Best Food in the Seattle Area

Seattle, known for its vibrant food scene, offers an extensive range of dining options that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. From fresh seafood to innovative global cuisine, the city has something for every palate. This article will delve into some of the best food options in the Seattle area, highlighting top restaurants, unique dishes, and local favorites.

1. Pike Place Market: A Culinary Wonderland

Pike Place Market is one of Seattle's most iconic destinations, and for good reason. Established in 1907, this historic market is a treasure trove of culinary delights. Here are some must-try spots within the market:

• The Pink Door: Known for its Italian-American cuisine, The Pink Door offers a charming ambiance with live entertainment. Their Lobster Ravioli and Chicken Marsala are particularly popular.

• Piroshky Piroshky: For a quick and delicious bite, Piroshky Piroshky serves Russian pastries filled with savory ingredients. Their Beef & Cheese Piroshky and Apple Cinnamon Piroshky are highly recommended.

• Elliott’s Oyster House: A seafood lover’s paradise, Elliott’s Oyster House boasts a wide selection of fresh oysters, clam chowder, and other seafood dishes. The Oyster Sampler is a great way to experience various types of oysters.

2. The Best of Seattle's Seafood

Seattle’s location on the Pacific Coast means that seafood is a staple of the local diet. Here are some top seafood spots to check out:

• Canlis: A fine dining restaurant with a long-standing reputation, Canlis offers an upscale dining experience with an emphasis on seafood. Their Canlis Salad and Miso-Glazed Sablefish are standout dishes.

• The Walrus and the Carpenter: This casual yet stylish eatery in Ballard is renowned for its oysters and other shellfish. The Oysters on the Half Shell and Clam Chowder are highly praised.

• Seattle Fish Company: For a more relaxed and budget-friendly option, Seattle Fish Company provides high-quality seafood in a casual setting. Their Fish Tacos and Fish and Chips are particularly popular.

3. Exploring International Flavors

Seattle’s food scene is incredibly diverse, with numerous options for those seeking international cuisine:

• Tilikum Place Café: This café in Belltown is famous for its Dutch babies (a type of pancake) and offers a range of delicious brunch options. The Tilikum’s Dutch Baby is a must-try.

• Bacco Cafe: For a taste of Italy, Bacco Café in Capitol Hill serves a variety of Italian dishes, including the delicious Pappardelle Bolognese and Margherita Pizza.

• Revel: Located in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, Revel serves modern Korean cuisine with inventive dishes such as Spicy Pork Tacos and Kimchi Fries.

4. Vegetarian and Vegan Delights

Seattle also caters to those with dietary restrictions or preferences:

• Plum Bistro: A popular vegan restaurant, Plum Bistro offers innovative plant-based dishes like the Plum Burger and Soul Bowl.

• Cafe Flora: Known for its vegetarian fare, Cafe Flora features creative dishes such as the Portobello Mushroom Wellington and Cornmeal Crusted Tofu.

5. Dessert and Sweet Treats

No meal is complete without dessert, and Seattle has plenty of options for those with a sweet tooth:

• Cupcake Royale: This local cupcake shop is renowned for its rich and flavorful cupcakes. The Red Velvet and Salted Caramel cupcakes are favorites.

• Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream: Offering a range of unique flavors, Molly Moon’s is a local favorite for ice cream. The Earl Grey and Salted Caramel flavors are particularly noteworthy.

• The Crumpet Shop: For a unique treat, The Crumpet Shop serves freshly made crumpets with various toppings. Their Classic Crumpet with Butter and Crumpet with Jam are delightful.

6. Food Tours and Experiences

For those looking to explore Seattle’s food scene more deeply, consider joining a food tour:

• Seattle Food Tours: Offering guided tours of various neighborhoods, Seattle Food Tours provide an excellent way to sample local cuisine and learn about the city’s culinary history.

• Savor Seattle Food Tours: This company offers a range of tours, including a Pike Place Market tour that includes tastings from some of the market’s best vendors.

7. Farm-to-Table and Local Produce

Seattle’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its farm-to-table dining options:

• The Wandering Goose: This restaurant emphasizes Southern comfort food made with locally sourced ingredients. The Biscuits and Gravy and Shrimp and Grits are popular dishes.

• Fremont’s The Whale Wins: Known for its farm-to-table approach, The Whale Wins serves a variety of dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. The Wood-Fired Chicken and Roasted Beet Salad are excellent choices.

8. Unique Dining Experiences

For those seeking something a bit different, Seattle offers some unique dining experiences:

• Naka: This upscale restaurant provides an omakase experience, where the chef selects a series of dishes for you. The Omakase Menu features seasonal and delicately prepared dishes.

• The Pink Door: Aside from its Italian-American cuisine, The Pink Door also offers a memorable dining experience with its cabaret shows and a picturesque view of the waterfront.

Conclusion

Seattle’s food scene is a reflection of its diverse population and rich cultural landscape. Whether you're a seafood enthusiast, a fan of international flavors, or someone looking for vegetarian options, the city has something to offer. From iconic landmarks like Pike Place Market to hidden gems across the neighborhoods, exploring Seattle's culinary landscape is an adventure worth undertaking.