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Bothell › Bothell › Amaro Bistro
Amaro BistroB+Worth Trying
18333 Bothell Way NE, Bothell, WA 98011
· Italian restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (1301 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Polished Italian spot with strong pastas and lively vibe, but service pace, added fees, and parking headaches can undermine the experience.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Amaro Bistro delivers competitive neighborhood dining with strong food quality in handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas, supported by warm, polished ambiance that suits date nights and celebrations. However, quality variation across visits and inconsistent service pacing during peak times prevent grade A-level reliability, making it a solid choice for those who time their visit well and choose carefully from the menu.
Restaurant Summary
Expect a warm, bustling room that feels lively and polished, with servers who can be charming on good nights and stretched thin on busy ones. Guests praise rich pastas and wood-fired pies, but some recount long waits: "We were seated fast, then waited ages for drinks." Parking and fees can distract from the otherwise cozy neighborhood vibe. The cooking leans elevated Italian comfort—think short ribs, heritage pork shank, and handmade-style pastas—more ingredient-driven than showy. When the kitchen hits, flavors sing; when it misses, seasoning skews salty or sauces run heavy. It is a solid pick for a date-night splurge if you avoid the peak rush and choose well. For families, the menu is friendly: pizzas, spaghetti, and simple salads work for kids, though there is no explicit kids menu. Portions vary—some pastas feel dainty—so consider sharing a pizza or a mid-priced pasta for dependable volume. If ordering to please picky eaters, stick to classic pizzas and spaghetti rather than bolder specials.
At a Glance
- Pastas and wood-fired pizzas earn consistent praise
- Warm ambiance suits dates and celebrations
- Service pacing slows at peak times
- Added fees and occasional billing confusion reported
- Parking enforcement around the garage can be frustrating
What Sets It Apart
- wood_stone_oven
- heritage_pork_shank_specialty
- lively_bar_and_dining_rooms
What People Love
- Rich, satisfying pasta sauces
- Friendly servers who offer thoughtful recommendations
- Lively, classy room with a neighborhood feel
- Wood-fired pizzas that are easy to share
Points of Concern
- Service delays during peak hours lead to long gaps between courses
- Added fees (3.5% surcharge and service charges) surprise some diners
- Parking disputes and tickets reported in nearby garage
- Portion size variance on certain pastas (ravioli, gnocchi)
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$48-72 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For kids, choose Pepperoni or Margherita ($18-$20) and Spaghetti Polpette ($13)
- Value combo: share Bruschetta ($14) plus Margherita ($18) and a dessert
- Steak fans: ask for light sauce on Filetto di Manzo ($56)
Perfect For
- Date night with Italian comfort classics
- Celebrating a birthday over pasta and wine
- Small groups seeking lively ambiance
- Locals looking for a polished neighborhood spot
Location Insights
Area: Revitalized downtown hub with mixed retail, bars, and apartments; draws locals for evenings and date nights.
Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic; occasional parking enforcement disputes reported.
Nearby: Near Bothell Main Street, bars, shops, and public garage; after-work crowd creates early evening rush.
Downtown BothellDowntown Bothell is a vibrant area with a mix of historic charm and modern development, featuring a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops. The dining scene is diverse, catering to families and professionals seeking casual to upscale options in a walkable, community-focused environment.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday16:00–21:00
Tuesday16:00–21:00
Wednesday16:00–21:00
Thursday16:00–21:00
Friday16:00–22:00
Saturday16:00–22:00
Sunday16:00–21:00
Available: Reservations, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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