By Iron Chef Leftovers
It seems that there is plenty of movement around the Ballard/Wallingford/Fremont restaurant scene these days.
Joule, the really great Korean/French/American fusion place has closed its Wallingford location and is moving to 35th and Stone with an opening sometime in June (hopefully).
Hunger, the really great Mediterranean comfort food place is (supposedly) moving from its current location on 42nd and Fremont Ave. to the old Dad Watson’s space just down the street. This was supposed to happen in February, but as of yesterday, Hunger was still located on 42nd.
Elemental and Elemental Too, the funky and somewhat obnoxious but incredibly good Northwest inspired places, are closing in June. They lost their lease and haven’t decided if they are going to open in a new location. Phred, the owner/server/sommelier at Elemental can be gruff and rub people the wrong way, but if you are willing to put yourself in his hands with both food and wine and know when to ask questions about what you are eating (read as – AFTER you have finished it), it is an amazing dining experience.
Le Gourmand, the venerable French/Northwest institution in Ballard, has moved it closing date to June 30 to accommodate more reservations.
Where Ya At Matt, the popular food truck (where I had the worst gumbo of my life), is opening a sit down location at the site of the old Buckaroo Tavern sometime this summer.
I am sad to see Elemental go, I really think it is one of the best places around, but you really have to be willing to give up control over what you are eating and drinking – sort of like coming to an Iron Chef Leftovers dinner. I have been twice (with a plan to go one more time) and both times the food was outstanding and the wine pairings were spot on. Considering that they don’t accept tips (really), I got out of there both times with a $80 tab (4 courses, 6 generous wine pours) and I found Phred, the eclectic owner, to be a great host.
I am concerned about Hunger and Joule. Both are relatively small places that put out great food. I have generally found that every time a restaurant that fits that bill moves to a bigger location, the quality tends to drop. I really hope that is not the case because Hunger is a favorite of the Iron Chef Leftovers clan and I really loved Joule’s quirky fusion menu.
FlatbreadGarden 