Archipelago

This place is amazing - I am unsure on the function of a review of Archipelago at this point in their existence. I believe that any positive review is correct for any number of reasons.If there's a spot open, go.If the open spot is later than your usual dinner time (8:30) - take it.If there are extra seats (4) - take them. If you're on the fence, get off the fence. The dinners at Archipelago are more than the sum of their parts. The food is good but it's more than the food. The service is personal but it's more than the service. The kitchen is clean but it's more than the polish. I am no poet and yelp is no place for poetry, but if you're reading this and without a reservation, recheck the site and find your place because Archipelago can be a bright spot on your calendar when we as adults are beyond theme parks and movie premiers, friends and food are suitable replacements.Leave your phones at home and bring your friends to Archipelago.

I was recently treated to dinner at Archipelago by a dear friend. I didn't know much about it other than it had great reviews and was REALLY expensive. Putting it succinctly: Service was AMAZING and the food was great - HOWEVER, it was not worth the money. My friend paid for me, which made me feel awful considering I was still relatively hungry after dinner. Portion sizes were incredibly small...so small that on a few occasions, I didn't get an accurate taste of what I was eating. There was enough for one sip or one bite, and that was all. What did I enjoy? I appreciated the doses of Filipino history between servings and how it related to what we were going to be eating. The ambiance is cozy and romantic. In fact, most of the diners seemed to be couples celebrating a special occasion - which I think the atmosphere was most ideal.It was an experience, that's for sure. However, I would not go back - probably not even if someone paid for me. For $200+/per person - the value simply is not there.

Beyond good food and artfully presented dishes, Archipelago gave us an experience - one that revolved around community, culture, and a compelling narrative. The dinner began "normally" - we were welcomed to our seats and they offered us beverages. But as they served the first course, they introduced us to each and every staff member from chef, front of house, dishwasher, etc. and then started telling us stories w/ each course - histories and contributions of Filipino Americans in the Pacific Northwest.My husband and I were enthralled with it all - the bold, delicious flavors of the food (our favorites in the attached photos), the kindness of the staff (it's noteworthy that nearly every single one made an effort to get to know each diner), and the fascinating histories shared (look up Maria Orosa!). Very highly recommended!

Simply stated one of the best dining experiences to date, from the moment you walk in until the end of the meal. These Filipino Flavors are a explosive parade of happiness. It's intimate with the entire Archipelago Family involved and engaged throughout the dining experience. Not only did we taste food of love, but we heard stories of Filipino Heritage. These Filipino dishes are levels of sophistication that focus on local ingredients and seasonal flavors that will make your soul happy. The attention to detail is impeccable. Our reservation included a dairy, rice & legume allergy. I received a phone call prior to reservation to confirm the details for that guest. The care and concern to ensure that the guest had just a great experience as the others was impressive. When meals came out that were slightly different than the main dishes, Chef would come over and explain the meal. Originally booked our reservations without a drink pairing because I wanted to do some research in regards to the wine and juice pairing. Hands down recommended by several that the juice pairing was the way to go, so I sent an email to add it on for three of the four reservations. Received an email back to confirm the additions and I was amazed at the fast response. And yes, the juice pairing did not disappoint. It was definitely the way to go as the juices were made in house and fresh and paired extremely well with each plate. I've had lots of great food in Seattle but none topped with this level of intimacy from the staff of the house. Stellar by any recommendation. And if you disagree, well... you just can't. The flavors of the Philippines definitely shine bright and remain a true priority of each dish. I love how these elevated flavors are satisfying for Pinoys but undoubtedly loved by everyone.The dinner was about a two hour experience with not long pauses in between each meal. We loved that and didn't feel rushed at all. And in true Filipino passion, you will not leave here hungry or disappointed.

Archipelago is easily the best fine dining experience in Seattle. Described as "Pacific Northwest cuisine through progressive Filipino American flavors", their tasting menu ($210/person) is completely unique. Chef Aaron Verzosa utilizes local ingredients in creating thoughtful dishes, inspired by his heritage. The elegant restaurant seats just 12 people, guaranteeing a personalized, intimate experience. Reservations are released on the 1st of each month at 2pm, for the following two months. For example, June and July reservations open on May 1st at 2pm. Seats go quickly, so be ready with fast fingers and internet right at 2pm. I attempted and failed to get a reservation for 4 people, but kept trying and eventually got one for 2 people (sorry friends). Upon being seated, my husband and I were welcomed, and presented beverage options. We did not plan on drinking, but the wine pairing ($86 per person) was too interesting to forgo. It featured exclusively wines from the Pacific Northwest! All of the selections paired wonderfully with the food, and we loved one of the Rhône varieties from Walla Walla so much that we took a bottle home. Every one of the 10 courses was not only delicious, but accompanied with a story. I loved how personal the meal felt. Stand out dishes included "Alaskeros" (Ivory salmon, Kamayan Farm ginger, raspberry escabeche), "Palaman", a simple yet deeply satisfying bread made with Edison heirloom wheat and topped with radish, and WA wild sturgeon with lingonberry sinanglaw and stinging nettle. Service was polished and professional, but just as much down to earth and relaxed. Chef and the entire staff were genuinely friendly and personable, making conversation with all of the guests seated at their table. We look forward to returning the next time we are in Seattle.

Beautiful experience overall. We loved the intimate experience where you get to speak to all members of the team throughout the night. They were kind and fun, and it was fun.The team was very accommodating towards my partners food aversions - they made versions of every dish to make sure he'd enjoy it to the fullest! What I loved most about the experience was how each item was inspired by Filipino American history, while staying true to locally sourced PNW ingredients.

I typically don't think about service that much when I am considering a restaurant, but considering that service is Archipelago's stand out feature, this will be the focal point of my review. It is really hard to snag a reservation here and you have to do it months in advance. It is Filipino fine dining and you should try to get here a few minutes before your reservation time because the meal begins very promptly. When you go in, there is not much seating, so the majority of the people are seated at this communal table, facing a kitchen so it is kind of like an open concept. Chef Aaron himself personally serves and talks to patrons and he is so humble and unassuming that I didn't even realize he was the head chef. Before every course, there would be a mini history lesson behind important Filipino-American figures with a central focus on Seattle. I loved the thought and intentions behind this, as it made the food and meal more memorable and meaningful. I think this emphasis on community was the best part of the meal. There is a lot of interaction with all of the wait staff so be prepared that there is a social element to the experience.The food itself was good; everything is locally sourced and also has a huge Pacific Northwest influence. The portions are small and some people might still be hungry afterwards although I was full just the right amount. Overall, I had a great time, and I was inspired to learn more about Filipino history after my meal so I appreciated that there was an educational aspect.

Elevated Filipino Food. Words cannot express how I feel after eating at Archipelago. Chef Aaron Verzosa and his team did a phenomenal job from entering the restaurant, to the presentation of each course, ending with a pasalubong, and getting the chance to take a quick picture with the Chef. The transitions in between each dish was very smooth and each presentation of the dishes was intricately beautiful. I must say, nostalgia at its finest. Eating a lot of the dishes made me think of my grandparents growing up. Hearing the history and inspirations of each dish made me feel so giddy inside. I would recommend this experience to my friends, family, and fellow Filipino Americans as it pays homage to our culture.

Aloha, we traveled to Seattle for a wedding and booked Archipelago for the evening prior of. We love trying new restaurants in all cities. We had read the hype about this restaurant, and was eager to try after visiting Musang last year. Bagaong on the first 3 dishes, seemed similar in flavors, very savory with salt and vinegar touches. The next few dishes were different, nice. The steak at the end was plentiful, nice. They make sure you don't go away hungry. Over all a great experience, chef was awesome and hands-on, nice. They shared Philipino stories of family and past in the Pacific North West regions and how they came to be, nice. Loved hearing the history. Would love more exotic flavors transpired to Hawaii, would be great! We too have a large Philipino society and could use some fresh new takes on traditional foods. Please come to Hawaii, mahalo

Service: 5/5The staffs are very friendly. They are knowledgeable of the dishes and various drinks they serve throughout the evening. Some of the servers will stop by and have small talks to know their guests. When they serve the dishes, it feels like a choregraph as they were in sync. I enjoy the décor and atmosphere of the restaurant. It makes you feel very comfortable in their space and makes you feel at home with their exquisite dishes. During the entire dining experience, they will share stores about the important in the Filipino community and associate them to the dishes served. Food: 4/5 Each dish is beautifully decorated. Overall, the food is good but nothing really "woah" me that makes me feel like I absolutely must come back because I can get it here. I really enjoyed the sablefish with the sinanglaw and tailor made. The sablefish was so well done but it was a bite size that I wish I can have more. I like how the lamb chop was served as they ask how hungry you are before serving the plate so you can have more if you're still hungry or smaller portion that way you're not overstuffed before dessert. I think everyone should try this restaurant at least once for the experience and the stories they are trying to express through food. It is expensive but I really enjoy the experience along with homemade juices; highly recommend for individuals that does not drink.