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Doing New Years in true downtown Bellevue style

December 30, 2011

It’s that time of year again. Break out the party poppers and champagne, pin up a brand new calendar and maybe a list of resolutions—it’s New Years! Luckily for Eastsiders, downtown Bellevue is a New Years party hot spot. The following is a list of downtown restaurants and entertainment venues gaurenteed to help you ring in 2012 right.

Pearl Bar and Dining
Pearl Bar and Dining is well established as one of the best dining options on the Eastside, so it comes as no surprise that they will be hosting a fabulous New Year’s Eve celebration! Join Pearl on December 31 for a gourmet three-course dinner followed by a nightclub style party and a champagne toast to ring in 2012. Pearl’s New Year’s Eve Ball will include multiple bars, a DJ and even party favors. Tickets are $30 per person through Brown Paper Tickets or $40 at the door. Valet parking is provided free by The Westin Bellevue. Come celebrate a gem of a year at Bellevue’s own restaurant jewel, Pearl!

Pogacha
Early birds rejoice because Pogacha is celebrating all day long on December 31! Starting at 11 a.m. on New Year’s Eve day Pogacha Bellevue will be serving its breakfast and lunch menu until 3 p.m. Starting at 5 p.m. Pogacha will feature a special New Year’s Eve menu in addition to a host of new winter specials like Hawaiian blue prawns and a variety of featured wines including Ross Andrew’s Boushey Syrah and Soos Creek Sundance Red.

Purple Café and Wine Bar and Lot No. 3
If you didn’t get your fill of New Year’s Eve festivities, Purple and Lot No. 3 have the perfect solution—New Year’s Day brunch. On January 1 both restaurants will be serving a New Year’s brunch to welcome in 2012. Items include hearty morning favorites like seasonal omelets at Purple and bagel sandwiches and waffles at Lot No.3. So put off cleaning up your New Year’s Eve party mess, just for a bit, and enjoy a New Years day brunch! Purple Café will also be open for New Year’s Even festivities. In addition to the full menu, Purple will feature unique food and drink specials.

The Melting Pot
New Year’s Eve is all about fun and the celebration of another successful year gone by—and nothing says fun like fondue! Join the Melting Pot this New Year’s Eve for a special four-course New Year’s dinner complete with featured seasonal wines and cocktails. Dinner is $75 per person and guests who book reservations between 3 and 5 p.m. will receive $100 in Melting Pot gift certificates for a delicious 2012! End the night with The Melting Pot’s signature chocolate fondue and get a sweet start to the New Year.

Wild Ginger
Creative cocktails and delectable dining are the name of the game this New Year at Wild Ginger! On December 31 Wild Ginger’s menu will include a vast array of creative cocktails, as well as a decadent dinner menu available all night. Diners can look forward to Wild Ginger’s Asian fusion favorites such as Thai chili beef, green curry chicken, squash and sweet potato stew as well as a satay bar. Wild Ginger will also serve a host of delicious cocktails like the cracked coconut martini, lychee cooler, vanilla passion sidecar and mango mojito. With options like that, who needs champagne?

Z’ Tejas Southwestern Grill
Can’t wait until the 31st to star your New Year’s celebration? You’re in luck. Z’ Tejas at the Bellevue Collection is starting their New Year’s festivities early too. December 30 through January 1 Z’Tejas will be serving a special New Year’s menu. Featured items will include an ahi ceviche with seasoned tostados, Southwestern chicken achiote and a molten chocolate cake for dessert. A trip to Z’ Tejas can be a delicious precursor to your New Year’s Eve!

Not everyone’s New Year’s Eve celebrations center around a meal out. For party-goers that prefer their night out with a little more action, downtown Bellevue has plenty of exciting options.

Munchbar will be hosting an angels and demons costume party on New Year’s Eve complete with guest DJ, celebrity host, champagne and of course prizes awarded to those with the best costumes. If you’re interested in something a bit more formal, consider New Year’s Eve at Piano Bash. Piano Bash will be holding a black and white themed attire party on New Year’s Eve featuring a prefix dinner, champagne toast and live jazz band.

Down the street in Old Bellevue The Spot Off Main will be hosting a New Year’s Eve party of its own. Don’t have a New Year’s Eve date? Play their “Match Ups” game and leave a message for that certain someone you’d like to stand by when the clock strikes twelve. The pinnacle of the night will be a champagne toast at midnight and a drawing for a trip to Hawaii! Doors open at a 8 p.m. and happy hour prices will be offered all night long.

520 Bar and Grill is known among locals for hosting festive holiday parties and New Years is no different. 520 will open at 8 p.m. on December 31 for a pre-funk and DJ and dancing begin at 9 p.m. Celebrate with your close friends at 520 all night!

For those with athletic flair, head to Lucky Strike Lanes! They don’t call it “the ultimate playground for adults” for nothing. In addition to a bowling, Lucky Strike features an arcade, billiards room, dance lounge and bar, making it a great choice for your New Year’s Eve venue. Lucky Strike’s New Year’s celebration will also include an appearance from UFC Octagon Girl and Brittney Palmer.

However you like to welcome in the New Year, downtown Bellevue has all the venues to make it happen. Here’s to 2012!

Bellevue’s restaurant scene; something to be thankful for

November 21, 2011

A  home cooked turkey dinner is a Thanksgiving staple; however the time and effort that goes into creating that holiday feast can be tiring. Why not skip the drama this season? Let the professionals take care of the cooking and cleaning this year as you sit back and experience the unparalleled elegance of  Thanksgiving dinner downtown Bellevue style!

Basil’s Kitchen
Visiting Bellevue for the holidays or have family who is? Why not have Thanksgiving dinner right at the hotel! The Hilton Bellevue’s own Basil’s Kitchen is hosting a Thanksgiving dinner of its own, and although you might not think to dine out for Thanksgiving at a hotel restaurant, Basil’s food is bar none. Basil’s Kitchen is a Mediterranean restaurant and its menu for Thanksgiving reflects that. Basil’s will be offering a slow roasted leg of lamb and chipotle roasted half chicken in addition to more traditional options like roasted turkey breast, roasted prime rib and pan seared salmon. Dessert will be buffet style with an assortment of holiday cakes, pies and cookies as well as chocolate fondue. *Prices range from $26.00 to $29.00 for adults and $12.95 for children under 12.

Daniel’s Broiler
Staying true to its roots, Daniel’s Broiler will be offering a prime rib and pork roast in addition to fresh Northwest salmon and an entrée of roast turkey for those that prefer to stick to the traditional. Dessert promises not to disappoint with delectable choices like vanilla bean crème brulee and chocolate raspberry charlotte in addition to the Thanksgiving staple of ice cream and pumpkin pie. As one of the Eastside’s premier steakhouses, Daniel’s Broiler is a great Thanksgiving choice for any family of foodies! *Prices are $50 for adults, $12 for children 6-10 and children 5 and under are free.

Maggiano’s
Looking to add a little Italian twist to your Thanksgiving celebration? Look no further than Maggiano’s. In true Maggiano’s style, the restaurant will be serving a special Thanksgiving menu that will include all of your Thanksgiving favorites with a unique Italian twist. The four course menu includes irresistible dishes like roast turkey with focaccia sausage stuffing, parmesan crusted tilapia, garlic mashed potatoes, four cheese ravioli and much more. Dessert will include such delicacies as a pumpkin praline cheesecake as well as a warm apple crostada. For a full menu drop by Maggiano’s in Lincoln Square and get ready to spice up Thanksgiving with the flavors of Italy! *Prices are $36.95 per person and $17.95 for children ages 5-12.

McCormick and Schmick’s
Although famous for fine seafood, McCormick and Schmick’s makes a mean turkey! This year Bellevue’s seafood staple will be serving a fixed three course menu of roast turkey, mashed potatoes, apple-butternut squash casserole, cranberry sauce and all of your Thanksgiving favorites. Desserts include your choice of pumpkin or apple pie, making McCormick and Schmick’s the place to go for die hard traditionalists to get their fill of the full Thanksgiving experience.*Prices are $23.95 for adults and $7.95 for children.

Palomino
Dining out for Thanksgiving can be fun experience, but Palomino understands that many families want to celebrate at home. For all of you who want to stay home for the holidays but avoid the mess of cooking a big meal, Palomino is offering its classic turkey dinner available for order. Now you can enjoy traditional favorites like slow roasted turkey, apple sausage stuffing and garlic herb mashed potatoes made by Palomino and enjoyed right in your own home. Orders are available for any group size and can be placed by calling (425) 455-7600. Customers are encouraged to order ASAP as Thanksgiving is rapidly approaching.

For those wishing to enjoy Palomino’s slow roasted turkey dinner in the restaurant, Palomino will be open from 12-8 p.m. on the 24th. Enjoy the Thanksgiving menu or choose from Palomino’s signature selection of starters, seafood, steaks and desserts. *Prices range from $27.00 for the turkey dinner ($7.00 for kids) to $38 for the prime rib dinner.

Pearl Bar and Dining
For the past three years Pearl Bar and Dining has been bringing gourmet Northwest cuisine to the Eastside, and now you can enjoy Pearl’s Northwest-inspired Thanksgiving feast in its chic, modern ambiance. This Thanksgiving Pearl will boast an extensive holiday menu that includes such favorites as sage roasted turkey, cedar-plank king salmon, herb roasted beef tenderloin, grilled boneless Berkshire pork chop and a host of delicious, seasonal sides. Desserts will include a traditional pumpkin pie, pecan pie, cranberry-vanilla bread pudding, valrhona chocolate sundae and Pearl’s signature butterscotch sundae. With its extensive array of menu options, Thanksgiving dinner at Pearl is truly something everyone in the family can enjoy! *Prices are $39.95 for adults and $12.95 for children 12 and under.

Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse
We all know Ruth’s Chris for their fine steaks, but this Thanksgiving the well-known steakhouse will be trading in its steak knives for a turkey baster as it hosts a traditional Thanksgiving dinner. You won’t be seeing steak on the menu—Ruth’s Chris will be serving a fixed three course meal of oven roasted turkey, sausage and herb stuffing, cranberry relish, and for dessert, pumpkin cheesecake and vanilla ice cream.

Those who are fans of fine steak fear not—Ruth’s Chris will also offer its regular menu items in addition to its Thanksgiving menu, allowing everyone to enjoy their favorites. *Prices are $34.95 for adults and $12 for children.

Trophy Cupcakes
Spending Thanksgiving at home but need some help in the dessert department? Let Trophy Cupcakes do the baking! Trophy’s seasonal Candied Yam with Toasted Marshmallow cupcake (pictured above) will surely impress your family and guests. This beloved, miniature cake boasts local, organic Garnet Yams, warm fall spices, and toasted pecans topped off with a generous swirl of fluffy, toasted marshmallow meringue frosting. At only $4 each, we think they’re the perfect finale to any Thanksgiving feast. To place your special order, call (206) 632-7020.

And don’t forget the 25th is Black Friday—time to burn off those Thanksgiving pounds by hitting the malls for all your holiday shopping! After a hectic day of bargain hunting you’ll surely deserve to sit back and relax at these restaurants.

The Melting Pot
The Melting Pot is offering a special Black Friday menu including hearty favorites like filet mignon and teriyaki marinated strip steak for those Thanksgiving dinners that left something to be desired. For diners wanting something lighter after their turkey day feast, The Melting Pot will also offer a vegetarian option of peanut marinated tofu, artichoke hearts and Portobello mushrooms in addition to three different salads.

Paddy Coyne’s Irish Pub
Paddy Coyne’s Irish Pub will be hosting “Man Camp”—an alternative to the traditional Black Friday shopping expedition! From 10:00 a.m.-2:00 a.m. Paddy Coyne’s will be featuring a host of Black Friday specials including a traditional Irish breakfast, spirits and liquor, and two-for-one entree deals.

Sample the best food in Bellevue without breaking the bank at Seattle Restaurant Week

October 16, 2011


You know you have one – that restaurant you’ve been meaning to stop in to but never have. Well now is the perfect chance to eat at that swanky bar or hip new bistro you’ve always wanted to try! October 16-20 and October 23-27, more than 150 restaurants in Seattle and on the Eastside will be participating in Seattle Restaurant Week.

Sponsored by Seattle Restaurant Cooperative partners and seattletimes.com, Seattle Restaurant Week is a celebration of our region’s unique culinary scene and an excellent opportunity for the budget conscious diner. Participating restaurants offer three course dinners for $28 and some with three course lunches for just $15.

Although Seattle Restaurant Week includes primarily restaurants throughout Seattle, Eastsiders need not feel excluded. Some of the best restaurants downtown Bellevue has to offer are participating in the event. Cantinetta, Monsoon East, Nordstrom Grill, The Melting Pot, Purple Café and Wine Bar, Wild Ginger, McCormick and Schmick’s and Seastar Restaurant and Raw Bar are all on the roster.

No special passes or tickets will be required to dine at participating restaurants, however due to high public interest in the event, diners are highly encouraged to make reservations at their restaurants of choice ahead of time to ensure a spot.

Whether you’re a longtime resident of the Pacific Northwest, in town visiting, or just a fan of great food at an amazing price, come sample the best food the region has to offer at Seattle Restaurant Week! For information, visit seattlerestaurantweek.com.

Summer nights out at The Melting Pot

July 1, 2011

Summer nights out have returned to the downtown Bellevue Melting Pot. For just $35 per person, indulge in three courses plus a fresh from scratch infused martini. Bartenders will change featured martinis based upon the seasonal ingredients of the day.

The “Summer Night Out” menu is now available Sunday through Thursday anytime of day, and Friday and Saturday before 6:00 p.m.

First Course
Choose Any Cheese Fondue

Second Course
Choose Any Salad

Third Course
Choose Your Entrée:

The Tera Mar
NY Strip, breast of chicken & shrimp

The Summer Sizzler
Filet mignon, shrimp, teriyaki sirloin, breast of chicken & sesame ahi tuna

The Vegetarian
Edamame or onion rings, artichoke hearts, Portobello mushrooms, Thai peanut marinated tofu, asparagus, & ravioli

If you prefer a classic cheese fondue, we suggest ordering the Traditional Swiss Cheese Fondue. Or to try something edgier, go for the Fiesta Cheese Fondue with cheddar cheese, lager beer, jalapeño peppers and salsa made as spicy as you like! If you have room to top off this three course meal you won’t regret ordering one of The Melting Pot’s famous Chocolate Fondue Desserts.

Visit meltingpot.com/Bellevue for more information or call (425) 646-2744 for reservations.

Treat Mom in downtown Bellevue

May 4, 2011

Daniel’s Broiler
Show how much you love mom this Mother’s Day by treating her to one of downtown Bellevue’s finest steakhouses. Bring the whole family to enjoy the great menu at Daniel’s Broiler from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. If you’d rather flatter her with a Schwartz Brother’s Gift Card, you will receive a free $25 bonus gift certificate for every $100 purchased through June 13, 2011.

For details call (425) 455-3948, or visit schwartzbros.com.

McCormick & Schmick’s
McCormick & Schmick’s is making it a special Mother’s Day weekend! May 6–May 8 bring Mom in to enjoy a special Mother’s Day brunch menu, in addition to the regular menu. Also every Mom that dines at McCormick’s this weekend will receive a complimentary chocolate truffle trio! To make the experience even more special, guests have the opportunity to request custom menu messages and flowers to be hand-delivered to your table.

For more information or to book your reservations call (425) 454-2606, or visit mccormickandschmicks.com.

The Melting Pot
Make Mother’s Day a week she’ll remember! At The Melting Pot celebrate mom with a special four-course Mother’s Day menu available May 2–May 8. Let Mom dip into a creamy Garlic Herb and Cheddar Cheese Fondue, or try their bubbling Pesto and Marinara Cheese Fondue. For lighter options, choose from a classic Caesar Salad or the light and tangy Strawberry Kiss Salad. For entrees guests can choose from Lobster, New York Strip Steak, Zesty Shrimp, Garlic Chicken, Pork Tenderloin and Ravioli ($47 per person), or the Melting Pot’s Signature Filet Mignon, Teriyaki Sirloin, Zesty Shrimp, Garlic Chicken and Seasame Ahi Tuna ($39 per person). Top off the celebration by indulging in any of The Melting Pot’s chocolate fondues or choose their Mother’s Day Special—the Dark Chocolate Dream made with fresh raspberry puree. In addition to the regular menus, kids 12 and under can design their own meal with the choice of chicken, steak, shrimp or ravioli for just $10.

The Melting Pot is also offering a way for the little ones to show mom how much they care! May 2–8, kids are invited to write an essay detailing why their mom is the best mom in the world! One winner will be chosen at each Melting Pot location. Winners will receive a free chocolate fondue dessert for themselves and six of their friends!

For more information or to make reservations call (425) 646-2744, or visit meltingpot.com.

Pearl Bar & Dining
On Sunday, May 8 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., bring mom into Bradley & Mikel’s Pearl Bar & Dining to enjoy a special Mother’s Day brunch. The menu will include all of your Pearl favorites including a Smoked Salmon Scramble, Classic Eggs Benedict and their famous Dungeness Crab Omelet. If you can’t make it to their morning brunch, treat mom to Pearl’s dinner menu available from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.

For reservations call (425) 455-0181, or visit pearlbellevue.com.

Pogacha
Looking for a unique spot to bring mom this Mother’s Day? Try Pogacha where Northwest cuisine meets Italian and Adriatic style cooking! This Sunday, May 8, join Pogacha for their Mother’s Day brunch from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. This delicious three-course brunch includes a first course of a cup of their fresh Tomato and Basil soup. The second course is a buffet of all your classic brunch favorites, such as scrambled eggs, freshly baked muffins, fresh fruit Caesar Salad, as well as some Pogacha twists like Pogacha Potatoes O’Brien and Chicken Dijon Pasta. For the third course, select your made-to-order accompaniment from Grilled Mediterranean Chicken Breast, Sauteed Prawns or Grilled Ham. This brunch also includes coffee.

If you can’t make it to brunch, Pogacha is offering a Mother’s Day Dinner as well! Served from 5 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., this dinner menu includes some tasty specials in addition to their regular menu.

Cost is $20.95 for adults, &17.95 for seniors, $5.95 for children ages 5–11 and free for children 5 and under.

Make your reservations today by calling (425) 455-5670, or visit pogacha.com.

Purple Café and Wine Bar, LOT No. 3 and Barrio
Make Mother’s Day special by bringing her to one of three Heavy Restaurant Group restaurants, right here in downtown Bellevue. She’ll enjoy classic Northwest Cuisine at Purple, a modern twist on home-style favorites at LOT No. 3 and authentic southwest food at Barrio.

For reservations at Purple visit thepurplecafe.com. For reservations at LOT No. 3 visit lotno3.com. For reservations at Barrio visit barriorestaurant.com.

The Spot off Main
The Spot off Main is not only your friendly neighborhood gathering place, but a great place to bring mom this Mother’s Day! On Sunday, May 8, all premium wines will be on special for $7. Take mom out to enjoy a glass and kick back in a comfortable, laid-back atmosphere.

For more information on upcoming events in May at The Spot visit thespotoffmain.com, or check out their Facebook page.

Trophy Cupcakes
Show your Mom how sweet she is by bringing home a box of Trophy Cupcakes’ Margarita Cupcakes! This flavor includes Fresh Lime cake topped with Tequila Lime Buttercream. Perfect for Mother’s Day or in celebration of Cinco de Mayo. The Margarita Cupcake will be available all month long!

For more information, visit trophycupcakes.com.

 
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