Il Nido, Woodblock, Conversation, Now on the Resy Hit List

Because anything by Mike Easton—of Il Corvo fame—is worthy of a visit. Located in an old log house in West Seattle, Il Nido is rustic and elegant, and boasts Easton’s homemade pastas in a full-service environment. Highlights include the farro girasoli served with charred spring onion and almond pesto and castelvetrano focaccia served with housemade lardo—each bite is a silky pillowy heaven.

Because it doesn’t get much better than fish tacos on the water after a jaunt on a kayak or paddle board. Enjoy the view by Montlake Bridge while feasting on Baja-style plates (think enchiladas, tacos, and burritos, plus a salsa bar with homemade varieties) alongside margaritas and agua frescas.

Walk-ins only.

Because no one serves modern cuisine in Seattle like Conversation does. From its innovative cocktails and uniquely curated wine list, to imaginative appetizers and desserts, the menu here is something to talk about. Dishes come topped with ingredients like dehydrated foie gras, chicharrones with cheese and lime dust, and purple chive flowers.

For reservations, contact the restaurant at (206) 623-4600.

Because in a sea of restaurant chains, Woodblock stands out. Retreat to this cozy, chic spot for classic standbys, like a soft-boiled Scotch egg with Italian sausage and a panko crust or roasted wagyu bone marrow served with smoked gouda. Be sure to check out happy hour, too, when Woodblock serves up an $8 martini.

Because at Copal, the colorful decor, wood-fired dishes, and the Mexican flavors  combine to create a lively vibe—no matter the season. Menu highlights include fire-roasted meats and smoked vegetables, like Peruvian chicken and charred corn quesadillas. And don’t forget to try a boozy tropical slushy: the Fresa Freeze combines Lunazul Blanco tequila, strawberry, Campari, and lemon.

Walk-ins only.

Because Chicago-style pizza in Seattle is hard to come by. Toppings are layered in the traditional style: cheese first, with toppings and sauce stacked on top; a crown of crispy, non-greasy crust rises almost an inch above the top of the pizza, and semolina grains give each bite a crunch.

Walk-ins only.

Because butcher Lauren Garaventa and chef Rustle Biehn have taken their chops from their Meat and Noodle pop-up to a permanent fixture. At the new brick and mortar, the duo is serving house-made goods, like the Vashon lamb merguez, served on a Challah roll with yogurt sauce. And if you’ve been hankering for another bowl of Meat and Noodle ever since the last pop-up, you’ll be happy to find it on the menu as well.

For reservations, contact the restaurant at (206) 408-7795.

Because come springtime, few things are more satisfying than queso and on-tap margaritas. While the bar is always full of diners and imbibers, it’s somehow never difficult to nab a seat, making this Pioneer Square spot a promising option for any occasion. Spring for dishes like tingas de pollo tacos and enchiladas vegetariana.

Because it’s one of few places to get your matzo ball soup fix in Seattle. Playful and classy, with pink walls, lacey curtains, and potted plants throughout, Dacha Diner feels like a house in Eastern Europe. Foods that are hard to find west of New York, like latkes and borscht, grace the menu, and thick slices of rye toast satisfy the soul.

Walk-ins only.

Because this specialty cafe-meets-boutique grocery will awaken your senses and transport you to a calming, beautiful place. Savor the delight of the ethereal surroundings, while enjoying a handmade croissant and coffee, or a soup and salad.