Monsoon Seattle, Altstadt, The Nest, Now on The Resy Hit List

Because Monsoon offers an extensive menu of Vietnamese favorites that goes far beyond pho. Enjoy classics like caramelized catfish claypot with fresh coconut juice and green onion, as well as wok-tossed lamb with sweet onion, dry-roasted chili, and fermented black bean. Cap it off with a round of craft cocktails for good measure, too.

Because recreate Oktoberfest in Pioneer Square’s lively beer hall—complete with a fireplace—over pretzels and traditional German dishes. Order from a menu that includes a variety of specialties like schnitzel wiener art (breaded Carlton Farms pork loin with fresh sauerkraut) and käsespätzle (spätzle, Beecher’s cheese, caramelized onions, pretzel bread crumbs) and wash it down with a boot of pilsner. Pro-tip add a bit of lemon or grapefruit for a radler.

Because savor Pacific Northwest seafood at this Ballard spot that’s a perfect escape for those not wanting to leave warmer weather behind. Approachable, tasty, and boasting an oyster bar and live lobster and crab tanks, opt for dishes like Oysters Rockefeller; fish and chips featuring Old Bay fries; and the Annex Lobster roll.

Because with its cozy small-town cafe vibes, Volunteer Park Cafe serves up American classics and standbys with an Italian touch. A popular place for a casual breakfast or lunch, the restaurant transforms at dinnertime with candle-lit table service.

Because with a view atop the Thompson Hotel that spans the Puget Sound, the aptly-named Nest is a worthwhile retreat. Nosh on small plates (think confit boar ribs with kalbi sauce, sesame seeds, and scallions and prawn skewers) at one of the intimate fireside tables or retreat to the terrace for sunset cocktails. 

Because come for the house-made pita and stay for the signature soft-serve. A newcomer to the Beacon Hill neighborhood, Homer chef Logan Cox (formerly of Sitka & Spruce) is serving up Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes, like lamb ragu over tahini, albacore tuna with shishito peppers, red onion, and mint.

Walk-ins only.

Because enjoy Chinese Zodiac-inspired cocktails alongside the sensational namesake popcorn chicken, which is made with Taiwanese spices. A new concept by I-Miun Liu, the woman behind Oasis Tea Zone and Dynasty Room, East Trading Company serves up herbaceous cocktails, delicious bar bites, and “fancy” instant ramen.

Walk-ins only.

Because warm up in cooler weather with a healthy dose of mezcal and queso fundido. El Sirenito (the sister restaurant of nearby Fonda La Catrina) lives up to being a marisquería with dishes like calamares fritos with poblano chile sauce and bite-sized fish tacos. Cozy up in the backyard outdoor space, where fire pits are ablaze to accompany each smoky sip of mezcal.

Walk-ins only.

Because it’s hard to beat a warm, flavorful pot of Korean stew cooked tableside. A unique concept for Korean food in Seattle, One Pot has electric burners built into each place setting, so soups are served in individual portions, accompanied by a simplified bibimbap (rice with bean sprouts, spinach, carrots, and zucchini—with a bottle of gochujang to use at your discretion).

Walk-ins only.

Because in the city landscape of Szechuan restaurants, Little Chengdu shines. In addition to the restaurant’s specialty—dan dan noodles—other fiery dishes that pack just the right amount of heat include the spicy wontons and mapo tofu.

For reservations, contact the restaurant at (206) 760-9263.