Our Story - The Gilded Spoon

A Legacy of Culinary Excellence

The Gilded Spoon began as a dream nurtured in the heart of Chef Eleanor Vance, a Seattle native whose passion for culinary arts ignited at a young age. Growing up surrounded by the bounty of the Pacific Northwest, Eleanor developed a deep appreciation for fresh, seasonal ingredients and the artistry of transforming them into unforgettable dishes. In 2018, that dream materialized into The Gilded Spoon, a restaurant dedicated to providing an unparalleled dining experience in the heart of Seattle.

From the outset, The Gilded Spoon was envisioned as more than just a restaurant; it was intended as a haven for culinary innovation, a space where creativity could flourish, and a place where guests could create lasting memories. The initial location, a charming building nestled in the vibrant Belltown neighborhood, was carefully chosen to reflect the restaurant's commitment to elegance and sophistication. The interior was meticulously designed to create an atmosphere of refined comfort, with soft lighting, plush seating, and tasteful décor that exuded a sense of understated luxury.

In its early years, The Gilded Spoon quickly gained recognition for its innovative menu and exceptional service. Chef Vance's signature dishes, such as the Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce and the Grilled Ribeye with Rosemary Potatoes, became instant classics, beloved for their exquisite flavors and artful presentation. The restaurant's commitment to sourcing sustainable and ethically produced ingredients further endeared it to the Seattle community, solidifying its reputation as a dining destination with a conscience.

Over the years, The Gilded Spoon has undergone several expansions and renovations, each carefully designed to enhance the dining experience and accommodate the growing demand. The addition of a private dining room, "The Vance Room," provides an intimate setting for special events and celebrations, while the expanded bar area offers a sophisticated space for pre-dinner cocktails and after-dinner drinks. Despite these changes, The Gilded Spoon has remained true to its original vision, consistently delivering exceptional cuisine and impeccable service in an elegant and welcoming atmosphere.

Meet Our Exceptional Team

At The Gilded Spoon, we believe that our team is the heart and soul of our restaurant. Each member brings a unique set of skills, experiences, and passions to the table, united by a shared commitment to providing our guests with an unforgettable dining experience. From our award-winning chefs to our attentive servers, every member of our team plays a vital role in creating the magic that defines The Gilded Spoon.

Eleanor Vance

Executive Chef & Founder

Chef Eleanor Vance is the driving force behind The Gilded Spoon's culinary excellence. A Seattle native with over 20 years of experience in fine dining, Eleanor's passion for creating innovative and delicious cuisine is evident in every dish she creates. Her commitment to sourcing the freshest local ingredients and her unwavering dedication to culinary perfection have earned her numerous accolades, including being named "Seattle's Best Chef" by Seattle Magazine for two consecutive years.

Our Dedicated Staff

Our team of dedicated professionals is committed to providing our guests with impeccable service and creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. From our knowledgeable servers to our skilled bartenders, each member of our staff is passionate about ensuring that every guest has an unforgettable dining experience. We pride ourselves on our attention to detail and our ability to anticipate our guests' needs, making every visit to The Gilded Spoon a truly special occasion.

Beyond Chef Vance, the management team includes Alistair Finch, the Events Coordinator, who ensures every special event at The Gilded Spoon is flawless. Additionally, there's Genevieve Dubois, the Head Sommelier, who curates a wine list that perfectly complements the restaurant's cuisine.

Our Values and Mission

At The Gilded Spoon, our mission is to provide our guests with an unparalleled dining experience that combines exquisite food, exceptional service, and a sophisticated ambiance. We are guided by a set of core values that shape everything we do, from the ingredients we source to the way we treat our guests and our team.

• Culinary Excellence: We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of culinary excellence, using the freshest local ingredients and employing innovative techniques to create dishes that are both delicious and visually stunning.
• Exceptional Service: We believe that exceptional food should be complemented by exceptional service. Our attentive and knowledgeable staff is dedicated to anticipating our guests' needs and creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
• Sustainability: We are committed to sourcing sustainable and ethically produced ingredients whenever possible, supporting local farmers and producers, and minimizing our environmental impact.
• Community: We are proud to be a part of the Seattle community, and we are committed to giving back through charitable donations, volunteer work, and partnerships with local organizations.
• Innovation: We are constantly seeking new ways to improve our dining experience, from experimenting with new ingredients and techniques to embracing new technologies and service models.

We strive to create a dining experience that not only satisfies the palate but also nourishes the soul. Our commitment to quality, sustainability, and community guides our every action, ensuring that The Gilded Spoon remains a cherished institution in the Seattle dining scene for years to come.

Awards and Recognition

The Gilded Spoon has been honored with numerous awards and recognitions, a testament to our commitment to culinary excellence, exceptional service, and a sophisticated ambiance. We are grateful for the recognition we have received from the Seattle community and beyond, and we remain dedicated to upholding the highest standards of quality in everything we do.

Some of our most notable awards and recognitions include:

• "Seattle's Best Fine Dining Restaurant" - Seattle Magazine (2022, 2023, 2024)
• "Seattle's Best Chef" - Seattle Magazine (Eleanor Vance, 2023, 2024)
• "Wine Spectator" Award of Excellence (2022, 2023, 2024)
• 5-Star Rating - Seattle Times Restaurant Critic (2023)
• Golden Plate Award - Northwest Culinary Guild (2024)

These accolades inspire us to continually strive for excellence and to provide our guests with an unforgettable dining experience that exceeds their expectations. We are proud to be a part of Seattle's vibrant culinary scene, and we are committed to contributing to its continued success.

Our Commitment to the Seattle Community

The Gilded Spoon is deeply committed to giving back to the Seattle community that has supported us since our inception. We believe in fostering strong relationships with local organizations, supporting charitable causes, and promoting sustainable practices that benefit our environment and our neighbors.

We actively partner with several local charities, including the Seattle Food Bank and the Pike Place Market Foundation, donating a portion of our proceeds to support their vital work. We also participate in fundraising events and volunteer our time to help address food insecurity and other pressing social issues in our community.

Furthermore, The Gilded Spoon is a strong supporter of local farmers and producers, sourcing the majority of our ingredients from nearby farms and markets. By prioritizing local sourcing, we not only ensure the freshness and quality of our ingredients but also contribute to the economic vitality of our region. We believe that supporting local businesses is essential for building a thriving and sustainable community.