How am I doing?
0 Friends86 Reviews
164 people like my reviews
| What am I eating? | |
|---|---|
| Sandwiches/Subs | 18% |
| Mediterranean | 12% |
| American | 12% |
| Greek | 11% |
| Middle Eastern | 10% |
| Where am I eating? | |
| University District | 12% |
| Capitol Hill | 8% |
| Downtown | 8% |
| Queen Anne | 6% |
| Ballard | 4% |
| Which cities? | |
| Pittsburgh | 1 |
| Portland | 4 |
| Seattle | 99 |
| SF Bay Area | 15 |
| Toronto | 1 |
| Vancouver | 11 |
Find Friends
Search for friends on Urbanspoon by alias or email.
Add Benjamin Johnstone-Anderson to your friends
Benjamin Johnstone-Anderson
|
Reviews
|
Seattle reviews
|
Michou "A solid ****1/2." March 10, 2008 - Michou Fresca is a great little surprise in the Pike Place Market.Basically, it's a small stall-type storefront with a deli counter. From there, you select your sandwich and/or soup, it's heated on a panini press (if applicable) and you're good to go. I tried both the Tuscan chicken and the smoked salmon. The chicken was especially impressive, and the salmon was delicious too, and less greasy than I expected.The best part was the prices, though. Under $6 for a very solid sandwich with quality ingredients? In the Market? Sign me up, and be thankful that they aren't pandering to tourists. 5 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Santorini Greek Grill "Solid Greek fast food" March 10, 2008 - Very good place - not mind-blowing, but very good.This is Greek fast food. They run the same way a food court restaurant does. You order at the counter, go to a table, and you get your food freakishly fast. But, unlike most food court places, this food is interesting. Here's the breakdown:Gyro plate - The gyro meat was actually the least inspiring part of this dish. It wasn't mad, but it was a little on the thin side, in constitution and taste. Tzatziki sauce was creamy and pleasant, and pita was warm. The salad was exemplary, especially the dressing, and was my favorite part of the dish (a rarity). Portions were impressively big.Falafel plate - Served with the same salad as the gyro plate. Falafel was crispy, well-seasoned, and garlicky. It wasn't the best I've ever had, but it was strong.Greek fries - A pleasant surprise! I ordered them on a whim and was glad I did. Standard-cut 'taters in a lemony reduction of some kind with sprinkles of feta. Artery-hardeningly delicious.Dolmatas - A $1 order for two served with tzatziki, this made for a nice appetizer. Dolmatas are either good or they aren't, and these were good.Service was friendly, and while the price was definitely outside of food court range, two people had a full meal with appetizers and drinks for under $30.Kirkland should be proud to have such a cool place. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Gretchen's Shoebox Express "Good prepackaged stuff" February 19, 2008 - Gretchen's supplies prepackaged sandwiches, salads and various other goodies. I had two sandwiches on the Amtrak train back from Vancouver. Chicken milano was reasonably good - the chicken was a little dry, but it was boxed food, so I can't complain too much. Their Focaccia Margherita was great stuff. Prices were reasonable, too. Favorably impressed. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Araya's Vegetarian Place "Thai for the sweet tooth" January 29, 2008 - Maybe it's because I'm an American. They could put anything on my plate, call it a Thai dish, and I'd fall for it. Good luck for me, then, that Araya's is nice enough not to trick me. Everything here is delicious.Confession: This is the first time I've enjoyed a peanut sauce. It's a little on the sweet side, but if you browse the menu wisely, you can find something that gravitates savory or spicy.Although it's located in a pretty dour part of the U-District, the interior at Araya's is serene and pleasant. Service was very good. My lone complaint there is that I got no spontaneous offers to re-fill my soda.I always like when an Asian restaurant has distinct dishes instead of the same repeated time after time with minor differences. Everything on the menu was interesting, definitely enough so for me to go back.Recommended. 4 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Saley Crepes "Best crepes on town" January 19, 2008 - The $8 crepe deal at Saley is wonderful. You may have to wait a long time (up to an hour or so - this ain't fast food). But it's worth it. You get one sweet and one savory.The first I had featured Norwegian smoked salmon, lettuce, tomato and a garlic creme sauce. I can't say enough good things about this crepe. It's savory, delicious and interesting.The sweet crepe wasn't quite as adventurous (nutella with banana), but it was good and not too heavy. The perfect treat for a cold winter Seattle day.Service was friendly (although a little confused at times - I think this was an anomaly) and the owner seems very nice.Recommended. 3 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Stell's Burgers & More "Great burgers - but try the "more" too!" January 12, 2008 - Maybe the SPU kids are right about this whole religion thing after all. Because the only thing that explains the awesomeness that is Stell's is divine intervention.Stell's is a friendly, casual local burger (and more!) joint. There's nothing greasy here - not the food, the atmosphere, or the staff. They pride themselves on their low-sodium pastrami (on the delicious Stell's Burger), lean beef, and healthier menu options ($1.75 for a Greek side salad!).The burgers are the centerpiece. They're unpretentious but tasty. But missing the "other" would be a crime. The souvlaki (chicken grilled Greek-style on a skewer) rivals Middle Eastern holes-in-the-wall. There's also some other unusual items worth trying (tiramisu shakes!).Stell's is everything it should be - casual, un-fussy, friendly, and above all delicious. Highly recommended. 3 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Other Coast Cafe "Top-flight sandwich place" January 12, 2008 - The half sandwich was more than enough for me. I dug the Ragin' Cajun. My only complaint was that the taste of tobasco was a little overwhelming. A dash less of it in the salsa would have been fine. But everything else was great. The sandwich was crispy and the turkey was delicious. Prices are reasonable and service is friendly. Certainly in contention as a Seattle sandwich standard. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Mee Sum Pastry (U-District) "MIA: BBQ pork humbow" January 01, 2008 - I go down to the downtown location of Mee Sum for the BBQ pork humbow. But, all three times I've come in Mee Sum U-District, nada. I have to settle for the good, but not so meaty steamed version.This is totally different than the Pike Place location. First of all, that place is a stall; this is a storefront with a lounge and wi-fi. Service is better here, and nicer (it can be sort of brusque at Pike Place). The food is pretty similar, but with more choices here.I hope they get the kinks worked out, get my BBQ pork humbow ready, and I can drop by for a quick snack more often! 2 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Honey Hole Sandwiches "Best fries in town" December 29, 2007 - Because I like my sandwiches with a healthy dose of sexual innuendo, I came to Honey Hole. I ordered the Summer Babe, because I can't turn down a sammich named after a Pavement song. I think that I'd have had better luck with a hot sandwich, but it wasn't bad. Mayo and mustard were dropped, I think due to a 50/50 fault communication error.It was a pretty standard deli sandwich, but that was OK. What pushed this to a thumbs-up vote is the fries, which are thick-cut but not bulky. They're the best I've had in Seattle. Ample portions, good eats, good music, good vibe. Worth giving a shot. Next time, though, I think I'll order a warm sandwich 2 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Mike's East Coast Sandwiches (at the Belle Harbour Cafe) "Good, but unexceptional pastrami" December 28, 2007 - On a blustery Seattle afternoon, I had a quick pastrami sandwich at Mike's. It was warm and satisfying, but not exceptional. I'll admit that I've never been to the East Coast, but I imagine it as being a little more than this. The pastrami was piled on relatively generously. But the mustard didn't have much of a kick, and other than a pickle on the side (requisite for "authenticity"?), there wasn't much to distinguish it. The price was OK (about seven bucks), but it felt a lot like something I could make at home for half the price.I will say this: Several people I've heard, including ex-East Coasters, swoon over it. My review is the most negative I've seen. But I am a child of the West Coast.(Aside: I'm not sure what the Belle Harbour Cafe is, exactly - maybe a coffee machine and a Mike's employee) 2 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Vios Cafe & Marketplace "Delicious, but overpriced" December 28, 2007 - I'll start off by saying that Vios Cafe is the best Mediterranean food I've had in Seattle. It's spiced well, and everything just works. The lamb skewer was tender and delicious. The braised greens were exactly as braised greens were meant to be. The hummus was tangy and fresh and oiled nicely. Service was friendly, and the atmosphere was pleasant (and oddly kid-free at the time). The problem? I really don't feel that all of this adds up to a $14 lunch. It wasn't much food. I guess you pay for the neighborhood.Vios also offers sandwiches for about $8. That's twice the going rate in the U-District, but not insane if the sandwich is substantial. Maybe I will be back. But until then, I can't really recommend Vios, as much as I wanted to. I'll try to give it another chance, but it's not on the top of my list. 4 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Rancho Bravo "Taco truck - A sentimental favorite" December 27, 2007 - ...with food to match.Rancho Bravo is a taco truck parked in a poorly-lit parking lot outside of Winchell's Donuts. There's a somewhat dirty table, the truck, an awning, and not much more. This is a damn fine example of a taco truck. My rancho burrito with chicken was delicious - perfect cilantro, bursting at the seams. The burrito bravo wasn't as amazing, but held its own. They have a homemade pineapple drink, but I get the Jarritos, because I loves me some Jarritos. The lady at the counter is so nice, and you should be nice to her, because she works until 2:30 AM some nights!Recommended. 2 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Continental Restaurant & Pastry Shop "Decent, airy Mediterranean diner" December 27, 2007 - There's a certain set of people who prefer their ethnic food accompanied by poor-lighting, a thrice-photocopied menu and a storefront that forces you to contort your body to fit into it. Costas is not such a place. A pleasant, casual sit-down place, Costas serves decent but unadventerous Greek. The Gryo platter was utilitarian - lamb/beef, tzatziki, and trimmings. Nothing is either offensive or blockbuster. It's a good time, but it almost makes you miss the hole-in-the-wall food experience, innavigable entryways be damned. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Mr. Gyro's "Fun atmosphere, good food" December 26, 2007 - Mr. Gyro's is the kind of hole-in-the-wall joint that Greek aficionados dream of. Two wise-cracking but nice twentysomething guys behind the counter delivering garlicky treats at reasonable prices. I've had many a gyro platter in my day, and Mr. Gyro did not deliver the best, but it was quite acceptable. The meat was very good, the tzatziki was pleasantly cucumber-y, but the hummus had - gasp - too much garlic, even for me. But for the price (reasonable) and the experience (fun), the food is good enough to make Mr. Gyro's worth trying. Even if I'm still not sure if spicing rice with cinnamon and then topping it with tzatziki totally works, I have to give them points for deviating from the standard formula. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Taste of India "Underrated" December 26, 2007 - I'm surprised that this place is hovering only around 80 percent, because I really enjoyed my visit. The roti was crispy but soft, and delicious all-around. The main dishes were amply-portioned and also ample in flavor. The true test of Indian cooking is whether spices drown out the flavor, and excessively dominate the dish. Here, they work together and in cooperation with the meat. Excellent! The only downside is that Roosevelt Way is a little ugly, but the interior makes up for the less-than-ideal location.Service too was wonderful, and they gave free dessert. Reasonably-priced, great food, enjoyable service. Recommended. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Pam's Kitchen "Roti - a welcome Seattle addition" December 23, 2007 - I'll admit that I'm naive about roti. So, I must make two disclaimers.First, I have no idea whether I'm being ripped off. I've read that, by island standards, this is way-expensive. Then again, this is Seattle, and living costs tend to make *everything* more expensive than on the streets of Chaguanas. It's not a steal (by even Seattle standards), but it also doesn't seem to be excessive.Second, I don't know how this holds up to roti in the Caribbean. It's hard to imagine that flaky goodness gets any flakier or goodness-er than this, but I hope it doesn't, because I fear for my carbohydrate intake once something better opens up.As you can probably already tell, I enjoyed Pam's Kitchen. I had the goat roti, with the version where some assembly is required (as opposed to the pre-filled roti, this one comes with all components separated). The goat was tender and reasonably juicy, and made for a perfect filling. I also got a spicy pumpkin side ($3), which was exactly as advertised, and a good complement to the main dish.Service was, contrary to the first report of the first reviewer, exemplary. They go by a sit-where-you-like system, but I was addressed promptly. I was also entertained by the cook briefly, who explained the positive medicinal effects of roti. I'm not sure if roti is responsible for curing all of the listed diseases, but if it is, I demand U.N. funding immediately, straight to my house.As mentioned, prices are moderate. Roti will run you $8 to $10, which seems high for the University District, but is about what this sort of food would run you elsewhere in town. Certainly, not enough to keep me away, but probably enough to deny me the prophylactic powers of Pam's delicacies.Recommended. 6 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Top Pot Doughnuts (Wedgewood) "Top Pot goodness for the suburbs" December 23, 2007 - There's a big contrast between the Belltown and Wedgwood branches of Top Pot. Belltown is a two-floor cosmopolitan joint with executives mingling with cups of coffee. The Wedgwood branch is much more of a neighborhood joint, occupying a former gas station. They are the polar opposites of each other, and accurately reflect their neighborhood's differences.The Wedgwood branch of Top Pot is just as good as Belltown's, though. The doughnuts and big and excellent, the coffee is good, and the staffers are friendly. The Wedgwood branch also has an attachment (in the old grease pit) for a library. Very quaint, very awesome.Worth checking out. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Bengal Tiger East Indian Cuisine "Excellent service and a nice atmosphere" December 23, 2007 - I made a quick appetizer-only stop by the Bengal Tiger. Their attentative staff was very understanding, and gave me full service, even if I wasn't buying an entree. Service was friendly, and my trout was good (even if the underlying lettuce base was a little uninspired). Of course, this was only an appetizer, and there wasn't much East Indian about it save for the delicious sauces that came along.I hope to be back to the Bengal Tiger, next time with more money. They deserve repeat business. 2 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Samir's Mediterranean Grill "Great service, good food, amazing prices" December 23, 2007 - I'm amazed that only four people have rated Samir's. He seems to get a lot of business, and justly so.There are usually three types of Mediterranean food. There's the cheap prepackaged crap, the midrange homemade stuff, and then the fancier sit-down fare. Samir's is great because the taste falls into the second category, while the prices are in the first.For $3.75 (for a limited time, granted) you can get a spicy gyro and a drink. And it's not a bad gyro at all! Sandwiches (including a delicious schwarma one) cost $3.50. This is a steal; I'd give it a recommendation for nearly double that. The falafel plate ("famous," it is) meets perfectly spiced falafel with a tame but inoffensive salad underpinning. It's good, it's reasonable, and it's fast. The only complaint about the food I can make is lukewarm pita, and that's a complaint I'd have to level against most every U-District restaurant (is this a regional variance?).The best part is Samir himself. He's a great guy - cheerful, chatty, and sure to remember you. Make sure to tip, because I'm sure his profit margins aren't so high!Recommended. 2 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Cedars Restaurant "Delicious rice-based Middle Eastern dishes" December 23, 2007 - God bless the 1300 block of Northeast 43rd. With Samir's and Cedars, it's a great place to get a delicious, cheap fix of Lebanese-style Mediterranean.At first, I was stunned that the two manage to exist in such proximity, especially when Cedars charges about 25 cents extra for everything. But when it comes down to it, I totally get how they can. Cedars has its own style. The owner is a lot quieter and there's less song and dance, but the dishes are served over a deliciously-sauced rice.I had the schwarma plate, which was quite good. The rice was steamed nicely. The sauce was present but not overwhelming. The meat was nice. The price, as with most U-District joints, was right.Cedars isn't the highest-quality Mediterranean ever, but for cheap stuff, it's a good, low-key sort of place. Missing Cedars just because Samir's is across the street would be unjust. 2 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Gretchens Place "Good coffee, good people, mediocre food" December 23, 2007 - Gretchen's is a nice morning stop for coffee. They serve Caffe Vita, a popular blend whose quality I cannot attest to. I can attest to the food. This is a step up from Starbucks pre-packaged sandwiches. The tuna salad was all right, although the tuna drowned out all of the other ingredients and was not all so hot. The people were nice, but the prices are too high. Then again, have you ever found a coffee place with reasonable prices for food? If so, please tell me.Gretchen's is nice on a cool day for a warm cup o' Joe and maybe a scone. But the sandwiches, I can take or leave. 2 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Pete's Egg Nest "Neighborhood greasy spoon with delicious twist" December 17, 2007 - I wasn't raised on eggs and hashed browns. They are, to me, no less exotic than pan-Asian or even African. This is because it took me 15 years to develop the ability to eat breakfast. Places like Pete's are why I'm glad I did.Pete's, located in a lovely part of Greenwood, is a place where you're treated like a regular no matter what. The older Greek woman (whose name I didn't catch) will make you feel at home. The coffee (which isn't great, but is good enough) flows freely. But the food is where it's at.The Greek scramble is the dish to get. It's a masterpiece of eggs with gyro meat, a light red sauce, tomatoes, olives, spinach, feta, with a side of tzatziki sauce and peta. What a breakfast!My companion's dish (the Napoli Scramble) was meaty and good, and would have been recommendable otherwise, but it was outshone by the Greek scramble. Not that it matters - no matter what you go for, Pete's is great.Recommended. 3 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Julia's Indonesian Kitchen "Quaint and tasty" December 17, 2007 - This is a great little place, tucked into a small house on 65th. Service is astounding - staff is attentive and extremely friendly without being cloying. The atmosphere is wonderful. Food is good too. Indonesian food is an interesting mix of the familiar and the unusual. As an appetizer, the risoles are heart-warming comfort food - sort of a savory stuffed pancake. I shared the rijsttafel (a selection of dishes with rice) with another person. Every single item was quite good. The only complaint that I can make is that the chicken was a little plain - good, certainly, but not exotic. The cheesecake easily made up for this mis-step - very creamy, and spiced in delightful ways.Recommended. 4 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Hangar Cafe "All-around good food in a cozy place" December 10, 2007 - When I heard of the Hangar Cafe, I was expecting something a little more edgy and hokey. Its location in industrial/residential/Boeing-driven Georgetown plus its draw (proximity to airplanes), and I was expecting a twentysomething haunt with industrial music. Not at all. Hangar Cafe, mercifully devoid of airplane tchotchkes and with just a little overhead noise, is just a great cafe.Food is simple, but delicious. The reuben was delicious - it didn't try to be anything but a nice pastrami sandwich. The Mexican wrap (I forget the exact name) was a bit more complex, but had ingredients that mixed well, and didn't end up cheese-centered and heavy like it could have.Hangar is a busy little place, and occupying a tiny one-story house, and you may have to wait outside in the cold a little bit if you hit at a bad time. Orders sometimes take a while, but this is only because the food is made from scratch. Servers are friendly and the prices are reasonable.Recommended. 8 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Squid & Ink "Rough around the edges, but the food is a safe bet" December 10, 2007 - There's a certain segment of the population that is going to be deeply freaked by Squid & Ink. It's a DIY/indie sort of place, but gravitates more toward the tattooed and pierced side than the KEXP one. It's also a great hangover spot. Breakfast is served until 4, and they stay open until midnight (six-packs are available to-go). It's also surprisingly cheap, not much moreso than a sandwich anywhere else, probably because it's less focused on seasoning to make up for the lack of meat than most vegan places are.I had the faux-fillet o' fish sandwich, a special item there. It was good stuff. I didn't miss the meat, and it was an unfussy affair that just delivered. My dining companion's chick pea sandwich was an acquired taste. The chickpeas were served cold while the rest of the sandwich was warm, but after a few bites, the surprise turned into refreshment.Our lunch entrees were both accompanied by a salad, which was garnished with a surprisingly classy vinaigrette. While the clientèle may be disproportionately dreadlocked, this is the sort of food you could take home to grandmother. And being that it's all-vegan, ethically sound too. Squid & Ink may be rough around the edges, but it's soft at heart. 7 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Trattoria Mitchelli "Unsatisfying Italian cuisine" December 06, 2007 - I am a stupid man.I recognized the name Mitchelli's from reviews. I'd remembered unenthusiastic descriptions of retro "Italian." Portions small, prices too high. But still I went. Shame on me.I had the pizza bianco (a solid $10), a thin-crust offering that was not horrible but not exciting. My co-diners did not fare so well - pasta sauce was anemic and deeply unsatisfying. Everyone kept reaching for the salt. The most fundamental Italian stand-bys (oils and spicing) were so misapplied, or not applied at all, that I wondered if this even applies as "Italian."Mitchelli's occupies the sort of culinary vacuum that requires an "-American" suffix appended so as not to slander the source nationality. It's in a great location and has a history. With a little more effort, it could represent the best of what Pioneer Square should be. Instead, it now seems to represent the stagnancy that it has become.Not recommended. 4 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Zeek's Pizza "Hit or miss" December 06, 2007 - Zeek's Pizza is a nice enough neighborhood pizza hang-out chainy sort of place. But I've found that a lot of their service depends on their crew. At best, it's good pizza delivered with a smile. At worst, it's mediocre pizza delivered with stonerish inconsistency. In a city with few pizza options, Zeek's isn't too bad, but if we were more spoiled, it wouldn't be around anymore. 5 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Tacos Guaymas "Better than it had any right to be" December 03, 2007 - Tacos Guaymas is a chain store, but each link in the chain is offered an unusual degree of latitude. Good thing, too. I've only been to the Fremont chain, but things were fresh and pleasant. This is so far ahead of Taco Bell and the like that it's not funny. While I would never take this over a sit-down hole-in-the-wall, it's great for a quick Mexican fix when you're on the go. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Despi Delite Bakery "Hit or miss on first visit" December 01, 2007 - I'm afraid that I can't give this place the sterling recommendation that some others can. Their Filipino pastries are quite solid, but the carrot cake I tried tasted like the frosting came out of a can, and flaked unpleasantly. It wasn't creamy or icy the way the good stuff is.Worth a second try, but definitely not for that one dish. 6 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Melting Pot "Specialized fondue experience" December 01, 2007 - For those of us with less money than sense and not much of either, the Melting Pot may not be the perfect choice. This is food for those who know what they are getting into or have a very generous expense account. Fondue is the order of the day, and everything is steeped in it. For fondue fans, the Melting Pot is a nice group event treat. For those who aren't so enamored, it's a decent enough meal for way too much money. This is an experience, and you pay for it. There are other event restaurants, though, but if fondue is your thing, The Melting Pot is the place. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Mediterranean Kitchen Express "High-end Greek on the cheap" December 01, 2007 - With a name like Mediterranean Kitchen Express (shortened to the heinously vague Mediterranean Express in the window), you'd think this is another average gyro emporium. Not so. This restaurant is affiliated with the Mediterranean Expresses in Lower Queen Anne and downtown Bellevue which serve up delicious, albeit expensive fare.The Express version is anything but expensive. A turkish coffee, a soda, a schwarma sandwich and a salad all come out to about $10. And the food is plentiful. The salad that Mediterranean Kitchen (the full version) eliminated from their menu is available here, with the garlicky sauce that I'd kill for in a bottle. The sandwiches are also delicious, and service is speedy and friendly.One of my favorite places in Seattle. Food that would fit in a high-end restaurant at ridiculously low prices. What's not to love?Highly recommended. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
El Quetzal "Mexican hole-in-the-wall delivers" December 01, 2007 - It's always good to see Mexican places that deviate from the standard formula. Not to hate on burritos and tacos (which are, by the way, heinously cheap here - and likely kick Taco Bell's butt). But there is better stuff here. First comes the chips and salsa, saved from ho-humdom from the inclusion of cactus (yes, cactus!) The base salsa is good, but the cactus adds a subtle kick that you can't quite describe, but makes you wish that little container was bigger.Main dishes are also great. The Mexican deli sandwiche (the name of which I unfortunatelly forgot to write down) was stellar, especially with the provided sauce - it perfectly compelemented the dish without drowning it out. Even the simple queso-y-pollo (cheese and chicken) dishes were done excellent, with a salsa roja that rounded the meal out delightfully.Prices were reasonable, service was unobtrusive, and times were all-around good.Recommended. 2 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Columbia City Bakery "Does everything well" November 23, 2007 - There's really no point in recommending one thing at Columbia City Bakery. They do everything well, from their pastries to their breads. It's also a very nice hang-out place. Exemplifies new Columbia City in all the right ways.Recommended. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Roy's BBQ "Would be worth it for almost twice the price" November 23, 2007 - Roy's BBQ in the newly-revitalized Columbia City historical district isn't your grandfather's barbecue. It's not hugely substantial - portions are generous but not excessive - and the meat isn't the only focus, even if it's the star.The Georgia Gold ($6) is the premier sandwich. It's a delicious pulled pork barbecue sandwich layered with mustard BBQ sauce and 'slaw. The meat is tender and delicious. The sauce just works. The buns (from next-door Columbia City Bakery) are light and fluffy but keep their integrity under the pile.Smoked fish taco ($3) was way better than it had any right to be. This is high-quality fish and a high-quality sauce. Again, everything just works. That this costs $3 is a testament to how reasonable this place is, not how low-quality the food is.Potato salad and cole slaw were both quite nice. I have to say that Connie's Mac 'n' Cheese ($2.75) was a little greasy and felt a little too homemade in that "you could easily make it in home" way. But I only mention this fault in the light of how wonderful everything else is.Perfect solid lunch for two: two Georgia Golds and two fish tacos. A great lunch for $10. What more can you ask for?Recommended. 2 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Addis Cafe "Ethiopians in an Ethiopian place: always a good sign" November 23, 2007 - I'll admit that I'm no expert in Ethiopian food. I can't vouch for the authenticity of Addis Cafe, but the fact that I was the sole non-Ethiopian there probably does. My greatest worry was that, with the pool table and bar area at Addis, this would be the equivalent of Ethiopian bar food.But my fears were completely neutralized. Spongy Injera bread supplies the foundation for beef tibs ($9.50). Unfortunately, they were out of Doro Watt (and Diet Coke, for that matter), but I wasn't disappointed. The beef was solid, and well-spiced (and a little spicy!). The Injera, kind of a cross between a flatbread, a pancake, and an edible doyley, was perfect for sopping up the spicy sauces.Prices are reasonable, portions are plentiful. Service is with a smile, although very casual - this is the sort of place where the owner is always hanging around with the regulars, even playing pool. Don't be discouraged by the neighborhood (a transitional sort of area by the hospitals which is deserted and somewhat unfriendly at night) - this is a treat, and worth the trip.Recommended. 2 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Senor Moose "A splash of brilliant color" November 18, 2007 - You'd be forgiven for being skeptical about a Mexican diner, in Ballard, named Cafe Moose. If I had found it in a phone book, I'd never have bothered. But that would be a major mistake.Cafe Moose is a wonderful addition to Ballard's booming restaurant scene. While breakfast is what made the place legendary, dinner is excellent too. Prices are reasonable, at par for a Mexican restaurant where thought has to go into every dish. And does it ever. The menu (which consists mostly of favorites you'd find at an actual Mexican restaurant - in Mexico) is unique. Dishes vary by region, and even the traditional (e.g., enchiladas) is twisted to make something new.Service was friendly, and although food took a long time to materialize, this was entirely forgivable. Plates here are beautiful, and the atmosphere is enjoyable too. The best Mexican diner in Seattle - and possibly best Mexican, period.Recommended. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Jalisco Mexican Restaurant (Queen Anne - 122 1st) "Archetypal Mexican" November 10, 2007 - There's nothing particularly adventurous or worth recommending about Jalisco. I went there a while, and have subsequently had no real reason to go back. The food is decent enough. The plates are reasonably large, and the atmosphere reasonably good. But there are few places in the U.S. that are not saturated with Mexican restaurants. It's not hard to make good Mexican food, but it's very easy to make OK Mexican food, and that's the notch that Jalisco falls comfortably into.Nothing stood out. Enchiladas were all right, but bored rather thoroughly. It's the sort of place where you remember eating, but remember your company much more. If you're looking for fast Mexican that will not offend anyone, this is an acceptable place. But you can do much better than acceptable. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Gordo's "A hidden Seattle treat" November 10, 2007 - Wandering down Seaview Avenue, past the apartments, event-y seaside restaurants and marina, stranded by the 46 bus not running on the weekends, can make one hungry. Which makes it a good thing for waterfront sojourners that Gordo's is around. In an obscure corner of the small community of Shilshole Bay, Gordo's is a treat.We walked up in the evening and were greeted by the eastern European couple who runs it (for 29 years, apparently, and more than happy to sell). They sell a range of treats, many of which are not found at your average burger stand. There's Ballard flavor to be fund in the Vurger, and the milkshakes would be excellent anywhere.If there were any justice in the world, Gordo's would be a Seattle landmark. Clearly, there's a hardcore clientèle enough to have kept Gordo's open for 29 years. Go soon - who knows how much longer it will stay open.Recommended. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
La Carta de Oaxaca "Good, but overrated" November 10, 2007 - La Carta de Oaxaca is a place for foodies. Located in an increasingly trendy part of Ballard, the restaurant is jam-packed with nice early thirtysomethings wearing scarfs and chatting about how their roommates resent their pets. Which I suppose explains the rating. Slightly overpriced, slightly under-portioned, slightly overcrowded, and slightly deviating from the normal Mexican formula, Oaxaca is adventurous enough to demand attention but not too adventurous as to scare away anyone.The rating of 90% here is a little overboard. The dining experienced was mixed. Service was slow. It first took 25 minutes to get a seat, which was excusable. But while everything came as ordered, the servers were not particularly friendly and clearly too busy to be bothered. Water is not provided unless by request, and refills are slow.Food was fine. Mole was rich and good, even for someone who has never been a big fan of mole. Pork was tender and served in a delicious sauce. Enchiladas, on the other hand, seemed somewhat underdeveloped, with cheese that didn't quite work.This isn't a bad restaurant, by any means. But I agree with the Seattle Times more than the overall UrbanSpoon rating. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Piecora's Original New York Pizza & Pasta "Good atmosphere, but only an OK pizza fix" November 04, 2007 - I have to give Piecora's credit for one thing. I've never seen a restaurant with so many employees working at once. There were plenty of people in the very-vibey restaurant, and yet nearly half of them must have been behind the counter. With this degree of staffing, I'd have expected more.I ordered a cheese pizza by the slice (reasonable price of about $2.50). This is not exactly a huge cross-section of the menu, but anecdotally, it seems I got the overall experience anyway. This isn't really New York pizza - it isn't foldable, and the crust veers more toward Chicago territory. But for what it is - reasonably cheap, fast pizza - it's all right.My piece was a little too thinly layered with cheese for my taste, and suffered from air bubble-induced blankness over too large of a section. This is perhaps excusable as unavoidable, but the crust wasn't. It was overcooked and crunchy in an unpleasant, almost-burnt way. I didn't find any intriguing seasoning or anything of the sort to separate Piecora's from the competition,I found service to be all right. I got my piece way faster than I'd expected for it being made to order. But (again, anecdotally) I've heard of abrasive service at this place before.The best part of the restaurant easily is the atmosphere. When I went, the patrons were friendly, and clearly enjoying themselves. There was no bleached Pizza Shack to-go quietness. It crawls with Capitol Hill vibrancy, and is all the better for it.There are better options for pizza out there, but if it's 11 PM, you're in the neighborhood of 14th and Madison, and you're not looking for a transcendent experience, Piecora's should be good enough. 2 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Island Soul "Colorful, well-seasoned dining expierience" November 04, 2007 - A block off an obscure stretch of MLK Jr. Way in Mt. Baker (and, yes, there is a restaurant up what looks quite like an exclusively residential hill), Casuelita's Island Soul is a hidden treat. From first sight of the color-soaked facade, it's clear that this place has no right to be anything but excellent. And, fortunately, it is.We sat down at an immaculate table with a pleasant view of the neighborhood (it's just blocks from I-90, but you'd never know). It was 2 PM, but the dinner menu was already in effect. Although they were entertaining a large group of regulars, the staff was prompt, albeit soft-spoken. We ordered, and food was delivered more promptly than the "dishes made to order; please allow some time for your dining experience" would suggest. This warning is probably more about the quantity of food than preparation time. Come hungry.The first item to arrive was the coconut cornbread (free with entrees, also available at two for a buck). It was the sort of crumbly masterpiece that transcends the line between cornbread and cake. The inclusion of coconut served as a tropical splash that added up to one of the finest side dishes I've ever had.Entrees, too were excellent. This is the sort of restaurant where every menu item looks promising. Jerk chicken was seasoned well and avoided the dryness that sometimes plagues the dish. BBQ chicken was an even more delicious concoction, with a sweetly tangy sauce that should be on every kitchen table in America.Side dishes for the main meal were strong too. The rice and beans was steamed well and dashed lightly with bits of onion. The collared greens avoided the trap of a vinegar drowning; instead, they were sprinkled with peppers and bits of carrot to create a twist on a classic that delivered new flare while keeping principles intact.The dessert menu looked comparably good. The strawberry mango cheesecake was tempting, but alas living to middle age took precedence.Although not exactly a "steal," prices were quite reasonable considering the quality and quantity of the dishes. This is filling, main-meal-of-the-day sort of food. Casuelita's Island Soul is just the sort of Friday night kick-in-the-gut down-home meal that Seattle needs. Here's hoping they'll take a bite.Recommended. 2 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Kokoras Greek Grill "No revelation, but good sit-down Greek" October 27, 2007 - I usually don't write reviews for places so long after I go to them. I swore I did so already, but it seems not. Caveat emptor: It's been months.Kokoras is a very strong place. It's not much of a hole-in-the -wall. If you're looking for a meaty, saucy, savage place of deliciousness, this isn't the place (I recommend Byblos Deli in Bellevue). But if you're looking for a mannered, pretty plate in a casual-but-sophisticated atmosphere, Kokoras is excellent.This is nothing fans of Mediterranean haven't seen before, although it's not all staple food. But in a part of Seattle that is seriously lacking in quality restaurants, this is a nice find. This is probably the best restaurant in West Seattle Junction, and the best Greek I've been familiarized with south of Interstate 90.Recommended. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Gorgeous George's "Delicious, savory and reasonable Mediterranean fare" October 27, 2007 - We were lucky enough to come during the Greenwood Trick-or-Treat for Kids day. While Chef George was clearly primarily focused on entertaining the kids (at first delivering candy directly at the door, and then with frenzied and silly yells from the kitchen), the food did not disappoint.Grape leaves were excellent. The taste was not cloying, and even the vegetarian version was substantial. Salad was also excellent, with a green garlic sauce. Schwarma, both chicken and lamb, in plate and sandwich form, was - excluding one tough bite - tender, flavorful, and spiced brilliantly. Portions were generous but not excessive. Prices, too, were reasonable, with a solid lunch with appetizer coming in under $15.Baklava ($3, ask to split your order between two people) was delicious and crumbly with a hint of rose water. Staff were friendly, although the restaurant opened late and beverage refill was slow. Atmosphere was pleasant, clean and friendly.An enjoyable, delicious experience at a reasonable price, Gorgeous George's is easily one of Seattle's best Mediterranean offers. Very close to my personal exclusive "best of Seattle" list; perhaps one more visit on a day where there aren't kids to entertain. Not that I half minded! It's good to see a restaurant which knows how to appeal to future customers.(Greenwood Avenue, where George's is located, is an underrated neighborhood full of vibrancy and unpretentious - but not trashy - stores and restaurants. It's an enjoyable walk and also recommended.)Recommended. 3 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Mediterranean Kitchen (Bellevue) "Excellent, but miss the salads" July 26, 2007 - Come to the Mediterranean Kitchen hungry and ready to be sated. The Kitchen, located in a pleasant part of lower Queen Anne, provides you with both quantity and quality. Walk in and you will immediately be presented with a delicious soup of the day. After that's done with, their salad - with a wonderful garlic dressing - materializes. The main event is a plateful of a gloriously garlicy item of your choice. Dessert is available for the bottomless, and it's healthy enough that it won't add too much to your bottom. Recommended.(Since this review is written, salads are no longer offered with meals. Personally, I think this is a major loss. I'm not sure if this applies to the Seattle location.) 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Salumi "Brilliant for meat lovers - but not much of a "sandwich" place" July 03, 2007 - Located in the heart of Pioneer Square's slum district, Armandino Batali's Salumi is not quite worth the wait outside. Lines are typically long, especially around lunchtime, and may be as much as 30 minutes. Even standing out in the rain, though, the scents of the spiced and cured meats gently drifted through the line. A riot was forming.Inside is a sort of Slaughterhouse-Five for vegetarians. Meats hang violently from hooks; they are chopped up in front of you in line. Orders are processed fairly quickly, but the operation is as small as it is succinct, and waiting times are inevitable. If you're lucky enough to find a table, you'll get the opportunity for good conversation and decent food.They were closing up before vacation, so options were somewhat limited. My dining companion and I split a lamb sandwich and a pork-based one. Bread was, however, too thick - I ended up not using it as a sandwich, but rather to sop up the little residue there was, and then ate the rest separately. It wasn't even that great.Overall, I have to say I was disappointed. The meat was well-spiced and meaty, but it was really the only taste. This might be an odd complaint, but it's not personally what I'm looking for in the restaurant experience. I wish they focused less on the meat (which they have perfected), and more on the sandwich element.Perhaps I was expecting too much. This may be a legendary joint, but I can't help but feel that it is overrated. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Byblos Deli "Unjustly overlooked" May 21, 2007 - Those looking for Mediterranean food in the downtown Bellevue area are likely to go one block up Bellevue Way to the excellent Meditteranean Kitchen and overlook Byblos Deli. Doing so would be a major error.Byblos is a very different place from the Mediterranean Kitchen. It's a hole-in-the-wall/ethnic market better suited for take-out than the decidedly-sit down Kitchen (although Byblos does have a few pleasant tables).Food here ranges from the standards - gyro and falafel - to slightly more adventurous fare. It's all deliciously spiced and wonderful. Try whatever sparks your fancy, and don't be scared to try something new.The market portion too (not reviewed here) is also excellent. This place is even worth the bus trip from Seattle. See what's changed in Bellevue, and have some great food.Highly recommended. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Panda Express (Bellevue) "A step up from $1 Chinese" May 21, 2007 - I'm not quite sure why I wandered into the Bellevue branch of Panda Express. I knew from the Lakewood Mall branch what to expect. I'd been dragged there by friends and resented it. So, why did I venture? Morbid curiosity, probably.Panda Express feels to me like one of those places that should offer $1 Chinese. For some reason, it doesn't - the prices here actually are much higher than I'd imagined. It is express-y, which is a good thing, but the food was chewy and uninteresting.There are much better places for Chinese. Not recommended. 2 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Queen Anne Specialty Market "The upscale corner market" May 21, 2007 - This is a quintessentially Queen Anne place (although in an oddly no man's land location). The Specialty Market combines your corner supermarket with a polished deli. Most items here are your daily needs, but this is far removed from a 7/11. Sandwiches are also available - they're not great, but they're solid.Prices are higher, but if you can afford this, this is as good as corner markets get. 2 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Crocodile Cafe "Better as a venue than a restaurant" May 21, 2007 - The Crocodile Cafe is a pretty awesome venue for music. A weird one too, at least from the exterior - it really does look like a greasy spoon. But when it comes down to the food, it's greasy spoon all around. There are twists on the American classics, but the Crocodile doesn't try for much other than a diner. That's not to say it doesn't do that well - but not well enough to attract attention.My main complaints are as follows: food is good, in that unimpressive greasy-but-decent way. Service is surprisingly unfriendly for a place that should thrive on atmosphere (and they really don't like groups). The prices are hardly a steal.Perhaps it's better to think of the Crocodile as a music venue with great food - for a music venue. As a stand-alone cafe, it's all right, but there are better choices. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Lola "Good, but nothing to write home about" May 21, 2007 - First of all, don't fall for Lola's moderate price symbol. This is nosh fair on some dishes, while others provide a fuller meal. This is also not a romantic place, which runs somewhat counterintuitive to its potential. Lola was quite loud, at least on my visit. I like how the Seattle Times put it - "unintentionally kid-friendly."Overall, my visit was pleasant. The food was good, the atmosphere was at least clean, but I just didn't really feel much to keep me coming. The only reason I'd probably consider returning is to try the six-spread sampler ($14 - or $3 per indivudual spread), but with the power of the individual spreads, that seems like it would be a bit overwhelming.Lola isn't bad, but nothing had me itching to come back. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Malena's Taco Shop "Unassuming, inexpensive Mexican to please all" May 21, 2007 - Malena's, located in a small strip in a residential part of Queen Anne, will please everyone in the family. It's helf-concious, but not sparse; it's authentic, but not puritanical. And, of course, it tastes great.On my visit, I had the veggie burrito ($7). It was a rainy day, but with laughter from the staff and the Mexican radio buzzing, staring out at the drizzle was no big deal. And the food was warm and lovely. Even though I was on my own that day, a generous serving of salsa and chips was provided. Salsa was smooth and creamy, with a pleasantly soupy consistency.The veggie burrito was also excellent. The tortilla was pleasantly crispy and the ingredients were fresh. Rice was made to perfection, and the vegetables complemented each other wonderfully.Complaints? Two, and minor. The onion provided a little too much "kick" on some bites. Also, I had to re-order my Coke because the servers, while very friendly, are not all fully fluent. And, of course, this is unlikely to please those looking for flavors they've never experienced before.Overall, though, Malena's is a great little place and provides a warm splash of flavor on a grey Seattle day - or a sunny one, for that matter. 2 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Aladdin Gyrocery "Quality college food" May 13, 2007 - The discerning college student who wants never to see pho again could do worse than Aladdin. The gyros here (it now advertises as a "Gyro-cery" instead of a "Falafel Corner") are good - certainly better than the prepackaged Kronos stuff found at most stores. Atmosphere is very collegiate - a narrow hallway/ordering area leads to a back, windowless eating area. Falafel is also solid. This isn't destination stuff, but the price is right and the food is filling.Recommended. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Seattle Deli "Good sandwiches, especially for the price" May 13, 2007 - Asian sandwiches are notoriously inexpensive. Seattle Deli's prices have increased a good deal with positive press over the last few years. Contrary to these reviews, the sandwiches now range from $1.50 to $2.50 or so. It's still worth it - the "Special Sandwich" is strong, and for just a bit more, the BBQ Pork sandwich is also decent, if not a bit dry.But what gets this place my thumbs-up is the other items - for the anglos, there are plenty of weird, quirky and sweet Asian goodies. Do yourself and order something more foreign. The pastries are quite delicious.Not a godsend, but the price is right and the food is decent. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Paseo "My favorite Seattle restaurant - period" May 13, 2007 - I came here after reading rave reviews of the Midnight Cuban sandwich. Even though I arrived earlyish for dinner (5 PM), they were already art of all sandwiches! Boo hiss. Instead, I ordered menu item #26, a Cuban tofu dish. Delicious - perfectly spiced and on a bed of perfectly steamed rice. Also on the side was a wonderful bean soup and well-dressed "pickled" salad, both of which were given similar loving attention.The location is a little spartan - a basically-unlabeled storefront on a nice stretch of Fremont Avenue. There are only a few tables, and quarters are cramped; groups need not apply. Service was friendly and remarkably quick.A subsequent trip allowed me to enjoy the gastrological euphoria that was the Midnight Cuban. Put simply, this was the best sandwich I have ever experienced. Simply delicious. Come early, come often.Highly recommended. 3 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Mr D's Greek Delicacies "Greek fast food" May 13, 2007 - Mr. D's is not bad by the standards of Greek fast food. Gyros were clearly prepackaged meat, and nothing very special. Spanakopita was certainly decent enough. But there's nothing other than the convenient Pike Place locale to recommend eating here. If you have the craving and need a cheap, fast Greek fix, go here. Otherwise, there are better options in Seattle. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Copacabana "Good food, terrible service" May 13, 2007 - It pains me to give Seattle's only Bolivian restaurant a thumbs-down vote. Especilaly considering the food's strength and its incredible second-floor location across from Pike Place Market, this should be an easy thumbs-up. But the last two times I went, service was horrible. Both times, my order was first "lost" and then took a long time to arrive. When it did, it was undercooked once. I did not have this experience a few years ago. I will give it one third and final try, but even the food and view don't warrant such horrendous service. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Fremont Classic Pizzeria & Trattoria "A good place for custom pizza" May 10, 2007 - Why bother with Pizza Hut when you can get a pizza with calamari on it? Fremont Classic Pizzeria offers a range, from the more timid cheese, over to the aforementioned calamari and aioli sauce (a personal favorite). I'd personally go with the more complicated pizzas; the cheese is decent but unremarkable. Frankenstein pizzamaking is one of the best draws, as is the surprisingly quiet but vibrant ambiance. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Uwajimaya Village Food Court "All serviceable - but avoid Shilla" May 10, 2007 - Everything at the food court at Uwajimaya is all right. You can get a good cross-section of tastes, and it's nice for groups with picky eaters (as long as everyone likes oriental or Pacific Island food). The lone exception for me is the Korean restaraunt, Shilla, which I personally found to be quite bad the one time I tried it. This isn't the best food to be found in the International District, but it certainly is the best guarantee that everyone will find something they like. Non-groups who aren't in a rush can do much better. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
La Isla "A big restaurant in a small locale" May 10, 2007 - La Isla is the sort of thing that should be big. The tapas are excellent, the happy hour is generous (even for those of us too young for alcohol) and the food is all great. There are all kinds of choices here, from seafood to beef. Spices are excellent, and garlic is used to good effect. The alcohol selection is also very good. The only downside? Limited seating for those happy hour deals - this restaurant is so small, it borders on hole-in-the-wall.Recommended. 2 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Pagliacci "Greasy and fatty...for better or worse" May 10, 2007 - That description might turn some off, but not the core clientele of Pagliacci Pizza. It's a Seattle staple, with fast delivery and local charm. Combinations are somewhat curious and uncommon, so no complaints can be made there. But I found the pizza to be too heavy, the slices too thin and the prices too high. But it's certainly better than the chains, with the possible exception of Papa John's. Delivery to a hotel in Belltown was prompt and smooth. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Mee Sum Pastry "Do yourself a favor - try the BBQ Pork humbow" May 10, 2007 - Navigate yourself through the crowded Pike Place Sanitary Market storefronts to get to Mee Sum Pastry. The BBQ Pork Humbow here is enough to make this a destination. They're meaty, delicious pastries - lightly sweet bread with barbecue pork filling. Mee Sum also offers other traditional Chinese pastries. Crab ragoon is a small, but sating portion of crab meat and cream cheese deep-fried in pure joy. Any more of it, and it'd kill you. A unique Seattle location with reasonable prices, delicious food and the vibrancy of Pike Place Market. The only downside is that, because it's just a storefront, there's no place to sit.Highly recommended for a quick snack. 2 people like this review - Recommend |
|
World Wrapps "Quick and decent" May 10, 2007 - World Wrapps is a chain store where pretty much every location is identical (from what I gather), but this the only location I've been to. Having gone, I can't say that it's an experience I really need to duplicate again. It's not bad food, but for the price, the portions should be a little bigger. This is very strong for a chain store, but still impersonal. If you find yourself looking for quick, healthy and cheap food in the University Village, this is where to go. But otherwise, it's best to make the journey into the U-District. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Bell Thai "Decent, mannered Thai" May 10, 2007 - I wasn't entirely impressed with Bell Thai. It's not that it's bad by any means, but there's nothing that makes it particularly unique. The restaurant is clean and pleasant, as is the food. The wait staff are friendly but not intrusive. However, there's nothing to strongly recommend. The pad thai was nice enough, but the pad se-ew was not impressive. The prices weren't bad, but not really a deal. Overall, a perfectly average joint recommended for Thai aficionados only. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Top Pot Doughnuts (Belltown) "Doughnut revolution" May 10, 2007 - Top Pot is located in an unassuming location in Belltown along the monorail route, but it's worth the walk from even downtown. I don't know what they make their doughnuts with (I'm not sure I want to), but it's delicious. This is also a good hang-out place - it's roomy, and there's free wireless Internet. For the more health-conscious, coffee and juice is also available. But everyone should be obligated to try at least one of their delicious, artery-killing discs of hole-centered joy.Recommended. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Dick's Drive-in (Capitol Hill) "Food for nostolgia, but in a great location" May 10, 2007 - What can really be said about Dick's? It's about tradition. A Seattle landmark for generations, the drive-in (with several locations around Seattle) serves up good old-fashioned hamburgers which must be dipped in grease at least a dozen times. Everything about Dick's is greasy, in fact - from the burgers to the fries to the service people to even the napkins. Of course, it all tastes good, but what doesn't when it's been deep-fried in joy? The burgers here just aren't all that good, but that's not what people come for anyway. It's the experience.The Capitol Hill Dick's has one thing on all of the others, which is location. It's basically in the middle of a random parking lot on Broadway. This is a central Capitol Hill meeting place, and maintains an almost tailgate party-like atmosphere. If you're going to do Dick's, this is my personal favorite place to. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Dick's Drive-in (Wallingford) "Food for nostolgia" May 10, 2007 - What can really be said about Dick's? It's about tradition. A Seattle landmark for generations, the drive-in (with several locations around Seattle) serves up good old-fashioned hamburgers which must be dipped in grease at least a dozen times. Everything about Dick's is greasy, in fact - from the burgers to the fries to the service people to even the napkins. Of course, it all tastes good, but what doesn't when it's been deep-fried in joy? The burgers here just aren't all that good, but that's not what people come for anyway. It's the experience. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Zaina "A mystical journey - but not food to match" May 10, 2007 - It's a good thing that I went to Zaina with friends, because otherwise I'm not sure I would have dared stepped into the place. The combination Palestinian-inspired Middle Eastern restaurant/hookah bar/electronic music club, Zaina perspires weird from every pore. But it's the kind of weird Pioneer Square needs, and the ambiance - young and hip - suits it well. It's a shame that the food doesn't quite match. I found the baba ghanoush to be underspiced and the hummus was a little dry. This may have just been the night, because the workers seemed overwhelmed. But, overall, I just can't say that the funky atmosphere carried over into the food. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Café By Hillside Quickie "Red-blooded vegan burgers" May 10, 2007 - A little-known fact: Dick's isn't where to go in Seattle when you want a burger fix. Hillside Quickies, which also has sister locations on Capitol Hill and in Tacoma, offers delicious, meaty burgers that contain no meat whatsoever. The Mama Africa Burger combines tofu with African spices to perfection. Not only does it taste like a burger, it tastes like a damn good burger. Also great is the Mac and Yease (made of nutritional yeast and at least 20 times better than it sounds). This isn't vegan food for the anorexic hippie set. It's greasy, meaty and satisfying.I do have a few good-natured half-complaints. When I say greasy, I mean greasy; it may turn some off. Prices here are high, not all so surprising considering the preparation difficulty, and things take a while to cook. I also must say that while the U-District shop has the best selection of the three, I was very much disappointed that they serve fries in lieu of the rice dish on the side that the other locations give (which is much better and much more fitting). Still, though, this is a great place.Minor differences only between the U-District and Cap Hill locales: U-District is physically much larger and with a few more menu items, and the U-District locale is closed on Sundays. The Capitol Hill location is a little funkier and younger, with KEXP in lieu of NPR and green paint that borders on bad taste but ends up just contributing to the vibe.Recommended. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
University Teriyaki "College students can do better" May 10, 2007 - This teriyaki joint located in the heart of the University District is the ultimate college hang-out. Orders are taken quickly by a not-unfriendly but brusque attendant, and then delivered to your table. Portions are decently-sized, but I personally found the meat to be a little on the dry side. Not that it matters; this is not gourmet fare. The salad was particularly uninspiring. For not much more, they could at least have included a better dressing. For those who like teriyaki and don't need a high-end dining experience, this is serviceable food. But there's better college food around here. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Three Girls Bakery "A nice bakery at Pike Place Market" May 09, 2007 - The Sanitary Public Market (a name one hopes is a holdover from at least 100 years ago) is home to a number of small, high-volume places, most of which are surprisingly good. Three Girls is a fairly standard bakery, which excels in what it does. Of course, with few exceptions, bakeries are a matter of taste and selection. Three Girls offers something for everyone, and all of it seems quite solid. A good place to sate your sweettooth with that Pike Place ambience. 3 people like this review - Recommend |
|
Ivar's Seafood Bar "The best of the waterfront set" May 09, 2007 - The educated Seattle tourist might be familiar with the maxim that it's best to stay away from the waterfront. There's some truth to it - the seafood restaurants along it tend to be overpriced and of middling quality. One strong exception is Ivar's, a beheamouth of a place which looks like it would have horrible food but doesn't. The fish taco is strong, as are the plain old fish 'n' chips. The worst part: fitting the tartar sauce into those tiny little cups, and carrying them to your own table! 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
El Puerco Lloron "Truly authentic Mexican" May 09, 2007 - You've probably read all about "authentic Mexican." Don't believe the hype until you go to El Puerco Lloron. Located on the Pike Market hillclimb perilously close to the Alaskan Way Viaduct, El Puerco Lloron ("the crying pig") is truly authentic. Delicious tamales are rolled in homemade corn tortillas. Dishes are served cafeteria-style, and it matches the rickety old metal tables. The sole garnish is a leek, but you won't miss the refried beans.This isn't for everyone. It's small-scale and not really a dining "experience." It's simple, quality, and enjoyable. This is less of a restaurant than what you wish your kitchen always was.Recommended. (Although I have to say that the other reviewer here has valid points.) 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Cheesecake Factory "Why go chain?" May 09, 2007 - Downtown Seattle's Cheesecake Factory is a Cheesecake Factory. The music is loud, the atmosphere is loud and the prices are prohibitive. The food here is not good, but that goes without saying. If you're downtown, though, and can't find a better place for dessert, this would be a good stop-in - if it weren't for the lines. Oh well; at least the cheesecake could be worse.Not recommended. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Mediterranean Kitchen (Roy St.) "Lots and lots of great food" May 09, 2007 - Come to the Mediterranean Kitchen hungry and ready to be sated. The Kitchen, located in a pleasant part of lower Queen Anne, provides you with both quantity and quality. Walk in and you will immediately be presented with a delicious soup of the day. After that's done with, their salad - with a wonderful garlic dressing - materializes. The main event is a plateful of a gloriously garlicy item of your choice. Dessert is available for the bottomless, and it's healthy enough that it won't add too much to your bottom.Highly recommended. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Pan Africa Market "A delicious journey through Africa" May 09, 2007 - You could go into the depths of the Central District in search for authentic African, but you need not. Just blocks from Pike Place Market is P.A.M. Despite the location, P.A.M. makes no concessions to the tourist market. Instead, it just delivers awesome African food. All ends of the continent are represented, although my favorite is the chicken yassa. The sole warning is that, on one visit, the chicken yassa was unbearably spicy, probably due to a kitchen accident. But the restaurant is run like clockwork, with friendly and prompt service, so this was likely an anomaly.Highly recommended. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Hillside Quickie's Vegan Sandwich Shop "Red-blooded vegan burgers" May 09, 2007 - A little-known fact: Dick's isn't where to go in Seattle when you want a burger fix. Hillside Quickies, which also has sister locations on Capitol Hill and in Tacoma, offers delicious, meaty burgers that contain no meat whatsoever. The Mama Africa Burger combines tofu with African spices to perfection. Not only does it taste like a burger, it tastes like a damn good burger. Also great is the Mac and Yease (made of nutritional yeast and at least 20 times better than it sounds). This isn't vegan food for the anorexic hippie set. It's greasy, meaty and satisfying.I do have a few good-natured half-complaints. When I say greasy, I mean greasy; it may turn some off. Prices here are high, not all so surprising considering the preparation difficulty, and things take a while to cook. I also must say that while the U-District shop has the best selection of the three, I was very much disappointed that they serve fries in lieu of the rice dish on the side that the other locations give (which is much better and much more fitting). Still, though, this is a great place.Minor differences only between the U-District and Cap Hill locales: U-District is physically much larger and with a few more menu items, and the U-District locale is closed on Sundays. French fries were used in lieu of delicious rice side at the U-District location, but this may have been a one-time thing.Recommended. 1 person likes this review - Recommend |
|
Coastal Kitchen "Busy New American seafood joint delivers" |