Seattle’s culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry, and its Filipino offerings are a shining thread, woven with the comforting aromas of garlic, the savory tang of vinegar, and the heartwarming spirit of Filipino hospitality. Across the United States, Filipino cuisine is experiencing a surge in popularity, and Seattle, with its significant Filipino American population and deep-rooted connection to the Philippines, stands as a prime location to experience its authentic and innovative flavors. From sizzling sisig served on a cast iron skillet to the comforting embrace of adobo simmered to perfection, the city offers a diverse range of Filipino culinary experiences.
So, if you’re looking for the best Filipino food Seattle has to offer, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will navigate you through the city’s most treasured Filipino restaurants and eateries, each showcasing unique specialties that transport you to the heart of the Philippines.
Choosing the top Filipino restaurants in Seattle isn’t an easy task, given the sheer abundance of great options. Therefore, our selection criteria prioritized several key factors. Authenticity was paramount, meaning the restaurants adhere to traditional Filipino cooking techniques and flavors. The quality of ingredients also weighed heavily, with a preference for locally sourced produce and sustainably raised meats. The ambiance and atmosphere played a role, considering the overall dining experience. Finally, customer reviews and the restaurant’s reputation within the community were factored in, along with considering the value for money.
Lola’s Kusina: A Taste of Home
Nestled in the heart of Beacon Hill, Lola’s Kusina (Grandma’s Kitchen) has become a beloved institution, known for its soulful comfort food and warm, inviting atmosphere. Stepping inside feels like being transported to a family gathering in the Philippines, with the aroma of home-cooked meals filling the air.
Their signature dish, the Adobo, is a true testament to Filipino culinary heritage. Slow-cooked pork belly, marinated in a harmonious blend of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and peppercorns, melts in your mouth with a rich, savory flavor. The balance of salty, sour, and sweet is a hallmark of Filipino cuisine, and Lola’s perfectly captures this essence. Another must-try is their Kare-Kare, a rich and decadent stew made with oxtail, tripe, and vegetables, all simmered in a thick peanut sauce. The dish is traditionally served with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste), adding a pungent and salty counterpoint to the richness of the stew. The price range here is moderate, making it accessible for both casual diners and families. Located at 5205 Beacon Ave S, Seattle, WA 98118, Lola’s Kusina is a culinary gem that consistently wins hearts. “This place is the real deal,” raves one frequent customer. “The adobo is just like my Lola used to make, and the portions are huge! I always leave feeling full and happy.”
Hood Famous Bakeshop: Ube Heaven
For those with a sweet tooth, Hood Famous Bakeshop in Ballard is a must-visit destination. While technically a bakery, their focus on Filipino flavors and ingredients makes it a crucial stop on any Filipino food Seattle journey. They’ve garnered a devoted following for their innovative ube creations, particularly their ube cheesecake. The vibrant purple yam adds a distinct earthy sweetness and a beautiful color to the creamy cheesecake, creating a truly unforgettable dessert.
Beyond ube, Hood Famous also offers a range of other Filipino-inspired pastries, including cassava cake, leche flan, and various seasonal treats. The shop’s contemporary and minimalist design provides a modern backdrop for the traditional Filipino flavors. Prices are reasonable, and the quality is consistently exceptional. Located at 2325 NW Market St, Seattle, WA 98107, Hood Famous Bakeshop is a testament to the versatility and deliciousness of Filipino ingredients. “Their ube cheesecake is seriously addictive!” exclaims a local foodie. “It’s the perfect balance of sweet and creamy, and the ube flavor is just incredible.”
Oriental Mart: A Seattle Institution
No exploration of Filipino food Seattle would be complete without mentioning Oriental Mart in Pike Place Market. This small, family-run eatery has been serving up authentic Filipino cuisine for decades and has become a beloved institution within the city.
Don’t be fooled by its unassuming appearance, this is a Seattle staple. Their specialty is the sinigang, a sour and savory soup made with tamarind broth, vegetables, and your choice of meat or seafood. The broth is incredibly flavorful, and the dish is both comforting and refreshing. Another popular item is the pancit bihon, a stir-fried noodle dish with vegetables and meat. The portions are generous, and the prices are incredibly affordable, making it a perfect spot for a quick and satisfying lunch. Situated right in the heart of Pike Place Market, at 1506 Pike Pl #528, Seattle, WA 98101, Oriental Mart offers a truly authentic and unforgettable Filipino dining experience. “This is my go-to spot for Filipino food,” declares a long-time Seattle resident. “The sinigang is the best in the city, and the prices can’t be beat!”
Inay Filipino Kitchen: Ballard’s Hidden Gem
Tucked away in Ballard, Inay Filipino Kitchen is a true hidden gem that deserves to be discovered. They’re known for their authentic, homestyle dishes served in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
Their must try dish is the Lechon Kawali, crispy deep-fried pork belly served with a side of lechon sauce. The skin is incredibly crunchy, and the meat is tender and juicy. They also serve a fantastic version of Sisig, a sizzling dish of chopped pork face, ears, and belly, seasoned with onions, chili peppers, and calamansi. It’s a bold and flavorful dish that’s perfect for sharing. The prices at Inay Filipino Kitchen are mid-range, and the portions are generous. Located at 5326 Ballard Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107, Inay Filipino Kitchen is a testament to the power of simple, well-executed Filipino cuisine. “I love this place! The food is always fresh and delicious, and the staff is so friendly,” writes a Yelp reviewer. “The lechon kawali is a must-try!”
Beyond Restaurants: Exploring Filipino Food in Seattle
Finding great Filipino food in Seattle isn’t limited to restaurants. The city also boasts a thriving community of Filipino bakeries, grocery stores, and pop-up events, all offering unique and delicious culinary experiences.
Filipino Bakeries
For a taste of Filipino baked goods, look no further than bakeries scattered throughout the city. These establishments are a treasure trove of Filipino breads, pastries, and sweets. Pan de sal, a soft and slightly sweet bread roll, is a staple of Filipino breakfasts. Ensaymada, a sweet bread topped with butter and cheese, is another popular treat. Don’t forget to try ube-flavored goodies, such as ube pandesal, ube pie or ube cake.
Filipino Grocery Stores
Filipino grocery stores are a treasure trove of authentic ingredients, snacks, and ready-made meals. They are the place to find ingredients to make your own Filipino dishes at home. Look for banana leaves, ube extract, bagoong, and other essential Filipino ingredients. Many grocery stores also sell pre-made dishes like lumpia (spring rolls), adobo, and pancit. Seafood City is a large Filipino supermarket chain with a location in Tukwila, just south of Seattle, that offers a wide variety of Filipino products and cooked foods.
Food Trucks/Pop-Ups
Keep an eye out for Filipino food trucks and pop-up events. These mobile eateries often offer innovative and creative takes on traditional Filipino dishes. They’re a great way to sample new and exciting Filipino flavors. Social media is often the best place to find out about these events.
A Taste of Home: Exploring Filipino Dishes
For those new to Filipino cuisine, here’s a brief overview of some popular dishes:
- Adobo: The unofficial national dish of the Philippines, adobo is a flavorful and versatile stew made with meat (typically chicken or pork) marinated in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and peppercorns. The dish is simmered until the meat is tender and the sauce is rich and concentrated.
- Sinigang: A sour and savory soup made with tamarind broth, vegetables, and your choice of meat, seafood, or tofu. The broth is incredibly flavorful and the dish is both comforting and refreshing.
- Lechon: Roasted pig, often served whole. The skin is incredibly crispy and the meat is tender and juicy. Lechon is a popular dish for celebrations and special occasions.
- Lumpia: Filipino spring rolls filled with ground meat, vegetables, and spices. They’re typically deep-fried and served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce.
- Sisig: A sizzling dish of chopped pork face, ears, and belly, seasoned with onions, chili peppers, and calamansi. It’s a bold and flavorful dish that is often served as a pulutan (appetizer) with beer.
Tips for Exploring Filipino Food in Seattle
- Be adventurous and try new things. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and explore the diverse flavors of Filipino cuisine.
- Ask the staff for recommendations. They’re the experts and can guide you towards the most authentic and delicious dishes.
- Consider ordering family-style to share and sample more dishes. Filipino cuisine is often enjoyed communally, so ordering a variety of dishes to share is a great way to experience the breadth of flavors.
- Look for specials or unique regional dishes. Many restaurants offer specials or dishes that are specific to certain regions of the Philippines.
- Respect the culture and traditions surrounding the food. Filipino food is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of culture, family, and community.
Conclusion
Seattle’s Filipino food scene is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the Philippines. The city offers a diverse range of restaurants, bakeries, and grocery stores that cater to every taste and budget. From the comforting flavors of adobo to the bold and exciting flavors of sisig, Seattle has something to offer everyone. Filipino food Seattle is more than just a collection of restaurants; it’s a celebration of culture, family, and the joy of sharing good food. So, go out there, explore the culinary landscape, and discover your own favorite spots. You won’t be disappointed. The flavors of the Philippines are waiting to be savored in Seattle.
