Trader Vic's
Bellevue, WA 98004
Phone: (425) 455-4483
- Price:
- $$$
- Hours:
- Sun-Thu 11am-11pm , Fri-Sat 11am-1am
Editorial Review for Trader Vic's – by Citysearch Editors
The Scene
The late Victor "Vic" Bergeron's first tiki restaurant in San Francisco was a sensation as soon as it opened in the '50s, sought after by the jet set for its stylish-yet-campy tropical ambience. Now a worldwide franchise, the restaurant's second Seattle outpost (the first closed in the '80s) appeals to a broader market through its elegant, kitsch-filled surroundings, museum-quality Polynesian artifacts and sunny South Seas attitude.
The Food
An ambitious menu boasts a number of slow-roasted, fork-tender meat specialties from barrel-like Chinese ovens, including lamb, chicken, pork and salmon. The sheer variety of offerings ensures that even the largest of parties can find group happiness. But the real draw is the drinks. From the mai tai to the Scorpion Bowl fit for two (or three), the drinks capitalize on presentation. Cocktails arrive in ceramic coconuts, pineapples and even conch shells, all garnished with fresh fruit and the obligatory umbrella.
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Insider Tips
What to DrinkTrader Vic is credited with inventing the mai tai (Tahitian for "the very best"), so go ahead and try one--especially during happy hour (Mon-Fri 4pm to 6pm).
Know Before You GoOnline reservations are available through the website.
User Reviews for Trader Vic's
04/29/2008 Posted by JRenfrow
Trader Vic's - take note! You could be a noteworthy restaurant on a huge scale just as your neighbor 'SeaStar' has become. Are you seriously thinking you are going to last long because you serve strong drinks. That alone will not "drown" out poor service, often inedible food, unfriendly service and wait staff with patronizing , 'let someone else help you' attitudes. I've given you three chances to re-create what used to be your signature ambiance and food from years ago only to be disappointed each time now. So anyway - thanks for the memories as I choose to spend my money where someone cooks and cares.
Pros: Great decor, strong drinks
Cons: Food, Service, Parking, Noise, Seating
04/10/2008 Posted by ngscls
First, I have been here for lunch with friends, and it was fine. Last night, though, my husband and I went for dinner and it was completely mediocre. The service was unfriendly and abrupt. The food was okay... We could have gotten the same dishes at our local take-out place for half the price and higher quality. In addition to all of that, we were practically sharing a table with those on either side of us, as the seating is extremely close, it's almost awkward. We are generally pretty easy to please, but this was just a big disappointment, especially when you consider what you're paying for the experience. This may be the place to come for happy hour, but I'd try somewhere else for dinner.
Pros: nice lighting, valet parking
Cons: mediocre food, unfriendly service, weird seating
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