Highlights
- Great coffee
- Fireplace
- Great wine list
- Great beer selection
oChef » Brimmer & Heeltap – Seattle
Brimmer & Heeltap - Seattle
Photo from Brimmer & Heeltap
Brimmer & Heeltap at a glance
Seattle Phinney Ridge
- 🍽️ Bistro
$$
Price per Person $61–$70
mentioned by 65 of the guests
#64 out of 858 places to eat in Seattle
#1 Bistro out of 1 in Seattle
Excellent
8.7 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
614
Reviews
89.7%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Exceptional food
- Friendly service
- Cozy ambiance
Frequently criticized
- Hidden surcharge
- Small portions
- Loud indoors
The restaurant Brimmer & Heeltap, a charming bistro nestled in Seattle’s Phinney Ridge neighborhood, invites you to unwind. You’ll find a cozy atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed evening, especially with the inviting fireplace glowing.
This spot offers a delightful escape, combining upscale touches with a casual vibe, making it a local favorite for a memorable dining experience.
Overview: Introducting Brimmer & Heeltap
Brimmer & Heeltap offers a delightful dining experience where the culinary creations and attentive staff truly shine. Guests often praise the inviting atmosphere, creating a comfortable setting, though some find the overall value proposition, especially regarding additional fees, a point of contention.
The kitchen consistently delivers thoughtful dishes, complemented by a team that ensures a smooth visit, making it a place where many feel well cared for. However, be mindful of potential surprises on the bill, as a surcharge has been noted by some patrons.
Excellent
8.7
out of 10
614
Reviews
89.7%
Satisfaction
51
negative
12
neutral
551
positive
Brimmer & Heeltap earns a strong 8.7 overall score, reflecting a generally positive guest experience, with customer satisfaction rated at a good 89.7%. This positive sentiment is built on 551 positive remarks out of 614 total opinions.
The Service (9) stands out as excellent, with staff frequently described as knowledgeable and attentive. Similarly, the Food (8.8) receives high praise for its creativity and execution, while the inviting Ambience (8.8) also contributes significantly to the positive reviews.
However, the Value (5.2) is perceived as average, largely due to concerns about portion sizes and a recurring 5% surcharge, as noted in 51 negative comments.
What people like
- Exceptional food quality
- Attentive, friendly service
- Cozy, inviting ambiance
What people don't like
- Hidden 5% surcharge
- Small food portions
- Loud indoor dining
If you prioritize exceptional culinary execution and attentive hospitality in a pleasant setting, Brimmer & Heeltap is certainly worth considering. The experience is largely positive, reflected in a solid 8.9 recommendation score.
However, be prepared for an average value perception, particularly regarding portion sizes and an additional 5% fee. It’s a place for those who value quality over strict budget adherence.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Brimmer & Heeltap
Food (8.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 98% of the guests
When it comes to the food, this spot truly shines, boasting an impressive 8.8 score and delighting 91.9% of customers! With 330 positive comments out of 359, guests consistently rave about the creative food, unique flavors, and fresh ingredients. The excellent menu choices, from crispy potatoes to the panna cotta, are frequently praised for their deliciousness and thoughtful preparation.
However, not every bite is perfect, with 22 negative comments noted. Some diners found the portions to be on the smaller side, and a few mentioned specific dishes like the hanger steak being over-sauced or the radicchio salad having bitter chunks. There's also a desire for more vegetarian protein options.
Food
359
Reviews
91%
Satisfaction
22
negative
7
neutral
330
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Creative, unique flavors
- Fresh, wholesome dishes
- Excellent menu choices
What people don't like
- Small portion sizes
- Over-sauced dishes
- Limited veg options
Often praised
- foodI was here for a work party and everything was amazing! The food was perfect, and I can’t recommend the bread, olives, chicken with polenta, potatoes, and chocolate torte enough. The service is so friendly and they answered all our many questions!
- breadThe building and landscaping were charming from every angle, and the food was exceptional, making my soul smile. I particularly enjoyed the handwritten letters cocktail, the tomatoes appetizer, the bread, and the potato dumplings entree. I want to extend my compliments to lead server, Christi Lutz, for her excellent help with the menu and for making me feel at home.
- cocktailsMy experience at this restaurant was that of discovering a hidden gem. It's a small place with a cozy neighborhood feel, but what truly stands out are the very thoughtfully made dishes and some superb cocktails. While the menu, including the drink selection, might not be extensive, it is exceptionally well-executed.
- dishesThe food was incredibly creative and satisfying, filling us up without feeling overly pretentious. The staff were both informative and friendly, taking the time to explain and recommend dishes without being asked. If this restaurant were located downtown, it would undoubtedly be twice the price and still worth every penny.
- menuMy experience at this restaurant was marked by excellent food, particularly the simple bread and butter, though most of the menu is also great. However, I found their practice of charging a 5% extra-price fee on top of everything to be a bit underhanded and sneaky, even though it's mentioned on the menu.
- clamsthe bread, clams, well- really every single dish we got was true perfection
- wine listDrinks are good especially the wine list.
- crispy potatoesWe tried the carrots, crispy potatoes, and crostata. Each was unique, well balanced
- dietary restrictionsThe beets were SO good, and the pork chop was like a taste from my grandma's kitchen as a kid. They are VERY accommodating to dietary restrictions. The atmosphere and service were both rated a 5 out of 5.
- dinnerThe cocktails were incredible, and the service was thoughtful. I thoroughly enjoyed the divine dinner and dessert. I highly recommend this restaurant!
Frequently criticized
- portionsI agree, the food tastes amazing, but the portions are abysmal. I had the New York strip steak which was about 3oz of steak for $42.
- Hanger steakHanger steak wasn't quite what I was expecting
- New York strip steakI agree, the food tastes amazing, but the portions are abysmal. I had the New York strip steak which was about 3oz of steak for $42.
- breadbread that was burned and difficult to cut
- chicken patechicken pate and it inexplicably arrived slathered on a large piece of bread
- drinksthe drinks are cloyingly sweet
- fennelit was a bit heavy with the fennel
- foodThe food is just not my personal preference
- food flavorspretty basic flavors
- main coursesThe lamb was undercooked to our liking, and the pasta was simple and somewhat overcooked.
If you're seeking a culinary adventure with creative, flavorful dishes and fresh ingredients, this restaurant is definitely worth a visit. Just be mindful that some portions might be on the smaller side, and a few specific preparations might not suit every palate.
Service (9 out of 10)
mentioned by 71% of the guests
When it comes to service, this place truly shines, boasting an excellent score of 9 and an impressive 92% customer satisfaction. With 115 positive remarks out of 125 total, guests consistently rave about the warm and welcoming and attentive staff. Many highlight the exceptional service and genuine kindness, noting how the team goes above and beyond, from accommodating dietary needs to offering thoughtful personal touches.
However, a small number of 9 comments point to areas for improvement. Some experiences mentioned feeling under-serviced or noted long delays, occasionally attributing this to understaffing. A few guests also felt a server lacked personality or engaged in upselling, suggesting a slight inconsistency in the overall service experience.
Service
125
Reviews
92%
Satisfaction
9
negative
1
neutral
115
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Exceptional, warm service
- Attentive, kind staff
- Accommodates dietary needs
What people don't like
- Occasional long delays
- Perceived understaffing
- Server upselling
Often praised
- serviceThe restaurant provided a lovely menu of food choices, both sweet and savory, allowing us to make buffet selections in advance. The service was friendly without being intrusive, and they were accommodating of several dietary restrictions, with many menu items available for vegetarian and celiac guests, supported by excellent, knowledgeable staff. The coffee drinks were excellent and the mimosas were festive.
- staffThe restaurant impressed us with its warm and welcoming atmosphere, featuring rustic decor with an open garage door wall, fire pit, and cozy seating. The staff were friendly and attentive, and we were quickly seated at a cozy outdoor table. For breakfast, I enjoyed the smoked salmon toast.
- waitressThe quaint patio provided a lovely atmosphere, and the excellent staff made the visit even better. The food was great, and our waitress was so sweet to my granddaughter!
- teamDarby is an exceptional part of the team
- ChelanChelan was amazing, knowledgeable and so personable.
- Christi LutzCompliments to lead server, Christi Lutz, for helping me with the menu and making me feel at home
- DarbyDarby is an exceptional part of the team, she took great care of us
- EmmaEmma who did a perfect job coordinating all details
- Serviceprovide top-notch service!
- StaffThe staff are professional and provide top-notch service!
Frequently criticized
- servicethe service, which seemed to come down to one issue: understaffing.
- long delaysleading to long delays.
- menu knowledgeThe restaurant is small, so I was surprised by the lack of joy I felt from our server, with such good food and not overwhelming amount of guests, with an upper-priced menu, minimal choices. I would have expected more personality, shareable knowledge about the menu, guest preferences, personal favorites. Brimmer & Heeltap is a nice place; the decor is welcoming.
- serverI am already thinking of which ladies, my sweetie/hubby I would like to share this restaurant with; it’s a drive but definitely worth the trip. The restaurant is small, so I was surprised by the lack of joy I felt from our server, with such good food and not overwhelming amount of guests, with an upper-priced menu, minimal choices. I would have expected more personality, shareable knowledge about the menu, guest preferences, personal favorites.
- server personalityBrimmer & Heeltap is a nice place; the decor is welcoming. It was just missing personality, yeah missing Personality; it just didn’t appear to be a fun place, like no joy. I did end up leaving a nice size tip; I hope our server shares with the kitchen because they did an amazing job, and without them, I would have left of the base tip.
- under-servicedwas under-serviced because of this.
- understaffingthe service, which seemed to come down to one issue: understaffing.
- upsellingconstant upselling done by the waiter
The service here is overwhelmingly excellent, with staff consistently praised for their warmth and attentiveness. While a few isolated comments mention minor inconsistencies, you can expect exceptional hospitality. It's definitely worth a visit if top-notch service is a priority.
Ambience (8.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 64% of the guests
When it comes to ambience, this spot truly shines, boasting an excellent score of 8.8 and an impressive 93.9% customer satisfaction. With 93 positive opinions out of 99, guests consistently rave about the neighborhood gem feel, outdoor garden patio, and date night vibes. Many appreciate the intimate feeling and overall wonderful atmosphere that makes every visit special.
However, a handful of the 5 negative opinions point out a few minor snags. Some found parking to be a challenge, while others noted that Indoors could be quite loud. There was also a mention of the early closing time impacting longer evenings, but these are minor points in an otherwise stellar experience.
Ambience
99
Reviews
93%
Satisfaction
5
negative
1
neutral
93
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Magical outdoor dining
- Intimate date spot
- Charming neighborhood gem
What people don't like
- Parking can be tough
- Indoors gets loud
- Early closing time
Often praised
- atmosphereMy dining experience was lovely, with a great atmosphere. I was particularly pleased to be there on a night when proceeds were donated to Lifelong, a great charity!
- placeThis place really reminded us of our old favorite spot
- vibeMy experience at this restaurant was marked by an awesome vibe and a wide array of unique food choices. We were particularly amused by the big chonk of bread served, and initially confused by the lack of butter, only to discover the butter was already incorporated into the bread.
- experienceWonderful experience all in all
- neighborhood gemwonderful dinner at this neighborhood gem
- patiosurprisingly the patio was quite warm
- ambianceThe ambiance is really what won me over.
- decorI would have expected more personality, shareable knowledge about the menu, guest preferences, personal favorites. Brimmer & Heeltap is a nice place; the decor is welcoming. It was just missing personality, yeah missing Personality; it just didn’t appear to be a fun place, like no joy.
- private spaceIf you need a private space to host a small party
- spaceNice space with good food
Frequently criticized
- parkingThere is limited neighborhood parking
- IndoorsIndoors is very loud
- closing timecloses at a reasonable 10pm so our party had to end
- parking spaceSomewhat difficult to find parking
If you're seeking a charming and intimate setting, especially for a date night or a special outdoor experience, this place is definitely worth a visit. Just be mindful of potential parking challenges and consider the outdoor seating for a quieter experience, as the indoors can get lively.
Value (5.2 out of 10)
mentioned by 20% of the guests
Lets talk about value! Based on 31 customer opinions, with 13 positive and 15 negative remarks, its clear this topic is a bit of a mixed bag. Many guests felt the overall experience was well worth the price tag, praising how the quality of the food matched its price point.
Some even thought certain amazing dishes were undercharged, finding the selection and prices reasonable, with free parking being a welcome perk. However, the value proposition here is quite average, reflected in a score of 5.2 and a mixed customer satisfaction of 41.9%. A significant number of diners were frustrated by a hidden 5% surcharge or extra charge added to the bill, often described as sneaky tactics or an additional fee to cover food expenses.
Others found certain prices steep for small portions, wishing for more honest pricing.
Value
31
Reviews
41%
Satisfaction
15
negative
3
neutral
13
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Quality matches price
- Excellent food value
- Free parking available
What people don't like
- Hidden 5% surcharge
- Extra price fee
- Small portions, high price
Often praised
- priceI am by far not an all caps person, but Brimmer & Heeltaps food was off the hook! I personally feel they undercharge for the AMAZING Steak eggplant, bone marrow, watercress WOW! It was crazy good.
- Seattle pricesMy experience at the restaurant was fantastic. The food was awesome, and the service was excellent, all at normal Seattle prices. Despite being incredibly busy on a Saturday night and seemingly short-staffed, the team managed everything well.
- food and drinkfood and drink felt right on with its price point
- overall experienceoverall experience was well worth the price tag
- parkingPlenty of parking
- price per personPrice per person:$1–10
- saving moneysuggestions on saving money while getting more food
- selection and pricesthe selection and prices are reasonable
- street parkingFree street parking
- tipIt was just missing personality, yeah missing Personality; it just didn’t appear to be a fun place, like no joy. I did end up leaving a nice size tip; I hope our server shares with the kitchen because they did an amazing job, and without them, I would have left of the base tip. I didn’t take pictures this time because I was too busy enjoying the food.
Frequently criticized
- priceSmall portions for relatively high price
- surchargeThe food was great, the service was excellent, and the atmosphere was wonderful, all deserving of a 5/5 rating. However, I was disappointed to find a 5% surcharge added to the bill, which the restaurant stated was to ‘offset rising costs of goods. ’ This additional fee is the reason for my lower overall rating.
- 20% tipTHEN adding a 20% tip on top of the subtotal
- 5% feea stupid 5% fee that goes straight to the restaurant
- 5% surchargegouge the customer by adding a fine print 5% surcharge
- additional feeThis additional fee is the reason for my lower rating
- extra chargeextra charge at the end of your meal
- extra-price feecharge a 5% extra-price fee on top of everything
- food expensescover "food expenses"
- hidden surchargehidden 5% surcharge that they add to your bill
If you're considering this place, be prepared for a mixed experience on value. While the food quality can be excellent and worth the price, watch out for hidden surcharges that can make the final bill feel steep. It might be worth it for the food, but be aware of potential unexpected fees.
How are the prices at Brimmer & Heeltap?
You’re looking at roughly 64 per person – reported by 65 diners. That puts it in the $61–$70 category. For a Bistro, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Looking at what people actually spend, most prices cluster right around this average, showing a pretty consistent offering rather than a mix of super cheap and super premium options.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 65 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value stacks up against similar spots in Seattle.
Considering its a Bistro, a price point of 64 per person feels like a solid mid-to-higher-end offering. We think its fair if the quality of food and experience matches this price. It suggests a focus on good ingredients and a pleasant dining atmosphere.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Brimmer & Heeltap
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
10
Amazing Food and Great Vibes!
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic! The bread and butter were the best I've ever had at a restaurant, and it's not even close. The vibes were great, and everything we ate was amazing.
The mussels and the crispy potatoes were especially bang. I'm probably going back in two days to eat here again.
- bread and butter10
- vibes9
- food10
Price per Person
- $81–$90
Visit Type
- Special Occasion
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
10
Amazing Birthday Dinner at Brimmer and Heeltap
My wife and I had an amazing birthday dinner at Brimmer and Heeltap! They made our night extra special with numerous personal touches and considerations throughout the evening. Their cocktails were exquisite and unique compositions of great scrumptiousness.
We relished the food offerings, particularly the succulent Sumac Duck Breast and toothsome Crispy Potatoes. It's a perfect place for a date night or special occasion.
- personal touches10
- cocktails10
- Sumac Duck Breast10
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Amazing service and time!
My experience at the restaurant was amazing! I came in with a few girlfriends and we had the best time. The service was outstanding, contributing to a perfect 10/10 experience.
- service10
- time10
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Short (6–15 min.)
Noise Level
- Moderate
5
Mixed Feelings: Great Staff, Basic Food, Odd Fee
My experience at this restaurant was a mixed bag. While the wine selection was great and the staff were excellent, the food itself was pretty basic with simple flavors. I missed little touches like warm bread with the burrata dip.
A significant issue was a 5% fee that goes directly to the restaurant, which I find to be a dishonest tactic. I might return one day, but it won't be a place I frequent.
- wine selection8
- staff8
- food flavors3
- warm bread3
- 5% fee1
Price per Person
- $51–$60
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
9
Charming Spot with Excellent Food
I really enjoyed my experience here, appreciating the friendliness and charm of the place. The ripped potatoes were most excellent, as were the heirloom tomatoes. I also appreciated the crunchy, buttery take on bread.
The mains offered a nice breadth with small twists. It was a nice time with friends!
- friendliness and charm9
- ripped potatoes10
- heirloom tomatoes9
What Brimmer & Heeltap offers
Planning
- Accepts reservations
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Brunch reservations recommended
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Transgender safespace
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Popular for
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi
- Restroom
Offerings
- Healthy options
- Hard liquor
- Vegan options
- Happy hour drinks
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Small plates
- Happy hour food
- Cocktails
- Organic dishes
- Vegetarian options
- Private dining room
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Brunch
- Dessert
- Table service
- Seating
- Dinner
Service Options
- Curbside pickup
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
- Takeout
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Parking
- Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
- Free street parking
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Upscale
- Cozy
- Trendy
- Romantic
FAQs
What kind of atmosphere and dining options can you expect at Brimmer & Heeltap?
You can anticipate a casual yet upscale and cozy atmosphere at Brimmer & Heeltap, perfect for a romantic evening or a relaxed meal. They offer brunch, dinner, and dessert with table service, and you can even enjoy outdoor seating. Reservations are recommended for dinner and brunch to secure your spot.
Does Brimmer & Heeltap cater to specific dietary needs and offer a variety of beverages?
Absolutely! You’ll find healthy options, vegan options, vegetarian options, and organic dishes on the menu at Brimmer & Heeltap. For drinks, they boast a great wine list, an excellent beer selection, cocktails, and hard liquor, alongside coffee and happy hour drinks, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
How does Brimmer & Heeltap rate overall?
Brimmer & Heeltap holds a strong overall score of 8.7. Its Service (9), Food (8.8), and Ambience (8.8) are rated excellent, though Value (5.2) is considered average.
Are there any common concerns about the pricing at Brimmer & Heeltap?
Yes, some patrons express concern over a 5% extra-price fee or surcharge added to the bill, as well as the perception of small portion sizes for the price.
What makes the food at Brimmer & Heeltap stand out?
Guests frequently praise the food for being incredibly creative, thoughtfully made, and exceptional, with particular mentions of unique dishes and accommodating dietary restrictions.