Located in the Juanita neighborhood of Kirkland and only a few minutes from the beautiful shores of Lake Washington is the latest addition to the city’s restaurant scene. Sparrow made its grand entrance earlier this summer, bringing American contemporary cuisine to the area while showcasing ingredients indigenous to the Pacific Northwest. The name “sparrow,” originating from Greek mythology and symbolizing love and spiritual connection, was the premise of creating a restaurant highlighting a love for excellent food and the Pacific Northwest.
Upon walking into the newly opened restaurant, there are many unique details that are sure to catch your eye. From the deer moss wall accented by weathered wood, to the stunning quartzite bar top, illuminated by perfectly dimmed lighting, Sparrow Kirkland is the ultimate restaurant and bar to enjoy a drink with friends, a celebration or a romantic date night.
Start off with one of Sparrow Kirkland’s signature shareable dishes, like the lamb quesa birria. This popular starter is made with slow-braised Anderson Ranch lamb, cheese, cilantro and onions served with house-made tortillas and lamb au jus. Ideal for those who like some heat, the fried shishito peppers are topped with pickled onions, lemon zest and house-made lemon-oregano dressing. Cool off with the refreshing cucumber-basil gimlet, mixed with Alphabet Vodka, fresh basil leaves, fresh-squeezed lime juice, simple syrup and a cucumber garnish.
Leading into the main course, the 8-oz. prime bavette steak is tender and full of flavor. Grilled all-natural Niman Ranch steak is served alongside organic roasted broccoli and house-made mashed potatoes. Add a large fresh scallop for $10 to create your own surf and turf entree. The 6-oz. piece of Alaskan halibut–seared to excellence and paired with organic roasted asparagus, tomatoes, sautéed pea vines, lemon-thyme vinaigrette and finished with a lemon-shallot zest–will melt in your mouth.
Fresh pasta options provide variety to the menu. Try the sausage rigatoni consisting of Italian sausage from Cascioppo Meats and tossed in a light garlic cream sauce with shaved garlic and parmesan cheese. The “Xtra creamy” mac and cheese is a cheese lover’s dream, prepared with heavy cream, gruyere and cheddar cheese, then sprinkled with baked breadcrumbs. Kick this up a notch by adding Dungeness crab for $12 or Italian sausage for $6. To end the meal, indulge in dessert and order the house-made banana bread pudding served with Olympic Mountain Creamery’s vanilla gelato. A true chef’s kiss!
Be sure to check out Sparrow Kirkland’s newly launched weekend brunch, available from 10 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. and dishing up brunch classics along with signature plates. Their spin on avocado toast is a spectacular choice served on house focaccia, with fresh smashed avocado, cherry tomatoes, poached egg and loaded with fresh Dungeness crab. The French toast or banana pancakes are sure to cure any sweet tooth, accompanied with seasonal hand-picked berries, homemade whipped cream and vanilla glaze. Wash this down with a classic espresso martini or house mimosa poured with fresh-squeezed juice.
Sparrow Kirkland is now open Monday to Wednesday, 3 to 9 p.m.; Thursday, 3 to 10 p.m.; Friday, 3 p.m. to midnight; and starting at 10 a.m., Saturday and Sunday. Happy hour is served seven days a week from 3 to 5 p.m. with a late-night happy hour Friday and Saturday from 10 p.m. to midnight. Online reservations are encouraged but not required. At this time, takeout is available directly through the restaurant to ensure the freshness in your meal.
For more information on Sparrow Kirkland, visit sparrowkirkland.com.