4 /5 Mark Anthony Franco: Adrian’s Restaurant and Tequila Bar: Anniversary Night in Old Town Bellevue
My husband and I celebrated our anniversary at Adrian’s Restaurant and Tequila Bar, right in the heart of old town Bellevue. The location is central and walkable—though, as with most of downtown, parking takes a little extra patience (or luck).
Adrian’s sits on the corner, serving up a classic Mexican menu with a few surprises. The staff were all warm and attentive, making us feel comfortable from the moment we walked in. Their menu covers all the bases, from fresh ceviche to rich chile rellenos. And for tequila lovers: you won’t be disappointed. The shelves are stocked with just about every variety imaginable—though I stuck with a classic Coke this time.
The restaurant’s vibe is where things get interesting. With low ceilings, dim lighting, and a playlist ranging from Billy Joel to country, Adrian’s is still sorting out its identity. It’s cozy but not exactly what you’d expect from a tequila bar. And for the chips-and-something crowd, be warned: here you get chips and warm black beans instead of salsa or guacamole. The beans were… fine, but there’s something about salsa that just feels right.
Service was friendly and attentive, but a little on the slow side—which worked out since the place wasn’t too busy. For my entrée, I ordered the wagyu beef fajitas, which were delicious. The combination of bell peppers and bacon gave them a rich, smoky kick. I wasn’t a fan of the corn tortillas, and surprisingly, the same black beans from the starter made a second appearance alongside my $60 fajitas. Not quite what I’d expect at that price point.
My husband went with the filet special, served over a decadent crab risotto. It looked fantastic and tasted even better.
Overall, Adrian’s delivered a solid experience—flavorful food, genuinely friendly service, and a festive vibe. I’d definitely come back, but next time I’ll bring a sweater: despite the 80-degree day outside, the air conditioning inside was set to “Arctic Expedition.”
Final verdict: Good for a special occasion, especially if you love tequila and classic Mexican flavors, just come ready for an unconventional chips-and-beans intro, and don’t forget that sweater