Seattle is woefully lacking in Puerto Rican restaurants and until a couple of months ago, had just one (that I know of). That would be La Isla in Ballard - a very popular destination these days.
As of this past March, there's a new kid in town - El Pilon - a bright oasis of tempting aromas, salsa music and great food in Rainier Valley, located just South of Columbia City at 5303 Rainier Ave South (between S. 42nd Ave & Brandon St). Run by Luis Vega and his mom, Marta, this family friendly bistro offers homestyle Puerto Rican cooking.
An old friend and I visited El Pilon this past Saturday, May 22, 2010. We were promptly greeted and seated by Luis Vega and settled in to peruse both the menu and the establishment. The small dining room is brightened by yellow walls with interesting art - much of it for sale. There were wonderful framed black/white sketches by Charles Tatum, authentic art from Puerto Rico including carnival style masks made from calabash gourds and butterflies made from coconut shells. The Puerto Rican flag is proudly displayed in several areas and the table mats are from Puerto Rico and contain maps, recipes, pictures of Puerto Rico, and other images.
We were quite ravenous when we arrived, so promptly ordered the appetizer of Empanadillas - one of meat and one of cheese. These hot, flaky delicacies arrived swiftly and assuaged our appetites so that we could choose our dinners with care. We definitely wanted to try the mofongo and Luis recommended the Mofongo with Camarones. For a contrast, we then ordered the Pollo Fricase.
Our salads arrived first - small and tasty. Then came the mofongo, which was served in a pilon and was amazingly delicious! Mofongo is essentially mashed plantains mixed with garlic, fried pork rinds (yes, I know this is wickedly FATTENING!), olive oil, and other seasonings which combine to make a very tasty dish. Combined with this is your protein of choice - meat, chicken, or as in our order - shrimp.
The Pollo Fricase arrived on a plate containing a healthy portion of nicely spiced chicken, which was cooked perfectly and practically fell off the bone; a scoop of white rice and a small bowl of habichuelas - pinto beans simmered with sofrito and other spices to create a nicely flavored sauce to pour on the rice.
We gave it our best try, but were too stuffed to completely clean our plates so Luis graciously brought containers to put our leftovers in and even added some extra rice.
If you want to try the real deal in Puerto Rican cuisine, it's worth the trip to travel out to Rainier Valley. If you keep your eyes closed until you walk through the door, you can imagine that you're on vacation in Puerto Rico, stopping in a local restaurante for a bite to eat. El Pilon is brand new and the staff is still working out all the details so be patient if your experience isn't as perfect as ours - they have a vision and are working hard to achieve it!
Monday, May 24, 2010
Friday, May 21, 2010
Happy hour/Dinner at Anthony's Homeport in Shilshole
As all Seattle residents know - when the sun is out we MUST take full advantage. So after a long day stuck in a box and chained to a computer, I was very anxious to spend the evening hours of Friday, May 14, 2010 soaking in the sunshine! Dining companion and I agreed that we must find an outdoor happy hour, preferably in the sun and hopefully with a view - not easy on a sunny Friday afternoon when everyone else has the same idea...
Considered Ray's Boathouse, but we knew it would likely require a VERY long wait to be seated at one of the coveted deck tables. Decided to try Anthony's next door, since it has a large outdoor patio and doesn't seem to attract the crowds of drunken yuppies with maxed out credit cards that frequent Ray's. My companion arrived at 4:30 p.m. and had a very short wait before being seated at a primo table in the sun, just over the water lapping against the shoreline, with a magnificent view of Shilshole Bay, Puget Sound and the majestic Olympic Mountains. I joined him at 5 p.m.
We sipped on their happy hour lemon drops (neglected to write down the prices but think the happy hour cocktails were $3) as we enjoyed the warmth of the sun, the amazing view and the tantalizing aroma of alder smoked salmon wafting through the air mixed with the comforting fragrance of salt water in warm weather...a uniquely Seattle scent.
We placed an order for Discovery Bay clams and Ahi Nachos (once again, neglected to jot down prices - for some reason their website contains neither accurate menus or any mention of the happy hour menu) . Both appetizers were inexpensive and unremarkable, but were a nice accompaniment to our cocktails and view. The Copper River salmon dinners were being promoted and since neither of us had tried this renowned salmon, we ordered a dinner to split. I recall this dinner as being quite spendy - over $30?
That said, the salmon was cooked to perfection - moist and flavorful - truly succulent. It was accompanied by garlic mashed potatoes and fresh broccoli - which was also prepared perfectly, neither over or under cooked. Not sure if I could detect any noticeable difference in the Copper River salmon as opposed to salmon normally served, however the preparation was superb.
Emboldened by our cocktails, we threw dietary caution to the winds and allowed our sweet tooth to overrule our good sense. Ordered an absolutely heavenly Rhubarb Crisp, warm and topped with a generous helping of vanilla ice cream. If that were not decadent enough, we also ordered a dessert cocktail comprised of hot chocolate with Bailey's, Peppermint Schnapps and Kalua. Approximately 10,000 calories later, we rolled out of the restaurant in a food coma and managed to get home.
Many people have negative things to say about Anthony's, but for me ambiance is nearly as important as the meal and the patio and view at Anthony's just can't be beat on a sunny day.
Considered Ray's Boathouse, but we knew it would likely require a VERY long wait to be seated at one of the coveted deck tables. Decided to try Anthony's next door, since it has a large outdoor patio and doesn't seem to attract the crowds of drunken yuppies with maxed out credit cards that frequent Ray's. My companion arrived at 4:30 p.m. and had a very short wait before being seated at a primo table in the sun, just over the water lapping against the shoreline, with a magnificent view of Shilshole Bay, Puget Sound and the majestic Olympic Mountains. I joined him at 5 p.m.
We sipped on their happy hour lemon drops (neglected to write down the prices but think the happy hour cocktails were $3) as we enjoyed the warmth of the sun, the amazing view and the tantalizing aroma of alder smoked salmon wafting through the air mixed with the comforting fragrance of salt water in warm weather...a uniquely Seattle scent.
We placed an order for Discovery Bay clams and Ahi Nachos (once again, neglected to jot down prices - for some reason their website contains neither accurate menus or any mention of the happy hour menu) . Both appetizers were inexpensive and unremarkable, but were a nice accompaniment to our cocktails and view. The Copper River salmon dinners were being promoted and since neither of us had tried this renowned salmon, we ordered a dinner to split. I recall this dinner as being quite spendy - over $30?
That said, the salmon was cooked to perfection - moist and flavorful - truly succulent. It was accompanied by garlic mashed potatoes and fresh broccoli - which was also prepared perfectly, neither over or under cooked. Not sure if I could detect any noticeable difference in the Copper River salmon as opposed to salmon normally served, however the preparation was superb.
Emboldened by our cocktails, we threw dietary caution to the winds and allowed our sweet tooth to overrule our good sense. Ordered an absolutely heavenly Rhubarb Crisp, warm and topped with a generous helping of vanilla ice cream. If that were not decadent enough, we also ordered a dessert cocktail comprised of hot chocolate with Bailey's, Peppermint Schnapps and Kalua. Approximately 10,000 calories later, we rolled out of the restaurant in a food coma and managed to get home.
Many people have negative things to say about Anthony's, but for me ambiance is nearly as important as the meal and the patio and view at Anthony's just can't be beat on a sunny day.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Happy Hour/Dinner at Bastille Cafe & Bar
This past Monday, May 17, 2010, the sun was shining so we decided to take a walk into Ballard and seek out an interesting spot for happy hour/dinner. Unbeknownst to us, the few remaining Scandinavians in Ballard (actually probably traveled from all over the area) were celebrating the Norwegian Constitution Day with a parade and lots of festivities.
Obviously every restaurant with outdoor seating was packed with parade attendees, so we ruled out Market Street and veered down Ballard Avenue in our search for a sunny outdoor spot to sip a cocktail and have a light dinner at a happy hour price.
Arrived at Bastille Cafe & Bar - http://www.bastilleseattle.com/ - located in the heart of old Ballard at 5307 Ballard Avenue NW. We managed to instantly snag the lone remaining table on the deck, which is covered with some sort of sheer material that allows the warmth and light to shine through but presumably keeps the rain out – very useful for Seattle’s ever changing weather! Timing is everything because Bastille is normally too crowded to get a table and since I abhor waiting for anything I’ve only been here on two prior occasions – once after midnight while under the influence of prior establishments I had visited and once for breakfast.
Our server was busy but efficient so soon we settled back with a Rosemary Lemonade (i.e. lemon drop served in tall glass with sprig of Rosemary) for my companion and a chilly glass of crisp pinot grigio for me. Perused the Happy Hour food menu that listed five items for $5 each and a couple for less. Expected portions to be tiny so we decided to order four dishes.
Sadly, they were sold out of the Moules Frites (mussels, beer, leeks and thyme), so we decided to split the Croque Monsieur (a delectable grilled sandwich of Parisian ham, Gruyère & sauce Mornay - $5) and the Falafel (a very large wrap filled with falafel, Goat’s milk yoghurt, tahini, and seasonal garnishes - $5)
My companion also got an order of Frites and Aioli (a small elevated basket of Kennebec potato fries & grey sea salt with the aioli dipping sauce). He then asked if I would be offended if he ordered the Lamb Burger on a Lavash sesame bun with harissa aïoli, arugula, & pickled shallot - $7. After responding with the bleat of a baby lamb, I told him that I had no control issues and he could order what he wanted. Which he did and reported that it was delicious.
I have a personal aversion to eating any sort of baby animal, which naturally includes both lamb and veal. After recently becoming acquainted with a charming pink pig on my last vacation, I am considering adding pork to my list of no-no's.
We were both surprised by the quantity of food and felt like it was an excellent value for a happy hour dinner. The Croque Monsieur was amazing but I’m sure laden with calories, albeit delightful calories. The Falafel (also wrapped in Lavash bread) was huge, filling, tasty and a healthier choice. Although I did not taste either the lamb burger or the frites, my companion enjoyed both and reported that they were flavorful and filling.
I have both noticed and heard that Bastille is a popular establishment that tends to be quite crowded. Be prepared to wait if you try to hit happy hour on a Friday! They are open 4:30 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. (dining until 1 a.m.) and serve brunch on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. so plan accordingly!
Obviously every restaurant with outdoor seating was packed with parade attendees, so we ruled out Market Street and veered down Ballard Avenue in our search for a sunny outdoor spot to sip a cocktail and have a light dinner at a happy hour price.
Arrived at Bastille Cafe & Bar - http://www.bastilleseattle.com/ - located in the heart of old Ballard at 5307 Ballard Avenue NW. We managed to instantly snag the lone remaining table on the deck, which is covered with some sort of sheer material that allows the warmth and light to shine through but presumably keeps the rain out – very useful for Seattle’s ever changing weather! Timing is everything because Bastille is normally too crowded to get a table and since I abhor waiting for anything I’ve only been here on two prior occasions – once after midnight while under the influence of prior establishments I had visited and once for breakfast.
Our server was busy but efficient so soon we settled back with a Rosemary Lemonade (i.e. lemon drop served in tall glass with sprig of Rosemary) for my companion and a chilly glass of crisp pinot grigio for me. Perused the Happy Hour food menu that listed five items for $5 each and a couple for less. Expected portions to be tiny so we decided to order four dishes.
Sadly, they were sold out of the Moules Frites (mussels, beer, leeks and thyme), so we decided to split the Croque Monsieur (a delectable grilled sandwich of Parisian ham, Gruyère & sauce Mornay - $5) and the Falafel (a very large wrap filled with falafel, Goat’s milk yoghurt, tahini, and seasonal garnishes - $5)
My companion also got an order of Frites and Aioli (a small elevated basket of Kennebec potato fries & grey sea salt with the aioli dipping sauce). He then asked if I would be offended if he ordered the Lamb Burger on a Lavash sesame bun with harissa aïoli, arugula, & pickled shallot - $7. After responding with the bleat of a baby lamb, I told him that I had no control issues and he could order what he wanted. Which he did and reported that it was delicious.
I have a personal aversion to eating any sort of baby animal, which naturally includes both lamb and veal. After recently becoming acquainted with a charming pink pig on my last vacation, I am considering adding pork to my list of no-no's.
We were both surprised by the quantity of food and felt like it was an excellent value for a happy hour dinner. The Croque Monsieur was amazing but I’m sure laden with calories, albeit delightful calories. The Falafel (also wrapped in Lavash bread) was huge, filling, tasty and a healthier choice. Although I did not taste either the lamb burger or the frites, my companion enjoyed both and reported that they were flavorful and filling.
I have both noticed and heard that Bastille is a popular establishment that tends to be quite crowded. Be prepared to wait if you try to hit happy hour on a Friday! They are open 4:30 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. (dining until 1 a.m.) and serve brunch on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. so plan accordingly!
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Shiku Sushi - another Happy Hour dinner!
Last evening (Tuesday, April 28, 2010) we ventured out into Ballard to try out the latest new sushi bar - Shiku Sushi - http://shikusushi.com, located at 5310 Ballard Avenue Northwest. We arrived at 6 p.m., early enough to enjoy happy hour, which takes place from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. M-F, 11 p.m. to midnight on Friday and Saturday, and noon to 6 p.m. (!!) on Sundays.
I was immediately impressed by the décor – distinctly Asian, with dark, cherry wood (?) tables, bamboo dividers, dark red walls, with what appears to be the original brick wall behind the bar. Two large, flat screen televisions – were mounted on the wall behind both the cocktail bar and the sushi bar – a plus for sports fans.
Our table was nicely set with cloth napkins and dark wood chopsticks propped on white chopstick rests. Jason, our competent and attentive waiter/bartender, immediately greeted us, bringing water and menus.
Happy hour was going to be our dinner hour, so we ordered quickly. I ordered the hot sake and was intrigued by their hot sake machine, which resembled a giant coffee making machine! Only $3, it was a bargain and I ordered a second before happy hour ended. My companion had two well drinks, also a bargain at $3.
We were hungry so placed a large order off the happy hour menu – started with the organic edamame ($3), which arrived with our drinks. Edamame came in a small bowl and was cooked perfectly with large crystals of salt on the pods. We then proceeded to order the California Roll ($3), Salmon Skin Hand Roll ($4), Yakitori Trio ($5), Ballard Avenue Roll ($6) and Spicy Tuna Roll ($6).
The sushi presentation was fabulous and all of the rolls were delicious. The Salmon Skin Hand Roll was particularly tasty, although difficult to share with its cone shape. The fish tasted and looked fresh. The Yakitori Trio consisted of a skewer of beef, another of chicken and another of fried tofu. The tofu was delectable. The chicken and beef were cooked perfectly but a bit bland – I dipped it in my wasabi/soy sauce mixture for a little zing.
We were pleasantly satiated by this happy hour repast for the bargain price of $40, quite a deal considering we each had two drinks!
Now for the pièce de résistance – the women’s bathroom! I first noticed that the toilet seat was strangely warm, then noted a little control panel on the wall next to it. Intrigued, I pushed a button and was shocked to feel warm water hitting my backside. I then realized this was some sort of toilet/bidet and enthusiastically started pushing the various buttons – very entertaining! Here's the link for what I believe is the toilet: http://www.plumbingstore.com/bidet_seats_toto.html A bit off topic for a food blog but truly amazing! :-)
I was immediately impressed by the décor – distinctly Asian, with dark, cherry wood (?) tables, bamboo dividers, dark red walls, with what appears to be the original brick wall behind the bar. Two large, flat screen televisions – were mounted on the wall behind both the cocktail bar and the sushi bar – a plus for sports fans.
Our table was nicely set with cloth napkins and dark wood chopsticks propped on white chopstick rests. Jason, our competent and attentive waiter/bartender, immediately greeted us, bringing water and menus.
Happy hour was going to be our dinner hour, so we ordered quickly. I ordered the hot sake and was intrigued by their hot sake machine, which resembled a giant coffee making machine! Only $3, it was a bargain and I ordered a second before happy hour ended. My companion had two well drinks, also a bargain at $3.
We were hungry so placed a large order off the happy hour menu – started with the organic edamame ($3), which arrived with our drinks. Edamame came in a small bowl and was cooked perfectly with large crystals of salt on the pods. We then proceeded to order the California Roll ($3), Salmon Skin Hand Roll ($4), Yakitori Trio ($5), Ballard Avenue Roll ($6) and Spicy Tuna Roll ($6).
The sushi presentation was fabulous and all of the rolls were delicious. The Salmon Skin Hand Roll was particularly tasty, although difficult to share with its cone shape. The fish tasted and looked fresh. The Yakitori Trio consisted of a skewer of beef, another of chicken and another of fried tofu. The tofu was delectable. The chicken and beef were cooked perfectly but a bit bland – I dipped it in my wasabi/soy sauce mixture for a little zing.
We were pleasantly satiated by this happy hour repast for the bargain price of $40, quite a deal considering we each had two drinks!
Now for the pièce de résistance – the women’s bathroom! I first noticed that the toilet seat was strangely warm, then noted a little control panel on the wall next to it. Intrigued, I pushed a button and was shocked to feel warm water hitting my backside. I then realized this was some sort of toilet/bidet and enthusiastically started pushing the various buttons – very entertaining! Here's the link for what I believe is the toilet: http://www.plumbingstore.com/bidet_seats_toto.html A bit off topic for a food blog but truly amazing! :-)
Friday, April 23, 2010
Bilbao Restaurant - University District
It's been a while since I posted - between vacation and an extended bout of bronchitis, I just haven't been keeping up on mission to explore local restaurants!
Bilbao (http://www.bilbaorestaurant.com/) is one of my favorite restaurants and is the only one I've been to since returning from vacation - squeezed it in during the short period between returning from vacation and becoming sick...March 27, 2010 to be specific. Bilbao is a Spanish/Tapas restaurant located next to the Metro Cinemas at 4500 - 9th Avenue N.E.
I love the ambiance of this establishment - it has a genuinely warm, welcoming and very Spanish flavor to it. The colors, the music, the enticing aromas...allow me to fantasize that I am in Spain enjoying a leisurely meal. I have enjoyed many tapas and many bottles and glasses of wine at Bilbao over the past two + years and look forward to taste testing many more! On my very first visit over two years ago, I had a dinner instead of tapas. This was the paella and it was the only disappointing dish I have had at Bilbao. However, I love paella and hope to try it again and see if it was just a fluke that particular night.
I always go to Bilbao on either Friday or Saturday evening in order to enjoy the live music (8 p.m. - 10 p.m.)along with the awesome food. The best place to sit is near the front of the restaurant and reservations are recommended if you want a table in this area. Currently performing on Saturday (my last visit) is Paraiso - a trio featuring Miki Piza on vocals, Alex Chadsey on piano and Ernesto Pediangco - amazing percussionist. Friday night features Alfredo Chavez and friends and Thursday evening is live flamenco. The music is wonderful and definitely adds to the sabor of this restaurant, not to mention enhancing the romantic mood of the dining experience!
On this last visit I had the perfect table to enjoy Paraiso. Shared two salads - the Ensalada Bilbao (a delicious and generously sized salad of baby greens, roasted peppers, shaved manchego, avocado and sweet corn - $7) and the Ensalada de Espinacas (a tasty concoction of spinach, mushroom, candied hazelnut, valdeon bleu cheese and serrano ham lightly tossed in a raspberry vinagrette $8). Then from the hot tapas menu we selected Pintxitos de Pescado - a heavenly skewer of marinated and grilled seafood - $8.95, and Pintxitos Morunos - marinated and grilled pork skewers covered with carmelized onion and mushroom base sauce - $7.95. Fresh baked bread accompanies every order and is perfect for cleaning your tapa plates :-) Naturally, a glass (or two) of the Borsao Tinto to further enhance the evening!
I have tried MANY of the tapas on Bilbao's menu and have yet to be disappointed, but my latest favorite is definitely the above mentioned Pintxitos de Pescado - truly divine and not to be missed! This is a great place and I highly recommend it. A bit spendy sometimes since those little plates (and wine) do add up, but definitely worth it with the wonderful music!
Bilbao (http://www.bilbaorestaurant.com/) is one of my favorite restaurants and is the only one I've been to since returning from vacation - squeezed it in during the short period between returning from vacation and becoming sick...March 27, 2010 to be specific. Bilbao is a Spanish/Tapas restaurant located next to the Metro Cinemas at 4500 - 9th Avenue N.E.
I love the ambiance of this establishment - it has a genuinely warm, welcoming and very Spanish flavor to it. The colors, the music, the enticing aromas...allow me to fantasize that I am in Spain enjoying a leisurely meal. I have enjoyed many tapas and many bottles and glasses of wine at Bilbao over the past two + years and look forward to taste testing many more! On my very first visit over two years ago, I had a dinner instead of tapas. This was the paella and it was the only disappointing dish I have had at Bilbao. However, I love paella and hope to try it again and see if it was just a fluke that particular night.
I always go to Bilbao on either Friday or Saturday evening in order to enjoy the live music (8 p.m. - 10 p.m.)along with the awesome food. The best place to sit is near the front of the restaurant and reservations are recommended if you want a table in this area. Currently performing on Saturday (my last visit) is Paraiso - a trio featuring Miki Piza on vocals, Alex Chadsey on piano and Ernesto Pediangco - amazing percussionist. Friday night features Alfredo Chavez and friends and Thursday evening is live flamenco. The music is wonderful and definitely adds to the sabor of this restaurant, not to mention enhancing the romantic mood of the dining experience!
On this last visit I had the perfect table to enjoy Paraiso. Shared two salads - the Ensalada Bilbao (a delicious and generously sized salad of baby greens, roasted peppers, shaved manchego, avocado and sweet corn - $7) and the Ensalada de Espinacas (a tasty concoction of spinach, mushroom, candied hazelnut, valdeon bleu cheese and serrano ham lightly tossed in a raspberry vinagrette $8). Then from the hot tapas menu we selected Pintxitos de Pescado - a heavenly skewer of marinated and grilled seafood - $8.95, and Pintxitos Morunos - marinated and grilled pork skewers covered with carmelized onion and mushroom base sauce - $7.95. Fresh baked bread accompanies every order and is perfect for cleaning your tapa plates :-) Naturally, a glass (or two) of the Borsao Tinto to further enhance the evening!
I have tried MANY of the tapas on Bilbao's menu and have yet to be disappointed, but my latest favorite is definitely the above mentioned Pintxitos de Pescado - truly divine and not to be missed! This is a great place and I highly recommend it. A bit spendy sometimes since those little plates (and wine) do add up, but definitely worth it with the wonderful music!
Saturday, March 13, 2010
The Rusty Pelican in Wallingford - 03/13/10
Saturday morning after digesting our Volterra experience, we journeyed up to Wallingford for breakfast at my favorite local spot - The Rusty Pelican http://www.rustypelicancafe.com/. This was not a new experience, as I have eaten here countless times. However it deserves a review because - in my humble opinion of course - it is a GREAT place for breakfast.
The parking lot behind the restaurant was full, so we found a spot on 45th and entered through the front door. The kitschy decor - in a predominately green shade - is um...interesting, with collector plates and ruby slippers hanging on the green painted brick wall, and other similar decorations throughout. We were fortunate enough to score a comfortable booth on the window looking out on 45th and were both promptly greeted, seated and our water glasses filled.
Our waitress arrived within moments and quickly brought us much needed coffee. I LOVE their coffee...it's dark, rich and is accompanied by real cream in tiny, cold pitchers. I'm talking the kind of cream that is so thick it sluggishly pours into your cup.
We perused the menu and somehow garnered the willpower to resist ordering one of their scrumptious, freshly baked, warm cinnamon rolls (dripping with frosting!), although we have succumbed to this guilty pleasure on other occasions.
Instead, I refrained from ordering my usual Pelican Omelet (Ham, bacon, mushrooms, onions and Cheddar cheese - 10.45) and tried a Magnolia Scrambler (Bacon, artichokes, tomatoes, and mushrooms
scrambled with eggs. and topped with Cheddar cheese - $10.25) This came with a choice of potatoes or fruit (I chose fruit) and thick buttered toast, english muffin, fresh baked biscuits or pancake (I chose whole wheat toast). The scrambler, like every other breakfast I have ordered, was excellent - perfect in every way. I can honestly say I have never had a less than stellar breakfast at this establishment.
My dining companion, not concerned about calorie content, ordered the Country Fried Steak breakfast with two extra large eggs. any style - $11.25. This huge plate also came with the above choices, and he chose potatoes instead of fruit and a pancake instead of toast. He seemed to have no problem finishing every last bite, so I assume his meal was every bit as tasty as my own.
Our waitress was attentive and kept our coffee cups and water glasses full, checked back from time to time and promptly brought the check and handled the payment when we were ready. Always a great breakfast experience at the Rusty Pelican and I have never hesitated to recommend this restaurant to everyone, who have in turn recommended it to others.
I have also experienced lunch, dinner and happy hour at this restaurant and have never been disappointed either with the quality of food or the service. I normally always see the owner/manager of the establishment present and working alongside his employees. His vigilence has definitely paid off because the restaurant seems to be doing very well - give it a try!
The parking lot behind the restaurant was full, so we found a spot on 45th and entered through the front door. The kitschy decor - in a predominately green shade - is um...interesting, with collector plates and ruby slippers hanging on the green painted brick wall, and other similar decorations throughout. We were fortunate enough to score a comfortable booth on the window looking out on 45th and were both promptly greeted, seated and our water glasses filled.
Our waitress arrived within moments and quickly brought us much needed coffee. I LOVE their coffee...it's dark, rich and is accompanied by real cream in tiny, cold pitchers. I'm talking the kind of cream that is so thick it sluggishly pours into your cup.
We perused the menu and somehow garnered the willpower to resist ordering one of their scrumptious, freshly baked, warm cinnamon rolls (dripping with frosting!), although we have succumbed to this guilty pleasure on other occasions.
Instead, I refrained from ordering my usual Pelican Omelet (Ham, bacon, mushrooms, onions and Cheddar cheese - 10.45) and tried a Magnolia Scrambler (Bacon, artichokes, tomatoes, and mushrooms
scrambled with eggs. and topped with Cheddar cheese - $10.25) This came with a choice of potatoes or fruit (I chose fruit) and thick buttered toast, english muffin, fresh baked biscuits or pancake (I chose whole wheat toast). The scrambler, like every other breakfast I have ordered, was excellent - perfect in every way. I can honestly say I have never had a less than stellar breakfast at this establishment.
My dining companion, not concerned about calorie content, ordered the Country Fried Steak breakfast with two extra large eggs. any style - $11.25. This huge plate also came with the above choices, and he chose potatoes instead of fruit and a pancake instead of toast. He seemed to have no problem finishing every last bite, so I assume his meal was every bit as tasty as my own.
Our waitress was attentive and kept our coffee cups and water glasses full, checked back from time to time and promptly brought the check and handled the payment when we were ready. Always a great breakfast experience at the Rusty Pelican and I have never hesitated to recommend this restaurant to everyone, who have in turn recommended it to others.
I have also experienced lunch, dinner and happy hour at this restaurant and have never been disappointed either with the quality of food or the service. I normally always see the owner/manager of the establishment present and working alongside his employees. His vigilence has definitely paid off because the restaurant seems to be doing very well - give it a try!
Volterra in Ballard
Last evening my dining adventure companion and I found ourselves in Ballard with no reservations on a Friday evening. We first walked into the Matador Restaurant on 22nd & NW Market Street. Predictably it was crammed full of yuppies drinking and eating with abandon. However, it was a warm respite from the chilly winds outdoors. We put our name on the list and were informed it would be at least 30 minutes.
Rather than standing in the doorway staring longingly at the tables overflowing with happy eaters, we wandered next door to Market Street shoes for a little shopping expedition. After spending $150 on a new pair of very nice European leather sandals, we checked back at the Matador to find we had only moved up one notch on the waiting list.
Since our stomachs were growling angrily at this point, we meandered down the street and into Thai Ku, at 5410 Ballard Avenue NW. I have often enjoyed the dark, almost mysterious bar at the back of the restaurant, so we headed back there to see if there was an available table. Sadly, the bar was full and no tables were available. Disappointed (they have very interesting herbal infused mixed drinks), we decided to keep looking. Although their food is fine, the dining portion of the restaurant lacks ambiance and is very family friendly. Not what we were looking for on a Friday evening.
Exiting Thai Ku, we spied Volterra http://www.volterrarestaurant.com/home.html at 5411 Ballard Avenue. Always a favorite, we headed across the street to see if there might be a table available. To our surprise, there were a number of tables available in the bar, although it was around 7 p.m. by this time. Volterra offers a relaxing ambiance with dim lighting, merlot colored walls, wood floors and dark wainscoting. From our small table in the bar, we could look through into the dining room, which was full. We were seated right away and greeted by our attentive waiter, Leon, as well as the always helpful wine steward.
After perusing the menu, we decided to start with the seared sea scallops appetizer and a bottle of 7 Hills Pinot Grigio. The sea scallops arrived promptly - two very large scallops with a sauté of seasonal wild mushrooms and vegetables topped with roasted garlic aioli. ($13). We were at first disappointed that there were only two scallops, but after I cut mine into bite sized pieces, it did come to six bites.
We pondered our dinner selections while savoring the delicious pinot. I decided on the fresh sheet selection of fresh baked Alaskan halibut with sun choke puree, broccolini, smoked tomato cream and tomato onion marmalata ($24) My companion selected the black pepper wide noodles and oxtail ragu off the regular menu (it is not appearing on their website and I didn't jot down the details).
My halibut arrived in a large shallow bowl, artfully presented. I found it delicious, with both a slight tang and a mild smoky flavor. My companion thought it was slightly overcooked, but he is more of a halibut connoisseur than myself. His oxtail ragu was tasty, the pasta cooked to perfection and very flavorful.
Leon did try to tempt us with the dessert menu, but mindful of my Lent vow (no sweets/desserts/anything that makes life worth living), we declined to even take a look. By the time we left, the bar and restaurant were packed and people were lined up waiting for tables, so apparently this restaurant gets crowded later in the evening. Seems like we made a good choice arriving at 7 p.m.!
A brisk walk of five or six blocks to the car completed our evening - another delightful, albeit spendy, dining experience at Volterra.
Rather than standing in the doorway staring longingly at the tables overflowing with happy eaters, we wandered next door to Market Street shoes for a little shopping expedition. After spending $150 on a new pair of very nice European leather sandals, we checked back at the Matador to find we had only moved up one notch on the waiting list.
Since our stomachs were growling angrily at this point, we meandered down the street and into Thai Ku, at 5410 Ballard Avenue NW. I have often enjoyed the dark, almost mysterious bar at the back of the restaurant, so we headed back there to see if there was an available table. Sadly, the bar was full and no tables were available. Disappointed (they have very interesting herbal infused mixed drinks), we decided to keep looking. Although their food is fine, the dining portion of the restaurant lacks ambiance and is very family friendly. Not what we were looking for on a Friday evening.
Exiting Thai Ku, we spied Volterra http://www.volterrarestaurant.com/home.html at 5411 Ballard Avenue. Always a favorite, we headed across the street to see if there might be a table available. To our surprise, there were a number of tables available in the bar, although it was around 7 p.m. by this time. Volterra offers a relaxing ambiance with dim lighting, merlot colored walls, wood floors and dark wainscoting. From our small table in the bar, we could look through into the dining room, which was full. We were seated right away and greeted by our attentive waiter, Leon, as well as the always helpful wine steward.
After perusing the menu, we decided to start with the seared sea scallops appetizer and a bottle of 7 Hills Pinot Grigio. The sea scallops arrived promptly - two very large scallops with a sauté of seasonal wild mushrooms and vegetables topped with roasted garlic aioli. ($13). We were at first disappointed that there were only two scallops, but after I cut mine into bite sized pieces, it did come to six bites.
We pondered our dinner selections while savoring the delicious pinot. I decided on the fresh sheet selection of fresh baked Alaskan halibut with sun choke puree, broccolini, smoked tomato cream and tomato onion marmalata ($24) My companion selected the black pepper wide noodles and oxtail ragu off the regular menu (it is not appearing on their website and I didn't jot down the details).
My halibut arrived in a large shallow bowl, artfully presented. I found it delicious, with both a slight tang and a mild smoky flavor. My companion thought it was slightly overcooked, but he is more of a halibut connoisseur than myself. His oxtail ragu was tasty, the pasta cooked to perfection and very flavorful.
Leon did try to tempt us with the dessert menu, but mindful of my Lent vow (no sweets/desserts/anything that makes life worth living), we declined to even take a look. By the time we left, the bar and restaurant were packed and people were lined up waiting for tables, so apparently this restaurant gets crowded later in the evening. Seems like we made a good choice arriving at 7 p.m.!
A brisk walk of five or six blocks to the car completed our evening - another delightful, albeit spendy, dining experience at Volterra.
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