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Prelude at McCaw Hall Reviews List

Prelude at McCaw Hall

Welcome to Prelude - on the Promenade Level of Marion Oliver McCaw Hall at Seattle Center. Sophistication, artistry and signature dishes designed by Executive Chef Shawn Applin await your visit. Prelude features the freshest local produce, artisanal products, a large selection of Northwest wines by the glass and half bottle, and Shawn's sublime take on cuisine executed by the SAVOR culinary team. Our seasonal menus provide the perfect prelude to a Pacific Northwest Ballet or Seattle Opera performance - or offer an exceptional dining experience on their own. Dinner reservations are encouraged prior to show time. Prelude also offers Brunch before Sunday shows and Intermission Reservations.
See more Prelude at McCaw Hall details
236 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
3.9 / 5
(Very Good) 3.9 / 5
(236 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 236 reviews
5 stars
(62)
4 stars
(107)
3 stars
(49)
2 stars
(18)
1 star
(0)
Food 
3.8 / 5
(Very Good) 3.8 / 5
Service 
4.1 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.1 / 5
Ambiance 
3.4 / 5
(Very Good) 3.4 / 5
Noise Level
2.4 / 3
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • special occasion(68)
  • fit for foodies(64)
  • great for brunch(23)
  • great for lunch(19)
  • notable wine list(16)
  • good for groups(12)
Prelude at McCaw Hall Reviews List
Review 1 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/15/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We had a pleasant dining experience from great food and good service. The opera was fantastic, also."
Dined on 5/15/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list
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Review 2 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Short of Time, No Worries

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/15/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Dining at Prelude prior to a Seattle Opera performance always adds to the evening, as the service is tip-top, and the staff are 100% aware that we need to have completed our meal and check settlement before that 7:30 bell rings, so we can dine in seeming leisure, not worrying about the clock. To top that stress-reliever, there are dishes on the Prelude menu that are totally delicious, like the curried carrot soup!
What a great addition to McCaw Hall."
Dined on 5/15/2013
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Review 3 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I was a bit surprised that the choices were only really brunch versus lunch items."
Dined on 5/12/2013
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Review 4 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Good for times when you attend the opera or ballet.
The food is good, often interesting, although just a bit overpriced. service can be iffy, although this last time it was excellent. Maybe that was because it was not as crowded as usual.
"
Dined on 5/11/2013
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Review 5 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Prelude

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"My friend and I always enjoy eating at Prelude before and opera or ballet."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: good for groups, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 6 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Good for getting to Opera on time. Too noisy!"
Dined on 5/11/2013
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Review 7 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Too much salt

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
4 / 3
Energetic
"I like my food well salted but the halibut we had Sat night was too much of a good thing. One member of our party was unable to eat it. The other two of us ate it (the presentation was beautiful) but kept remarking how salty the fish was. First time we have been so disappointed by Prelude."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 8 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/08/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
4 / 3
Energetic
"The perfect place for a snack or full meal prior to the opera. Excellent service and really delicious food."
Dined on 5/08/2013
Special Features: scenic view, special occasion
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Review 9 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/08/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We both thought our dinner was very good. The waitress was great too. The best place to have dinner before the opera or ballet."
Dined on 5/08/2013
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 10 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Great place to eat before oOera or Ballet. Quick, pleasant service. Varied menu."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 11 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This is a great place to have dinner before events at McCaw Hall. The menu is always very good and the service is excellant. We are season ticket holders at Seattle Opera, actually founding subscribers, and the current incarnation of eating at the opera house is the best of them all; the facility, the ambiance, the menu and the service."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 12 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We weve given a complimentary

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We weve given a complimentary bottle of wine to mark the occasion of our 15th meal at the restaurant which was much appreciated."
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2010
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 13 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

We eat at Prelude before every

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
"We eat at Prelude before every performance as we have season tickets and Prelude is very convenient. This is the first time we had a real complaint about the food. Two in our party ordered mac and cheese. It was not hot, just lukewarm and not very cheesy. I ordered a salad and it was just fine. The two mac and cheese people ordered dessert and it was excellent. It was just the mac and cheese that was very bad."
Dined on 04/21/2013
 2013
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 14 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Prelude does such a great

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Prelude does such a great job catering to the audience at McCaw Hall. One member of our group was significantly delayed by traffic, and they took it all in stride. Food came out at just the right time, and we loved the way we could order dessert and have it waiting at our same table during the first intermission. It's so easy, when you're going to the ballet or opera to park once and BE THERE, not having to rush off from another restaurant. The downside is that it's pricey, and expect small servings - like my salad, which had about 7 pieces of baby lettuce and as many paper-thin slices of beet...I had to wonder why those items were even mentioned on the menu!
But it's a lovely spot and the service is excellent!
"
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2013
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 15 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

We ordered the short ribs

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We ordered the short ribs and the roast chicken. The short ribs were like a steak, the meat came sliced, and when we asked about it, we were told that the preparation had been sous-vide, but if someone can't explain it, don't try. But to call it short ribs is completely ridiculous. No chef would ever put this out as short ribs and then give you a knife to cut the tough meat. We have had good short ribs here in the past. The roast chicken was overcooked and dry. The asparagus panzanella consisted of a few pieces of asparagus (not even the tips) mixed with crusted bread. The sauce tasted good, but it could not save the dry chicken. It was a very tiny chicken, and when it was cut into two pieces it seemed as if you got only legs. Not great."
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2007
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Review 16 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Again - disappointed that

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Again - disappointed that there was no sandwich on the menu. Not everyone wants to pay an exorbitant amount of money to dine there. The food was good (much better than the ravioli and oyster mushroom entree I had last time) but very costly for what you get, and the meat was a lot rarer than I prefer. Apparently I'm the only one who objects to the prices though, since the place was pretty full Friday night.
I guess it's paying for the convenience, since I have difficulty walking very far, and I park in the garage. You always used to have a sandwich or panini, though, and I would certainly prefer that!"
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2010
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Review 17 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

although the restaurant became

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"although the restaurant became quickly crowded the service did not falter. the food was delicious but i was not a fan of the sprouts on the chicken dinner."
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 18 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

The tables where to close

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The tables where to close to each other and the paper tablecloths where tacky. The farmers cheese and romain salad where good. The fish was well cooked but lacked flavor. The pasta was great. The tea cake made the meal."
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2013
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Review 19 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

The food was tasty. Almost

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The food was tasty. Almost too much quantity for us. We are 76 and 78. The server was pleasant.
Our main complaint would be about the menu.
I think the chef would do well to be s bit less 'precious' in his descriptions: roasted potatoes instead of Potatoes Rosti, for instance. There were a number of others as well.
It's a bit like he is showing "how clever I am". And, what a pain for the servers to have to be constantnly tranlating the menus for us buffoons.
But, I probably shouldn't complain...it provided a good giggle for us
"
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2013
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Review 20 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Prelude: Much More than Convenient

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We loved having brunch at Prelude. Having come from a distance and arriving early (no traffic jams for once) we were delighted to be seated half an hour before our reservation. The menu covered an amazing range of offerings, which suited our appetites and preferences. The duck confit was beautifully seasoned and delicious, the berries on the granola were nice and fresh. The salad of spring greens and beets disappointed; radishes were substituted for the choggia beets. The cheese plate offered a pleasant variety of ripe, flavorful cheeses. Our server was inobtrusive, capable and prompt. Watching the youngsters dressed up for a treat delighted us; the full house felt anticipatory, not crammed."
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, kid-friendly, special occasion
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Review 21 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Jamone Benedict done to perfection!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We were running late for our reservation, and they still seated us quickly and courteously. We had about an hour before the ballet, and this is the perfect spot to catch brunch before a PNB performance at the opera house. The eggs benedict (Jamone Benedict) with asparagus was quick, yummy, and perfectly done. We were out of the restaurant with time to get seated for the performance. The waiter said they would soon be remodeling, and I hope they add some sound reduction to the ceiling -- my biggest complaint with the venue."
Dined on 04/21/2013
 2005
Special Features: great for brunch, great for lunch
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Review 22 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

We were running late due to

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We were running late due to traffic, but we were greeted graciously and had a lovely dinner."
Dined on 04/18/2013
 2007
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Review 23 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Good service for lunch before

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Good service for lunch before the ballet."
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2007
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Review 24 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Excellent food before the

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Excellent food before the ballet. So easy to go here before the performance, and actually get great food. I was still thinking about the desert (earl gray tea cake with kumquat compote!!) a week later. It is one of the places that you can hear the conversations next to you, i.e. not intimate. The service was excellent, so that you are not anxious that you will not make the show (as I am when I dine locally before shows)."
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 25 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Rob was our waiter...14 out

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Rob was our waiter...14 out of 10. mwh"
Dined on 04/12/2013
 2006
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Review 26 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

It's opening night for Swan

Food 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"It's opening night for Swan Lake and I can understand it being crowded and noisy. We chose to eat there for convenience but will probably not do it again. The food was definitely not worth the price. The sauce for the short rib raviolo was too much and too "soy sauce" like. My kids expect the "slow-cooked" short rib to be tender but it was quite tough and once again too much sauce that is just salty. On top of that, they wasted a good potato pancake by soaking it in the sauce. The kale was good. Then comes the raspberry sorbet that taste like frozen sugar water with just a hint of raspberry fragrance, not taste. The only good thing was the chocolate ganache cake which is basically a piece of molded ganache, no cake."
Dined on 04/12/2013
 2012
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Review 27 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Swan Lake

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Most visits in the past were outstanding and worth the price, but this visit unfortunately was not. Our pasta dish was overcooked and clumpy and the chicken dry and overcooked. Service was excellent, but for a pricey place not up to standard."
Dined on 04/12/2013
 2006
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Review 28 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

So convenient if you're going

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"So convenient if you're going to something at McCaw Hall."
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2007
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Review 29 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Perfection

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I've eaten at many 'in-house' dining facilities at specific ballet/symphony/opera venues and have never had a 'fine-dining' experience until my brunch at Prelude. The food was prepared with the ingenuity and care of an intimate boutique restaurant. The atmosphere is clean, modern, with an artistic flare - and the staff were exceptionally charming and attentive. The Baby Romaine Salad for a starter, was delicate and complex, and the Benedict and Brioche French Toast were delicious and remarkably light. Our meal at Prelude added another layer of 'memorable' to our day at the ballet. As a 'stand alone' restaurant, the only downside is a somewhat limited menu . . . otherwise: perfection."
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 30 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Some menu items left to be desired

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The presentations were excellent but the Duck Confit were super salty and unedible, the eggs on the Benedicts were very small ( Quail Eggs?)Not good for people with high blood pressure !"
Dined on 04/14/2013
 2008
Special Features: special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 31 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Combined with the ballet,

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Combined with the ballet, it couldn't have been better. PNB and Prelude are a splendid combo. One thing, though, we prefer to eat after a performance, not before. We did kill an hour and a half happily but it would be nice if there was a lounge for coffee or a glass of wine while waiting for the dining service to begin. Thanks for a lovely day. Swan Lake was great, the dining area exceptionally lovely and delicious food, and good service."
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, kid-friendly
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Review 32 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Food is fine, though expensive.

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Food is fine, though expensive. Service is wanting."
Dined on 04/06/2013
 2007
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Review 33 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

At first, I wasn't a fan of

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"At first, I wasn't a fan of this restaurant. I felt it was overpriced for failed attempts at gourmet food. It was just convenient for the ballet. But the last two visits have changed my mind. The beet salad I had last Saturday was a marvelous mix of flavors and beautifully presented. The stuffed chicken breast the time before was also wonderful."
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2011
Special Features: kid-friendly, special occasion
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Review 34 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

I was disappointed in my entree

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I was disappointed in my entree (some odd ravioli type stuff with oyster mushrooms and a green pureee), and that there was no sandwich of any kind offered. We've had some very good sandwichs there, and much prefer that. My daughter enjoyed her salad very much, however. Also, server didn't refill my coffee when wanted."
Dined on 03/21/2013
 2010
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Review 35 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

A very pleasant location for

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"A very pleasant location for lunch or brunch before a Seattle Ballet performance."
Dined on 03/24/2013
 2004
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, great for lunch
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Review 36 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Very good fast service for

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Very good fast service for before showtime. Good food."
Dined on 03/09/2013
 2009
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 37 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

great for brunch pre-ballet

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Very enjoyable spot for pre-ballet matinee brunch on Sunday. Our seat by the tall windows was perfect for watching dogs, kids, and couples stroll in early spring weather, accompanied by a nice mimosa. Come a little early for very prompt service and a quieter room; it does get busy close to curtain time. Not a breakfast-oriented brunch menu -- only one egg dish, one french toast -- but lots of small plates of cheeses and salads. The buttery shrimp with cornbread and collards was delicious."
Dined on 03/24/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch
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Review 38 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

We had another fabulous dinner

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We had another fabulous dinner at Prelude. Hand crafted pasta stuffed with goat cheese, oyster mushrooms and ??? I can't recall the sauce. Oh my goodness, so delish, as was the dinner salad with blood oranges. Because of a built in clientele who attend events at McCaw, this restaurant would not have to be so good, but it is!"
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 39 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Excellent, simply excellent,

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Excellent, simply excellent, every bite was a short journey. One that I wanted to live time and time again."
Dined on 03/22/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 40 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

I like Prelude restaraunt.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I like Prelude restaraunt.
Food and service were lovely..
I will be back!
"
Dined on 03/22/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 41 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Wonderful spot before the

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Wonderful spot before the opera. We had dinner before the performance and our server suggested that we come back during intermission for dessert. It was waiting for us at our same table -- very sweet!"
Dined on 03/08/2013
 2011
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 42 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Such a great deal for good

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Such a great deal for good food and wine before the Opera or Ballet. They're really changing up the menu much more frequently than before. Always pleased eating here."
Dined on 03/16/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, kid-friendly, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 43 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Kinda Pricey and Just "fine" food.

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The portion sizes were relatively small and the food was pricey. Overall, it was fine, but the food didn't impress me, especially for the price. The service was very good though and it was convenient before the ballet, since it's actually in McCaw Hall."
Dined on 03/16/2013
 2013
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Review 44 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A Fine Dinner Before The Ballet

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Prelude's current menu offers a great balance of breadth and innovation. Service is attentive to individual needs and offered with a smile. The restaurant went out of its way for us on a busy night and we were most appreciative."
Dined on 03/16/2013
 2007
Special Features: kid-friendly, special occasion
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Review 45 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We dined here before the opera.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We dined here before the opera. The food was excellent and appropriate for dinner before the show, not too heavy. The wine was very good and the dessert and coffee were excellent. We enjoyed it very much."
Dined on 03/02/2013
 2009
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 46 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Service was a bit lacking,

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Service was a bit lacking, not up to the regular standard; and my food was not hot. Usually I give Prelude an excellent rating in most categories, must have been an off night for the staff and kitchen."
Dined on 03/16/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 47 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Excellent convenience for

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Excellent convenience for pre-performance dining at the opera house. Pleasant large dining room. High cost. Aims high for excellence in food, but that is not consistently sustained. Also, service inconsistent. Overall, priced too high based on location and gourmet ambition, given that food and service are disappointing. Our party will not return."
Dined on 03/15/2013
 2011
Special Features: good for groups
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Review 48 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Handy spot for dining before

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Handy spot for dining before attending an event at McCaw Hall. Food is good but quite expensive for the atmosphere and the serving size etc."
Dined on 02/23/2013
 2009
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Review 49 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

We chose Prelude because of

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We chose Prelude because of its proximity to the Opera - it is in the same building. The chicken was prepared very well - it was moist and full of flavor. The steak on the other hand was just okay - not too bad, but not great - it almost seemed like it was pre-cooked and then kept warm as the outside was a bit dry even though the inside was rare. I would go again, but probably would stick with the chicken or one of the smaller plates. Dessert was also good, albeit a bit disappointing, but then again I am picky about bread puddings. I like a bread pudding crispy on the outside and moist on the inside, which is a hard balance to reach."
Dined on 03/08/2013
 2012
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Review 50 for Prelude at McCaw Hall
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

The food is very good, if

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The food is very good, if expensive. Service has always been good. There isn't much ambiance or atmosphere, but it is extremely convenient if you are attending a performance at McCaw Hall."
Dined on 03/06/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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