Business Details
8 Years
experience
Discover Northwest Dining at Central Bellevue
Central Bar + Restaurant, known simply as 'Central' to locals, is a vibrant dining destination in downtown Bellevue, Washington. Established in 2018, our restaurant combines Northwest-inspired cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere designed to celebrate food, people, and community. The Brazen family, with over 14 years of experience in the hospitality industry, curates an upscale yet approachable environment featuring handcrafted cocktails, regional small plates, and a European-inspired outdoor alleyway setting. Our 4,000-square-foot space accommodates diverse occasionsfrom intimate dinners to 250+ person buyoutswhile maintaining a family-like atmosphere that reflects our ownership's values. Recognized as '2018's Best New Restaurant' by 425 Magazine, we pride ourselves on hiring top talent in the hospitality industry to ensure every guest experiences exceptional service.Our menu emphasizes fresh, house-prepared ingredients complemented by quality spirits and an extensive wine selection. Whether hosting a business lunch, celebration, or casual gathering, Central's warm lighting, custom furnishings, and attentive staff create memorable moments for every patron. We maintain strong ties to the Bellevue Collection area, offering unique event spaces with customizable options for private functions. Our commitment to excellence extends to our catering services, bringing the Central experience to off-site events with the same dedication to quality and hospitality.
Services
Northwest Cuisine
Craft Cocktails
Private Events
Catering Services
Happy Hour Specials
Wine Selection
Brunch Menu
Dessert Menu
Details
- Year established: 2018
Highlights and features
- Family-owned with 14+ years of hospitality experience in Bellevue
- Awarded '2018's Best New Restaurant' by 425 Magazine
- Customizable private event spaces for 8-250+ guests
- Northwest-inspired menu with fresh, house-prepared ingredients
- Award-winning bartenders crafting signature cocktails daily
Services
Northwest Cuisine
Our menu showcases Pacific Northwest flavors with fresh, house-prepared ingredients. Diners enjoy regional small plates and entrees like wild-caught seafood, local produce, and artisanal preparations. The kitchen emphasizes seasonal ingredients while maintaining signature dishes that have become favorites among regular patrons.
Craft Cocktails
Award-winning bartenders create hand-crafted cocktails using premium spirits and house-made components. The menu features both classic and innovative drinks, including Northwest-inspired variations and seasonal specialties. Beverage programs align with the restaurant's commitment to quality and local sourcing.
Private Events
Flexible spaces accommodate events from intimate dinners to full restaurant buyouts. Customizable options include furniture removal, AV equipment, and specialized dcor. Experienced event coordinators assist with planning celebrations, corporate functions, and social gatherings of various sizes.
Catering Services
Professional catering brings Central's quality to external venues with full-service support. Menus mirror restaurant offerings with specialized event options. Staff handles food preparation, delivery, and service for corporate events, weddings, and private parties.
Brunch Menu
Weekend brunch service features elevated breakfast classics and creative specialties. Menu includes both traditional and innovative dishes served in a lively atmosphere. Popular items include housemade waffles, specialty omelets, and brunch cocktails like the Spanish Coffee.
People
Joseph Brazen
Co-Owner
Joseph Brazen co-founded Central with a vision to create Bellevue's premier gathering place. With decades of hospitality experience, he focuses on creating world-class environments that combine exceptional service with community engagement.
Randi Brazen
Co-Owner
Randi Brazen shapes the guest experience through design and hospitality leadership. Her attention to detail ensures Central maintains its elegant yet approachable atmosphere while delivering consistent service excellence.
Cody Brazen
General Manager
As General Manager, Cody Brazen oversees daily operations and staff leadership. Carrying forward family traditions, he ensures Central maintains its commitment to quality while adapting to evolving guest expectations.
Kyle Patterson
Bar Manager
With 12 years in the restaurant industry, Kyle Patterson leads Central's beverage program. His expertise in mixology and staff development has established Central as a destination for craft cocktail enthusiasts.
Questions
What type of cuisine does Central serve?
Central offers Northwest-inspired cuisine featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Our menu includes regional small plates, entrees with wild-caught seafood, and seasonal produce.
Do you offer private event spaces?
Yes, we have multiple private event options including full restaurant buyouts, intimate dining rooms, and customizable spaces for 8-250+ guests.
What are your happy hour specials?
Happy Hour runs daily 2-5 PM with discounted appetizers and drinks. Late Night Happy Hour continues Sunday-Thursday until closing and Friday-Saturday until 10 PM.
Is there parking available?
Valet parking is available for private events. The restaurant is located in the Bellevue Collection with public parking options nearby.
Do you offer catering services?
Yes, our catering team brings Central's quality to your location with full-service support, including food preparation, delivery, and staff service.
What awards has Central received?
Central was named '2018's Best New Restaurant' by 425 Magazine for its innovative cuisine, exceptional service, and vibrant atmosphere.
Reviews (6)
Joan Bordner
Jan 31, 2022
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My husband and myself went there with another couple. The service was spectacular, food was wonderful and we look forward to going back! The lemon drop and appetizers were delcious! :) Highly recommend.
Lindsay Stokes
Jan 25, 2022
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Central's staff is super friendly and accommodating. I've had several menu items, and everything so far has been delicious. I recommend their Spanish coffee if you're visiting for brunch :)
Rodrigo Roim
Jan 06, 2022
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Theyre a bit hidden, and I expected more of a bar than a restaurant, but they delivered on both fronts! Great food and drinks.
Samvita Padukone
Dec 25, 2021
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One of my favorite haunts in Bellevue! Food, drinks, service and vibe are all spot on. The one nitpick I have is that you have to provide a credit card upon reservation on their website, and there is a charge to cancel the reservation within two hours. It's very uncommon for this area although I understand it exists in other places. But aside from that, I love it!
Teaka Salgado
Dec 24, 2021
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Absolutely incredible. We came for dinner before snowflake lane, and the service, food, and drinks were quick and delicious. Everyone was so kind and helpful and everything was so delicious that we ended up returning right after the parade!! We found this place after two rough experiences with Earls, highly highly recommend. Worth every penny.
Pepsy Martin-Wirth
Sep 30, 2021
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We had the best time here. I loved our waiter and the staff. Food is great and the drinks are awesome. Highly recommend if you are hanging with friends in a small group.
