JUNO?

[skisvalley]

Has anyone dined there yet? Would love to hear your thoughts.

[not the bad Steve]

Had breakfast and lunch there. Not at all compelling. May be going back to try the lobby bar, though.

[Jeffo405]

Went to Juno Friday night, August 22. Were greeted by a rather robotic hostess who ushered the two of us to a four-top in the window. Later we wondered - doesn't this restaurant have any two-tops? Were basically ignored for several minutes, which gave us plenty of time to make our wine decisions. Waitress took that order, then scoffed when I presented her with a coupon I had received in the mail offering appetizer, entree, and dessert for $39. "It never adds up to that much anyway," she informed us with a near sneer. Then why send the coupon? Sounded a little sketchy.

I should mention that the place was nearly empty, giving it a spooky ambiance in a city known for noisy, crowded, congenial atmospheres. This at the peak of the dinner service. Before we ordered our wine, we received water that, as we were informed, was "triple-filtered." I had to wonder if they were going to charge for the filtering. Our water and wine in hand - no amuse or bread were ever offered - we decided on three appetizers to start with: a pair of sliders (made of beef and lamb, a curious combo), risotto croquettes, and duck rillettes. These were served "family style" on a single platter adorned with freshly made potato chips. All were good, but didn't go beyond just being...good.

At that point, the ambiance and somewhat curt service casting a chill on the otherwise sunny evening, we decided we'd had enough, asked for the check, and left. I never did have the chance to use my coupon.

[barleywino]

I wonder whether your lukewarm experience with the food was a function of what you ordered--- sliders, risotto croquettes, duck rillettes-- not typically the basis for a transcendent food experience.

[Jeffo405]

Dear Mr. B - You're absolutely right; yet nothing about the overall EXPERIENCE made us want to stay. In other words, even if we HAD had "transcendent" appetizers, it was not a place we wanted to spend more time in. Then again, I HAVE had transcendent sliders before - at Cascadia. Thanks for your note!

[barleywino]

my favorite sliders have been at Ama Ama in W Seattle-- better than Cascadia imho (unfortunately W Seattle is not always as convenient) -- thanks for your report!

[barleywino]

tried the sliders at Juno, they were actually not bad at all (better than Cascadia imo). But their ribeye was disappointing (tasted pre-cooked and reheated), infinitely better at Steelhead diner. crab ravioli has been rotated off the menu.

[barleywino]

http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/543034

[skisvalley]

Thank you.

[skisvalley]

Big disappointment....don't serve me the half portion and think we won't notice. watch out for this place.