Great Food, Good Drinks and Luxury Real Estate on Main Street

Sunday, 12 October 2008

By Amanda Lucas

Between the successful Bellevue real estate business they have owned for nearly 30 years and the opening of 520 Bar and Grill in 2006, there is no doubt that Joseph and Randi Brazen have been busy.

The Brazens began selling real estate in California and moved to Washington in 1992. In that time, Joseph has helped thousands of people buy and sell real estate.

While he is known for selling high-end houses throughout Bellevue and Greater Seattle, mid range properties are also a specialty of his.

Brazen Real Estate has recently merged with Sotheby’s International Realty. Brazen’s is the first real estate agency in Washington to receive such an honor. This distinguished company, founded in 1976, now has 400 offices world-wide and is designed to connect the finest independent real estate companies to the most prestigious clientele in the world, and that it does. Focusing on luxury homes, Sotheby’s is known for representing extraordinary luxury real estate throughout the world.

Eight years ago, the Brazen’s moved their real estate office upstairs and opened 520 Bar and Grill on the main level of their building. The restaurant, voted “Best Casual Business Meeting Spot” by 2008 Haute Picks, celebrated its two-year anniversary not long ago. The popular restaurant is a frequent stop for many Bellevue locals. Great drinks, delicious food, and fun people help create an atmosphere where you are guaranteed a good time. It’s the perfect place to satisfy both low-key afternoons and wild nights out, and the Brazen’s, along with their hand picked staff are sure to make you feel at home every time. Many describe 520 as a “bar with good food”, says Brazen, as opposed to a restaurant with a bar. All ages can enjoy the food, as the pub is not restricted to those over 21.

The typical customer at 520 Bar & Grill is any age, but they have one thing in common; while those who don’t know Bellevue intimately will go to Bellevue Square, 520 is just a short walk from Medina, Clyde Hill, and surrounding areas and locals gravitate there. Although at first glance the restaurant seems to be a tight fit, the outdoor patio seating offers additional space and has a warm, comfortable feel. You will even be offered a blanket while dining outside on chilly days. While the menu isn’t extensive, you have more than enough choices at a reasonable price, including great burgers, a variety of good soups and salads, blackened salmon sandwiches and the best fish n’ chips around. Don’t forget about the cocktails, though! The 520 Cosmopolitan, made with Grey Goose L’Orange and a splash of Champagne, is a house specialty.
So if you are looking to buy or sell your home or are out for a fun Bellevue experience, the Brazens have got you covered.