Seattle is a food lover’s paradise, with a diverse array of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From seafood to fusion, fine dining to casual eats, the Emerald City has it all. With so many options, it can be hard to narrow down the best of the best. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the five best restaurants in Seattle and why you should try each one!

1. Canlis
   Canlis is an iconic fine-dining establishment in Seattle that has been operating since 1950. The restaurant boasts breathtaking views of Lake Union and the city skyline, making it a popular spot for special occasions and romantic dinners. Canlis offers a multi-course tasting menu that changes seasonally and features locally sourced ingredients. The menu is a fusion of Pacific Northwest and international flavors, with dishes like smoked salmon mousse, Wagyu beef, and roasted quail.
2. The Walrus and the Carpenter
   The Walrus and the Carpenter is a cozy oyster bar located in the trendy Ballard neighborhood. The restaurant has a casual and laid-back vibe, with an open kitchen and communal seating. The menu is focused on fresh seafood, with a daily rotating selection of oysters from the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Other standout dishes include grilled octopus, clam chowder, and crab toast. The restaurant doesn’t take reservations, so be prepared to wait for a table during peak hours.
3. Altura
   This fine dining Italian restaurant located in the Capitol Hill neighborhood. Altura offers a tasty menu that changes daily and features fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant has won numerous awards, including a James Beard Foundation Award for Best Chef Northwest in 2016. Additionally, Altura is known for its impressive wine list, with over 1,000 bottles to choose from, and a talented sommelier to guide you through the selection.
4. Revel
   Revel is a Korean-inspired restaurant in the Fremont neighborhood that offers a playful take on traditional dishes. The restaurant is split into two sections: the bar, which offers a selection of small plates and cocktails, and the dining room, which offers a full menu of shareable plates. Standout dishes include the short rib dumplings, spicy pork belly, and kimchi fried rice.
   Revel’s atmosphere is casual and fun, with graffiti art and neon signs decorating the walls.
5. Cafe Juanita
   Cafe Juanita is an Italian-inspired restaurant located in the Kirkland neighborhood, just outside of Seattle. The restaurant has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, with a focus on locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. The menu features classic Italian dishes like pasta and risotto, as well as creative takes on Northwest ingredients, like the roasted duck breast with wild mushrooms and huckleberry sauce. This restaurant also has an extensive wine list, with a focus on Italian and Northwest varietals, and a knowledgeable sommelier to guide you through the selection.

Conclusion

Seattle’s dining scene is a true reflection of the city’s diverse culture, with restaurants that cater to every taste and budget. Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining or casual eats, seafood or fusion cuisine, the Emerald City has it all. If you’re planning a trip to Seattle, be sure to add these restaurants to your must-visit list. You won’t be disappointed!