IL Bistro Italian Restaurant

Attracted by the mood and romantic atmosphere, my girlfriend and I returned to Il Bistro three times within two weeks. Our first experience at the bar was excellent. When we returned on a quiet week night for the food happy hour, we were greeted by EXTREMELEY slow service, and an undeserved attitude from the manager who rushed us into picking out a desert. Though the kitchen was no where near closing, we ordered what the menu claimed was "gelato." It was unmistakably ice cream...not gelato. Strike three on service came when we chose a romantic booth in view of the bar--a place we had seen other couples sitting on our previous visits. After being obviously ignored for 15 minutes, the hostess rebuked us for sitting in the "dining room" which was closed, and said to be served we would have to walk TWO STEPS away. We sat there stunned for a few minutes and discussed what we were going to do, when the manager (our favorite person with the famous attitude) told us again that the dining room is closed. My girlfriend smiled warmly and said we were just finishing a discussion and would only be a moment. He condescendingly repeated that we were sitting in the dining room, it was closed, and to be served we better move immediately. So we did: straight out the door, with no intention of returning. There is absolutly no reason to speak to people like that, especially in the service industry. And so much for the relaxed Italian atmosphere; it is obvious no one on staff has ever been there. We estimate Il Bistro lost about $600 over the next three weeks from us alone. We will tell others to avoid it, and encourage you to do the same.

Posted 07/17/09

We just finished a wonderful meal. One of the best meals I have had. The chicken was prefect -- an amazing preparation. I can't wait to go back. Happy hour looks amazing but I haven't tried it yet. Next time...

Pros: food

Cons: price?

Posted 05/17/09

I have been to quite a few little places (and bigger known places as well) in Seattle and one night a friend and I had asked around for ideas on a nice little, quiet, lounge-like restaurant. Il Bistro was mentioned and so, we decided to check it out.
The service from the moment we walked in the door (including a coat-check) was outstanding and the waiter was very good on giving suggestions on what to try off of the menu.
The wine was tremendous and I definitely will be back to Il Bistro soon and plan to tell all coworkers and friends about it as well!

Congrats Il Bistro on making one of my top restaurants of Seattle!

Posted 12/11/08

After reading all of the reviews of this restaurant, it definetely lived up to my expectations. I did ask for the private table, but apparently it was already booked. We were seated in the back corner which was just as romantic.

The food was very delicious. We started off with an eggplant appetizer. Something I wouldn't have selected myself but the waiter suggested it. Great flavor. Went on to share a salad and off to dinner!

I had the lamb and my husband had the chicken rissotto. The lamb was truly amazing, probably the best I've ever had. My husband was very happy with his dish as well. We finished our meals with a chocolate cake for dessert.

The atmosphere of the restaurant was very romantic. Service was good, but the waiter never came back to re-fill our glasses of wine. I'm almost wondering he did that on purpose to leave us to our privacy. We honestly didn't mind at all. We loved not being hounded or interupted.

The prices for the meal are very reasonable and the ambiance is truly made the night! We will be back!

Posted 11/01/08

We had fantastic service and the food was phenomenal. We've been back a few times over the last year or so and it's always been very consistent. Great little cozy and romantic location. Intimate bar. Great wine list.

Pros: Food, service, wine

Cons: hard to find but worth it

Posted 09/08/08

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.

Posted 04/22/08

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.

Posted 03/09/08

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.

Posted 01/24/08

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!

Posted 01/24/08

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

Posted 12/25/07

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

Posted 12/18/07

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

Posted 11/23/07

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.

Posted 11/07/07

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

Posted 08/18/07

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.

Posted 06/30/07

I would like to thank the employees for making my dinner proposal the most memorable experience of my life. I asked the night time manager to help me with suprising my girlfriend with a dessert engagement. As we ordered dessert they brought out the food along with a plate the said will you marry me on it! Of course she said yes!!! I just wanted to thank the manager and waiter for providing me customer service that was above and beyond!

Posted 06/24/07

Overall, good food and good environment. To start with, my date and I were warmly greeted by the host before we were promptly taken to a table. The dining area itself was small and dimly lit by candle, creating a romantic atmosphere. Piano music was quietly playing in the background, which allowed for easy conversation. After sitting for a while, our waiter awkwardly presented the menu and was informative only upon request. His behavior was acceptable, but he came off as inexperienced. For an appetizer we ordered the Carpaccio, which is: Thinly Sliced Beef Tenderloin with Red Onion, Shaved Parmesan, Arugula & White Truffle Oil. The carpaccio was delicious in taste but meager in portion, this was disappointing due to its high price tag, $12 (keep in mind, I am a college student). For an entree I ordered the veal. This plate came with three veal steaks, potatoes, and asparagus, all of which were delectable. To end with, my date and I shared the Panna Cotta. This dessert had great texture and presentation, along with an amazing flavor. In the future I will be sure to make a trip back to Il Bistro... maybe after I pay off my student loans.

Pros: food, ambiance, locale

Cons: parking

Posted 05/01/07

would make a great date spot---very cozy and dark......good food....i would go back again, especially if i was on a date....very romantic and a good place for conversation

Posted 10/24/06

We LOVE this restarant. We come here whenever we need a really special romantic evening. The staff is professional and is helful, yet leaves you privacy. The food has always been excellent and the wine is always superb. Our favorite part of every experience: the chocolate dessert with raspberry sauce (wish I could remember the name). It is so good, we tried to order it for our wedding cake.

Unfortunately, we had thought we were going to Chez Shea every time. We ordered their cake that was similar and realized, on pickup, that what we had thought was Chez Shea was actually Il Bistro. We love Il Bistro so much we've never made it to Chez Shea!!! :)

Posted 09/29/06

I`ve always wanted to go to this restaurant for months. And my boyfriend surprised me on my birthday by taking me here finally for dinner. The ambience is absolutely romantic with the entire room dimly lit with candles ! Just as I imagined. It was a Tuesday, and fairly late for dinner, probably 9pm-ish. I ordered the lamb. And it was delicious !! BUT the place was SO noisy & the tables were possibly a bit too close to each other, I couldn`t even hear myself speak ! It was VERY hard to enjoy the food & the restaurant when you can practically hear everyone`s conversation but your own. The waiter wasn`t as friendly or attentive. So I left pretty disappointed in all the high raves about it. But I suppose it wasn`t really the restaurant`s fault.

Posted 09/27/06

Il Bistro is a wonderful hidden away restaurant, but, really the bar is the best feature of the place. Rick who is currently bartending is not only friendly but knowledgeable and makes terrific drinks. If you'd be interested in trying some different cocktails, or learning more about scotch, Vodka (who knew that there are grape based vodkas?), or tequila, Rick will help. I had a wonderful Risotto of the day that had Mozarella, Basil and tomatoes, a sort of Caprese, and really enjoyed it. Tango dancing in the dinning room late on Thursday nights.

Posted 09/25/06

Cute restaurant. Adorable wait staff and great italian food and wine selection. Portions were big enough to share and we all boxed up enough to have lunch the following day. So far, one of the best Italian restaurants in Seattle. This would be a great place for a date.

Pros: Atmosphere

Posted 09/16/06

What a find! The boyfriend and I went here for our monthly "make sure we make it a date" night. This had all of the ambiance and coziness we were looking for! To begin with, I love the bistro-style restaurant. However, the way in which you enter this restaurant in itself, seems somewhat hidden and romantic. A must-taste is the beef carpaccio (served as a antipasti). The slices of meat are cut so thinly and delicately, they almost melt in your mouth--the way it should be! There is a variety of wines that top off this sort of dining experience as well. It is definitely a place we will be coming back to often!

Pros: Ambience, Intimate Setting

Cons: Try arriving after the market has closed, as to get some close parking

Posted 09/03/06

My boyfriend and I went here to celebrate his birthday and what a find! The food is beyond fabulous. Every time I took a taste of my halibut with truffle demi-glaze, my eyes rolled in the back of my head! The staff was informative and attentive and went the extra mile to make the occasion special. It's a bit on the pricey side, but well worth it. We'll be back!

Pros: wonderful cozy atmosphere, wonderful staff, fabulous food

Cons: a bit pricey

Posted 07/06/06

It just doesn't get any better! I take my clients on a tour of Seattle whenever they are from out of town, and I make reservations to dine at Il Bistro. I know they will be impressed and they always are! In a word, "STELLAR"!

George Caudill Jr.
RE/MAX Metro Associates

Pros: Atmosphere, Food, Service

Cons: there is only one in existence

Posted 07/05/06

I've been going to Il Bistro for years, not just for special occasions, and love it for the ambiance, the friendly & accomodating staff, small plates and drinks. Sure over time there have been a few hiccups but you can't beat Il Bistro for a leisurely drink or two after work with good friends.

Pros: Location, Ambience, Service

Cons: Parking but who cares

Posted 05/22/06

Location and ambience are great, and we found the service and staff to be very friendly, professional and expedient. The food was mediocre at best. We started with the sauteed calamari, which was overcooked and rubbery, and swimming in a pungent balsamic vinegar broth that brought tears to my eyes. The salmon was oversalted and undercooked, and served on a bed of raw arugula that didn't work well with the fish. The potatoes were cooked to the point of burnt. There was also a liberal dosing of again, balsamic vinegar on the plate. The chicken was prepared well, but served on a huge pile of mashed potatoes with a very greasy gravy. I will say that the cocktails were outstanding and we'll be back for drinks the bar, but with the abundance of great restaurants in Seattle, we wouldn't be back for the food.

Pros: Ambience, Service, Cocktails

Cons: Food

Posted 05/06/06

I recently had a wonderful surprise Birthday party at Il Bistro. We had eight people. What a wonderful experience! The food was absolutely fabulous! I had the Halibut and haven't had a better meal in my life. The mussels were to die for! The service was so prompt and attentive. I will definelty recommend this restaurant to all my friends and family! We all loved the round tables so we could have a conversation with all. The atmosphere was beautiful! Thank you Il Bistro! I will be back.

Pros: great atmosphere, romantic, great location

Posted 04/07/06

When I looked at the website last week I could still make a reservation for New Years of Eve....Not a good indication of things to come. The sign with the hours of operation on the entrance door are adjusted with a piece of paper taped over the incorrect hours. (what about a new sign?)
And indeed the overall experience was below average.
Service, food, drinks, the wine list. None of them justify the prices.
I am surprised how busy the restaurant was on a Thursday night. Seattle has so many good restaurants.

Pros: large bar, large tables, nice bar service

Cons: boring food, arrogant host

Posted 03/03/06

Food was OK but the italian theme seemed a little seemed a little weak. Prices average.

Posted 11/30/05

I had never been to Seattle before, but from reading the reviews and talking to the restaurant over the phone, I knew this was a great place for me to take my girlfriend to propose. And now she is my fiance!!! Il Bistro staff did an amazing job playing their part. The setup was fantastic...just ask for their romance package. The food was great and the dessert was amazing! Thank you Il Bistro!

Pros: VERY ROMANTIC, GREAT FOOD, QUIET

Posted 10/16/05

I was excited by the ratings and title of #1 Romantic Restaurant, but I was let down. The only thing worth a 9 was the ambiance with the candle light tables and the bar tender, other wise the food was weak, my mother's pot roast tasted better then their veil, the server showed no interest or like for working their. Big Let Down.

Pros: Atmosphere, Flexible Bartender, Prompt Seating

Cons: Food, Non Attentive Hostess, NonCaring Servers

Posted 10/16/05

Simply put, the best cesear salad and pasta dish (tortelloni) I've ever had.

Posted 08/31/05

We wanted to give our friends a memorable Seattle experience without the typical fare and Il Bistro was absolutely wonderful. Our guests were quite pleased with the range of cuisine--from subtle to spicy--and we thought the menu offered something for every palate. With the varied wine selection and great beer on tap we were quite comfortable making it a very late evening at Il Bistro.

Posted 08/16/05

This restaurant has real character. Located in the Pike Market down a cobblestone alley. Very professional service and the food is outstanding. Great grilled meat and fish and excellent pasta dishes. Highly recommended.

Posted 07/12/05

Ambience is very romantic, but a bit too stuffy for a first date. I would save this type of serene dining luxury for an anniversary. In addition, the food was good but not excuisite as far as Italian food goes. However, their wine menu is excellent.

Pros: good food, excellent wine, quick service

Cons: Expensive, Bad Parking, somewhat pretentious

Posted 06/06/05

We were a large group of 12 who made reservations for a family dinner, realizing that sometimes serving a large group in an intimate setting can be a challenge. Well, all I can say is that it was perfect. From the wine and other alcoholic beverages, to the appetizers, to the salad and entree, to the dessert. We could not have asked for a more pleasurable experience. The atmosphere was wonderful, the food and drinks were exceptional, and, last but not least, the service was top notch. Il Bistro certainly knows its stuff and is definitely on the top of our list of places to return to. We recommend it highly!

Pros: food and wine, atmosphere, service

Cons: parking

Posted 05/19/05

Il Bistro offers the best Italian cuisine in the most intimate, romantic setting unparalleled anywhere else in Seattle. Pair your meal ( I recommend the ravioli with Gorgonzola) with a fine wine from Il Bistro's expansive wine list and settle back to enjoy the sultry surroundings with your loved one. If you find yourself solo, chat with the friendly bar staff and sip a Martini or a beer on tap, nibble on the Calamari and indulge in the atmosphere that is uniquely Pike Place.

Pros: Romantic, Terrific Menu, Great ambience

Cons: difficult parking

Posted 05/18/05

My fiance and I dined at Il Bistro last night and the experience was not great. The ambiance, food, and wine were all very good but the service was the worst I've ever had. After waiting 17 minutes for him to greet us he mumbled off the verbal specials he had written on a small notepad and took our order. When our food arrived he auctioned it off (there were only the two of us, you would think he'd remembered), then we never saw him again until he "slammed" down the dessert menus in front of us; no check back, no how is everythin, NOTHING. I must say the food was good (not great) but the service was so horrible I will never return.

Pros: wine service

Cons: service

Posted 05/18/05

A friend and I recently celebrated an anniversary of sorts and I was looking for a place to have a nice dinner. I made online reservations at Il Bistro that were pleasantly confirmed both by phone & email. On the night of our reservation we ran late but yet were still able to get the "quaint and romantic" table I had requested. The food and atmosphere were wonderful. The service was goodm though our waiter could have checked in just once or twice more without being too intruding. For 2 appetizers, wine, drinks, our meals and a split dessert we paid $98. I will most definitely come back!!!

Pros: Good food, Good value, Good atmosphere

Cons: Parking

Posted 05/16/05

There is not a more romantic spot in the city to enjoy a nice quiet meal with someone special. For over a quarter century, locals and tourists alike have dined in this little hideway in the Pike Place Market that serves simply prepared Italian fare made with the freshest local ingredients possible.

The wine list features many excellent choices from the Northwest, including Oregon Pinot Noirs, as well as a fine selection of Italian wines. Fish is done especially well here and all pasta is made on the premises and can be ordered in half portions. Il Bistro's signature dish is their rack of lamb, a must try for lamb lovers.

Take someone very special to Il Bistro tonight and fall in Love.

Pros: romantic, wine list, fresh ingredients

Posted 02/27/05

Have been eyeing this place for years, but always ended up somewhere else. We finally went in for our anniversary, and really enjoyed it. Great ambience, friendly staff, and an excellent meal. I had the ravioli, she had the polenta, and both were great. Antipasto was OK, probably should have gone with the Caesar.

Pros: Romantic, Great Food, Location

Cons: , Drafty near door

Posted 12/31/04

We had never been to Il Bistro before. Before we went, I read the other member reviews and had my doubts, until I noticed that all the professional reviews of this restaurant were very positive. We had a very good time and were glad we went. We thought the service, atmosphere and food were all very good, and that's very high praise, considering that the night before we ate at The Herbfarm. However, we went on a weekday, at 5:30 and the waiter wasn't rushed. The Carpaccio was very good, the Pear & Gorgonzola Ravioli was great, and the Lamb was very good. If you can afford to splurge, I would recomend this restaurant.

Pros: Food, Atmosphere, Service

Cons: , Not air-conditioned

Posted 08/30/04