Island Soul - Kirkland (Arleana's)

Restaurant Review We had a really good meal at this restaurant. The food was well-prepared, and the prices were very reasonable, making it a solid choice for a casual meal. We didn’t try any alcoholic drinks, but the dishes we ordered were enjoyable. The fried green tomatoes were interesting and had a nice flavor, and the chicken patties were tasty. My husband liked his rockfish dish, and I enjoyed my blackened salmon with plantains—the seasoning was great, and the combination worked well. Service was quick, and the staff was efficient. Parking was convenient, with both street parking and a covered garage under the building that they can validate. Overall, it was a good experience with quality food at a fair price. We’d definitely consider coming back!

This place is excellent. We had gumbo, oxtail, curry goat, jerk chicken, okra, mussels, and fried green tomatoes. The cocktails were delicious. Everything was fresh and delicious. The owner Theo is welcoming and so friendly and so very hospitable. Carla was helpful and provided great hospitality. Our waitress (sorry we didn’t get her name) was sweet and helpful. I couldn’t recommend this place more. Next we’re going to try their brunch.

The restaurant is located in downtown Kirkland and it has a very good atmosphere inside. It is a fusion restaurant, the food was tasty and the service was very welcoming. However, the menu is a bit different than what we expected. The options on the menu are limited compared to what we see in the google review photos. And the taste of dishes taste like they add a lot of indian spices as well. The taste was very good, but we were just a bit confused as in the description it said it is a Caribbean and French fusion restaurant. But except that, we had a good time there.

We visited Island Soul back in December, not realizing they were only serving brunch at the time. I’m not really a brunch person, and their regular menu actually looked a lot more interesting—so I was a bit bummed. That said, while the food was ok, the service was absolutely fantastic. The staff was super friendly, upbeat, and genuinely seemed happy to be there, which made the whole experience feel really welcoming. The space has a fun, colorful vibe with lots of artwork and personality. I’d definitely be open to coming back—next time for dinner—because I have a feeling the regular menu might be more interesting.

Easily stole my Yelp heart, this might be a big statement, but I’d name this spot best find of 2023! (Probably will stay my best spot for 2024) Immediately impressed with ambiance upon walking in, immediately impressed with the live music they had, pleased that they prioritized our reservation, and over the moon about the mussels we ordered. Everything was flavorful, unique, and enticing- however if you like mussels - that for us stole the show highly recommend. The owner was out and about walking around, conversing with tables, and was beyond charming. In addition to this, we later saw a chef from the back come out to check on everyone being pleased. Amazing care and pride in the food, and it shows. The social aspect really made this a ten star experience, we are eager to return to try more, and drop in for brunch too. They check off every box that you would ever want in a restaurant, they are a good vibe, casual- yet elevated flavorful Caribbean food in a way you probably have not had before. Portions were fair, price was fair. Easily have won my husband and I over.

Outstanding food, delectable drinks, friendly service and fun ambiance! Came here for a double date and this place was perfect. There were so many good things to choose from we had a hard time deciding, but ultimately everything we ordered was delicious, so you can't really go wrong! Highly recommend the gumbo, lamb lollipops, and pork chops! Can't wait to try their brunch!

Was a wonderful family dinner with tasty food. Staff were very friendly and helpful. Gumbo, wings (we had calypso), and fries are a must try! Two hour free parking in the garage when you check in the restaurant.

Tonight my friend and I had an absolutely extraordinary experience here. When I tell you the food is to die for. Mouth watering taste buds racing. our server was phenomenal. Tonight we were big old Foodies so we order quite a bit starting with crab cakes, lamb skewers with jalapeno yogurt. We shared entrees starting with fried catfish in panko, oxtails with cheesy grits, also the special of the day the gumbo. My best friend enjoyed the gumbo to its fullest. But when it came to my taste buds I was all about the oxtail and grits. Top things off for dessert beautiful Caribbean creme brulee, with a strawberry rhubarb strudel when I tell you it's not one thing we loved we love the whole experience. We also had a great conversation with the head manager. If you're ever in Kirkland stop over here The fantastic food and wonderful atmosphere don't be scary. Try something new your taste buds will thank you later