Seattle has been a destination we’ve wanted to explore for years. We love seafood, and the city is known for its fish, oysters, and of course also coffee! During our trip, we found a lot of fantastic seafood, and also a few surprises along the way. We’d recommend skipping the iconic Pike’s Place Market and head to some of these must-visit gems instead.
Taylor Shellfish Farms
Looking for the best oysters in town? Starting at one of the Taylor Shellfish Oyster Bars for a casual lunch or happy hour. The tanks in the middle of the room are filled with fresh shellfish, in addition to oysters. One of our favorite dishes was the Dungeness crab.
Taylor Shellfish Farms, Multiple Locations
The Walrus and The Carpenter & The Barnacle
Head to any of Chef Renee Erickson’s restaurants and you won’t be disappointed. If you like seafood, we suggest starting with The Walrus and The Carpenter. Put your name on the list and then head to Barnacle next door for an apertivo, a glass of wine, Spritz, or Negroni along with a snack on a can of tinned fish while you wait. Get Erickson’s cookbook A Boat, a Whale & a Walrus. It’s a favorite in our house.
The Walrus and The Carpenter & Barnacle, 4743 Ballard Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107
Pestle Rock
For amazing Isan Thai food, head to Pestle Rock, serving dishes from the northeastern region of Thailand. Try the Khoa Phad Prik Sod Neua made with certified Piedmontese beef – stir-fried with onion, bell pepper, fresh chilies, and basil.
Pestle Rock, 2305 NW Market St, Seattle, WA 98107
Damn the Weather
Stop here for cocktails, a glass of natural wine, beer, or local oysters in Pioneer Square. Don’t miss the fried green tomato sandwich with a side of chicken fat fries.
Damn the Weather, 116 1st Ave S, Seattle, WA 98104
La Marzocco Cafe
This is an espresso lover’s paradise, set inside KEXP’s Seattle Center, just down the street from the Space Needle. There’s a rotating line up of roasters where each month a new roaster is featured along with a new menu. Those roasters are also featured in their home espresso subscription. You’ll be able to test out and explore the different espresso machines and hone your barista skills. (See our La Marzocco Factory tour outside of Florence Italy here.)
La Marzocco Cafe, 472 1st Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
Sponsored by Alaska Airlines.