside.

No reservations, no menus, no choices, no worries mate. When owner Phred Westfall seated us he asked simply “Is there anything you don’t eat?” I quickly said no and Mandy noted her dislike of red meat. The experience begins.

Not for the faint hearted, Elemental decides what you get, when you get it and what to wash it down with. For us, it was eight courses of exceptional food and well matched wines.


[Asparagus Vichyssoise]


[Turkey Dolmas]


[Pork stuffed Chilies w/Corn, Cotija, Potatoes]


[Sesame Crusted Albacore w/White Salad]

I’d have to write a novel to cover off all of the courses, and the menu changes regularly anyways but this service was an explosion of flavors from around the world including various meats, pastas, cheeses, pastries and wraps. It almost felt like the judging part of one of our favorite TV shows Iron Chef. Heavily influenced by the sub continent, the whole encounter was over three hours long, so make sure you give yourself plenty of time to enjoy it all, and take a taxi! Small glasses aren’t in Phred’s repertoire.

Their website says “an eclectic culinary endeavor” and it really is. A truly unique experience in Seattle.

Ah, and a bit of fun if you’re a wannabe food wanker like me and Mandy. Try to guess what ingredients and flavors are used in the meals. You can make a good little drinking game out of it!

Cheers,
Brett

Ratings:

Elemental @ Gasworks
Romance: 5
Cool Ambiance/Interior: 5
All Around Service: 5
Cost: $$$$
Would we recommend it? 5+: THIS PLACE IS AMAZING!

She said:

I thought, instead of adding to Brett's fabulous review above, i would put together a short list of things you should know about this place before heading out. Number one, though, is don't be intimidated by it. It's not that sort of place. It may seem mysterious, even pretentious to a degree, this secret Seattle sweet spot, but it's not. There are, however, some things i want you to know before going, so that you can have the amazing experience we were lucky enough to partake in!

Things to Know Before going to Elemental:

1] Reservations? No. No reservations accepted. Really, you can only call ahead and ask if there will be a table opening up soon (206 547 2317). It's all about luck and timing. They also can't accept parties larger than 6 people. HOWEVER...

2] They recently opened up a small spot next door to the main restaurant, called E.N.D. (Elemental Next Door) which offers more seating, the same food and wines, but a less prolonged experience (you can pick and choose from the menu, instead of relinquishing control) so the turn around there is quicker. They also offer over 100 different wines for only $15 for a half bottle. All wines are the same price -- it evens out in the end. You can either choose to eat here, or hang tight and sip on some wine until a table opens up next door.

3] Parking: Park at the West side of the Gasworks Park parking lot. Free. HOWEVER, we highly recommend, after our night here, that you take a cab. We weren't expecting to be drinking as much as we did, but it wasn't our choice! Phred is a master Sommelier! And he loves to share with you massive amounts of wine (i counted 12 glasses each during out 8 course meal!)



4] Location: Located in an apartment complex behind gasworks park. So, after you've parked, walk north across the street and head UP the stairs amidst the brown apartment/condo complex. You will take about 2 flights and it will be there on your left. Hidden, simple, classic.



5] If you are the type of person who is an extremely picky eater, who likes to have control over what you order for both food and drink, and who wants to be in and out in an hour or so, do not go here. Head next door to E.N.D. where you can pick what you want. BUT, if you are wanting an amazing experience where you can sit back and relax, not have to think or worry about a thing, and are willing to be surprised by amazing dish after amazing dish, then this is the place for you.

6] Before you go, have a [small] snack. Do NOT come here starving. We waited about 20 minutes before we were helped. It's a slow process. But it's worth it. And trust me, when you leave, you will be stuffed! So. Much. Food!

7] If you are in a hurry to get to a movie, a show, a birthday party, a brisk, your great aunt June's Tupperware party, ANYTHING, do not go here. The entire meal (8 courses, remember!) took close to 4 hours. It was literally like a show... Act after act of amazing performances, constant surprises, oh, and tons of wine!

8] You don't get a menu. You don't get to order. You simply tell Phred if you have any food allergies, or if there is something you don't like. And he takes it from there. It helped me to look at the online menu before coming, to see if there was anything (stomach, brains, liver) on there that i could NOT eat. Luckily, the food isn't anything too overly weird! The menu changes weekly, too, so be sure to take note of that.

9] There is no flash photography (which is why there are so few photos on this post) which i learnt the hard way. Sorry Phred!

10] When you are served wine, don't dilly dally with it. Drink it. Because Phred will come and replace it with a new glass of new and fabulous wine, even if you have not finished. Every wine he brought us worked like magic with the food it was paired with.

11] Just when you think that you have had enough food, they bring you more! And it's even better than the previous dish! Course after course after course. Finally Phred had to ask us, "Are we getting full"? as Brett and i are moaning and aggressively rubbing our bellies!

12] You are offered a cheese plate as well as dessert (Which, as full as we were, we of course still opted for... we love our cheeses!) which is NOT included in the fixed price... we didn't know this until we got the bill at the end. But fear not, it is so worth it. You HAVE to end with cheese and dessert, especially because Phred brings you both a red and a white glass of wine with the cheese plate, and with the dessert, he pairs it with the most delicately sweet white dessert wine, that i seriously could have drank an entire bottle of!

13] Expect to spend about $150. The 'fixed price' is $40 each person, and with 8 courses, it is a STEAL for what you get. The wine was $50 for both of us for the entire evening. i have no idea how, i felt like we drank the whole of Italy after leaving there. Add the cheese and dessert, and the entire meal cost us $154.

14] Oh, and they don't allow tipping! There isn't even a spot on the credit card slip for it. These two charge what they have to to get by. They love to showcase their amazing talents and amazing food, and your pure enjoyment is their reward. You gotta love that.

15] Lastly? Expect no other restaurant to ever live up to this place. Basically, it's all downhill from here!

For a GREAT article on this fine dining establishment, read this. And this. Oh, and this too.

Thanks Phred Westfall & Laurie Riedeman! We had an AMAZING time!