Archipelago Reviews

It has been a few years since I have been to Archipelago last and am impressed how the team has evolved to be a Michelin-worthy restaurant. Service was impeccable. An example to follow by many many restaurants in the Seattle area who try too hard and fail horribly. Dishes were served to all customers at once, removed swiftly and a server was always there when needed. No need to call. They definitely took a page out of Eleven Madison Park's manual. The food was delicious and well paced. Achieving that in such a small space is only possible with an expert team that is willing to switch roles on a whim. Did I mention Eleven Madison Park...? Everyone owns the operation and is ready to jump in for whichever role needed. Impressive. All dishes were to my liking and I LOVE the concept of offering seconds for the main. Everyone walks away well-fed and happy, and there are no food scraps. Chapeau! The highlight, however, of the experience is the storytelling. With a strong focus on the Filipino heritage in the PNW, Archipelago elevates decades of cultural influence front and center. Not only does one learn about the Filipino history in the area, but also the respect the team has for their heritage. A journey I want to embark on over and over again. Thanks, Team, for the amazing evening.

Great service! It was fine dining that felt comfortable. It felt like I was at a friend’s party but with the most beautiful, delicious food! They also make sure you don’t leave hungry! The staff were all knowledgeable about the food and drinks.

My son and his fiancé chose Archipelago to celebrate his 28th birthday. We had no idea what an amazing culinary experience we were about to enjoy! The 10-course curated menu of PNW/Filipino flavors featured locally sourced, seasonal ingredients that were beautifully displayed and graciously presented by warm, friendly staff who treated us like family. Each course was accompanied by a fascinating story and history shared by the passionate owner/chef Aaron Verzosa. Three hours later, we walked away filled with wonderful food and memories.

It was not easy to get a table at Archipelago. After all the restaurant opens reservations only every two months and these sell out within 2 to 3 minutes. The restaurant is tiny and easy to miss when you walk by. It is tiny (10 seats only), but packs a punch when it comes to flavor and culture. Personally, I loved the pride the team has in their heritage – something mirrored by the care and passion that goes into food preparation. The bites were delicious and having a "Taylor made" main course for those that might have more or less appetite is just genius. The dishes were delicious and the whole evening very pleasant. My only complaint? I got two, actually. First, I would have loved to have a different wine for each dish served and not one for two dishes here and there. Second, ventilation. Be aware that you will smell like you came out of a restaurant kitchen when done with dinner. Plan accordingly. Overall an excellent experience worth a repeat.

We recently celebrated our 30-year anniversary at Archipelago, and it couldn’t have been a more fitting place for such a meaningful occasion. From the moment we walked in, we were struck by the intimate and thoughtfully designed space — it felt personal, inviting, and unlike any other dining experience we’ve had in Seattle. The service was exceptional, and we especially want to recognize Isabel, who made us feel not only welcomed but truly celebrated. Her attentiveness, warmth, and deep knowledge of the menu added an extra layer of care to an already remarkable evening. What sets Archipelago apart is its dedication to telling a story through food — one inspired by the many regions and places that Filipinos throughout history have shaped and thrived in. This cultural journey is expressed through their inventive tasting menu, where each bite is deliberate, balanced, and full of heart. The interplay of sweet and savory flavors was especially striking and kept us intrigued course after course. Highlights from the Summer Tasting Menu included the perfectly cooked ribeye, the deeply flavorful braised short rib, the unexpected and delicious churro, and the beautifully crafted red beet sponge cake. Each dish was not only delicious but carried a deeper connection to the heritage and narrative Archipelago so beautifully celebrates. This was more than just a dinner — it was a sensory and cultural experience, and one we’ll never forget. Archipelago gave us a 30th anniversary celebration that was intimate, meaningful, and full of joy. We’re already looking forward to returning.