El Gaucho in Bellevue just opened and it is fantastic. Once you are in the restaurant you will notice they did it right. The decor is very modern and inviting and the service is exemplary. If you are looking for a great evening out with amazing service and an incredible menu selection make sure El Gaucho is on your short list.
The Bellevue El Gaucho is located in a brand new high rise in downtown Bellevue. Since this is a brand new facility some of the external details have not been completed yet. As you pull into the valet area it’s sparse. No planters, not much ambiance – just concrete and on this night snow and ice. As you enter the main foyer of the building you will notice that it is empty – I don’t mean fashionably chic and sparse – I mean empty. I’m 100% confident this will change in the coming weeks. Don’t let the austere entry area dissuade or distract you. Once you enter the actual restaurant you will feel very comfortable and relaxed. The El Gaucho staff knows how to provide what I am calling the signature El Gaucho touch. They know how to take care of their guests.
For our first visit we went to the new El Gaucho on a Friday night. It was crowded, but not overly so. We were greeted at the main entrance right away where they took our coats and showed us to our table. We had a fabulous table right in the middle of the main dining area. Immediately our server and his assistant greeted us and offered drinks and appetizers.
What did we order? We started with two appetizers – the Wicked Shrimp and the Tenderloin Diablo. They has just the right amount of spiciness. Then it was a Caesar Salad prepared tableside. Followed by the Chateau Briand. The Chateau Briand was topped with mushrooms and server with potatoes and asparagus. It’s was cooked to perfection. Dessert was Bananas Foster – prepared tableside – and it was delicious. Finally, we had a Fruit, Nut & Cheese plate. For me this is the best way to finish off a fine meal. Afterwards we retreated to the very stylish El Gaucho bar for some after dinner drinks.
During our dinner the captain came by several times. First to make a recommendation for a flight of wines and throughout our meal to check in. As mentioned, El Gaucho knows how to take care of their guests. You always feel attended to, but never pressed or rushed.
I recommend getting into El Gaucho soon. Partially just because it will get crowded as people find out about their new Eastside location, but mainly because the entire high rise building where El Gaucho is located will be occupied by Microsoft. When MS moves in upstairs it will rapidly become the replacement for Daniel’s Broiler. Daniel’s is great, but newness and proximity has its advantages. So, make your reservations soon and be ready to enjoy a wonderful evening.
What about lunch? I have also heard their lunch menu is excellent. I have not had a chance to try this yet, but I hope to soon.
I can’t wait to get back to the Bellevue El Gaucho. If you have made it to the the El Gaucho I’d love to hear your comments.
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