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Make downtown Bellevue your haunt this Halloween!

October 25, 2011

The 31st is rolling around again, so for kids that means putting on their spookiest garb and scaring up a bucketful of Halloween treats. With its candy and costumes, Halloween is a holiday made for kids, but before you resign yourself to handing out candy this year, take a look at the many adult activities downtown Bellevue has to offer.

Old Bellevue’s The Spot Off Main will be holding two costume parties (October 29 and 31) complete with all night drink specials and prizes awarded to those with the most creative costumes. The lucky individual with the best costume will win a trip to Las Vegas!

Munchbar is joining the costume party bandwagon this year and for those with a competitive edge, a costume contest. On both October 29 and 31 Munchbar’s “Nightmare on M-Street” bash will include a $2,500 cash giveaway, so put on your scariest game face and indulge your competitive side at Munchbar this Halloween!

Not to be outdone, 520 Bar and Grill will be holding its 6th annual Halloween costume party on the 29th from 9:00 p.m. until midnight, so pick up some friends (and some face paint) and come party and dance the night away with 520!

Costume parties and contests make for an excellent Halloween night for adults, but let’s not forget the kids! Downtown Bellevue has a variety of kid-friendly events perfect for making this Halloween one to remember.

This year Trophy Cupcakes will be combining two time honored Halloween traditions – sweet treats and crazy costumes! Participating is as easy as dressing up as your favorite Trophy cupcake and visiting any one of  Trophy’s locations on the 31st  for the chance to win a $25, $50 or $100 Trophy Cupcakes gift card. All participants will get a free cupcake so everyone is a winner!

Have kids who just can’t wait for the big day? No problem! The Bravern will be hosting their Little Bookworms Spooktacular on Wednesday the 26th. This all day event will run from 10:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. and include face painting, cookie decorating, a magic show and much, much more! Participants are welcome to drop by for a few events or make an entire day of pre-Halloween festivities. More information and a complete list of events can be found here.

Still have a bad case of Halloween fever? Your Local Market has the cure! Although it is not officially open for business until November 11th, Your Local Market will be hosting a Halloween carnival in the parking lot of their future store on October 30th from 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. and on the 31st  from 3:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. The carnival will include a bounce house, pony rides, pumpkin painting and a drawing to win $1,000 in free groceries from Your Local Market. Best of all, the carnival will be taking donations for Camp Korey- a camp that serves children with life threatening and serious illnesses and their families at no cost. So join Your Local Market to support a great cause while indulging in festive family fun!

Although trick or treating and pumpkin carving are Halloween staples, for a truly unforgettable Halloween let downtown Bellevue take care of the entertainment!

Your St. Patrick’s Day pot o’ gold lies in downtown Bellevue

March 15, 2011

It’s time to break out the shamrocks, lucky clovers and any wacky green articles of clothing hidden in your closet. This Thursday, March 17, let your true Irish spirit shine! In downtown Bellevue there are plenty of locations to enjoy St. Patrick’s Day to its fullest, whether your looking for traditional Irish food, the party—or both! Take a look below and let the luck of the Irish guide you to your downtown celebration spot!

520 Bar and Grill
Enjoy a kiss of the Irish at the 520 Bar and Grill! Well maybe not a real kiss, but something that is bound to get your taste buds excited. Throughout the month of March, 520 Bar and Grill will be celebrating their Irish roots. After all, the idea for this local eatery was conceived in none other than the world famous Temple Bar in Dublin, Ireland! In homage to Irish tradition, all Irish beer is $4.50 and all Irish Whiskey is $6.00. You’re sure to feel lucky with all these great specials!

Cupcake Royale
Irish tradition doesn’t stop at the confectionary level. Cupcake Royale has crafted up their own version of Irish fare with the Bacon Whiskey Maple Cupcake, March’s Cupcake of the Month. This wonderfully unique creation includes Jameson Irish Whiskey swirled into real maple buttercream and topped with your choice of either pieces of bacon or shamrock sprinkles and organic maple sugar. Add some sweetness to your St. Patrick’s celebration by picking up a box of these today!

LOT No. 3
This St. Patty’s Day, LOT No. 3 is serving up some delicious Irish cuisine! On Thursday, March 17, joining the menu will be real brisket Wagyu corned beef with braised cabbage and potatoes, accompanied by two different mustard blends and a horseradish cream sauce. Another special treat on the menu will be traditional Irish soda bread served with Kelsleydale Irish Butter. Now that’s enough to make any true Irishman’s mouth water!

McCormick and Schmick’s
McCormick and Schmick’s will share a kiss and spread some luck this Thursday because everyone knows it’s lucky to kiss a stranger on St. Patrick’s Day! McCormick’s modern take on traditional Irish bar food includes Corned Beef Sliders for $3.95, Guinness-steamed Shrimp for $7.95 and Guinness-steamed Mussels for $5.95. Drink specials include Guinness draughts, Leprechaun Kiss cocktails (Ketel One Vodka, Sour Apple Pucker, simple syrup and fresh-squeezed lemon juice) and Dublin Bulldogs (Bailey’s Irish Cream and Ketel One Vodka, topped with Guinness draught and a dash of Coke).

Munchbar
Add some Vegas to your St. Patty’s Day at downtown Bellevue’s newest hot spot. On Thursday, March 17 Munchbar is all about the green! Guests can look forward to green beer, beads, go-go dancers, leprechauns and much more. Don’t forget to let your true Irish colors show because there will be a $250 cash prize for the guest with the best costume. Don’t miss what is bound to be one of the biggest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations on the Eastside! The fun begins at 9:30 p.m.

Paddy Coyne’s Irish Pub
Looking to celebrate a truly authentic St. Patrick’s Day? Head over to Paddy Coyne’s Irish Pub—the only Irish pub in downtown Bellevue! Throughout the day Paddy Coyne’s will serve traditional Irish fare, beginning with breakfast at 8:00 a.m. At noon guests will be treated to the sounds of bagpipes performed by a live musician. Then at 5:00 p.m. The Eastside Firefighters Pipes and Drums will stop by to add to the Irish celebration. At 9:00 p.m. the Whiskey Gaels, a five-piece Celtic band, will take the stage for a live performance. Their infectious enthusiasm is known for bringing a crowd to a full sing-along at every show! Paddy Coyne’s will also host a beer garden in Lincoln Square’s lobby for guests 21 and older.

Rock Bottom Brewery
With an incredible selection of beer, Rock Bottom Brewery always has your need for hops met—and this St. Patrick’s Day is no different! In true Irish spirit, green beer will be served all day long.

Trophy Cupcakes
Trophy’s St. Patrick’s Day favorite is back! Indulge in the Chocolate Guinness Stout Cupcake with Irish Cream Buttercream and a lucky shamrock on top—a treat that any leprechaun would enjoy! Hurry in because this flavor is only lasts through March 14–March 19.

The Spot off Main
If you’ve been to The Spot off Main you know they have a countdown to St. Patrick’s Day posted on the wall. March 17 is one of The Spot’s biggest events of the year! Doors open at 11:00 a.m. for those who want to start the day off in true Irish spirit. At 9:30 p.m., the Beer Pong Competition kicks off, along with drink specials including $7.00 Rolling Rock pitchers, $3.50 Captain Morgan Lime Bites and $3.50 Jose Cuervo Silver. To add some Irish flare to the list, $5.00 Jameson and Ginger, $2.75 Green Bud Light Draft and $4.00 Bud Light 16oz bottles will also be available. All guests will also be automatically entered to win a trip-for-two to Las Vegas! In addition, the guest with the wildest and most festive costume will receive a $50 gift card to The Spot. Now that’s a whole pot o’ gold!

Z’Tejas Southwestern Grill
If a southwestern take on Irish tradition is what you’re after, you’re in luck! Z’Tejas has you covered all day Thursday, March 17 with their newest cocktail creation, the Irish O’Larry (6th St. Margarita with Midori) for only $3.17.

Romance your Valentine in Downtown Bellevue

February 7, 2011

Are you tired of the same gift of chocolates and flowers every year? Valentine’s Day is an excuse to really show how much that special person in your life means to you, or to go out and celebrate singles-style with a group of friends at any of our local hotspots. Just like every other holiday, Downtown Bellevue has you covered this Valentine’s Day on all your romantic needs. So why not try out some of the special offerings at the restaurants listed below to mix it up and treat that sweetie of yours to something special!

520 Bar and Grill
This year at 520 Bar and Grill, the whole month of February will be designated romance month, with decorations and menu items to compliment this theme. Just like any other friendly neighborhood restaurant, 520 Bar and Grill is a place to relax and feel comfortable, not stuffy. Valentine’s Day should go hand in hand with this ideal and be fun rather than a holiday to dread. So bring your Valentine or be 520’s Valentine! For reservations call (425) 450-0520.

Barrio, LOT No. 3 and Purple Café and Wine Bar
Set the mood this Valentine’s Day with any one of Heavy Restaurant Group’s fabulous eateries. Barrio, LOT No. 3 and Purple Café and Wine Bar are suiting up to offer guests some great Valentine’s Day specials in addition to their regular menu. Each restaurant will feature a 3-course prix fixe menu for two, priced at $60 at Barrio and LOT No. 3 and $75 for Purple Café. Check out each restaurants menu:

Barrio Valentine’s Day Menu
LOT No. 3 Valentine’s Day Menu
Purple Café and Wine Bar Valentine’s Day Menu

The Valentine’s Day menus will consist of your choice of starter, entree and dessert to share. In addition, guests will have an optional $20 wine or cocktail pairing. For reservations at Barrio call (425) 502-5021. For reservations at LOT No. 3 call (425) 440-0025. For reservations at Purple call (425) 502-6292.

boom noodle
If you and your date are looking for a fun way to celebrate the love on Valentine’s Day, come to Boom Noodle! Between February 11–14, Boom Noodle is the place where you can EAT, DRINK, and BOOM! The “EAT” portion includes Vietnamese Caramelized Short Ribs and Honey Peanut Prawns, with sides of Miso broiled rice cakes, spicy green beans and Kim Chee; for the “DRINK”, you’ll receive a deliciously sweet White Peach Bellini; and “BOOM!”– You and your Valentine are set for a relaxed evening full of tasty Asian-inspired dishes and a funky, fun atmosphere! For more information, please visit their website or call (425) 453-6094.

Grand Cru Mixologie Lounge
Enjoy an early dinner or late night with choice of two dinner options of either $39.95 or $49.95 per person including a glass of Champagne or Wine, Single cheese platter, Arugula Salad or Caesar, an entree choice from our dinner menu, and a dessert consisting of Chocolate Molten Cake, Lemon Tart or Cheesecake. For reservations call (425) 455-4278.

John Howie Steak
John Howie Steak is offering a sweetheart of a Valentine’s Day dinner on Monday, February 14.  The dinner is comprised of a 3-course meal served in the intimate Piano Lounge, where live music will be played for guests to enjoy throughout the evening. The menu includes a choice of soup or salad, five delicious entrees, and three decadent deserts, all for $55 per person (exclusive of tax and gratuity). Make your reservations today by calling (425) 440-0880.

McCormick and Schmick’s
At McCormick and Schmick’s they’re pulling out all the stops to make this a Valentine’s Day to remember! Guests who make a reservation between February 11 – 14, will have the opportunity to also request roses to be set at the table upon arrival for a $10 charge. In addition, you also have the option of personalizing a card to be set at the table prior to arrival, free of charge. Diners on February 14 will have a champagne or sparkling cider toast included in their meal as well. For reservations call (425) 454-2606.

The Melting Pot
The Melting Pot is the place to be this holiday of love, whether you’re looking for someplace to enjoy with that special someone or you’re looking for the perfect singles hangout spot. In addition to the regular menu, check out their fabulous Valentine’s Day Celebration Menu. By ordering from this Valentine’s Day menu, guests will receive a complimentary champagne toast, chocolates and flowers. The cost for this four-course love extravaganza is $75 per person. For reservations call (425) 646-2744.

That’s not all! To liven up their extensive list of creative drinks, the Melting Pot is adding a few delicious “love potions” to sip on, including a Love Martini (Malibu Rum, Peach Schnapps, Cranberry juice and fresh strawberries), Passionate Kiss (SKYY Infusions Passion Fruit vodka, orange, lemon, basil and Cantine Maschio Prosecco Brut) and French Kiss Martini (Grey Goose vodka, Chambord, pineapple juice, and a float of Prosecco).

The Melting Pot is also showing the love by offering guests the chance to win “A Valentine Love Triangle” for Saturday, February 12. The package includes a romantic dinner for two at the Melting Pot, two tickets to the 5th Avenue Theatre show “My Funny Valentine” and a “Lover’s Overnight Stay” in a townhouse city side room at the Inn at the Market in Downtown Seattle. For your chance to win this incredible evening for two, fill out a Club Fondue form at any Melting Pot location before Monday, February 7, when the Grand Prize winner will be drawn.

Monsoon East
Monsoon East is a fantastic location right in the heart of old Bellevue for you and your sweetie to share a memorable evening together. This February 14, they will be offering an incredible Valentine’s Day tasting menu for couples to enjoy, in addition to their regular menu. The tasting menu will include 6 courses made up of a variety of Monsoon specialties, such as kusshi oysters, Butternut squash soup and Dungeness crab cake with asian pear slaw. The cost is $95 per couple, plus tax and gratuity. Please call (425) 365-1112 for reservations. For a closer look at their menu, visit monsoonrestaurants.com/east.

Pearl Bar & Dining
Bradley and Mikel’s Pearl Bar & Dining is known to some as “the sexiest spot on the Eastside”—and for good reason! Whether the night calls for dinner, drinks, late night dining or a decadent dessert, Pearl has romantic tables in the dining room and a sexy bar scene to complete any Valentine’s date. This February 14, try the steak, lobster and chocolate terrine special—perfect for enjoying with your sweetheart! For reservations call (425) 455-0181.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House
For a limited time only Ruth’s Chris will be offering a succulent Filet and Lobster dinner including a 6 oz. Filet Mignon paired with a Caribbean Lobster tail. This delicious meal is priced at only $44.95 and is perfect for a Valentine’s Day dinner or your next night out! . For reservations call (425) 451-1550.

Tap House Grill
Spend Valentine’s Day at the Tap House Grill featuring  The Velvet Rouge cocktail – a beautiful combination of champagne, Framboise and Raspberry Liqueur, served with a chilled Grand Marnier soaked raspberry. For reservations call (425) 467-1730.

The Parlor Collection
For the singles crowd, its a big night at Parlor on Thursday, February 10 in celebration of Valentine’s Day! Come by between 7 p.m.  - 10 p.m. for the Valentine’s Singles Mingle, the ultimate singles party. The night will include an exciting game of speed dating, mingling and meeting new people, the chance to win great prizes and much more to look forward to! For more information on the Valentine’s Single Mingle or to request a spot on the VIP list, visit parlorlive.com.

Twisted Cork
Twisted Cork, located inside the Bellevue Hyatt Regency, is known for their distinct classic dishes and cocktails with a twist. This Valentine’s Day, they’re offering some tasty new drinks to try and a menu of delicious plates that you and your loved one won’t want to miss. The “Twisted Love” cocktail is a perfect end to your day—or beginning to your night—for you and your sweetheart. The cocktail includes Vanilla Vodka, Chambord, Cranberry juice and is topped off with Sparkling White Wine, for only $5. Twisted Cork will offer the specialty cocktail along with its Valentine’s Day menu February 11–14.  For reservations call (425) 462-1234.

Z’Tejas
Come to Z’Tejas this Valentine’s Day Weekend to spice things up Southwestern-style! From February 11 – 14,
Z’Tejas is offering a Sweetheart Dinner menu for you and your Valentine to savor. Its starts with Tempura-battered Avacado with Lobster Melange for an appetizer, then progresses to four entree options straight from the grill that are equally mouth-watering. For dessert, you’ll finish off with Mission Fig Beignets served with warm raspberry sauce, cinnamon ice cream and fresh berries. Don’t forget to order some special Valentine’s cocktails either! The “PAMA ‘Rita” is a tasteful mix of PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur floated in their award-winning 6th St. Margarita, topped with some fun Valentine’s candy. Or try their “Love on the Rocks” with Prairie Organic Vodka, PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur, cranberry juice, agave nectar, fresh lime juice and club soda– served on the rocks, of course.

Z’Tejas offers “To Go” packages for football fans

January 12, 2011

Wish you could watch the game from the comfort of your own home and be able to munch on your favorite restaurant apps? Look no further than Z’Tejas Southwestern Grill who has recently launched a special playoff season “to go” menu. Choose the “First Down” package for $30 which includes chips, house salsa, Jerk Chicken Tacos, a Chicken Quesadilla, Tejas Trio and cornbread, or the heartier “Touchdown” for $65 which includes all of that plus Leo’s Street Tacos, Ancho Fudge Pie and a 1/2 gallon of Margarita Mix! There are also two in between options for $45, so take your pick. Each package is enough to serve 4 people are available Saturday, January 15 through Sunday, February 6. And if the “to go” menu doesn’t fit your needs, Z’Tejas’ entire menu is also available for carry out. All orders must be placed 24 hours in advance. Call Z’Tejas at The Lodge at Bellevue Square to place your order: (425) 467-5911.

Feel like getting out of the house for the game? Check out these Downtown Bellevue venues that will be broadcasting the playoffs: 520 Bar and Grill, LOT No. 3Lucky Strike Lanes, Tap House Grill, Rock Bottom Brewery, The Parlor Collection, Paddy Coyne’s Irish Pub and The Spot Off Main.

Ring in the New Year Downtown Bellevue style

December 21, 2010

5-4-3-2-1! Happy New Ye­—okay, let’s not get ahead of ourselves. But the end of 2010 is quickly approaching, which means it’s time to start looking for the perfect way to bring in 2011. Downtown Bellevue has many venues to choose from, whether you’re looking for a big bash or a small-scale celebration with close friends and family. Check out all of the options listed below, make your reservations today, and most importantly, have a Happy New Year!

520 Bar & Grill
Bring in the New Year with close friends and family at 520 Bar & Grill where you can celebrate in an intimate setting. A DJ will be playing all the best hits to start your New Year off right. Join the 520 crew from 9 p.m. until 1 a.m. for a New Year’s party you won’t want to miss! No cover charge and no reservations required.

Grand Cru Mixologie Lounge
Grand Cru has you covered if you’re still looking for that perfect place to host your New Year’s Eve get together. With a private dining room and champagne and cocktail specials served from 5:30 p.m. to 12 a.m., you shouldn’t need to look any further. Call (425) 455-4278 to make a reservation.

John Howie Steak
2011 is sure to be a big year, so why not bring it in with a meal to fit the bill? On December 31, John Howie Steak invites you to join them in what Chef Howie calls “the best meal you will ever have.”  This nine-course New Year’s Eve meal includes a collection of exquisite foods paired with the most sought-after wines and best champagne. A sample of the menu items include Shigoku Oysters served with Dom Perignon, Torchon d’Foie Gras, Poached Maine Lobster and Australian Wagyu Beef Tenderloin—just to give you a peek into what you can expect from this night’s culinary extravaganza.

Guests will seated at 8 p.m. in the Magnum Room. The price is $2,011 per couple, plus tax and gratuity. To make your reservation for this once in a lifetime dining experience call (425) 440-0880 or visit johnhowiesteak.com. The regular menu along with regular seating will also be available for the evening.

Monsoon East
Join Monsoon East on December 31 for a 5-course tasting menu that you won’t forget. The first course includes a half dozen oysters on the half shell, followed by a second course of wilted cabbage salad with almonds and grapefruit, and butternut squash soup. The third course offers wagyu beef tartare with persimmon relish and taro chips. The main course consists of rainbow trout with endive, spaghetti squash, bacon and ginger, as well as wokked soft egg noodles with oyster mushrooms, egg and onion. To top off the meal, enjoy coconut amaretto bread pudding with vanilla ice cream and decadent truffles for dessert. Cost is $90 per couple and includes two glasses of sparkling wine to go with your meal. Call (425) 635-1112 to make a reservation.

Pearl Bar and Dining
Join Bradley and Mikel’s Pearl Bar and Dining for this 2011 New Year’s Eve. A special dinner menu in addition to the regular menu will be served from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., and the lounge will remain open until 2 a.m. The New Year’s Eve menu will include a delicious filet mignon and butter-poached lobster dinner. Call (425) 455-0181 or visit pearlbellevue.com to make a reservation. 

Purple Café and Wine Bar
Come to Purple Café and Wine Bar this New Year’s Eve for unique, tasty food specials added to their regular menu. Guests will also be treated to special glass pours and wine flights to celebrate the end of a great 2010. Call (425) 502-6292 or visit thepurplecafe.com to make a reservation.

Tap House Grill
Tap House Grill is a great place to host a group of friends or family for the evening of December 31. Guests will be seated until 8:30 p.m. after which you will be able to keep your table for the remainder of the evening. Tap House will be offering drink specials in addition to their extensive list of beer, wine, and cocktails. If you decide you want to boogie your way into 2011, there will also be a DJ and dance floor at your dancing disposal.  Call (425) 467-1730 to make a reservation.

The Parlor Collection
Bring the whole gang to The Parlor Collection for the second annual New Year’s Eve Comedy Classic with Alonzo Bodden and Friends. Bodden was the winner of the third season of “Last Comic Standing” and has appeared in numerous films. By purchasing tickets to the 7 p.m. or 9:30 p.m. show, you will also be able to enjoy the rest of the New Year’s festivities being offered at The Parlor throughout the night.

Tickets can be purchased online at parlorlive.com. To make a reservation for one of the ultra exclusive VIP booths featuring table side service, call (425) 289-7000.

The Spot of Main
Head to The Spot off Main where you can bring in the New Year in a casual, relaxed atmosphere with friendly service and great prices. The celebration begins at 8 p.m. and goes until closing at 2 a.m. No reservations required.

Z’Tejas Southwestern Grill
Add a little spice to your celebration with Z’Tejas’ special New Year’s Weekend Menu, offered December 31 through January 2. Choose from two 3-course meal options including prime rib or fresh Chilean sea bass. The menu also features special dessert and a la carte appetizer selections. Top off your meal and toast to 2011 by splitting an order of Mionetto Prosecco sparking wine. Call (425) 467-5911 to make a reservation.