Purple Cafe and Wine Bar - Seattle

I've been to Purple many times over the years. And most other times it's been very good. This time, not so much. I ordered the Truffle Cacio y Pepe pasta and I should have sent it back. The noodle size was not a good choice for this dish (too large) and was over cooked (very soft). It was warm when arrived at the table. Overly buttered, not enough cheese and hard to tell there was any truffle. The only reason I didn't send it back was because I was dining with others on a lunch break and didn't want to cause us to be late going back to work. We arrived when it wasn't busy, but then the lunch rush happened while we were there. Our server was clearly overwhelmed with the rush as she barely attended us. So either not enough staff or she couldn't handle the rush. Also, construction was happening at the bar and was *very* loud. Perhaps that should have been done before the restaurant opened? Also, could be a hazard with food all around if they're kicking up dust, etc while drilling/cutting.

A near miss. We almost decided to cancel our reservations and head to our hotel. So glad we did not make that choice. The food here is creative, offering delicious flavors that pair well together. The short rib pasta and the roasted cauliflower dishes were our main courses. We left nothing behind on the plates. One of the best meals I have had in a long time. We shared the date appetizer which was good but nothing exciting. Would not order them again. I'm guessing we should have gone with the baked Brie. Large wine menu with good wines. Cocktails are also creative and very good. The atmosphere is romantic but also a great place to meet up with friends. Very friendly, attentive, and helpful staff. A must dining spot while in Seattle.

For $35, I got all of 4 oyster mushroom scallops which is ridiculous, certainly shouldn 't be called a main. The best starter was the gorgonzola dates but they brought 5 dates to a table of 6 and never even offered to add an extra for a cost. We would 've gladly done that. Given we spent about $125 pp, those details matter. The baked brie was alright. My favorite was the wine duos on their menu so you can compare a couple of malbecs or a couple of pinots, etc. The setting is cool, too.

Great selection of food and drinks. This is in my top 3 if you like wine.

Great place for a special dinner super close to the 5th Avenue Theater