Cafe Juanita Awards

Cafe Juanita Restaurant Review:

There's not much that will lure Seattle residents over the bridge to Kirkland, but chef/owner Holly Smith has found the magic by drawing from seasonal Northwest ingredients to create traditional northern Italian fare. Wagyu beef pairs with Gorgonzola and caramelized endive, and squab meets Brussels sprouts. House-made pastas include hand-torn semolina gnocchi with saddle of Oregon lamb, or maltagliati with pork sugo. If sweets don't suit your mood --- although it's practically impossible to resist the Meyer lemon steamed cake with its tangy huckleberry reduction sauce, thyme, candied lemon and raspberry sorbetto --- perhaps the selection of artisan cheeses will entice you. The wine list keeps pace with the menu. Service is professional. In the creekside setting, simple décor, a huge stone fireplace, and a rustic patio add style and comfort to the dining area.