Introduction
West Seattle, a vibrant peninsula nestled across Elliott Bay from downtown Seattle, is more than just breathtaking views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. It’s a close-knit community, a haven for nature lovers, and, perhaps most importantly for our purposes, a burgeoning culinary landscape brimming with delicious eats for every palate. From casual beachfront bites to sophisticated neighborhood restaurants, West Seattle offers a dining experience as diverse and captivating as its scenery. This guide is your passport to navigating the best food West Seattle has to offer, ensuring you never leave hungry. We’ve carefully curated a selection of restaurants that stand out for their quality, atmosphere, and commitment to providing memorable dining experiences, highlighting local favorites and hidden gems alike. Get ready to explore the ultimate guide to the best food West Seattle has to offer.
Rise and Shine: Discovering the Best Breakfast and Brunch Spots
There’s no better way to start your day than with a satisfying breakfast or brunch, and West Seattle boasts an array of spots to fuel your morning adventures.
Easy Street Records and Cafe
First on our list is Easy Street Records and Cafe, a West Seattle institution. This isn’t just a record store; it’s a community hub with a killer breakfast menu. Imagine perusing vinyl while enjoying a plate of their famous biscuits and gravy – a perfectly Southern-inspired dish with creamy, savory gravy smothered over fluffy, homemade biscuits. The atmosphere is eclectic and laid-back, making it ideal for a casual weekend brunch. The combination of great music and fantastic food makes Easy Street Records and Cafe a must-visit. If you’re looking for something sweet, their french toast is also a local favorite. Check out their website for hours and full menu.
Arthur’s
Next up is Arthur’s, known for its creative dishes. Their brunch offerings are a step above the ordinary. One standout dish is the crab cake benedict. This culinary masterpiece features perfectly poached eggs atop crispy, flavorful crab cakes, all drizzled with a luscious hollandaise sauce. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a great spot for a special occasion brunch. Arthur’s also prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, adding to the freshness and quality of their dishes. Their menu changes seasonally, which means there’s always something new to discover.
The Original Bakery
For a more relaxed, neighborhood vibe, head to The Original Bakery. While technically a bakery, their breakfast sandwiches are legendary. Try their bacon, egg, and cheese on a freshly baked croissant – the flaky pastry and savory fillings create a symphony of flavors. Their pastries are, of course, equally tempting, making it the perfect spot to grab a quick bite and satisfy your sweet tooth. The Original Bakery is a true West Seattle staple, loved by locals for its consistent quality and friendly service. Check online to see the daily specials.
The Swinery
Finally, If you’re looking for a hidden gem brunch spot, you can’t go wrong with The Swinery. The Swinery focuses on serving fresh farm-to-table brunch dishes. Their delicious breakfast is served family style.
Lunchtime Delights: Casual Eats and Quick Bites
When lunchtime rolls around, West Seattle offers a plethora of options for a quick and delicious meal.
Freshy’s
For an authentic taste of Italy, look no further than Freshy’s. This casual spot is known for its incredibly flavorful sandwiches and salads. Their Italian sandwich, stacked high with cured meats, cheeses, and vibrant vegetables, is a crowd-pleaser. They also offer a variety of vegetarian options, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Freshy’s is perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch on the go. Their convenient location makes it easy to grab a sandwich and head to the beach or a local park. Check out their website for their full menu of delicious options.
Marination Ma Kai
Another excellent option for lunch is Marination Ma Kai. This Hawaiian-Korean fusion restaurant offers breathtaking views of the Seattle skyline, along with a menu of mouthwatering dishes. Their kalua pork sliders, with their tender, smoky pork and tangy slaw, are a must-try. The atmosphere is lively and fun, making it a great spot to enjoy a casual lunch with friends. Marination Ma Kai’s outdoor seating is especially popular on sunny days, allowing you to soak up the views while you dine.
Husky Deli
If you’re craving something a bit more traditional, Husky Deli is a West Seattle institution. This old-fashioned deli offers a wide variety of sandwiches, soups, and salads, all made with fresh ingredients and generous portions. Their pastrami on rye is a classic choice, and their homemade soups are perfect for a chilly day. Husky Deli is a beloved neighborhood spot, known for its friendly service and comforting food. Don’t forget to check out their selection of imported cheeses and specialty items.
Salty’s on Alki
For the best lunch with a view, you can’t miss Salty’s on Alki. Salty’s serves classic American lunch with one of the best views in the state.
Dinner Time: West Seattle’s Culinary Stars
As the sun sets over the Puget Sound, West Seattle’s dinner scene comes alive with a diverse array of restaurants to suit every taste and occasion.
The Table
For a fine dining experience, The Table stands out. This intimate restaurant offers a sophisticated menu of seasonal dishes, prepared with meticulous attention to detail. The atmosphere is elegant and romantic, making it a perfect choice for a special occasion. Their tasting menu is a popular option, allowing you to sample a variety of their expertly crafted dishes. The Table also boasts an extensive wine list, carefully curated to complement their cuisine.
Pizzeria Credo
For a more casual dinner spot that’s great for families, Pizzeria Credo is a fantastic option. Their wood-fired pizzas are cooked to perfection, with a crispy crust and a variety of creative toppings. They also offer a selection of pasta dishes and salads, ensuring there’s something for everyone in the family. Pizzeria Credo’s lively atmosphere and friendly service make it a welcoming spot for a relaxed and enjoyable dinner. The restaurant is dedicated to using locally sourced ingredients, which adds to the freshness and flavor of their pizzas.
Pho Viet Anh
If you’re in the mood for international cuisine, Pho Viet Anh is a must-visit. This Vietnamese restaurant serves authentic and flavorful pho, along with a variety of other traditional Vietnamese dishes. Their pho broth is rich and aromatic, and the noodles are perfectly cooked. Pho Viet Anh is a popular spot with locals, known for its generous portions and affordable prices. The restaurant’s casual atmosphere makes it a great spot for a quick and satisfying dinner.
West Seattle Fish House
Seafood lovers should make a beeline for West Seattle Fish House. Serving fresh, locally sourced seafood. Their clam chowder and fish n chips is a customer favorite.
Sweet Endings: Ice Cream, Pastries, and Decadent Delights
No culinary journey is complete without indulging in some sweet treats, and West Seattle has plenty of options to satisfy your sugar cravings.
Husky Deli
For the best Ice Cream experience head to Husky Deli again, their ice cream is all home-made. The wide variety of ice cream flavors makes it a fun destination for any ice cream enjoyer.
Bakery Nouveau
Bakery Nouveau is a must-visit for pastry lovers. This bakery offers a stunning array of pastries, cakes, and breads, all made with the finest ingredients and expert craftsmanship. Their croissants are legendary, and their macarons are equally tempting. Bakery Nouveau is the perfect spot to pick up a treat for yourself or a gift for a friend. Their beautiful pastries are almost too pretty to eat, but trust us, they taste as good as they look. The bakery also offers a selection of savory items, such as quiches and sandwiches.
Hotwire Coffee
Finally, Hotwire Coffee serves delicious coffee and tea. Their large variety of coffee and tea make it a good stop after a meal.
A Culinary Adventure Awaits
West Seattle’s food scene is a vibrant and diverse tapestry, woven together by talented chefs, passionate restaurateurs, and a community that appreciates good food. From cozy breakfast spots to sophisticated dinner destinations, there’s something to satisfy every craving. This guide has only scratched the surface of what West Seattle has to offer, so we encourage you to explore, discover, and share your own culinary adventures. The best food West Seattle has is waiting to be discovered. What are you waiting for? Head to West Seattle and start eating! And don’t forget to share your favorite West Seattle restaurants in the comments below. Bon appétit!
