New Review - Bennett's Pure Food Bistro

Since the weather is dicey today and I chose to ride the bus, the beau met me half-way in Mercer Island and took me to dinner before the big snow storm is supposed to hit. Since we were in Mercer Island the beau suggested 'Bennett's Pure Food Bistro.' I was game so we headed into this nice and cozy bistro.

I had never been to this spot before so I felt compelled to ask our waitress why it was called Bennett's 'Pure' bistro? She responded with that they are committed to serving pure, all natural food. Meaning you won't find artificial preservatives, colors or sweeteners. And no processed food... this made me so happy we chose this spot. I love supporting places that are healthy and support local/regional farmers etc.

The atmosphere was very inviting and cozy. I bet it is amazing in the summer when they can open the front window making it a patio. As we sat down they served us a tasting of their wine that was on special, which is always a good sign.

As we look over the menu there was an option for every appetite. We both decided to order off their seasonal menu. The beau ordered the with the Scallops with fingerling potatoes and green beans and I decided to go with their Ciopinno. The price was a little bit expensive but as the food came out we understood that their portions were very generous and the quality of the ingredients are top-notch so we didn't mind paying a bit more money.

The dish was filled with 8+ scallops and was delish.

I was excited that my dish came with a loaf of bread. :)

Both dishes were top-notch. The scallops, potatoes and green beans were cooked to perfection. The Cioppino was also quite good and light, perfect for a winter night. 

 

As the snow started to fall I begged the beau to stay for dessert because they had an hazelnut bread pudding on the menu. I had to twist his arm... wink wink. As it came to our table we both smiled. It smelled and looked delicious... and it tasted good too. It wasn't quite as good as the Purple Palm's restaurant in Palm Springs but it was still tasty, I just wanted it more gooey. :)

Service: Knowledgeable, friendly and attentive.
Food: Lots of healthy and hearty options, something for everyone.
Drinks: Lots of wine options. :)
Atmosphere: Trendy, rustic and cozy.
Price: A bit more expensive but you are paying for good quality food that is very tasty.

Next time I want to try their 'World's Best Mac and Cheese (Beechers)' and/or have brunch at this local bistro.

Soaking Up Vacation

Since it was our last full day of vacation we decided to sleep in and take our time. I was feeling better but still not 100%. Finally decided to get moving around 9am and headed to Ben & Tim's open house. They had rented a bungalow in the hotel and had decided to have a catered open house from 9:30am-6pm so they could see everyone before they left. Can you believe how generous these guys are??

We had decided to stay out of the direct sun because we both got a little crisp on our backs. :) We decided to walk downtown and drive around Palm Springs to see what else it had to offer. It was nice to be able to relax and just enjoy each other's company.

We stopped to get a quick snack at Maracas a local mexican restaurant. I decided to get a mojito and some guacamole. Both were delish and as you can see I was starting to feel more like myself.

I would never pay $7 for guacamole but I was on vacation. JUSTIFIED

Around 2:30pm we decided to head back to the hotel to say some goodbyes to some friends and soak up some more pool time. When we got to the pool we found this:

Apparently someone had an accident in the pool and it was closed for the day! BOO

Just not the same....with the caution tape.



We decided to have dinner at the Purple Palm which was the restaurant by the pool. It was nice to be able to sit and enjoy a nice meal together. And the meal was amazing.

Course 1 - Purple Palm Salad

A light salad with a basalmic dressing, goat cheese, grapes and pine nuts! Yes please.

Course 2 - Pumpkin & Shrimp Ravioli

This seemed like a weird special to have at this time of the year. I was so happy I decided to order this meal because it was just the right mix of sweet and savory.

Course 3 - Chocolate Crossiant Bread Pudding

I am on vacation so a dessert and bottle of wine are a must! This is by far the best bread pudding I have ever ordered. The bread pudding wasn't to sweet it was just perfect. I'm not sure where the chocolate was...but I was totally okay with it. You have to try this!!!

This was the perfect ending to a really enjoyable extended weekend. I did realize that I need to vacation more. I think I need to find a profession that allows me to travel, write and experience new things while getting paid a pretty penny! :) A girl can dream right????