Merry, joyful, and bright, the holiday season is just around the corner… and on the Hallmark Channel, spread across the shelves at Target, and populating your Instagram feed. To help get you into a festive mood, we asked the chefs at Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi in downtown Bellevue to share their holiday traditions and memories with us, plus a few expert tips for the season.

What is your favorite dish to eat during the holiday season? 

“Green bean casserole. I know it’s such a basic dish, but I have always loved it, it makes me think of home and my family.” — Brandon Muehl, Executive Chef

“Deep-fried turkey, mac and cheese — homemade, not from a box — and bean pies, a Muslim dish from back home.” — Dyawan O’Rear, Brunch Chef

“My mom makes a butternut squash soup with fried goat cheese croutons that I always look forward to.” — Christina Larson, Pastry Chef

What is your go-to holiday custom or tradition?

“I am from Guatemala, so every year my family makes tamales and fruit punch to celebrate the Christmas season.” — Roque Gonzalez, Jr. Sushi Chef

“A King crab feast with the family! Also opening one present on Christmas Eve with the family, then rest on Christmas Day.” — Jesse Correa, Executive Banquet Chef

“Christmas tree decorating and lighting – we would go out into the woods and pick out the tree on what always seemed like the coldest day possible.” — Muehl

What seasonal ingredients do you like to feature on the menu at Ascend this time of year?

“Black truffles and a variety of winter squashes. These ingredients add warmth, richness, and depth to dishes, making them feel extra special.” — Juan Orozco, Executive Sous Chef

“Pomegranate is something I liked since I first had it as a kid, it’s great to see the seasonal fruit worked into a menu.” — Jesse Dent, Jr. Sous Chef

“I am always excited to work with seasonal ingredients. Possibly using kabocha squash, apples, apple cider, and hojicha tea this season.” — Larson

What is favorite holiday-inspired dish on the menu at Ascend?

“Our Lamb Duo. Lamb is a great holiday protein, and it is paired with a squash espuma. The warming flavors, the braised meat accompaniment... it makes me close my eyes and think of the chilly fall leading into winter.” — Muehl

“Something about the bread for our brunch service reminds me of Yugoslavian walnut bread my mom always makes for Thanksgiving and Christmas.” — Dent

“The Seared Sonoma Foie Gras — it’s served with walnut waffles and is my favorite. It's breakfast, lunch, and dinner all in one bite.” — Orozco

What pro tips can you offer to those wanting to host guests this holiday season?

“Make a guest list, choose a theme or environment, prepare a menu, organize the space, create activities, remember the music, have a cleaning plan, and don’t forget to enjoy it yourself!” — Gonzalez

“Plan out as many details as you can. This will make the big day execution significantly easier. Lists and suggested timings to allow for relatively seamless success.” — Muehl

“Your crock pot is your best friend!” — O’Rear

What is your favorite holiday song?

­­“Let It Snow – it’s classic, upbeat, and instantly puts everyone is a great mood.” — Orozco

“Last Christmas by Wham! I hate Christmas songs, but George Michael’s voice is like a across between Jesus and Fergie.” — O’Rear

“Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer. The best!” — Correa

This season, Seattleites can savor the warmth, flavors, and traditions of the holidays at Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi in Bellevue. From mouth-watering holiday dishes to heartfelt family traditions, Ascend offers all the inspiration you need for a truly memorable holiday celebration. Happy holidays, Seattle!