This newer restaurant in charming Snohomish (city) will soon be a favorite in Snohomish (county), so get in there now before it gets even more difficult to get one of the 6 or so tables. With a prix fixe menu, the Chef behind the Curtain focuses on doing a few dishes perfectly on a menu that changes to accommodate whatever is freshly available.
My wife and my meals last night consisted of the best clams and salmon we have ever tasted as well as an amazing beef tenderloin. Each meal was a subtle showpiece of mastery of technique. The clams in the pasta appetizer had a nuttiness and firmness I've never had before, but will be seeking out again. The salmon was cooked in a puff pastry and somehow the pastry and delicate fish were both perfectly cooked.
Portion sizes were perfect (much smaller than the American standard), which I believe helps you enjoy every last bit. You'll leave full, but still able to enjoy a cocktail nightcap nearby.
I do have one small complaint. I hated the fork I was given. It was too thin and rounded and the curvature made it impossible to apply any sideways pressure as it would just rotate in your had. We had a good laugh about it and we will definitely be back. I might bring my own...
Read moreDining at Chef Behind The Curtain feels like you're being served world-class cuisine in your best friends' dining room.
Chef Joel's food is focused and creative, and he demonstrates a level of technique that is on par with (if not exceeds) the top restaurants in the greater Seattle area. Their hospitality is warm, personable, and makes you want to "rent a table" and stay for hours. Joel and his partner Katie , who runs the front of house, strive to source most of their ingredients from within a 100-mile radius of Snohomish, so the menu is hyper-seasonal and showcases Northwest produce. I've been craving his artichoke and white truffle soup for the last three days. I attended with a large group, so I was able to taste multiple dishes from each course. You really can't go wrong with any of the items on this pre fixe menu. Also, Joel's desserts are showstoppers, even if you typically steer away from the sweets.
This place is a gem, and I'm very excited to watch them grow. Make a reservation; the space...
Read moreWhat can I say, it was a 745pm reservation and at the last minute I went from a 1 guest to a 2 guest table and they were smiles no matter what I’m sure grumbling in the background. However Joel and Staff were more than accommodating and just the most lovely people to deal with, especially since I order for 2 people with different dishes and my date ordered for himself. I wanted full experience of wines and all the food and it did not disappoint. The chef came out and sat and laughed and we talked about ingredients and food overall. I highly recommend this place as a date night or just for a great meal. Joel and staff understand casual chic and how to please your palate. I can’t believe this is in Snohomish County! It is a must go to...
Read more