Explore Seattle's vibrant food scene! This guide features 22 top-rated restaurants, from fresh seafood with stunning views to unique international flavors and upscale dining.
Welcome, food adventurers! Seattle's culinary landscape is a dynamic blend of fresh Pacific Northwest ingredients, global influences, and innovative dining experiences. From casual bites to elegant evenings, this guide will lead you to some of the city's most beloved and highly-rated establishments, promising an unforgettable gastronomic journey.
Waterfront Wonders: Seattle's Best Seafood & Views
Seattle, a city embraced by water, boasts an incredible array of seafood restaurants, many offering breathtaking views of Puget Sound and the city skyline. Dive into the freshest catches, from succulent oysters to perfectly grilled salmon, all while soaking in the picturesque maritime atmosphere.
Elliott's Oyster House
Recommended Dishes & Features
Elliott's Oyster House is a Seattle institution, renowned for its incredible selection of fresh Pacific Northwest oysters and other seafood. Located right on Pier 56, it offers stunning views of Elliott Bay, making it an ideal spot for a classic Seattle dining experience. They are committed to sustainable sourcing.
Nearby Attractions
Pike Place Market: A short walk away for fresh produce and artisan goods.
Seattle Great Wheel: Enjoy panoramic views of the city and water.
Visitor Reviews
Diners consistently praise the fresh, high-quality oysters and seafood, along with the picturesque waterfront setting. Many highlight the attentive service and the lively atmosphere.
Rating: 4.3 Reviews: 6659 Price: $$$source : unspalsh
Salty's on Alki Beach
Recommended Dishes & Features
Salty's on Alki Beach offers a spectacular dining experience with unparalleled views of the Seattle skyline. Known for its fresh Pacific Northwest seafood and popular brunch buffet, it provides a lively atmosphere perfect for special occasions or a memorable meal by the water.
Nearby Attractions
Alki Beach Park: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach or rent a bike.
Alki Point Lighthouse: A historic landmark offering scenic views.
Visitor Reviews
Guests rave about the breathtaking views, especially at sunset, and the excellent seafood. The extensive brunch buffet receives frequent mentions for its variety and quality.
Rating: 4.5 Reviews: 6004 Price: $$$
Lowell's Restaurant
Recommended Dishes & Features
Lowell's Restaurant offers classic diner charm with three floors of waterfront dining, providing fantastic views of Puget Sound. It's a prime spot for fresh fish and chips, clam chowder, and hearty breakfast options, right in the heart of Pike Place Market.
Nearby Attractions
Pike Place Market: Explore all the iconic market stalls and shops.
Seattle Great Wheel: Located very close by for an aerial view of the city and bay.
Visitor Reviews
Reviewers appreciate the casual, authentic Seattle feel and the incredible views from every level. The seafood, especially the clam chowder and fish and chips, are frequently praised for their freshness and taste.
Rating: 4.4 Reviews: 3775 Price: $$
Chinook's At Salmon Bay
Recommended Dishes & Features
Chinook's At Salmon Bay offers a lively atmosphere with views of fishing boats and the marina at Fisherman's Terminal. Known for its fresh, Pacific Northwest seafood, including a variety of salmon preparations and daily specials, it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Nearby Attractions
Fishermen's Terminal: Watch fishing boats come and go.
Ballard Locks: Observe boats passing between Puget Sound and Lake Union/Lake Washington.
Visitor Reviews
Guests often highlight the excellent seafood quality and the unique, bustling harbor views. The service is frequently described as friendly and efficient.
Rating: 4.5 Reviews: 2314 Price: $$
Six Seven Restaurant
Recommended Dishes & Features
Perched above Elliott Bay within The Edgewater Hotel, Six Seven Restaurant offers an elegant dining experience with stunning waterfront vistas. It specializes in Pacific Northwest cuisine, emphasizing organic and seasonal ingredients in dishes like Dungeness crab cakes and perfectly cooked seafood.
Nearby Attractions
Olympic Sculpture Park: Enjoy outdoor art with bay views.
Seattle Waterfront: Access to piers and waterfront attractions.
Visitor Reviews
Patrons consistently praise the breathtaking views, especially at sunset, and the sophisticated ambiance. The food quality and attentive service are frequently mentioned as highlights.
Rating: 4.5 Reviews: 2229 Price: $$$
The Walrus and the Carpenter
Recommended Dishes & Features
Nestled in Seattle's Ballard neighborhood, The Walrus and the Carpenter is an acclaimed oyster bar known for its impeccably fresh oysters, seasonal small plates, and creative cocktails. It features a bright, airy space with a communal dining feel, making it a vibrant spot for seafood lovers.
Nearby Attractions
Ballard Locks: Observe boats and salmon migrating.
Golden Gardens Park: A beautiful beach park perfect for relaxation and sunset views.
Visitor Reviews
Visitors consistently rave about the fresh oyster selection and unique, flavorful small plates. The lively atmosphere and excellent service are also frequently highlighted.
Rating: 4.5 Reviews: 2122 Price: $$$
Downtown & Pike Place Market Delights
The bustling heart of Seattle, encompassing Downtown and the iconic Pike Place Market, is a treasure trove of diverse dining options. Here, you'll find everything from classic comfort food to innovative global cuisines, all within walking distance of major attractions.
The Pink Door
Recommended Dishes & Features
Hidden behind an unmarked pink door near Pike Place Market, The Pink Door offers an enchanting Italian dining experience with a hint of cabaret. Known for its delicious pasta, robust wines, and an eclectic atmosphere featuring live entertainment, it's a unique Seattle gem.
Nearby Attractions
Pike Place Market: Explore the market's famous stalls and artisan shops.
The Gum Wall: A quirky, colorful landmark in Post Alley.
Visitor Reviews
Guests adore the secretive entrance, the lively and unique ambiance, and the delicious, authentic Italian cuisine. The live entertainment, from trapeze artists to tarot readers, is often a highlight.
Rating: 4.6 Reviews: 6516 Price: $$$
Von's 1000Spirits
Recommended Dishes & Features
Von's 1000Spirits is celebrated for its scratch-made American cuisine, extensive craft cocktail menu, and an impressive selection of spirits. Located downtown, it offers a lively yet inviting atmosphere, perfect for a casual meal or a night out trying unique drinks and sourdough pizzas.
Nearby Attractions
Seattle Art Museum: Discover a wide range of global art.
Benaroya Hall: Catch a performance by the Seattle Symphony.
Visitor Reviews
Reviewers highly praise the innovative craft cocktails and the delicious sourdough bread and pizzas. The friendly service and vibrant energy are frequently mentioned.
Rating: 4.6 Reviews: 6407 Price: $$
Japonessa Sushi Cocina
Recommended Dishes & Features
Japonessa Sushi Cocina blends traditional Japanese sushi with Latin-inspired flavors, offering a creative and diverse menu. Located downtown, it features a stylish, modern interior and is known for its inventive sushi rolls, fresh sashimi, and a lively happy hour.
Nearby Attractions
Pike Place Market: Just a few blocks away for post-meal exploration.
Seattle Art Museum: Conveniently located nearby for cultural enrichment.
Visitor Reviews
Guests often highlight the creative fusion rolls and the extensive happy hour menu. The vibrant atmosphere and quality of the fish are consistently praised.
Rating: 4.5 Reviews: 5204 Price: $$
13 Coins Seattle
Recommended Dishes & Features
A Seattle landmark, 13 Coins Seattle offers 24/7 dining with a classic, upscale diner ambiance. Known for its exhibition kitchen, where chefs prepare a vast menu of American and Italian-inspired dishes, it's a reliable spot for any meal, any time.
Nearby Attractions
Pioneer Square Historic District: Explore Seattle's original neighborhood.
Lumen Field & T-Mobile Park: Catch a Seahawks, Sounders, or Mariners game.
Visitor Reviews
Many reviewers appreciate the 24-hour service and extensive menu, highlighting the generous portions and the unique, retro atmosphere. The breakfast and late-night options are particularly popular.
Rating: 4.1 Reviews: 4701 Price: $$
Serious Pie Downtown
Recommended Dishes & Features
Serious Pie Downtown specializes in artisanal pizzas baked in a 600-degree stone-encased oven. With a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and a thin, blistered crust, this popular spot offers gourmet pizza creations in a vibrant, casual setting.
Nearby Attractions
Westlake Center: A major shopping destination.
Paramount Theatre: Enjoy a show or concert in a historic venue.
Visitor Reviews
Guests consistently rave about the unique, flavorful pizzas and the perfectly cooked crust. The lively atmosphere and quality ingredients are frequently mentioned.
Rating: 4.5 Reviews: 4384 Price: $$
Ludi's Restaurant
Recommended Dishes & Features
Ludi's Restaurant is a beloved downtown diner offering a taste of home-style Filipino and American comfort food. Known for its hearty breakfasts, traditional Filipino dishes like adobo and lumpia, and friendly service, it provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Nearby Attractions
Pike Place Market: A stone's throw away for market exploration.
Westlake Center: Major shopping and transportation hub.
Visitor Reviews
Reviewers cherish the authentic Filipino dishes and the generous portions of classic American breakfast fare. The cozy, unpretentious diner feel and friendly staff are often highlighted.
Rating: 4.6 Reviews: 2031 Price: $$
Seattle's Premier Fine Dining
For those seeking an elevated culinary experience, Seattle delivers with world-class restaurants that blend sophisticated ambiance with exquisite Pacific Northwest flavors and impeccable service. Prepare for an evening of culinary artistry and memorable moments.
Metropolitan Grill
Recommended Dishes & Features
Metropolitan Grill is Seattle's quintessential steakhouse, famous for its dry-aged prime beef and extensive wine list. With its classic, upscale ambiance and attentive service, it's a top choice for business dinners or special occasions, offering a luxurious dining experience in the heart of downtown.
Nearby Attractions
Columbia Center: Visit the Sky View Observatory for city vistas.
Seattle Central Library: Admire the iconic modern architecture.
Visitor Reviews
Guests consistently praise the exceptional quality of the steaks, the elegant atmosphere, and the professional service. Many describe it as a premier dining destination in Seattle.
Rating: 4.6 Reviews: 3817 Price: $$$$
Canlis
Recommended Dishes & Features
A Seattle icon since 1950, Canlis offers an unparalleled fine dining experience with stunning views of Lake Union and the Cascade Mountains. Known for its refined Pacific Northwest cuisine, impeccable service, and a dress code that encourages elegance, it's a destination for celebrations and culinary artistry.
Nearby Attractions
Gas Works Park: Enjoy unique views of the city skyline.
Lake Union: See seaplanes take off and land.
Visitor Reviews
Patrons universally laud the extraordinary service, exquisite food, and breathtaking views. Many describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience, perfect for special occasions.
Rating: 4.6 Reviews: 2748 Price: $$$$
The Capital Grille
Recommended Dishes & Features
The Capital Grille is an upscale steakhouse offering dry-aged prime steaks, fresh seafood, and a world-class wine list in a sophisticated, club-like atmosphere. Located in the heart of downtown, it's a popular choice for business dining and celebratory meals.
Nearby Attractions
Benaroya Hall: Attend a concert or show.
Washington State Convention Center: Convenient for business travelers.
Visitor Reviews
Guests frequently praise the perfectly cooked steaks, extensive wine selection, and the polished, attentive service. The elegant ambiance makes it a favorite for special occasions.
Rating: 4.7 Reviews: 2008 Price: $$$$
A World of Flavors: International & Unique Eats
Seattle's diverse population has cultivated a vibrant international food scene. From authentic Malaysian street food to creative Hawaiian-Korean fusion and classic Creole, these spots offer a passport to global tastes without leaving the city.
Toulouse Petit Kitchen & Lounge
Recommended Dishes & Features
Toulouse Petit Kitchen & Lounge brings the vibrant flavors of New Orleans to Seattle with its extensive menu of Creole and Cajun dishes. Famous for its amazing happy hour deals and sumptuous brunch, it offers a lively atmosphere with ornate decor in the Lower Queen Anne neighborhood.
Nearby Attractions
Space Needle: Seattle's iconic observation tower.
Chihuly Garden and Glass: A stunning exhibition of glass art.
Visitor Reviews
Reviewers consistently rave about the incredible happy hour offerings and the authentic, flavorful Creole cuisine. The lively ambiance and generous portions are also frequently highlighted.
Rating: 4.4 Reviews: 6266 Price: $$
Marination Ma Kai
Recommended Dishes & Features
Marination Ma Kai offers a taste of Hawaiian-Korean fusion with stunning views of the Seattle skyline from West Seattle. Famous for its tacos, sliders, and plate lunches, it's a casual, vibrant spot perfect for enjoying delicious, unique flavors outdoors.
Nearby Attractions
Alki Beach Park: A popular spot for walking, biking, and beach activities.
West Seattle Water Taxi Terminal: Easy access to downtown Seattle.
Visitor Reviews
Guests love the flavorful Hawaiian-Korean fusion tacos and sliders, often highlighting the pork Kahlua. The incredible skyline views and casual, friendly atmosphere are also frequently praised.
Rating: 4.5 Reviews: 3548 Price: $
Kedai Makan Capitol Hill
Recommended Dishes & Features
Kedai Makan Capitol Hill brings the authentic and vibrant street food flavors of Malaysia to Seattle. This often-bustling restaurant is celebrated for its spicy, aromatic dishes like Roti Canai, Laksa, and Nasi Goreng, offering a true culinary adventure in a lively setting.
Nearby Attractions
Volunteer Park: A beautiful urban park with a conservatory and water tower.
Capitol Hill: Explore the neighborhood's eclectic shops and vibrant nightlife.
Visitor Reviews
Diners consistently praise the authentic and intensely flavorful Malaysian dishes, particularly the roti canai and various curries. The lively, energetic atmosphere is also frequently mentioned, despite potential wait times.
Rating: 4.6 Reviews: 2581 Price: $$
Nue
Recommended Dishes & Features
Nue on Capitol Hill takes diners on a culinary journey around the world, specializing in unique and lesser-known international street foods. From South African Bunny Chow to Polish Zapiekanka, its menu is a delightful exploration of global flavors in a cozy, eclectic setting.
Nearby Attractions
Volunteer Park: Enjoy a leisurely walk or visit the Asian Art Museum.
Capitol Hill: Explore diverse shops, cafes, and nightlife spots.
Visitor Reviews
Guests rave about the adventurous and authentic global street food offerings, praising the unique flavors and generous portions. The friendly service and quirky decor also receive frequent mentions.
Rating: 4.4 Reviews: 2121 Price: $$
Sushi Sensations
Seattle's proximity to the Pacific Ocean means access to some of the freshest seafood, making it an excellent city for sushi lovers. These establishments showcase both traditional Japanese artistry and innovative culinary takes on this beloved cuisine.
Shiro's Sushi
Recommended Dishes & Features
Shiro's Sushi is a legendary Seattle establishment, renowned for its authentic Edomae-style sushi and omakase experience. With a focus on pristine, high-quality fish and expert preparation, it offers a refined and traditional Japanese dining experience in Belltown.
Nearby Attractions
Olympic Sculpture Park: A beautiful waterfront park featuring large-scale art.
Pike Place Market: Explore the iconic market's offerings.
Visitor Reviews
Diners consistently praise the exceptional quality and freshness of the fish, along with the traditional sushi preparation. The omakase experience is frequently recommended for an unforgettable meal.
Rating: 4.6 Reviews: 2404 Price: $$$
Wasabi Sushi & Izakaya
Recommended Dishes & Features
Wasabi Sushi & Izakaya offers a lively and modern take on Japanese dining in Belltown, combining a diverse sushi menu with a wide selection of izakaya-style small plates. It's a popular spot for both traditional sushi and creative rolls, alongside a vibrant atmosphere for drinks and shared dishes.
Nearby Attractions
Olympic Sculpture Park: Enjoy art and bay views just a short walk away.
Seattle Waterfront: Access to piers and ferry terminals.
Visitor Reviews
Guests often highlight the extensive menu, including both classic and innovative sushi rolls, and the varied izakaya options. The vibrant ambiance and attentive service are frequently mentioned.
Rating: 4.5 Reviews: 2377 Price: $$
More Culinary Delights
Beyond our curated categories, Seattle offers even more fantastic dining options that defy easy categorization but deliver exceptional experiences. These establishments showcase the diverse and high-quality cuisine that makes Seattle a food lover's paradise.
JOEY U-Village
Recommended Dishes & Features
JOEY U-Village is a stylish and energetic restaurant known for its globally inspired, upscale casual American cuisine and vibrant bar scene. Located in the bustling University Village shopping center, it offers a diverse menu from sushi to steaks, with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Nearby Attractions
University Village: An outdoor shopping mall with a variety of boutiques and stores.
University of Washington: Explore the beautiful campus.
Visitor Reviews
Diners frequently praise the chic ambiance, diverse menu, and consistent quality of the food and cocktails. The lively atmosphere and attentive service are often highlighted.
Rating: 4.8 Reviews: 8029 Price: $$