Canlis Restaurant
(206) 283-3313
2576 Aurora Ave N
Seattle,
WA
98109
47.6428
-122.347
Neighborhoods: East Queen Anne, Magnolia / Queen Anne
What People Are Saying About Canlis Restaurant
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
The Scene
Congregated stones mix with branches and pierce the walls, creating a dramatic interior effect. The beautifully appointed atrium gives way to a display of natural light as Lake Union nearly spills into the dining room. Splurging couples will get the exceptional attention they hope for; the first-class staff delivers consistent, quality service.
The Food
Straightforward starters are stellar, including silky Dungeness crab legs; garlic, lime and red-pepper prawns and the coconut-kissed Canlis chowder. Alaska halibut bathed in a warm, tomato-shallot compote is flavorsome, but lacks that extra something to justify the hefty price tag. Surf and turf goes upscale when petite Wasyugyu (Kobe-style) tenderloin is paired with a plump scampi. Delicate seasonal vegetables are scattered next to entrees, but those looking for more can share a grilled portobello, sweet white corn or a twice-baked potato.
User Reviews
RockinSteph
April 23, 2009
I absolutely love this restaurant. The Canlis prawns is the best appetizer on the menu. I get it every time I go. But I do not recommend getting the prawns as a main dish because the dish is very rich and may be too much as an entree. This restaurant is great for a date or to go with a small group of people. The service I receive each time I go is without a doubt the best service anyone can possibly offer. They respect your space, but at the same time make sure you have the best dining experience ever. I absolutely adore this place and recommend it to everyone who likes great food and amazing service.
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OleEichhorn
April 18, 2009
I dined at Canlis last Tuesday night and had an absolutely wonderful time. Every aspect of my experience was excellent. The maitre'd kindly seated me at the table in the corner of the windows at the far end of the bar, maximizing my view of Lake Union. Erin was my waitress and did a magnificent job of serving and advising me through the wonderful meal. I began with the yellowtail appetizer, which was fantastic, and then tried the the salmon entrée, and the Mahi Mahi. Both were superb, indeed among the best I have ever experienced. The sommelier whose name I unfortunately cannot recall guided me to the 2004 Sea Smoke Botella Pinot Noir which was unbelievable, enhanced by beautiful Riedel glassware. I finished with the cheese plate which was also amazing (I am running out of superlatives now) accompanied by a glass of the 1977 Warre's - nothing else need be said about that! Indeed no part of my experience was less that wonderful. I spent four hours over dinner and could easily have spent another two :) Canlis came highly recommended, but even with high expectations I were pleasantly delighted. I anticipate my next business trip to Seattle with great interest so that I may visit again.
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bemswiler
April 15, 2009
I tried to comment on the review below, but apparently it was too long. So I'm pasting it here! Wow. I MUST respond to the Artichoke review with FACTS. 1. I have eaten this very same tasting menu. It was last week Monday. 2. There ARE morels in the first course. That large dollop of white mousse is made almost entirely from fresh morels. I know because I asked our server (perhaps you should have done the same?). Additionally, there are candied morels sprinkled all over the top. And for the record, I thought this dish was DIVINE. Like springtime in your mouth. 3. CANNED ARTICHOKES?!!! Are YOU kidding ME?!!! This simple observation really speaks to a) your culinary expertise, and b) your baffling decision to not raise any of your concerns to your server or to management who would have, I imagine, happily addressed your concerns. Those artichokes aren't canned, they are prepared with a French technique called barigoule. Do I expect a normal non-foody to know that? No....but I would expect you to ask about it if you were so concerned. The other dishes....you obviously didn't like them, and that's okay. I happened to think they were all brilliant. We each get our own opinion. Regarding the service....I'm surprised it wasn't very good. I've eaten at Canlis multiple times and have always been very impressed with the service. The one time I had a complaint (long wait for my main course) the owner himself was at my table apologizing in minutes. Look....I'm in the industry...and when a restaurant screws up you have to give them a chance to fix it! If they don't make it right, THEN you should be angry.
read full reviewThe Details on Canlis Restaurant
Where to Sit:
Need to impress, propose or simply offer an apology? Book the private room (ask for the "Cache") for two upstairs.
Know Before You Go:
Canlis offers a souffle, chocolate lava cake and a shortcake that must be ordered in advance. But don't worry, there's a list of sorbets and other desserts that can wait until later.
Look Good:
Jackets are encouraged for men; jeans and other casual attire discouraged for all.
Category:
Payment Methods:
American Express, Visa, Discover, MasterCard
Restaurant Special Features:
Local Favorite, Romantic Dining, Special Occasion Dining, Fine Dining, View Dining, Private Rooms, Date Spot, Group Dining, Live Music, Fireplace, Notable Wine List
