Seattle, Washington is home to many great restaurants that offer a variety of dining experiences. We’ve compiled a guide of our favorites!
Washington State is known for its snow dusted volcanic mountains, multiple national parks, and agricultural expertise. One of it’s most amazing large cities, Seattle, sits on the state’s west coast and is is full of fun things to do. Seattle’s cuisine is also very diverse, so there are many great restaurants to try when visiting.
Aside from taking in new sights and experiences, traveling is a great opportunity to enjoy new cuisines! Being an ever-growing city and popular cruise port allows Seattle to offer many restaurant dining options for travelers.
From traditional Pacific Northwest fare to innovative global cuisine, Seattle’s gastronomic landscape is as diverse as it is delicious. Here’s a roundup of some of the best restaurants in Seattle selected by our Travel Makes Me Happy Team, each delivering unique and unforgettable culinary experiences.
If you are visiting Seattle on a trip or even on an Alaskan cruise pre-trip, you will not want to miss these great foodie options for delicious eats!
A note about affiliate links on the website: We only recommend companies or products that we actually have tried and enjoy. Clicking on any links costs you nothing extra. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps us bring great content! Thanks so much for you support!
Also, if you are visiting Seattle soon don’t forget to read our 20 Unique Things to do in Seattle article too or get some great weekend trip ideas for Victoria, British Columbia which is an easy day trip from Seattle!
Best Seattle, WA Restaurants to try:
- Best Seattle, WA Restaurants to try:
- Archipelago (Amazing restaurant experience)
- Bar del Corso
- Canlis
- Joule
- Kamonegi
- Saffron Grill
- Musang
- The Masonry Freemont
- Spinasse
- Sushi Kappo Tamura
- Sushi Kashiba
- The Walrus & the Carpenter
- Essential Packing List Items for your Seattle Trip:
- Final Thoughts on Great Restaurant Choices in Seattle Guide
- (FAQS) Frequently Asked Questions About Seattle Travel
- Travel Resources
- Keep reading for more great travel ideas:
Archipelago (Amazing restaurant experience)
Located in Hillman City, Archipelago serves up an exceptional Pacific Northwest tasting menu. Owners Aaron Verzosa and Amber Manuguid have masterfully crafted a menu that pays homage to their Filipino heritage while also incorporating local Washington ingredients. Each dish tells a story, making dining at Archipelago a truly immersive experience.
- Cuisine: Pacific Northwestern / Filipino-American Flavors
- Service Options: Dine In / Delivery
- Intimate Seasonal 9-12 Course Tasting Menu [Tells a Story through Flavors] – The chef describes and gives great info on each dish. It’s a really great experience!
- Locally Sourced Produce
- 12-Seat Restaurant [Be Sure to Book Months in Advance]It is very hard to get a reservation here, but it is worth it!
| Address: 5607 Rainier Ave S Seattle, WA |
If you get the chance, Achipelago is a great restaurant to try, but if you can’t get in there are many other amazing options.
Bar del Corso
Situated in Beacon Hill, Bar del Corso is a neighborhood gem specializing in authentic Neapolitan-style pizza. The dough is perfectly fermented, giving it a unique and complex flavor that pairs perfectly with fresh, locally-sourced toppings. Don’t miss their vibrant antipasti and delicate homemade desserts.
- Cuisine: Italian
- Service Options: Dine In / Take Out
- Neapolitan Style Pizzas – They also have grilled octopus and mussels that are amazing!
- Large Variety on Menu – The Romana pizza was our favorite, but the mussels were best!
- Outdoor Seating Options with a great patio!
| Address: 3057 Beacon Ave S Seattle, WA |
This restaurant is a definite one to try if in the area. The clams and mussels were great!
Canlis
Canlis is a Seattle institution, offering breathtaking views of Lake Union and the city skyline. Known for its James Beard award-winning cuisine, Canlis serves up modern Pacific Northwest dishes in an elegant, mid-century modern dining room. This upscale restaurant is a perfect place for special occasions.
- Cuisine: Pacific Northwest
- Service Options: Dine In /Take Out
- Fine Dining and they have great service!
- Seasonal Menu Approach – The Wagyu New York Strip is delicious as well as the Muscovy Duck!
| Address: 2576 Aurora Ave N Seattle, WA |
Joule
Joule, a contemporary Korean steakhouse in Wallingford, presents a unique fusion of Asian flavors and classic steakhouse fare. Chefs Rachel Yang and Seif Chirchi have curated a creative menu, featuring favorites like short rib steak and their famous rice cake.
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion / Korean
- Service Options: Dine In / Take Out
- Upscale yet Casual Atmosphere [Inviting and Open]
- Simple but Refined Dishes
- Creative Cocktails
- Focuses on Different Cuts and Preparations of Beef
| Address: 3506 Stone Way N Seattle, WA |
- Distinctive Seattle restaurant and the craft cocktails here are great too.
Kamonegi
This Fremont-based gem is renowned for its handmade soba noodles and tempura. Chef Mutsuko Soma brings a slice of Japan to Seattle, and her rotating seasonal menu ensures there’s always something new to try at Kamonegi.
- Cuisine: Japanese
- Service Options: Dine In Only
- Traditional Soba Dishes with Creative dishes
- The duck meatballs are wonderful! Also, we love the Kabocha squash soup that they bring to the table.
- Great atmosphere
| Address: 1054 N 39th St Seattle, WA |
- The fresh ingredients make this Seattle restaurant a mush-try on a visit! The sake is nice too.
Saffron Grill
An Indian culinary gem nestled in the heart of Fremont, Saffron Grill serves up a stunning array of traditional Indian dishes. From rich and flavorful biryanis to the silky butter chicken, each dish is crafted with precision and a deep respect for the traditional flavors and techniques of Indian cooking. The warm and inviting ambiance, coupled with the intoxicating aroma of Indian spices, makes Saffron Grill a must-visit for any food lover in Seattle.
- Cuisine: Indian
- Service Options: Dine In / Take Out / Delivery
- Smart casual
- Ample Cocktail and Wine Choices
- Nice atmosphere
| Address: 2132 N Northgate Way, Seattle, WA |
Musang
In Beacon Hill, Musang serves up soulful Filipino dishes rooted in family recipes. Chef Melissa Miranda’s menu is a love letter to her heritage, and each dish feels like a warm embrace.
- Cuisine: Filipino with a Pacific Northwest Twist
- Service Options: Dine In / Take Out
- Warm and Homey Atmosphere
- Dynamic Filipino dishes
- Restaurant is Involved in Community Outreach: Community Kitchen Serves Two Free Meals a Week to Those in Need & Runs a Program to Teach Children Recipes
| Address: 2524 Beacon Ave S Seattle, WA |
- The unique cuisine and cocktails at Musang make this one a must-do restaurant in Seattle!
The Masonry Freemont
This laid-back pizzeria and beer bar in Fremont is famous for its wood-fired pizzas and carefully curated craft beer list. The Masonry’s casual atmosphere makes it a go-to spot for a relaxed evening with friends.
- Cuisine: Wood fired Pizza
- Service Options: Dine In / Take Out / Delivery
- Patio seating and indoor
- Great wood fired pizzas with a good wine selection and craft beers.
| Address: 730 N 34th St Seattle, WA |
- We love the vibe of the Seattle Freemont area and just like hanging out with wine on the patio here, but the pizzas were great too so it’s on our list for a restaurant that is great to try if you’ll be in the area.
Spinasse
In Capitol Hill, Spinasse offers an elegant dining experience with its traditional Piedmontese cuisine. Its handmade pastas, such as the tajarin al ragu, have earned it a place among the top Italian restaurants in the city.
- Cuisine: Italian
- Service Options: Dine In / Delivery / Take Out
- Romantic Atmosphere
- Menu Inspired by Piedmont Region of Italy
- Novelty Menu Items
- some outdoor seating
| Address: 1531 14th Ave Seattle, WA |
- This Seattle restaurant is a great one to try if on a date or just dining with your sweetie!
Sushi Kappo Tamura
Located on Eastlake, Sushi Kappo Tamura offers some of Seattle’s best sushi. Chef Taichi Kitamura focuses on sustainable, local seafood, offering a seasonally changing menu that highlights the freshest ingredients.
- Cuisine: Japanese
- Service Options: Dine In / Take Out / Delivery
- Located in a Quiet Eastlake Neighborhood
- Wide Variety on Menu
- Locally Sourced Seafood and Produce
| Address: 2968 Eastlake Ave E Seattle, WA |
- If you try this amazing Seattle restaurant, also try the Lychee Martini! It was the best version!
Sushi Kashiba
This Pike Place sushi bar is a creation of Shiro Kashiba, a legendary figure in Seattle’s sushi scene. At Sushi Kashiba, you can experience the art of Edomae sushi, traditional Tokyo-style sushi, in its purest form. Opt for the omakase at the sushi bar to witness the master at work.
- Cuisine: Sushi
- Service Options: Dine In Only
- Upscale
- Seasonal Offerings
- Restaurant Bar Seats Overlooking the Master Sushi Chef at Work
- *in lieu of tipping a 20% service charge is added to the bill here (or it was when we visited)
| Address: 86 Pine St #1 Seattle, WA |
- Great sushi restaurants in Seattle are abundant, but this one was a step above for us.
The Walrus & the Carpenter
Nestled in Ballard, The Walrus and the Carpenter is one of the city’s premier spots for oysters. This maritime-themed eatery, with its cozy and rustic charm, offers a range of seafood, from fresh local oysters to smoked trout. The restaurant’s name, inspired by a Lewis Carroll poem, reflects its whimsical approach to cuisine, offering a dining experience that is both memorable and thoroughly enjoyable.
- Cuisine: Seafood / Oyster Bar
- Service Options: Dine In
- Hipster, Relaxed-Vibes
- Bright and Airy Dining Area
- Restaurant has Decorated Patio [Heated, Covered, String Lighting]
- Simple Dishes Plated Prettily
| Address: 4743 Ballard Ave NW Seattle, WA |
- The varied Seattle cuisine makes it such a fun foodie time to try and experience it all!
Essential Packing List Items for your Seattle Trip:
- Comfortable Walking Shoes – Travel walking can mean 8-10 miles a day (especially in Seattle) without even realizing it. Make sure to pack comfortable, supportive shoes to prevent foot pain and blisters. Look for breathable sneakers or walking sandals with arch support that can handle a full day in the parks. Our comfy shoe pics are these comfortable Sketchers go-walk ones or our favorite Birkenstock Gizeh sandals from Amazon!
- Portable Phone Charger – Between taking photos, using the map app, and mobile ordering food and coffee, your phone battery will drain quickly. Bring a portable phone fast charger (amazon has this great inexpensive one) to ensure you stay connected and don’t miss out on capturing magical Seattle travel moments.
- Refillable Water Bottle – Staying hydrated is important. Pack a refillable water bottle that’s lightweight and will keep you hydrated by using so you can utilize public water stations all day. There are usually free water refill stations throughout popular travel areas, so you won’t need to buy bottled water. Check out this inexpensive collapsible water bottle 2 pack on Amazon!
- Travel-Sized Cooling Towel – Vacation sun can be intense, even in cooler months. A cooling towel can help keep you refreshed during those long walking days. Just wet it, wring it out, and drape it around your neck for an instant cool-down. This budget-friendly 4-pack travel cooling towel set on Amazon can be clipped onto a bag or belt loop!
- Lightweight Backpack – A comfortable, lightweight backpack is essential for carrying all your day essentials without feeling weighed down. Check out this budget-friendly packable lightweight backpack with pockets on Amazon!
- Travel Laundry sink wash kit – Soap Suds are TSA approved and will help you pack lighter because you can wash clothes as your trip progresses. (on Amazon)
Final Thoughts on Great Restaurant Choices in Seattle Guide
Seattle’s culinary scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself, offering something for everyone, from the discerning foodie to the casual diner. Each of these restaurants offers a unique glimpse into the city’s rich culinary tapestry, showcasing local ingredients and global flavors.
From the type of cuisine to dining style to sophistication and elegance, diners truly have the world at their finger tips throughout the city of Seattle.
Have you eaten at any other incredible restaurants in Seattle?
(FAQS) Frequently Asked Questions About Seattle Travel
Spring (March-May): Ideal for cherry blossoms and smaller crowds.
Summer (June-August): Sunny weather for outdoor activities and festivals.
Fall (September-November): Perfect for fall foliage and cozy vibes.
Winter (December-February): Great for fewer tourists and nearby snow sports.
Downtown: Home to major attractions like Pike Place Market and the Seattle Art Museum.
Capitol Hill: Known for its lively nightlife, coffee shops, and diverse dining scene.
Ballard: A charming neighborhood with Scandinavian roots, featuring the Ballard Locks and trendy eateries.
Fremont: The “Center of the Universe,” filled with quirky art, boutiques, and the Fremont Troll.
Queen Anne: Offers stunning views and attractions like Kerry Park and the Space Needle.
South Lake Union: A hub for tech companies and waterside dining, plus access to Lake Union activities.
Stick to well-lit and busy areas, especially at night.
Keep your belongings secure in crowded areas like Pike Place Market.
Avoid areas with higher crime rates, such as parts of Downtown and Pioneer Square, after dark unless with a group.
Seattle neighborhoods like Capitol Hill, Queen Anne, and Ballard are considered safer and vibrant for visitors.
Seafood: Fresh, local seafood like salmon, oysters, and Dungeness crab are must-tries.
Asian Cuisine: From sushi and ramen to Thai, Vietnamese, and Chinese food, the city offers a rich variety of Asian dishes.
Farm-to-Table: Many restaurants emphasize local and sustainable ingredients.
Coffee Culture: As the home of Starbucks, Seattle has countless coffee shops and roasters to explore.
Fusion Cuisine: Creative blends of flavors, such as Korean-inspired steakhouses and Pacific Northwest-Asian fusion.
Desserts and Bakeries: Don’t miss artisan chocolates, fresh pastries, and ice cream shops.
Travel Resources
After visiting Seattle, take a trip through all of the beautiful wineries in Napa to make it a bucket-list trip!
If you love the outdoor adventures of Seattle, you will love the best hiking spots in Little Rock, Ar or our guide to 15 Epic Road Trips to do Across the U.S.
Also, for some really great travel wear and the best-fitting jeans that I’ve found visit Betabrand: 20% Off Your First Order!
We reviewed our favorite travel shoes and explain why Birkenstocks are our favorites for travel.
Turn your vacation photos into great wall art and surround your home with happy trip memories at Canvasdiscount! Get 10% extra off with this coupon and earn up to 90% discount in total!