Restaurant
Unclaimed profileCentral Bar + Restaurant
Bellevue, WA · $$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
Central Bar + Restaurant runs a broad beverage program spanning creative cocktails, a wine list with regional range, local craft drafts, and a deep spirits collection. Happy hour delivers accessible pricing on classics and drafts. A Dealer's Choice option invites personalized cocktails, and the nonalcoholic program includes zero-proof spirits.
- What should I order?
- Try the Espresso Martini ($18) or Old Fashioned ($17) for signature cocktails. During happy hour, classic cocktails and draft beers are $10 and $7 respectively. For a splurge, a pour of Yamazaki 12 Yr ($48) or Don Julio 1942 ($50) showcases the premium spirits list.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Cocktail enthusiasts seeking a wide range of house signatures, spirit collectors interested in rare pours like Louis XIII, and groups wanting a lively after-work spot. The nonalcoholic options and happy hour pricing also appeal to designated drivers and budget-conscious drinkers.
- When should I go?
- Happy hour is a draw for discounted cocktails, drafts, and select wines. Evenings suit the lively atmosphere noted by guests. No specific days or times are supported beyond happy hour.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Signature cocktails run $16-$19; wine by the glass $12-$27; drafts $9-$11. Happy hour offers $10 cocktails and $7 drafts. Premium spirits can reach $600 per pour, so a splurge is possible.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The program stands out for its combination of a large signature cocktail list, a deep spirits selection including Louis XIII and Yamazaki 12, and a robust nonalcoholic menu with zero-proof spirits. The Dealer's Choice option adds a personalized touch.
Beverage categories
We only score what a venue sets out to do. Categories a venue doesn't attempt are left unscored rather than penalized.
Cocktails
Extensive signature list with creative house cocktails like 6th & Cilantro and Lincoln Smash. Happy hour classics at $10 and Dealer's Choice option add value and personalization.
Menu strengths
- — Wide variety of signature cocktails with fresh ingredients.
- — Dealer's Choice for personalized drinks.; Happy hour pricing on classics.
Standout selections
- — Espresso Martini – Tito's Vodka, fresh espresso, crème de cacao, Kahlua, Bailey's ($18).
- — Old Fashioned – Old Forester Bourbon, turbinado, bitters ($17).
- — 6th & Cilantro – Reposado tequila, cilantro, sugar, lime ($17).
Pricing: Signature cocktails $16-$19; happy hour classics $10.
Wine
Well-rounded wine list with global regions including Italy, France, California, and Oregon. Premium bottles like Dom Perignon and Caymus Special Selection. Happy hour wine specials at $7 offer accessible entry.
Menu strengths
- — Diverse regional representation.; Premium bottle options.; Happy hour wine specials.
Standout selections
- — Whispering Angel – Rosé, Cotes de Provence, France ($16 glass / $56 bottle).
- — Duckhorn '22 – Cabernet, Napa Valley ($20 glass / $70 bottle).
- — Dom Perignon Brut – Champagne, France ($490 bottle).
Pricing: Wine by the glass $12-$27; bottles $42-$490; happy hour select wines $7.
Beer
Solid draft list with local craft favorites and diverse styles. Happy hour draft special at $7 is a strong value. Includes non-alcoholic options.
Menu strengths
- — Local craft selections.; Variety of styles.; Happy hour draft pricing.
Standout selections
- — Mac & Jack's – Draft ($11).
- — Bodhizafa – IPA ($10).; Trumer Pils – Pilsner ($10).
Pricing: Draft beers $9-$11; happy hour drafts $7; bottles $6-$8.
Nonalcoholic
Impressive nonalcoholic program with zero-proof cocktails using Lyre's and Empress 0.0, plus N/A wines and beers. Happy hour mocktail special adds value. Demonstrates commitment to inclusive drinking.
Menu strengths
- — Zero-proof spirit cocktails.; Multiple N/A categories.; Happy hour mocktail special.
Standout selections
- — Purple Haze – Mocktail ($7 happy hour).
- — Lyre's N/A Tequila Cocktail – with cucumber, jalapeño, agave, lime.
- — Kylie Sparkling Blanc – N/A wine ($15 glass / $53 bottle).
Pricing: Purple Haze mocktail $7 happy hour; N/A wines $15 glass / $53 bottle; N/A beers $8-$11.
Spirits
Outstanding spirits selection spanning all major categories including rare and premium pours. From Seagram's 7 to Louis XIII, the depth is exceptional. Happy hour well special provides accessible entry.
Menu strengths
- — Extensive range across categories.; Rare and premium offerings.
Standout selections
- — Louis XIII 1.5oz – Cognac ($600).
- — Yamazaki 12 Yr – Japanese Whisky ($48).
- — Del Maguey Pechuga – Mezcal ($60).
Pricing: Spirits range $10-$600 per pour; well drinks $7 happy hour.
How it sits with the food
The venue's Northwest fare and small plates are mentioned, but no specific pairings are documented. The cocktail list's range and wine selection provide flexible options to match a variety of dishes.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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