Planning
- Accepts reservations
- Dinner reservations recommended
oChef » How to Cook a Wolf – Seattle
How to Cook a Wolf - Seattle
Photo from How to Cook a Wolf
How to Cook a Wolf at a glance
Seattle Edgewater Park
- 🍝 Italian Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $71–$80
mentioned by 82 of the guests
#721 out of 858 places to eat in Seattle
#30 Italian Restaurant out of 32 in Seattle
Good
6.3 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
577
Reviews
56.8%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Food Quality
- Inviting Ambiance
- Attentive Staff
Frequently criticized
- Mandatory Fees
- Loud Environment
- Inconsistent Dishes
The restaurant How to Cook a Wolf is an acclaimed Italian restaurant located in Seattle’s charming Edgewater Park neighborhood. This spot invites you to experience a truly memorable meal.
You’ll find a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere perfect for any occasion, whether you’re seeking a romantic evening or a cozy dinner. It’s a place where culinary excellence meets a welcoming vibe.
Overview: Introducting How to Cook a Wolf
How to Cook a Wolf offers a culinary journey where the food often shines, with many appreciating the thoughtful preparations and cocktails . The atmosphere also contributes positively, creating a setting that many find appealing for an evening out.
However, some guests have noted concerns about the noise level . While the service staff, often described as attentive and friendly, generally makes a good impression, the overall value proposition can be a point of contention.
Guests frequently mention the impact of the service charge on the final bill , leading to mixed feelings about the overall cost.
Good
6.3
out of 10
577
Reviews
56.8%
Satisfaction
206
negative
43
neutral
328
positive
Looking at the bigger picture, How to Cook a Wolf holds a respectable overall score of 6.3 out of 10. Customer satisfaction sits at 56.8%, indicating a somewhat mixed reception. This feedback comes from a substantial 577 customer observations, with 328 positive remarks balancing against 206 negative ones, painting a nuanced picture of the dining experience.
The culinary offerings truly stand out, with Food scoring a solid (6.7), often praised for its quality. The Ambience also contributes positively, earning a good (7.3) for its inviting setting.
Service is generally seen as competent, landing at an average (6.2). However, the Value aspect presents a clear challenge, receiving a lower (3) score, suggesting that many feel the experience doesn’t quite align with the cost.
What people like
- Exceptional Food Quality
- Inviting Ambiance
- Attentive Service Staff
What people don't like
- High Mandatory Fees
- Excessive Noise Level
- Inconsistent Dish Execution
How to Cook a Wolf presents a compelling culinary experience, particularly for those prioritizing creative dishes and a stylish setting. With a recommendation score of 6.4, it suggests a visit could be rewarding if you’re prepared for a lively atmosphere and are less sensitive to pricing.
However, be mindful of the added costs and potential for a noisy environment, which can detract from the overall enjoyment. If you value a quiet, budget-friendly meal above all else, you might find aspects of the experience disappointing.
It’s a place with distinct highs and some notable lows.
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Verdict: Our expert take on How to Cook a Wolf
Food (6.7 out of 10)
mentioned by 98% of the guests
When it comes to the food, it seems like a bit of a mixed bag, with a score of 6.7 suggesting it's generally good, though customer satisfaction sits at a more mixed 61.7%. Based on 329 opinions, with 203 positive remarks, many diners rave about creative and flavorful dishes. Highlights include the amazing polenta fritters, delicious sourdough bread, and well-prepared wagyu and pasta dishes, often praised for their quality and presentation.
However, 94 negative comments point to some inconsistencies. Common complaints mention food being overly salty, undercooked, or bland. Some found certain dishes, like pasta, to be disappointing or not worth the price, with concerns about small portions.
This suggests that while there are definite culinary highs, there can also be some notable lows.
Food
329
Reviews
61%
Satisfaction
94
negative
32
neutral
203
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Polenta fritters amazing
- Creative, flavorful dishes
- Excellent drinks
What people don't like
- Food too salty
- Inconsistent quality
- Small portions
Often praised
- foodMy experience at this restaurant was marked by excellent food and service. However, the atmosphere was quite challenging due to the lack of AC or any airflow, making the inside temperature feel like 85F or higher.
- carpaccioThe carpaccio has great texture and was cut to a perfect thickness.
- polenta frittersIt may seem insignificant to some, but it was a kind and appreciated gesture to me. Consequently, my partner raved about the food (steak, and polenta fritters). I wish I had been able to enjoy it, but we will definitely be back.
- cocktailsThe cocktails are also phenomenal
- drinksthe drinks were quite good
- FoodThe wagyu carpaccio, the sacchetti, and the Hamachi Crudo were mind blowing. The atmosphere and service were rated a perfect 5, and the food also received a 5. Parking was somewhat difficult to find, but free street parking was available.
- burrataWe started with the baby gem salad, burrata with beet/rhubarb sauce, and the ahi tuna crudo. All were prepared beautifully
- gnocchiThe gnocchi and broccoli were both lights out, fantastic!
- menuThe menu changes slightly over time so there is always something new to try
- sourdough breadsourdough bread in addition and it was soo good
Frequently criticized
- foodWe hesitated to complain further after the drink issues, not wanting to be difficult customers. The food was below mediocre: the carpaccio was excessively salty, the pastas were awful (gnocchi were undercooked, which I didn't think was possible), and their signature bread was served in a smaller portion for the same price. For $100 per person, I expect good food and exceptional service.
- pasta dishesThis was particularly uncomfortable as outdoor dining was full. For a restaurant operating at this culinary level, the environment needs significant improvement, especially when serving pasta dishes in the summer. Enjoying a hot pasta dish while sweating profusely at the table is not ideal 🥵.
- gnocchithe gnocchi was one-dimensional
- pastaThe King Salmon was overcooked and unremarkable, lacking the artistry expected for a $50+ dish. The pasta brought back memories of hamburger helper. I found myself upset that I had chosen to dine here, as it fell so short of its reputation.
- cannoliThe canoli was a miss, tasting of underseasoned under sweetened pistachio paste
- drinksThe gnocchi was bad, the Chicken Valdostana was burnt on one side and flavorless, and the Strozzapreti Arrabbiata was bland, soft pasta—a $29 dish (nearly $40 with tax and tip) that a kid could make. Mediocre food, drinks, and service, all overpriced. Sorry, Ethan Stowell, I’m done.
- saltSince the fish was also rock hard and dry, I asked if they could try again with less salt. The second piece was still too salty but not quite as extreme. Our entrees had clearly been ready for quite a while, as our waitress conducted a 10+ minute chat with the next table.
- steakMy son’s medium rare steak was tar tar in the middle
- steak tartareIt was a sad end to the night, with me ending up puking. We ordered cavetelli with manila clams and steak tartare, and we suspect these were the dishes that caused our illness.
- Brussels sproutsThe Brussels sprouts were too salty
If youre looking for creative dishes and dont mind a bit of a gamble, the food here can be quite delightful, especially the polenta fritters. Just be aware that some experiences point to inconsistency in seasoning and portion sizes, so manage your expectations.
Service (6.2 out of 10)
mentioned by 75% of the guests
When it comes to service, it seems like a bit of a mixed bag, with a score of 6.2 indicating an average experience and customer satisfaction sitting at 55.4%, which is also mixed. Many guests praised the friendly staff, attentive and friendly staff, and wonderful crew, with specific shout-outs to servers like Kayden, Troy, and Zorya. Out of 112 total opinions, 62 were positive, highlighting excellent service and staff passion.
However, 45 opinions pointed to some significant issues. Common complaints included poor service, slow service, and rude staff, with some feeling rushed or experiencing longer than reasonable wait times. There were also mentions of minimum service and a perceived lack of training, suggesting inconsistency in the overall dining experience.
Service
112
Reviews
55%
Satisfaction
45
negative
5
neutral
62
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, attentive staff
- Excellent, prompt service
- Staff passion shines
What people don't like
- Slow, inattentive service
- Rude staff encounters
- Feeling rushed, kicked out
Often praised
- serviceThe risotto and gnocchi were enjoyable, and my husband enjoyed the steak. Our wait staff were delightful, and the service was fast and attentive.
- staffeveryone on the staff wished us a Happy Anniversary.
- ServiceService... were rated a perfect 5
- bartenderthe bartender who came few times were very nice
- serverOur server, Skye, was friendly and attentive
- ColeyColey was a fantastic waiter
- DevinDevin is elite
- Greeted at the doorGreeted at the door warmly welcomed
- Kayden at the barMy experience at the restaurant was largely positive, with standout service and delicious food. Kayden at the bar was great, and the overall service was excellent. We were warmly welcomed at the door and seated according to our preference.
- OzzieOzzie he was very charismatic, very attentive and delightful to talk to
Frequently criticized
- serviceThe price for simple pasta here is actually ridiculous. In a sea of good Seattle Italian food, why pay a triple premium for service that is elitist and for food that is just okay? I'd recommend checking out Mioposto or Thats Amore Italian Cafe instead.
- waiterThen, we ordered two separate courses with totally different flavor profiles, and the kitchen messed up and made them at the same time. The waiter apologized for the kitchen but still served them both to us, making us be the "bad guy" to return one of them to be served at the proper time. Finally, one of the pasta dishes (the tagliatelle we returned) was absurdly over-salted; all we could taste was salt.
- bartenderAfter 3 cocktails, the bartender saw an opportunity to upsell the desserts to me. After declining 4 times, I had enough.
- tableService was awful; our server Troy was pleasant but ineffective. Our table wasn’t ready at reservation time, leaving us to wait uncomfortably in the entryway. Once seated, it took 10 minutes for Troy to even appear.
- waitressOur entrees had clearly been ready for quite a while, as our waitress conducted a 10+ minute chat with the next table. Someone from the kitchen came out to retrieve her, and I heard her say, 'she forgot about us…'. We did not bother with dessert.
- InKind payment appshe said “oh that’s a third party app that I totally don’t know of.
- checkquickly brought check before we were prepared.
- dining experienceThis is a nice restaurant with a cool food and wine menu and great design. However, it seems they need to refocus on their dining experience. Several things happened that should not occur at the top restaurant this place is clearly striving to be.
- drink modificationsstart to be very difficult about making small modifications to their drinks
- drink ordersWhen the prices on the menu are false, that's scummy. I watched our waiter bring out our drinks while the host knocked them over, and our drink orders were forgotten, too. Never going back here.
If youre looking for consistently stellar service, this place might be a gamble, as experiences vary quite a bit. You might encounter a fantastic server, but be prepared for the possibility of slower or less attentive moments. Its a place where the service could either make or break your visit.
Ambience (7.3 out of 10)
mentioned by 58% of the guests
When it comes to the overall vibe, this spot generally hits the mark! With a 7.3 score and a 74% customer satisfaction rate, guests frequently praise the fantastic atmosphere, often highlighting the beautiful design, cozy interiors, and inviting outdoor seating. Out of 77 comments, 57 specifically rave about the ambiance, making it a real draw for many.
However, its not all quiet charm. Some guests found the noise level to be a significant drawback, describing it as too loud' and making conversation difficult. There were 18 remarks noting issues like challenging parking and a lack of adequate AC or airflow, which could make the indoor environment uncomfortably warm.
Ambience
77
Reviews
74%
Satisfaction
18
negative
2
neutral
57
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Great atmosphere
- Beautiful design
- Lovely outdoor seating
What people don't like
- Loud noise levels
- Difficult parking
- Poor indoor cooling
Often praised
- atmosphereThe caramel gelato was a perfect end to the meal. Coupled with a great wine selection and a cozy atmosphere, it made for a memorable dining experience.
- ambianceThe ambiance was beautiful, minimalist scadinavian
- AtmosphereThe atmosphere... were rated a perfect 5
- ambiencethe ambience and service were great
- outdoor seatingoutdoor seating was well lit and had optional outdoor space heaters
- ParkingParking was super easy to find on the street
- ambiance and energyThe overall ambiance and energy added to our positive experience
- ambience and décorfantastic ambience and décor – the space is really well done
- architectureThe architecture of the restaurant is very warm and nice
- date nightfun fancy date night 🥰
Frequently criticized
- noise levelFor dessert, the tiramisu was a bit heavy, but the hazelnut ice cream with olive oil was a unique and interesting choice. The interior is beautiful and stylish, but the noise level was really high, making conversation difficult. A significant downside is the automatic 22% service charge for dine-in, which felt steep given that the service was just average, even when mentioning it was a birthday.
- atmosphereit was SO LOUD that it truly destroyed the experience
- ACThe only negative thing about this restaurant will be their AC!
- Parking spaceParking space: Somewhat difficult to find parking
- airflowno AC or any kind of air flow inside
- ambienceIndoor is too loud
- environmentdo better with the environment
- inside temperatureprobably 85F or higher inside
- noiseMy experience at this restaurant was largely disappointing. While the architecture was warm and nice, it was a tad on the noisy side. Unfortunately, the service and food did not meet expectations.
- parkingDifficult to find parking
If you're seeking a place with a great atmosphere and potentially lovely outdoor dining, this restaurant is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared for the possibility of a lively, louder indoor scene and perhaps plan your visit when the weather is mild, or be ready to hunt for street parking.
Value (3 out of 10)
mentioned by 42% of the guests
When it comes to value, a few guests appreciated the transparency around billing and felt the level of experience offered a great deal, with some even finding the bill less than expected. These 6 positive sentiments, out of 59 total customer opinions, highlight moments where the pricing felt fair or even surprisingly good. However, the overall picture for value is quite challenging, with a score of 3 and a very low customer satisfaction of just 10.2%.
A whopping 49 negative opinions frequently mention issues like mandatory service charges, overpriced drinks, hidden fees, and generally expensive menu items, suggesting that many feel the cost doesn't align with the experience.
Value
59
Reviews
10%
Satisfaction
49
negative
4
neutral
6
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Transparency appreciated
- Great deal offered
- Experience for price
What people don't like
- Mandatory service charge
- Overpriced items
- Hidden fees
Often praised
- valuefelt like this was a great value
- billBill was less than expected
- great dealalways offers a great deal
- level of experiencethe level of experience you get for the price is unmatched
- transparencyThat transparency was very appreciated
Frequently criticized
- service chargeWe spent $200 for four people, which averaged to $50 per person, even though we shared two entrees and didn't order dessert. There was also a 22% mandatory service charge. On the positive side, the small plates were great, especially the sourdough bread and burrata.
- pricespend $100 a person to have one shareable plate and some drinks
- breadthe 4 slices of bread we did order was $14
- mandatory tipcheck with the 22% mandatory tip
- price pointWe couldn't eat it but didn't feel like sending it back a second time. Overall, I would not recommend this restaurant at this price point.
- service feeactively avoid restaurants that add 22% service fee
- 22% is outrageous22% is outrageous.
- 4% feecharge 4% for non-labor related purposes
- 4% surchargeThey add a 4% surcharge to cover costs
- Brunch$223.00 for Brunch!
If youre considering this spot, be prepared for potential sticker shock, especially regarding mandatory service charges and drink prices. While a few find good value, the overwhelming sentiment suggests you might feel its overpriced for what you get.
How are the prices at How to Cook a Wolf?
On average, you’ll spend around 79 per person – from 82 guests. That puts this Italian restaurant in the $71–$80 category. For an Italian spot in Seattle, thats comfortably in the higher-end range.
While the average hovers around 79, the pricing isnt all clustered there. We see a significant number of guests opting for experiences over 101 $, indicating a mix of offerings, from solid mid-range to more premium selections.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 82 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value stacks up against similar spots in Seattle.
Given the average spend and the variety in pricing, we think the pricing feels fair for an Italian restaurant that likely offers both classic dishes and more upscale dining experiences in Seattle. It’s helpful to know there are options for different budgets within their menu.
Customer Reviews: what people think about How to Cook a Wolf
Visit Type
- Regular Visit
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
A Neighborhood Gem with Delicious Food and Great Service
We've been several times now and really love this neighborhood gem! Every time we are in, the team takes great care of us and the food is always delicious!
- neighborhood gem9
- great care10
- food10
Price per Person
- $81–$90
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Noise Level
- Loud
7
Beautiful Ambiance, Solid but Unremarkable Food
My experience at How to Cook a Wolf in Madison Park was marked by a truly fantastic ambience and décor. The space is beautifully designed, feeling both intimate and thoughtful. Unfortunately, the food didn't quite match the setting for us.
While the mafaldine with braised duck ragu was good, it could have benefited from fattier duck parts and more unified flavors. The burrata with roasted delicata and pomegranate featured fresh ingredients, but the flavor profile felt a bit scattered. The Sea Wolf sourdough was pricey but worth ordering.
Overall, it's a beautiful spot with solid food, though I expected a bit more cohesion in the dishes given its reputation.
- ambience and décor10
- mafaldine with braised duck ragu6
- burrata with roasted delicata and pomegranate5
- cohesion in the dishes3
Price per Person
- $31–$40
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Unforgettable Seattle Dining Experience
My experience at this restaurant was truly unforgettable. I highly recommend indulging in their tasty small plates before diving into the pasta. The food, service, and atmosphere all received a perfect 5/5 rating, making it a must-visit spot.
- small plates9
- pasta9
- Food10
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Family Dinner
Group Type
- Family
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Noise Level
- Moderate
1
Wildly Overpriced with Hidden Surcharges
I had dinner here with my youngest child. The food is wildly overpriced, PLUS there's a fine-print 22% surcharge added! When the prices on the menu are false, that's scummy.
I watched our waiter bring out our drinks while the host knocked them over, and our drink orders were forgotten, too. Never going back here.
- food2
- surcharge1
- menu prices1
Price per Person
- $51–$60
Visit Type
- Regular Visit
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Large Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Noise Level
- Loud
2
Overpriced Pasta, Elitist Service
I've been coming to both locations for over 15 years, but the food is no better than Due' Cucina now. The price for simple pasta here is actually ridiculous. In a sea of good Seattle Italian food, why pay a triple premium for service that is elitist and for food that is just okay?
I'd recommend checking out Mioposto or Thats Amore Italian Cafe instead.
- food3
- price for simple pasta1
- service1
What How to Cook a Wolf offers
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
Crowd
- Tourists
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
Popular for
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Restroom
Offerings
- Vegetarian options
- Coffee
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Brunch
- Seating
- Table service
- Dinner
Service Options
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
- Takeout
- Delivery
Parking
- Free street parking
- Usually plenty of parking
Atmosphere
- Upscale
- Romantic
- Cozy
- Trendy
FAQs
What dining options and atmosphere does How to Cook a Wolf offer?
At How to Cook a Wolf, you can enjoy brunch or dinner with comfortable seating and table service. The atmosphere is described as upscale, romantic, cozy, and trendy, providing a perfect setting for a special occasion or an intimate meal.
What service and parking options are available at How to Cook a Wolf?
How to Cook a Wolf provides outdoor seating, dine-in, takeout, and delivery services for your convenience. For parking, you’ll typically find free street parking readily available, making your visit hassle-free.
What is the overall dining experience like at How to Cook a Wolf?
How to Cook a Wolf has an overall score of **6.3** and a customer satisfaction of **56.8%**. Guests generally appreciate the **Food** (6.7) and **Ambience** (7.3), while **Service** (6.2) is average. However, the **Value** (3) is a significant concern for many.
What do customers enjoy most about How to Cook a Wolf?
Many customers praise the quality of the dishes, highlighting items like the carpaccio and gnocchi, along with creative cocktails. The restaurant’s beautiful and cozy atmosphere, often described as ideal for a date night, is also a strong positive.
Are there any common concerns or drawbacks when dining at How to Cook a Wolf?
Yes, guests frequently express concerns about the mandatory service charges and the overall price point, impacting the perceived value. Additionally, the noise level can be quite high, making conversation difficult for some diners.