Our Story

The Gilded Spoon began as a dream, a culinary vision shared by two passionate chefs, Eleanor Ainsworth and Miles Bartholomew, in the vibrant heart of Seattle. Eleanor, a Seattle native with a deep love for the Pacific Northwest's rich bounty of seafood and produce, and Miles, a classically trained chef with years of experience in Michelin-starred restaurants across Europe, came together to create a dining experience that would be both sophisticated and deeply rooted in the local terroir.

In 2010, after years of planning and meticulous preparation, they opened the doors of The Gilded Spoon on Fourth Avenue, a location chosen for its central location and proximity to Pike Place Market, ensuring access to the freshest ingredients daily. From the outset, the restaurant was designed to be more than just a place to eat; it was conceived as a destination, a place where guests could escape the everyday and indulge in a truly memorable culinary journey.

The early years were challenging, as Eleanor and Miles worked tirelessly to establish their reputation and build a loyal clientele. Their commitment to quality, innovation, and impeccable service, however, soon began to pay off. Word of mouth spread quickly, and The Gilded Spoon became known as one of Seattle's premier fine dining destinations, attracting both locals and visitors alike.

Over the years, The Gilded Spoon has evolved and grown, but its core values have remained unchanged. We are still driven by a passion for creating exceptional food, providing outstanding service, and fostering a warm and welcoming atmosphere. We are proud to be a part of the Seattle community and are committed to supporting local farmers, fishermen, and artisans.

Today, The Gilded Spoon continues to be a culinary leader in Seattle, renowned for its innovative menu, its elegant ambiance, and its unwavering dedication to excellence. We invite you to join us and experience the magic for yourself.

Meet Our Team

Head Chef Eleanor Ainsworth, smiling warmly

Eleanor Ainsworth

Head Chef & Co-Founder

Eleanor's culinary journey began in her grandmother's kitchen, where she learned the secrets of classic Pacific Northwest cuisine. Her passion for fresh, local ingredients is the driving force behind The Gilded Spoon's innovative menu.

Sous Chef Miles Bartholomew, looking focused

Miles Bartholomew

Sous Chef & Co-Founder

Miles brings a wealth of international experience to The Gilded Spoon, having trained in some of Europe's most prestigious kitchens. His meticulous attention to detail and mastery of classic techniques ensure that every dish is a work of art.

Restaurant Manager Amelia Hayes, smiling professionally

Amelia Hayes

Restaurant Manager

Amelia is the heart and soul of The Gilded Spoon's front-of-house team. Her warm personality, exceptional organizational skills, and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction ensure that every guest has a memorable experience.

Our Mission

To provide an unparalleled fine dining experience that celebrates the best of the Pacific Northwest, delights our guests with innovative cuisine and impeccable service, and fosters a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all.

What Our Guests Say

The Gilded Spoon is a true culinary gem. The food is exquisite, the service is impeccable, and the ambiance is simply magical. I highly recommend it for a special occasion or a memorable night out.

- Olivia Thorne, Seattle Business Executive

From the moment we stepped through the door, we were treated like royalty. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable, and the food was absolutely divine. The wine list is extensive and well-curated. We will definitely be back!

- Ethan Sterling, Local Architect

The Gilded Spoon is my go-to restaurant for special occasions. The food is always consistently excellent, and the service is top-notch. I especially love their daily specials – they're always creative and delicious.

- Sophia Bellwether, Seattle Resident

My wife and I celebrated our anniversary at The Gilded Spoon, and it was an unforgettable experience. The tasting menu was a culinary journey, and the sommelier expertly paired each course with the perfect wine. Thank you for making our special day so memorable!

- Jasper Crane, Visiting Professor

As a food critic, I've dined at many fine dining establishments in Seattle, and The Gilded Spoon consistently ranks among the best. Eleanor and Miles are true culinary artists, and their passion for food is evident in every dish.

- Penelope Blackwood, Food Critic for The Seattle Times