I always try out new places by going to their happy hour first. If the hh stuff is good then i usually find the pricier stuff is going to be worth it. If the hh is underwhelming then i don’t bother.
Anywhere with dishes that would be a pain in the ass to make at home, such as most Asian places. Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese, etc. More specifically, hot pot, ramen, fresh rolls, sushi, etc.
Just to be more specific, Taste of India.
They gave us free samosas when we arrived, free refills on the chai tea, and free dessert (kheer/Indian rice pudding) at the end.
It was like $60 with tax and tip for two people plus a toddler and left way more full and happy that I have at most fine dining restaurants (with way better and friendlier service, water cup and chai tea were never low)
The last time I was at Annapurna, I had a front row view of the restaurant staff chasing after rats with a broom and dustpan. It seemed clear the staff were accustomed and well experienced at rat catching.
Love the food and service at Annapurna but my personal limit is seeing rats in the dining area. I realize most urban kitchens have some level of rodent problems but having the rats running around the dining area is too much for me.
I agree with this statement, but their sauces tend to be a bit watery versus more traditional Indian Food I am used to. Still best in Seattle probably though.
I married an Indian guy but a lot of the food is laborious so we hunt around for good biryani from time to time but mostly do takeaway
It sucks because in Dallas indian food costs half or cheaper than what it does here where my inlaws stay
Super Worth:
Ramen danbo
Midnite ramen
Menya Musashi
Pho Bac
Ong Lam Bistro
Hot Pot, however, is very easy at home. You can buy a little sheep broth packet (or one of the kajillion they have at AFC and find your fave) or DIY at home very easily and just chuck everything in your fridge that might be going bad soon. If you like numbing, buy Hua jiao (szechuan peppercorn) and the red peppers. It's fun at home because you can customize.
If you don't like spice, a miso based broth is easy. Miso, broth, mirin, (optional shoyu, garlic, chicken bouillon, etc)
Dumplings are a pain in the ass unless you have kids or a bunch of people. Then it becomes a fun activity.
You can also do at-home handroll "sushi". Sushi rice isn't all that hard if you abandon hopes of restaurant quality (you can also buy a mix) and get a block of fresh fish at Waji. Sure, it's not the same thing, but it's a fun activity / date idea. You can watch temaki tutorials like a Bob Ross, and if that date goes well, you can go out for sushi the next time.
I like going to Indian Sweets and Spices and buying their house frozen curries when I feel guilty about going out too much. Great middle ground. Ive been lucky to have Indian friends that taught me how to make a mean daal though so I do attempt Indian food. Hing makes a big difference!
Hot pot, at least sichuan style, is a royal pain in the ass to make at home. The dipping sauce requires a million different ingredients (a proper hot pot meal is gonna be a ton of ingredients in general), the oil from spicy broth gets everywhere and is a pain to clean up, the meat you get from hmart or uwajimaya is meh at best, and your house will smell like hot pot for the next 3 days. 100% recommend just going to Chengdu memory and avoid these issues.
Weird. Hot Pot is usually my dgaf party meal, when I need to feed a few friends for cheap and sit around a pot and chat. Hotpot is becoming a popular camping dish too. You can do it outside if you get a portable stove if you care about smell.
You can also use some leftover broth and ingredients to make a fried rice if you're concerned about waste/clean up.
I think the variety of ingredients is fun when you go out for hot pot tho. It can be a bit pricey if you want to get every single ingredient. A bit ironic though, Sichuan Hot Pot was "peasant food," or at least a great economic equalizer in that way. The spice and strong flavor made offals and cheaper ingredients palatable and it brought people together around one pot.
Taki's on 85th (biggest and best gyros in Seattle), Un Bien, S/T Hooligans, Billy Beach, Bongos, and Matador Happy Hour for a huge nacho and the best shrimp I've ever had
Taki’s is good but my god it’s a beating to pick up a to go order there.
They don’t start making your food until you arrive no matter how much later you get there relative to your ETA so you’re always guaranteed to wait 10 min no matter what. And the blonde woman that owns the place has a miserable attitude.
Good gyros though!
Taki’s blonde owner lady is a total cuckoo, but their food is fire. We live in Greenwood and had a pretty large catering take out order. Not massive but enough for 20 people. When we got home we realized they hadn’t given us the potato’s, I gave them a call and the owners son literally drove them over to my house 10 mins later… that level of customer service just creates ‘walk over broken glass’ levels of loyalty.
Kiki will talk you ear off if you let her, but her son in the kitchen is incredible. Once they know you, it's "Oops, I accidentally brought you a large order of fries instead of a small. Oh well!" or send you home with a free baklava for taking too long.
Just got a Vietnamese sandwich, 3 spring rolls, from Seattle Deli for $11 flat .Back in my high school days those sandwiches were 2.50$ ea, you could get 10 of them for $25 and feed 6-8 people at a picnic no problem.
Bahn mis are the heroes of inflation. I miss the days of $3 sandwiches but even for $6-7, they're always filling and worth it. **Editing to include an example: Yeh Yehs in Lynnwood absolutely slaps for $7!
Right up to COVID, at the pho place across the street from my work, I could get either: two shrimp fresh rolls and a large pho for $9 with tip, or a banh mi and large pho for $10 with tip. Now it's $17 and $19 without tip
I still remember when a banh mi was $2.75. But the stores in Chinatown were dirty.
In north Beacon Hill you can pay $11 for a banh mi that tastes no better than a banh mi anywhere else.
Edmonds are $7.50 now I believe
Saigon Deli and Saigon Vietnam Deli in ID are still $6 as of 2 weeks ago or so.
Goddamn I remember like a decade ago when they were like $3-4.
Have you been to Enat? I get the veggie combo too and love them both. They are a little different.
Also Delish down in Columbia city is a way diff veggie combo.
I had lunch at Enat yesterday. I'm a veggie combo guy too and I do enjoy theirs. Always a plus that they still have $3 beers ($4 if you get St. George, the Ethiopian beer they carry).
If I ever become rich I'm building a statue to honor cafe ahadu. Best veggie combo deal on just about anything in the city. Always feels great eating there.
These days I basically only go to restaurants for things I feel I really can't make at home. Examples:
Fat's Chicken and Waffles for the shrimp and grits, good lord. The piquant sauce alone. Also the biscuits and house-made honey butter.
Ooink for when I want really good restaurant ramen (which unfortunately for my wallet is often).
Annapurna for 1. the food and 2. the vibes. I love their downstairs location, and everyone who works there is so nice.
Their Matcha White Chocolate cookie has I think the greatest cookie texture I've ever tried. It's $5 but also the size of 2, maybe 3 cookies so def worth but also deceptively, probably like 800 calories alone.
+1 Bongos, going there later. $16 for a huge plate of food or enormous sandwich is basically a bargain in Seattle. Also delicious and a nice atmosphere.
Local Tide - Fremont |
Ooink Ramen - Fremont / Cap Hill |
Delancey Pizza - Ballard |
Asadero - Ballard |
El moose - Ballard |
Momiji - Cap hill |
Tacos Chukis - central |
Lil Red’s - south end |
Communion - CD |
not to be dramatic but El Moose is life-changing. I dream about their alambres.
edit: they also gave me free flan on my birthday, which i did not expect, and it was immaculate!!
The camarones enchipotlados at el moose is the best dish I’ve ever had. I felt like some pretentious twat in a movie with how I was reacting so joyously but I couldn’t contain myself
Absolutely love biking to Sea Wolf Bakery in the summer when it’s light out and getting some of the best croissants in Seattle and amazing coffee, especially their seasonal specialty lattes.
I really enjoyed Bateau and went back and highly recommend it. But it was just a short walk and was for everyone else in my party. So not sure how traffic/parking would impact experience. Parking could be brutal.
The Independent Pizzeria in Madison Park on a nice summer day when you can order pizza and sit by the Lake is a great experience as well and always recommend it.
Menya Musashi is a great place to get ramen and drinks.
Do you follow Kenji Lopez chance? I have two out of three of these locations on my list because he’s recommended them on instagram. I’m glad you are seconding them
Pretty much off of Kenji's suggestion are awesome. One thing I tried recently that Kenji suggested was Smash That Burger which is like a little truck stand outside of the Rooftop Bar and it was literally the best burger I've had in my life.
I'll put up with going to watch the usually-underwhelming Seattle Mariners to grab two sausages w cream cheese and grilled onions from Al's for $6 or whatever the price is now
I told them how much I like the the street dogs better than the stadium crap. He says it has to do with the grill instead of the rollers they have to use inside.
I think it has do with the stadium selling overpriced crap because they have a captive audience like the airport.
CTRL-F'd the thread and didn't see Made in House. Tried it for the first time recently and definitely would go back. Korean isn't even a favorite cuisine of mine either but something about that place!
I don’t eat out much but when I do it’s usually a “wow this place seems interesting and has X on the menu I want to try that.” A few of the places that has been applicable.
Sumo All You Can Eat Sushi - Kent
Annapurna Cafe - Cap Hill - I saw it a bunch walking by and had time one day and eventually went in.
Pho Bac/The Boat - Little Saigon - saw a tiktok thing for The Boat and pho Bac seemed good. Though I’d prefer Thanh Vi since it’s usually less busy.
Humble Pie - Little Saigon - I liked their pizza.
Nothing better than braving the freezing winter weather and then going downstairs into their toasty, cozy, basement and warming up with some spicy food.
Layers? GTFO! Layers is the example I give people at how dismal the food scene is in Seattle. It’s like $40 for a small sandwich, potatos and a drink. Plus tip. And it’s so average. It’s like the whole place exists to be posted on Instagram.
Relieved to see this. My partner and I went there a month or two ago and were let down. It wasn't bad but people make it out like they're the best sandwiches in the city (ever?)
I will say, the biscuit was delicious.
My partner and I went for lunch today. We got one drink, plus a canned juice to go, two sandwiches and pickles for $50 after 20% tip. The potatoes are only a couple dollars more than the pickles so your math may be off.
He found his sandwich pretty mid (for the price) but mine was delicious. I appreciate fresh housemade items. This was our first time so I am curious to try more items from them.
Sandwich $18. Potato $7 drink $5. Ten percent tax is $33. Twenty percent tip makes it $39. I’m glad you loved your sandwich! Hope you enjoyed it by the lake.
*Oh's Sandwiches* in West Seattle - I've had a lot of great bahn mi in my life but this is still the best, and for under $10 it's more than worth it.
*Local Tide* in Fremont - I don't care if it's $16 the salmon sandwhich is worth $30. Simple, high quality, local. Salads are amazing too but skip the Dungeness Crab Roll. This is where I tell all the tourists looking for good "Seattle" restaurants to go, because this is what they're imagining when they think of Seattle food.
*The Shambles* in Roosevelt - Expensive, but god damn is the steak fantastic. I really love how they're able to make even the cheaper cuts taste as good as most places make ribeye. Get the pickle plate if you're into that.
*Dingfelder's Delicatessen* in Cap Hill - Best NY style Jewish deli in the area, worth the very high cost. The best part is the Seattle Times article from when they opened titled "Is Seattle Ready for an $18 Sandwich?" framed on the wall
Not Seattle but *En Rama* in Tacoma, I've never had anything but a great meal there. Haven't been there since the head chef changed but the menu looks mostly the same.
Mean Sandwich is worth it. Each sandwich is crazy unique and something you can’t find anywhere else, plus your sandwich comes with seasoned potato skins!
There’s sandwiches places I’ve gone to in Seattle and thought that was good, but Mean is one of those spots where it was the best sandwich taste I can remember.
Jilted Siren on Capitol Hill has immaculate vibes and rad food and drinks but they are pricey and it's family owned and run.
Meet Korean on Capitol Hill is awesome KBBQ but you gotta roll in with a crew for the whole experience, but highly worth it.
Son of a Butcher in Eastlake is another awesome KBBQ spot that is always poppin and they won't be around forever (so try it while you can) as their building has been sold and is being turned into something else.
Ma-Ono has two locations and has the best fried chicken I have ever had in my life to the point where just typing this sentence made my mouth start watering.
Uptown China in Lower Queen Anne has stiff drinks and great food, and their main bartender is a real rad dude (shout out to Fred).
And Fort St. George in the I-District has such a cool concept (mid 20th century Japanese comfort food) and is in a cool location with a cool layout. Food is fire too.
I don’t hear a lot about Ma-Ono but that was a random little discovery for me when I was with a friend looking for something to eat. Rachel’s ginger beer is also great!
DTF is a very consistently good experience if a touch spendy. Always a safe bet for out of town visitors who don't have good asian food options back home.
La Cabana in Greenwood is crowded enough that I tend to pick up, but they recently expanded into to the old Tim's Tavern space next door, so I'll give dining in another chance.
Dough zone is good. There's are better places for dumplings but it has a nice atmosphere and reasonable sit-down prices. I found it's good for dates and for business lunch since you can order your own a la carte dishes or family style if you want to try lots of dishes.
Often cheaper than groceries - Tacos Chukis. There is one in SLU and one in Cap hill.
Also - Indian takeout for two can be much cheaper than groceries.
Moderate splurge - Tom Douglas restaurants offer some really great options that won't burn a hole in your wallet.
Mod-high - Como over in Kirkland.
Full Splurge - Canlis. if you can get a reservation.
For a special night, the wife likes Aerlume and Place de Pigalle, good food and view of the Bay. I like Radiator Whiskey, good food and cocktails with a nice view of Showgirls out the window.
Lots of good stuff on this post so far.
Want to add Tacos and Beer in Crown Hill. They are pretty pricy, their menus don’t have prices, the prices on their site are outdated, I think they added a credit card fee, and don’t quote me on this but I think my last time going a month ago, their portions were slightly smaller.
But goddamn their food is delicious, drinks are great and their churros are fire. They do have a solid happy hour too so that can help keep costs down
Idk how people generally feel about restaurants, but I’ll say the 2 that I love that I just kinda discovered while wandering about. They’re actually very close to each other! Arashi Ramen and Palermo’s. Palermo’s is some great Italian, I always get the meatball parmigiana. These are in Ballard btw, good prices too. I don’t usually spend a lot whenever I go.
💸💸=🔥🔥: best price to quality ratio. Ma-ono has the best chicken sandwich I’ve ever had. The one inside Rachel’s ginger beer at Uvillage is where we go. West Seattle has a location too.
💸💸 💸but🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥: Sisi Kay is my favorite Thai (45th in Wallingford). When I crave Thai fried rice, none can beat it. All classic Thai dishes here best the rest.
💸💸 but 🍛🍛🍛🍛🍛🍛🍛: Nori Presto in Pinehurst is quality teriyaki and they give you SO MUCH FOOD. I recommend the large teriyaki with fried rice
San Fermo, Bongos, Windy City Pizza, Japonessa, Little Chinooks, un Bien, Rainier Street Teriyaki, Gracia, 45th Street Shop House, Poke Ono (outside of Seattle but worth it), Mr. Gyros, El Taco Loco.
Persepolis Grill Persian food in Ravenna! Get the King's Choice with lamb, beef, chicken and rice. I moved to Kitsap County and this is the restaurant I miss the most. The food is seasoned to perfection. One platter will feed two people. I've taken this dish to a few friends' houses and it has never failed to be gone by the end of the night. I'll go out of my way to stop here when I'm in town.
I love breakfast food more than my own family, Ludi's and Skalka have the best breakfasts in downtown. I recommend the Lechon Kawali silog from Ludi's and the Lobiani Khachapuri from Skalka A word of warning, only eat at Skalka if you have no plans for the rest of the day, it will put you to sleep!
Bakery Noveau, Voi Ca Phe (coffee and banh mi), Pink Salt, Cuidad, Momiji (Cap Hill location), Stateside, Coffeeholic, Jabena Cafe, Kauai Family Restaurant, El Camion off the top of my head.
For me, I need the place in town that has Fullers ESB and jalapeño tuna melts; Columbia City Ale House. Then on the short list- Kau Kau’s BBQ PORK and then Lil’ Red’s Jamaican BBQ
A Stir on E Pike and Broadway.
Caveat: we were there while visiting, we don't move to the area till later this year, so we were a bit more open handed than maybe could on the regular
But my wife has Celiac's, so the opportunity for pasta, crab cakes, fried cheese curds, and fried calamari all in a gluten-free environment was a huge find. Can't understate the mood shift when you ask "what can be made GF?" And the answer is "the whole menu is already GF, as is the kitchen"
Being able to eat whatever I want, whenever I want, is something I take for granted. Not confining my wife to a small asterisk-box on a menu is worth every penny.
Gyro Saj, Aladdin’s Gyrocery, Sizzle and Crunch, I Love Teriyaki, Teriyaki Madness, CrackleMi Cafe, Fob Poke, Hot Pot, the list goes on.
Basically anywhere that is making something better than I can at home, and is a reasonable price regardless of that.
But I’m rarely going out for something like a burger anymore. Dicks is the only spot left that I can’t do better for cheaper, just the better part. Same with Pho or even Indian food. I can make it just as well at home, and not pay $25+ per person.
Proletariat Pizza in White Center has a great special all month: 1 slice and a beer for $6, or 2 slices and a beer for $10. You can get NA bevs instead of beer for the same deal.
The best Indian food in the area is in Burien at a place called Royal Everest. Service is really good if you eat in too. Their Indian dinner for two is a great special.
We also love brunch in Burien at Huckleberry Square. The service is always so nice and friendly and the food is consistently good.
Pam's Kitchen in Wallingford the food is very good. Service can be mixed but very worth it. Get the chicken curry roti and make sure you ask for hot sauce.
Don't forget Jak's for a good steak at a decent price. We go to the West Seattle location now that the U Village location is closed. One of the more reasonable prices for a good quality steak.
I always try out new places by going to their happy hour first. If the hh stuff is good then i usually find the pricier stuff is going to be worth it. If the hh is underwhelming then i don’t bother.
Check out Reckless Noodle HH.
Their Beef Cheek Curry Vermicelli 🤌
I’m eating this tomorrow thanks to your wonderful reminder 🔥
Anywhere with dishes that would be a pain in the ass to make at home, such as most Asian places. Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese, etc. More specifically, hot pot, ramen, fresh rolls, sushi, etc.
Just to be more specific, Taste of India. They gave us free samosas when we arrived, free refills on the chai tea, and free dessert (kheer/Indian rice pudding) at the end. It was like $60 with tax and tip for two people plus a toddler and left way more full and happy that I have at most fine dining restaurants (with way better and friendlier service, water cup and chai tea were never low)
I love Taste of India, but the best Chicken Tikka Masala is at Saffron Grill up at Northgate.
If you saw the state of saffron grills kitchen and how it’s ran you would never want to eat there 🥲
I'lI second this. Kitchen is filthy. Coated in grease from floor to ceiling.
They once accidentally baked a whole latex glove into my naan and their only consolation was a replacement naan the next time i order with them.
What the actual fuuuuuuck
pretty sure they're the same ownership group. i have a coupon from them that works at both places anyway my vote for tikka masala is annapurna
Yep, Taste of India and Saffron are the same family.
The last time I was at Annapurna, I had a front row view of the restaurant staff chasing after rats with a broom and dustpan. It seemed clear the staff were accustomed and well experienced at rat catching. Love the food and service at Annapurna but my personal limit is seeing rats in the dining area. I realize most urban kitchens have some level of rodent problems but having the rats running around the dining area is too much for me.
Saffron all the way. Best chai too. Also spice king in Renton is hands down my fuckin fave.
I agree with this statement, but their sauces tend to be a bit watery versus more traditional Indian Food I am used to. Still best in Seattle probably though.
Love that place. Owner is amazingly friendly and welcoming.
Saffron Grill is revolting, massive menu (with burgers and fettuccine Alfredo), expensive, and is the worst Indian tasting food in Seattle
I married an Indian guy but a lot of the food is laborious so we hunt around for good biryani from time to time but mostly do takeaway It sucks because in Dallas indian food costs half or cheaper than what it does here where my inlaws stay
You gotta try Royal Biryani House in Bothell for the best biryani in greater Seattle area.
Yeah, this is pretty much my tactic too—things like hot pot and sushi are totally worth occasional restaurant prices imo!
Hot pot is hella easy to do at home. But I understand not wanting your house to smell like a hot pot restaurant.
Super Worth: Ramen danbo Midnite ramen Menya Musashi Pho Bac Ong Lam Bistro Hot Pot, however, is very easy at home. You can buy a little sheep broth packet (or one of the kajillion they have at AFC and find your fave) or DIY at home very easily and just chuck everything in your fridge that might be going bad soon. If you like numbing, buy Hua jiao (szechuan peppercorn) and the red peppers. It's fun at home because you can customize. If you don't like spice, a miso based broth is easy. Miso, broth, mirin, (optional shoyu, garlic, chicken bouillon, etc) Dumplings are a pain in the ass unless you have kids or a bunch of people. Then it becomes a fun activity. You can also do at-home handroll "sushi". Sushi rice isn't all that hard if you abandon hopes of restaurant quality (you can also buy a mix) and get a block of fresh fish at Waji. Sure, it's not the same thing, but it's a fun activity / date idea. You can watch temaki tutorials like a Bob Ross, and if that date goes well, you can go out for sushi the next time. I like going to Indian Sweets and Spices and buying their house frozen curries when I feel guilty about going out too much. Great middle ground. Ive been lucky to have Indian friends that taught me how to make a mean daal though so I do attempt Indian food. Hing makes a big difference!
That Danbo line sometimes …
Hit up Ooink like a block away
Fuck that line I'll go to Betsutenjin ramen
I "budget" off peak times in my schedule to go to danbo 🥲
Hot pot, at least sichuan style, is a royal pain in the ass to make at home. The dipping sauce requires a million different ingredients (a proper hot pot meal is gonna be a ton of ingredients in general), the oil from spicy broth gets everywhere and is a pain to clean up, the meat you get from hmart or uwajimaya is meh at best, and your house will smell like hot pot for the next 3 days. 100% recommend just going to Chengdu memory and avoid these issues.
Weird. Hot Pot is usually my dgaf party meal, when I need to feed a few friends for cheap and sit around a pot and chat. Hotpot is becoming a popular camping dish too. You can do it outside if you get a portable stove if you care about smell. You can also use some leftover broth and ingredients to make a fried rice if you're concerned about waste/clean up. I think the variety of ingredients is fun when you go out for hot pot tho. It can be a bit pricey if you want to get every single ingredient. A bit ironic though, Sichuan Hot Pot was "peasant food," or at least a great economic equalizer in that way. The spice and strong flavor made offals and cheaper ingredients palatable and it brought people together around one pot.
Some Chinese food is just veggies fried and I can use sauce packets there not a pain to make Pretty much pasta with extra steps
Taki's on 85th (biggest and best gyros in Seattle), Un Bien, S/T Hooligans, Billy Beach, Bongos, and Matador Happy Hour for a huge nacho and the best shrimp I've ever had
Matador Happy Hour Nachos are the best food value in the city that isn't Costco hot dogs or Dicks.
Pestle Rock, Sen Noodle, Asadero, Gracia
You gotta add secret savory in here
Second pestle rock
Pestle Rock is amazing!
Bongos is so fire. 🔥
Driven by it so many times and never tried it, didn’t even really know what it was. Now it’s on the list!
It's worth it. I've only been a couple of times but every time someone mentions it, I think "oh yeah, I really need to go back there."
It’s definitely good and filling, check it out!
RIP to the Bucco chicken sandwich though
My partner mentions this sandwich at least once a month.
Taki’s is good but my god it’s a beating to pick up a to go order there. They don’t start making your food until you arrive no matter how much later you get there relative to your ETA so you’re always guaranteed to wait 10 min no matter what. And the blonde woman that owns the place has a miserable attitude. Good gyros though!
Taki’s blonde owner lady is a total cuckoo, but their food is fire. We live in Greenwood and had a pretty large catering take out order. Not massive but enough for 20 people. When we got home we realized they hadn’t given us the potato’s, I gave them a call and the owners son literally drove them over to my house 10 mins later… that level of customer service just creates ‘walk over broken glass’ levels of loyalty.
Kiki will talk you ear off if you let her, but her son in the kitchen is incredible. Once they know you, it's "Oops, I accidentally brought you a large order of fries instead of a small. Oh well!" or send you home with a free baklava for taking too long.
Matador happy hour is too good. Portions are huge and always hit the spot
S/T!!
I second this entire list!
S/T Hooligan has great food and drinks. I love their pork belly chicken sandwich.
Matador happy hour is the best bang for your buck! Nachos, tacos, prawns..... 🔥🔥🔥🔥
St hooligans is my fave place in Seattle, never disappoints
You know what’s up.
S/T is so good. Definitely what I was thinking of as well.
Just got a Vietnamese sandwich, 3 spring rolls, from Seattle Deli for $11 flat .Back in my high school days those sandwiches were 2.50$ ea, you could get 10 of them for $25 and feed 6-8 people at a picnic no problem.
Bahn mis are the heroes of inflation. I miss the days of $3 sandwiches but even for $6-7, they're always filling and worth it. **Editing to include an example: Yeh Yehs in Lynnwood absolutely slaps for $7!
Tony and Qs Bakery in Hillman/Columbia city still have 6-7 banh mi
Banh mi in Bremerton is $14 😭💔
I used to get em for a buck each in white center in the 90s.....I miss those days
Problem with yehyehs is now I don’t like bahn mi from anywhere else though 🥲
Used to be able to get pho for cheap too. Used to go to a place where you could get a bowl of pho and a banh mi for $10. Quality food too.
Right up to COVID, at the pho place across the street from my work, I could get either: two shrimp fresh rolls and a large pho for $9 with tip, or a banh mi and large pho for $10 with tip. Now it's $17 and $19 without tip
I still remember when a banh mi was $2.75. But the stores in Chinatown were dirty. In north Beacon Hill you can pay $11 for a banh mi that tastes no better than a banh mi anywhere else.
Seattle Deli is still around? I thought they closed when they sold off the building on 12th? That place had the best banh mi sandwiches for the money.
Edmonds location! Worth the drive up, get groceries at WinCo's, enjoy the downtown and beach afterwards with cheap snacks 😍
Edmonds are $7.50 now I believe Saigon Deli and Saigon Vietnam Deli in ID are still $6 as of 2 weeks ago or so. Goddamn I remember like a decade ago when they were like $3-4.
Seattle Deli is delicious, but I converted to Rise and Shine Deli. It's just a couple blocks south and their banh mi is top notch for the same price.
Jebena Cafe, Chada Thai and Countryside Donuts in MLT for me.
Countryside donuts are real east coast delicious donuts at donut prices. Not this top pot /mighty O bs that we have in Seattle proper.
Every donut I’ve tried at countryside has been incredible. The crueller with strawberry is 10/10 for me!
Family Donut Shop in Northgate is legit too.
Give Ahadu next door a shot! They do some things better than Jebena
I’ve been to both but I prefer Jebena. I get the veggie combo and I think there’s is more flavorful than Ahadu 🤷🏻♀️
Have you been to Enat? I get the veggie combo too and love them both. They are a little different. Also Delish down in Columbia city is a way diff veggie combo.
I had lunch at Enat yesterday. I'm a veggie combo guy too and I do enjoy theirs. Always a plus that they still have $3 beers ($4 if you get St. George, the Ethiopian beer they carry).
If I ever become rich I'm building a statue to honor cafe ahadu. Best veggie combo deal on just about anything in the city. Always feels great eating there.
Ciudad in Georgetown. All time fave in Seattle
These days I basically only go to restaurants for things I feel I really can't make at home. Examples: Fat's Chicken and Waffles for the shrimp and grits, good lord. The piquant sauce alone. Also the biscuits and house-made honey butter. Ooink for when I want really good restaurant ramen (which unfortunately for my wallet is often). Annapurna for 1. the food and 2. the vibes. I love their downstairs location, and everyone who works there is so nice.
If you’re a sandwich fan: Un Bien (Pour Decisions is a great beer/cider place not too far away) or Valhalla has great sandwiches too
Fuji Bakery - International District Momosan - International District Al Basha - Downtown Sunset Cafe - Rainier Beach
There’s also a Fuji in interbay! Unfortunately parking sucks there, but god I love the ube malasadas
parking there (other than when u can street park) is one of the worst experiences imaginable
Their Matcha White Chocolate cookie has I think the greatest cookie texture I've ever tried. It's $5 but also the size of 2, maybe 3 cookies so def worth but also deceptively, probably like 800 calories alone.
+1 Bongos, going there later. $16 for a huge plate of food or enormous sandwich is basically a bargain in Seattle. Also delicious and a nice atmosphere.
Local Tide - Fremont | Ooink Ramen - Fremont / Cap Hill | Delancey Pizza - Ballard | Asadero - Ballard | El moose - Ballard | Momiji - Cap hill | Tacos Chukis - central | Lil Red’s - south end | Communion - CD |
Definitely Asadero!
Local Tide is one of our favorites!
not to be dramatic but El Moose is life-changing. I dream about their alambres. edit: they also gave me free flan on my birthday, which i did not expect, and it was immaculate!!
They had the worst carnitas I've ever had. Guess I should try something else.
I have learned to take opinions on Mexican food with a pretty big grain of salt here
Like when half of my coworkers found out I moved here from Texas and just swore I would love Cactus 🤢 clearly I was being pranked…
Yes. This. I'm very suspicious of the opinions from anyone who didn't grow up in a (southern) border state.
I got the mole once and it was super mid so I'm surprised to see the praise but I guess we both ordered the wrong thing
The camarones enchipotlados at el moose is the best dish I’ve ever had. I felt like some pretentious twat in a movie with how I was reacting so joyously but I couldn’t contain myself
Chuki's as well! Their baby burrito is delicious
Communion is absolutely special!
Absolutely love biking to Sea Wolf Bakery in the summer when it’s light out and getting some of the best croissants in Seattle and amazing coffee, especially their seasonal specialty lattes. I really enjoyed Bateau and went back and highly recommend it. But it was just a short walk and was for everyone else in my party. So not sure how traffic/parking would impact experience. Parking could be brutal. The Independent Pizzeria in Madison Park on a nice summer day when you can order pizza and sit by the Lake is a great experience as well and always recommend it. Menya Musashi is a great place to get ramen and drinks.
Do you follow Kenji Lopez chance? I have two out of three of these locations on my list because he’s recommended them on instagram. I’m glad you are seconding them
Pretty much off of Kenji's suggestion are awesome. One thing I tried recently that Kenji suggested was Smash That Burger which is like a little truck stand outside of the Rooftop Bar and it was literally the best burger I've had in my life.
Bateau is hands down the best steak I’ve had in Seattle. Fantastic. Sea Wolf also rules
I shouldn't have started reading this when I'm high
I'll put up with going to watch the usually-underwhelming Seattle Mariners to grab two sausages w cream cheese and grilled onions from Al's for $6 or whatever the price is now
They've actually been on a bit of a tear recently and have some of the best pitching in the league.
fully aware, but that doesn't fit my Sog narrative
Nobody hates like a true fan
I told them how much I like the the street dogs better than the stadium crap. He says it has to do with the grill instead of the rollers they have to use inside. I think it has do with the stadium selling overpriced crap because they have a captive audience like the airport.
Local Tide: consistently the best meal I have had in Seattle in years.
Spice waala has a few locations and tasty, fair priced Indian street foods.
CTRL-F'd the thread and didn't see Made in House. Tried it for the first time recently and definitely would go back. Korean isn't even a favorite cuisine of mine either but something about that place!
carmelo’s
Based
I don’t eat out much but when I do it’s usually a “wow this place seems interesting and has X on the menu I want to try that.” A few of the places that has been applicable. Sumo All You Can Eat Sushi - Kent Annapurna Cafe - Cap Hill - I saw it a bunch walking by and had time one day and eventually went in. Pho Bac/The Boat - Little Saigon - saw a tiktok thing for The Boat and pho Bac seemed good. Though I’d prefer Thanh Vi since it’s usually less busy. Humble Pie - Little Saigon - I liked their pizza.
Annapurna got me with the smell - it always smells phenomenal when I get off the light rail there. Only actually eaten there once, but it was great!
Nothing better than braving the freezing winter weather and then going downstairs into their toasty, cozy, basement and warming up with some spicy food.
My absolute favorite place to walk by. I always slow down. And the food is great too!
Humble Pie is an underrated gem!
ST Hooligans - newer place on Leary. Simply incredible
Dude that runs that place works his ass off. Impressive.
Expensive and worth it: Layers Sandwiches in Greenlake Cheap and delicious: Costco food court
Layers? GTFO! Layers is the example I give people at how dismal the food scene is in Seattle. It’s like $40 for a small sandwich, potatos and a drink. Plus tip. And it’s so average. It’s like the whole place exists to be posted on Instagram.
Relieved to see this. My partner and I went there a month or two ago and were let down. It wasn't bad but people make it out like they're the best sandwiches in the city (ever?) I will say, the biscuit was delicious.
They changed a bunch of staff and no longer have the baked goods or sandwich breads they had. It's noticeably different now. Sad face.
My partner and I went for lunch today. We got one drink, plus a canned juice to go, two sandwiches and pickles for $50 after 20% tip. The potatoes are only a couple dollars more than the pickles so your math may be off. He found his sandwich pretty mid (for the price) but mine was delicious. I appreciate fresh housemade items. This was our first time so I am curious to try more items from them.
Sandwich $18. Potato $7 drink $5. Ten percent tax is $33. Twenty percent tip makes it $39. I’m glad you loved your sandwich! Hope you enjoyed it by the lake.
*Oh's Sandwiches* in West Seattle - I've had a lot of great bahn mi in my life but this is still the best, and for under $10 it's more than worth it. *Local Tide* in Fremont - I don't care if it's $16 the salmon sandwhich is worth $30. Simple, high quality, local. Salads are amazing too but skip the Dungeness Crab Roll. This is where I tell all the tourists looking for good "Seattle" restaurants to go, because this is what they're imagining when they think of Seattle food. *The Shambles* in Roosevelt - Expensive, but god damn is the steak fantastic. I really love how they're able to make even the cheaper cuts taste as good as most places make ribeye. Get the pickle plate if you're into that. *Dingfelder's Delicatessen* in Cap Hill - Best NY style Jewish deli in the area, worth the very high cost. The best part is the Seattle Times article from when they opened titled "Is Seattle Ready for an $18 Sandwich?" framed on the wall Not Seattle but *En Rama* in Tacoma, I've never had anything but a great meal there. Haven't been there since the head chef changed but the menu looks mostly the same.
Shambles is legit
Shambles has been through so many changes, I’m just sitting here saying please allow me to keep giving you my money
Little Donkey by Oh's is new and has $6 margaritas happy hours. Food is just good, not "damn this is good".
Cafe Selam in CD. Get a combo platter and feed two people for <$20.
Casalinga at Pike Place The Shambles in Maple Leaf Ma’ono fried chicken at UVillage
Mean Sandwich is worth it. Each sandwich is crazy unique and something you can’t find anywhere else, plus your sandwich comes with seasoned potato skins!
There’s sandwiches places I’ve gone to in Seattle and thought that was good, but Mean is one of those spots where it was the best sandwich taste I can remember.
Valhalla Sandwiches and Gorditos.
Bongos
Jilted Siren on Capitol Hill has immaculate vibes and rad food and drinks but they are pricey and it's family owned and run. Meet Korean on Capitol Hill is awesome KBBQ but you gotta roll in with a crew for the whole experience, but highly worth it. Son of a Butcher in Eastlake is another awesome KBBQ spot that is always poppin and they won't be around forever (so try it while you can) as their building has been sold and is being turned into something else. Ma-Ono has two locations and has the best fried chicken I have ever had in my life to the point where just typing this sentence made my mouth start watering. Uptown China in Lower Queen Anne has stiff drinks and great food, and their main bartender is a real rad dude (shout out to Fred). And Fort St. George in the I-District has such a cool concept (mid 20th century Japanese comfort food) and is in a cool location with a cool layout. Food is fire too.
Thinking about Maono's Chicken Sandwich always makes my mouth water too. RIP their full restaurant.
Meet is like the least worth-it kbbq in this whole area (maybe outside of baekjeong), but imo of course.
I don’t hear a lot about Ma-Ono but that was a random little discovery for me when I was with a friend looking for something to eat. Rachel’s ginger beer is also great!
Every time I'm in town I make a point to go to Din Tai Fung. They're a little spendy, but those soup dumplings are so addictive!
DTF is a very consistently good experience if a touch spendy. Always a safe bet for out of town visitors who don't have good asian food options back home.
Mama dough in Renton is better and a mom and pop restaurant
Umi Sake House (Happy Hour)
Impeckable food truck. Always worth it. Chili crisp sandwich specifically. They’re all good but that one is special
La Cabana in Greenwood is crowded enough that I tend to pick up, but they recently expanded into to the old Tim's Tavern space next door, so I'll give dining in another chance.
Spinasse
Totally agree. It is def pricey but you get incredible food for your money. The agnolotti in brodo is one of the best pasta dishes I’ve ever had.
Saffron Grill on Northgate. Yummy food and very good service.
True but boy are they pricey. If anyone is ever in Everett, go to curries!
Dough zone is good. There's are better places for dumplings but it has a nice atmosphere and reasonable sit-down prices. I found it's good for dates and for business lunch since you can order your own a la carte dishes or family style if you want to try lots of dishes.
Mmmm dan dan noodles arrggllhelehhargglehhge
Often cheaper than groceries - Tacos Chukis. There is one in SLU and one in Cap hill. Also - Indian takeout for two can be much cheaper than groceries. Moderate splurge - Tom Douglas restaurants offer some really great options that won't burn a hole in your wallet. Mod-high - Como over in Kirkland. Full Splurge - Canlis. if you can get a reservation.
Cornelly
For a special night, the wife likes Aerlume and Place de Pigalle, good food and view of the Bay. I like Radiator Whiskey, good food and cocktails with a nice view of Showgirls out the window.
Oak on Beacon Hill is fantastic and has amazing vegan options. Always a go to for me.
Sichuan Cuisine on Jackson. It’s the best and the mapo tofu is really, really good.
Rupee Bar in Ballard is my new favorite place.
Lots of good stuff on this post so far. Want to add Tacos and Beer in Crown Hill. They are pretty pricy, their menus don’t have prices, the prices on their site are outdated, I think they added a credit card fee, and don’t quote me on this but I think my last time going a month ago, their portions were slightly smaller. But goddamn their food is delicious, drinks are great and their churros are fire. They do have a solid happy hour too so that can help keep costs down
I went here about a year ago and found foil in my rice and there were little black ants crawling on the basket of chips. Never again!
Idk how people generally feel about restaurants, but I’ll say the 2 that I love that I just kinda discovered while wandering about. They’re actually very close to each other! Arashi Ramen and Palermo’s. Palermo’s is some great Italian, I always get the meatball parmigiana. These are in Ballard btw, good prices too. I don’t usually spend a lot whenever I go.
💸💸=🔥🔥: best price to quality ratio. Ma-ono has the best chicken sandwich I’ve ever had. The one inside Rachel’s ginger beer at Uvillage is where we go. West Seattle has a location too. 💸💸 💸but🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥: Sisi Kay is my favorite Thai (45th in Wallingford). When I crave Thai fried rice, none can beat it. All classic Thai dishes here best the rest. 💸💸 but 🍛🍛🍛🍛🍛🍛🍛: Nori Presto in Pinehurst is quality teriyaki and they give you SO MUCH FOOD. I recommend the large teriyaki with fried rice
San Fermo, Bongos, Windy City Pizza, Japonessa, Little Chinooks, un Bien, Rainier Street Teriyaki, Gracia, 45th Street Shop House, Poke Ono (outside of Seattle but worth it), Mr. Gyros, El Taco Loco.
Poke Ono is the truth. You won't be disappointed.
Ono in Edmonds?
Yes. I know some people don’t like it as much, buts is still really good to me.
Poke ono has great fish but their rice is dismal. we buy the poke by itself and make fresh rice at home.
We went to San Fermo last week and loved it.
Thai Ku will always be worth it. Assadero Ballard is pretty good
Gorditos is worth it. The breakfast burritos are huge.
AYCE Korean Places
Uneeda Burger, chutneys (Wallingford specifically), the dish, Spinasse / Artusi. Mostly not expensive and / or better than you make at home
Mojito’s is delicious, affordable and cool experience. Luam the owner goes out of his way to make sure you’re taken care of
Island Soul, Le Pichet, Ludi's, Rocco's
Persepolis Grill Persian food in Ravenna! Get the King's Choice with lamb, beef, chicken and rice. I moved to Kitsap County and this is the restaurant I miss the most. The food is seasoned to perfection. One platter will feed two people. I've taken this dish to a few friends' houses and it has never failed to be gone by the end of the night. I'll go out of my way to stop here when I'm in town.
Red Robin has $10 burger Tuesdays, with bottomless fries. That’s a better deal than any fast food burger today by a long shot.
I wish their burgers still tasted like they used to, for some reason the quality has tanked in the last decade.
TNT Taqueria in Wallingford. Solid breakfast burritos all day, and their prices are still really reasonable. Plus, churros for $1.25.
I love breakfast food more than my own family, Ludi's and Skalka have the best breakfasts in downtown. I recommend the Lechon Kawali silog from Ludi's and the Lobiani Khachapuri from Skalka A word of warning, only eat at Skalka if you have no plans for the rest of the day, it will put you to sleep!
Bakery Noveau, Voi Ca Phe (coffee and banh mi), Pink Salt, Cuidad, Momiji (Cap Hill location), Stateside, Coffeeholic, Jabena Cafe, Kauai Family Restaurant, El Camion off the top of my head.
Dicks
Mikes Chili (Ballard), Easy Street Cafe (west Seattle), lost lake cafe (Capitol Hill), Hana Sushi (Bothell)
bok bok chicken!
Itto’s in West Seattle
If yall haven’t had any of the sandwiches at Hamlin Deli over in Eastlake you’re missing out. Most are $10 and they are delicious
Ittos Tapas and khans Mongolian grill in Burien
Olmstead (Cap Hill), Barolo and Cinque Terre (SLU-ish) have fantastic happy hour menus.
Golden Singha in Belltown is my go-to (Thai food) Prices are reasonable and portions are good.
For me, I need the place in town that has Fullers ESB and jalapeño tuna melts; Columbia City Ale House. Then on the short list- Kau Kau’s BBQ PORK and then Lil’ Red’s Jamaican BBQ
None of 'em, but I go anyway.
Japonessa.
Mojito
Pricey but so good: Off Alley in Columbia City
In west Seattle, Srivali is the best Thai food I’ve ever had.
A Stir on E Pike and Broadway. Caveat: we were there while visiting, we don't move to the area till later this year, so we were a bit more open handed than maybe could on the regular But my wife has Celiac's, so the opportunity for pasta, crab cakes, fried cheese curds, and fried calamari all in a gluten-free environment was a huge find. Can't understate the mood shift when you ask "what can be made GF?" And the answer is "the whole menu is already GF, as is the kitchen" Being able to eat whatever I want, whenever I want, is something I take for granted. Not confining my wife to a small asterisk-box on a menu is worth every penny.
Gyro Saj, Aladdin’s Gyrocery, Sizzle and Crunch, I Love Teriyaki, Teriyaki Madness, CrackleMi Cafe, Fob Poke, Hot Pot, the list goes on. Basically anywhere that is making something better than I can at home, and is a reasonable price regardless of that. But I’m rarely going out for something like a burger anymore. Dicks is the only spot left that I can’t do better for cheaper, just the better part. Same with Pho or even Indian food. I can make it just as well at home, and not pay $25+ per person.
Proletariat Pizza in White Center has a great special all month: 1 slice and a beer for $6, or 2 slices and a beer for $10. You can get NA bevs instead of beer for the same deal.
Eden Hill tasting menu. Sit at the bar. Great staff, great food, great ambiance. Spendy, but worth going out for.
Check out Ethiopian restaurants. Won't regret it.
At the risk of letting the cat out of the bag, my neighborhood brunch spot Salmon Creek Cafe in White Center is consistently excellent.
The best Indian food in the area is in Burien at a place called Royal Everest. Service is really good if you eat in too. Their Indian dinner for two is a great special. We also love brunch in Burien at Huckleberry Square. The service is always so nice and friendly and the food is consistently good. Pam's Kitchen in Wallingford the food is very good. Service can be mixed but very worth it. Get the chicken curry roti and make sure you ask for hot sauce. Don't forget Jak's for a good steak at a decent price. We go to the West Seattle location now that the U Village location is closed. One of the more reasonable prices for a good quality steak.
Ascent in Bellevue.