ART's Second Chance

When we had the unsatisfying lunch at ART back in March, I vowed to steer clear of the place. However, I swayed when I saw the reviews on yelp, and decided to give it a second chance. J didn't have school on Veteran's day, so off the two of us went.

Like most hotel restaurants, ART knows how to take care of kids. As soon as we sat down, J was offered a small dish of fresh fruit which he chowed down in record time. (He was really fascinated with the wire place mats. =) It was even more promising when the bread wasn’t as hard and dry as last time.

The TV trays were probably very badly received in March that ART changed their format this time to a true 3-course meal. Planning on sharing everything with J, I ordered Crispy Calamari ($8) with chipotle aioli from the regular menu. The calamari was well cooked - tender inside with crunchy batter. It didn't even need the aioli. The aioli was smooth and creamy, with only the slightest punch that even a kid would love.

Our 3-course started with the Escarole Caesar topped with white anchovies and foccacia croutons. The salad was just OK. While the anchovies weren't really fishy, for some unexplainable reason, the salad was.

J decided on our entree - Grilled Herbed Quail. It sat on top of braised greens and Medjool date brioche stuffing, drizzled with pomegranate sauce. The quail was nicely done. But it was SO small that it should only be called an appetizer.

The Maple Cheesecake with a walnut bacon shortbread crust wasn’t exactly to my liking. Luckily it was only a bite size pyramid that I didn't consume much unnecessary calories. =P

Even though this lunch still didn't impress me, it was certainly a huge improvement from the March offerings. I think they have potential to be great. I'm also hoping that their regular entrees are more fulfilling. =) Whatever ART lacks, it excels in taking care of the junior patrons. J was offered a cotton candy that made him ecstatic.

ART Restaurant and Bar
99 Union Street (Four Seasons Hotel), Seattle, WA 98101
(206)749-7070