Il Bistro

04/23/2008 Posted by BillTraci

A bit hard to find but well worth it. Tucked under the newstand at Pike Place Market. One of Seattle's best kept secrets. Food was outstanding, service quick but not pushy, Our server, Melanie, was cheerful, and knowledge about the wine list and specials of the day. Good value for the cost. Cozy spot for couples to dine.

03/10/2008 Posted by ThomasStr

This was an excellent restaurant. The service was excellent and checked in just enough so that we got everything we needed but also took care of us. The food was some of the best I have ever had. The location is tucked right under Pike Place Market and feels cozy.

01/25/2008 Posted by zebra980

I recently experienced the most wonderful place! My friend and I went to dinner at Il Bistro last week and was amazed at the great food and service. The waiter was very attentive. I can't say enough about the food, it was absolutely fabulous! I will be returning in the very near future! Thank you Il Bistro.

Pros: Very Romantic!

2 out of 2 people found this review helpful

01/25/2008 Posted by generic1606

Went to dinner because of other reviews. Must have been an OFF-night...bread was refrigerator cold. The appetizer was barely warm and both of our dishes (special and pasta was very bland). Our wine was the only decent part...Out of there at $125. We live within walking distance but will never try again. Too many great restaurants in the area.

0 out of 3 people found this review helpful

12/26/2007 Posted by kcramer53

I recently went to il Bistro with a girl friend to have some wine and dinner for a much needed girls night out. The atmosphere and food was excellent. The service however was among the worst I have ever had. We sat in the bar section and it took over 20 min to even place our drink order. Then when the wine came; I ordered Pinot Noir at almost 9 dollars a glass and undoubtedly got a glass of house red. Then every time we needed something like bread, silverware, more wine the waitress was no where to be found. In fact all these things we asked for, we never received. Finally the bartender had to come around from his duties to give us service. I should have started with him in the first place! I also thought the the portion size was a bit stingy. I will return but I certainly will not allow my self to be waited on by the same girl as before...I wish I knew her name so none of you would make the same mistake!

Pros: Ambience

Cons: Service

0 out of 2 people found this review helpful

12/19/2007 Posted by wmaeqe

My husband and I first visited Il Bistro 15 years ago when we began dating, so it was special to us. We have been there once since, and remembered it was a bit loud, but thought it was still a good choice. We decided to return last Saturday night for a third visit . I emailed for a reservation and asked for a special table, which I was assured we would get. When we arrived we were seated at a back table in front of an exit door, which to me does not spell "special". All the patrons around us were having a great time - so great, in fact, that the noise level next to us was beyond our coping capacities - we asked for another table, and were told, sorry, none available. We left, and decided not to return. Can't tell you how the food was - we never got that far.

Cons: Too noisy

1 out of 3 people found this review helpful

11/24/2007 Posted by dancelady

The food: Classic italian dishes that were executed with care. The flavors were bold, but not fussy. I admire Il Bistro's decision to let the natural flavors of their dishes have their shining hour. Why add too many flavors to something that is already great? I would recommend the uniquely served calamari and the italian cheesecake. They were both so fresh and delicious. I also loved the atmosphere of Il Bistro. It is dark, but the use of candles keeps it from being hard to see your plate or your date. As it has been said before, this place is ideal for a date. Yes, there were many couples there eating alone, but I also liked being in company of larger tables. The fact that there is moderate background noise and larger groups could certainly take the edge off of a first date. BOTTOM LINE: If you are looking for memorable food and intimate dining, Il Bistro is a great choice.

Pros: Well- executed dishes, unique atmosphere

Cons: A bit pricey for a college student like me

2 out of 2 people found this review helpful

11/08/2007 Posted by dknabel

I was pleasantly surprised with this restaurant. The whole experience was fantastic. We had wonderfully prepared drinks to complement the incredible food. All for a reasonable price.

2 out of 2 people found this review helpful

08/19/2007 Posted by sinoboy510

My fiance and I came here to celebrate the second night of our engagement. We flew to Seattle from LA and boy were we impressed. Reservations were easy to make the restaurant certainly delivered. When we checked in, the host congratulated us on our engagement and brought us to the most romantic table in the house. It was perfectly dim and felt comfortable and private. The carpaccio and calamari were expertly prepared. I had the rigatoni and my fiance had a seafood medley, which she described as very very fresh and delicious. We were searching for non-pretentious restaurants (hence leaving he LA scene for a weekend) and Il Bistro was perfect. The prices are very very fair and the food is great. There is a family feeling and it is in the heart of Pike's market. I would highly recommend!

Pros: Prices, ambience, romantic, service, food

Cons: none

2 out of 2 people found this review helpful

07/01/2007 Posted by guardian26

Il Bistro is the most romantic restaurant the I have ever been to. I brought my date there for dinner and it was the best dinner we have ever had. The food there is truly amazing...it will amaze you. The candle light and dark setting is perfect for romance. The staff is great, friendly and helpful. I don't really know what else to right except that it was the most perfect night that I have ever had.

Pros: Friendly staff, perfect atmosphere and friendliest staff.

Cons: there is no negatives.

2 out of 2 people found this review helpful