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Impromptu Wine Bar Cafe4235 E Madison St, Seattle, WA | Directions 98112
47.636483 -122.277334What a nice surprise. I had driven by Impromptu for YEARS before I actually stopped in for dinks with a friend last week. What a great time we had. The atmosphere was bustling and cozy with couples and friends sitting comfortably on the black leather couches next to the wood stove and others gathered around the linen covered tables eating what looked like pretty fantastic food. My friend and I got the last table next to the window and had great conversation over several glasses of wine. I'd love to try their prix fixed menu next time - $25. Hard to beat!
A blight upon Seattle.
That this place exists and has a non-zero number of customers lowers my estimation of Seattle considerably. I went on a Saturday night at what should be peak hours. There was one couple and a fairly surly and obnoxious hostess; far from the "crowded" comments in the other (probably fake) reviews.
Hey, there's that brand of Syrah from Chile I used to drink in college. It was a really good Syrah. Not to mention, it cost 3 dollars a bottle. But hey, the customers will think it comes from far away. Unlike the nonexistent White Zinfandel: they'll know THAT wine, and know it's a non-snooty relatively cheap wine. It might hurt our image, right?
If you're going to be a snooty place catering to idiots who think they're high class, you could at least have a high-quality Bordeaux and a polite hostess. Sorry, guess not. So I left.
time and time again. Since Impromptu has begun full dinner service it is always a joy to go there for dinner. The staff is always cheerful and I always feel welcomed whether I am alone or with friends. The Prix Fixe menu is a treat but one should know that it is available during specific times which is to be expected. I love that I can always ask for a recomendation on wines and never be dissappointed. This is a place that I love to come to and I am always turning friends onto it. It is a must try.
The eye roller. I had heard good things and was looking for somewhere we could sit outside and drink wine. When we walked in the only woman working at the time was behind the bar writing and she didn't even look up. After standing in the doorway for a few minutes my friends said "excuse me" and the woman rolled her eyes before responding. She showed us to our table in a huff and then proceeded to sigh and roll her eyes as told us what was on special. We were interested in the prix fix menu, which apperently irritated her beyond belief. We made one special request and she actually laughed at us before saying no. We finally decided just to leave and when we said good bye on our way out she rolled her eyes one last time and muttered "whatever." I was appalled.
Eat, drink, be merry and learn.... I can not think of any better "light culinary" destination to share with friends and family! The DREAMIEST! Great food pairing with adventurous wine selections and an informative staff to make every vist a memorable occassion. The knowledge I gleen of the grape, ( and ART ) coupled by cozy, intimate decor make for ritualistic returns.
Made My Day. A great name, since I was just passing by and was enticed to go in by the open and inviting decor. The braised lamb shanks were dreamy. I'm putting "regular" in my vocabulary.
Charming place and worth the drive. I've been to Impromptu about once a month since it opened and have seen the "concept" become more refined and established in that time. The wine selection changes, and I have always found something that I liked very much.. and at a price that was acceptable. Some of their standard items -- quiche, the salads -- are pleasant and comfortable light meals. The special events can be spectacular -- watch their web site for these, or get on their mailing list. The location and decor are welcoming, as is the owner, Cliff, and the manager, Kyle. Its worth becoming a regular... just to be introduced to new wines and some very special wine and food pairings. I have taken many out of town guests there and they all think its a "find".
Yummy!. Excellent wine and wonderful food. I've been here several times and will keep coming back for more. The house salad is to die for, the rotating wine list is more than a little adventurous and always fun, the servers are fun and knowledgeable (not to mention cute); you certainly get your money's worth and then some. I would recommend this place to anyone looking for great wine and food in a cozy setting.
Are You Sure You Were At Impromptu?. I don't know where that last reviewer went, but it sure wasn't Impromptu! The atmosphere, the wines, the food, the service - all were exceptional. I live not too far from them, and have been several times over the past year or so. I have always had a wonderful time. The constantly-changing wine menu keeps things interesting. And by focusing on particular regions, I always have a chance to sample a great selection of wines that typify that area. And the food here is great, too! Some of my favorite items are always on the menu, but other items change along with the wines. The prices are perfectly in line with not only the quality of the product, but also with the great location, the superb service and the very knowledgeable staff. Thanks a lot, guys! Keep up the great work!!
Good Wine, Bad Food. The wine here was excellent - if you don't mind paying a little bit more for a glass. The food left a lot to be desired and was very expensive. The atmosphere was warm and cozy, but that was the only plus for this place.
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