Amanda A.
Yelp
Daniel's has been on my list to explore for some time. The location stands out with the lively view of Lake Union and the piers with the many beautiful boats, and sunsetting sky (in colors) on a clear day/evening.
What better day than Christmas Eve?
I opted to park in the handicap spot and found that it's a pay by the 2 hour kind of parking lot. Please note, there's some complimentary Daniel's parking down below, so a short walk up an incline. This was aggressively brought to my attention right upon entry into the restaurant, rather than a hello, how are you, or other greeting. -0.5
For two, we were seated in a booth with a view of a table of 6, and the marina. It was great! The lighting was perfect as the sun set, the lights came up a touch but remained quite cozy.
The service was quite stellar until the end, though a tad robotic from the main server. Felipe brought bread and still water - he was great! So kind and funny to chat with momentarily. Our main server was very straightforward and efficient. At the end, we felt rushed to leave and were given the leftovers very quickly with a quick "thank you for dining" and after informing us of the "tipping situation" was long gone, never to be seen from again. Kind of rude, given the overpriced food and low maintenance table.
For the food -
Appetizers:
-popcorn shrimp came in a movie style box with foil. Charming!! It was undercooked, so a bit gummy. The sriracha sauce and lemon aioli were divinely fresh and homemade. Could have sent back but it was busy and slow to begin with. Instead of slow, I'd say relaxing.
-ahí tuna was incredibly flavored by the grill and very tender and fresh! These are both happy hour specials so I'll be back to have this again in the bar. There's also a main ahi that looks similar so I would potentially try that if I return.
Mains:
-I tried the Piedmontese filet and it lacked the meaty forward flavor described to me. It was also quite undercooked (rare instead of medium rare). I normally wouldn't mind but it was kind of strange. It came with just a baked potato that was dry. I expected a piece of broccoli or asparagus. I went elsewhere for Christmas and did get just that but not trying to compare here.
-My guest enjoyed the lamb and found it to be larger in portion than expected - until he realized it was very fatty. We all know how lamb can be, but I believe this one was on the fattier than usual side. It tasted great and came with mashed potatoes.
+side of the creamed corn was good, not a standout but worked well with our dishes.
Dessert: crème brûlée was a good size and good.
Wine: roerder estate brut for $60 felt like a ripoff.
Overall: felt like everything was a touch overpriced, service was good and helpful in understanding the menu for a first timer. Recommendations (lamb and ahi) were superb. Front desk could work on demeanor and outfit choices, one gal could barely breathe and just felt underdressed for the vibe this restaurant gives. Though beautiful, just not what I'd expect to see here.
Will I return? Maybe for happy hour, or if someone invites me I would aim for a plate vs a steak. There are better steaks around town that are priced much more competitively than here.