South Bank Projects

We took a hiatus from our 26 dinners project over February, business travel and a birthday dinner at our favourite restaurant did not leave time to seek out new culinary experiences. We also saved some money for this month’s Dine Around Seattle promotion, $25 for a three course meal at 25 of Seattle’s best restaurants. First on our list, Nell’s Restaurant in the Green Lake area.

A comfortable corner table in Nell’s cosy split level dining room afforded us a view of their glass enclosed kitchen where we could watch the food preparation. The three course $25 menu covered a fine selection of their menu options and an interesting selection of wines to accompany your choice.

I started with succulent pork belly, the sweet flesh melted in my mouth and aroused my senses for the remainder of the meal. Colleen chose the grilled octopus with arugula, reminiscent of Italy’s Cinque Terre region we love, she enjoyed every mouthful.

Alaskan Cod served on a bed of cabbage and potatoes with a butter sauce, a simple presentation matched well with a Spanish white wine did not overwhelm my senses but I enjoyed it. The duck confit with creamed parsnips is a better choice if you want a taste sensation.

Dessert won best in show at this dinner, Chocolate Banana Bread Pudding with thick whipped cream, I would skip the appetiser to make room for this classic. Paired with a Graham’s Six Grape Ruby Port, a meal does not end any better than this one did.

The staff are a tentative but not intrusive, and happy to discuss the finer points of your meal if asked. Give Nell’s a try, and do not forget to express your impression to the chef behind the glass as you leave.