Nishino, Manolin, Le Coin, Now on the Resy Hit List

Because Nishino’s artful sushi and low-key environment make for an exquisite dining experience fit for a special occasion. Expect excellent service and innovative Nishino signature dishes, such as foie gras and seared tuna with a shiitake mushroom and red wine soy sauce reduction; or opt for an adventure with the omakase.

Because few things are more satisfying come summertime than meticulously executed seafood in a beautiful, cozy setting. The ceviches are bright, and anything off the grill—from halibut to Iberico pork ribs—is sure to satisfy. Sit at the counter, which encircles the Argentinian hearth-like stove, and watch an open fire blaze applewood coals for cooking.

Walk-ins only.

Because Ba Bar is the whole package: offering sensational pho and vermicelli, with the vibe and cocktails to match. In a land of many Vietnamese restaurants, there are surprisingly few where you can enjoy craft cocktails alongside stellar food. The pho here is a staple, but options like the Pho Ha Noi, served with a Chinese donut, and the vegetarian vermicelli, which includes a delicious spinach tofu wrap, are consistent winners, too, if you feel like branching out.

Walk-ins only.

Because French American cuisine served in a charming neighborhood joint gives you the best of both worlds. Locals and tourists alike come to enjoy classics like beef tartare, steak frites, and freshly shucked oysters—all featuring seasonal ingredients from local purveyors.

Because this spot takes its local sourcing seriously—and with the growing season in full swing, it’s a perfect time to see produce from within a 360-mile radius of the city. From a wild mushroom tartine served with goat cheese, hazelnuts, and mint, to Penn Cove mussels prepared with shallots and parsley, seasonal dishes from the land and the sea are here for your enjoyment. The patio seating is great for getting some sun and people-watching. 

Because with its expansive patio-only seating, Humble Pie is the perfect place to get your wood-fired pizza fix on a breezy summer evening. By making an effort to grow some of its organic ingredients onsite, as well as implementing sustainability practices—like using solar and wind energy and having a zero-waste policy—Humble Pie will make you feel like a good citizen, too.

Walk-ins only.

Because it doesn’t get much better than good food for a good cause. A nonprofit operating as a restaurant and a culinary job training and placement program for the disadvantaged, FareStart serves up social solutions in addition to good food. Expect dishes like larb salad and a wild-caught Pacific cod sandwich. And don’t forget about Thursday guest-chef nights, which feature a local chef with students assisting.

Because French cooking techniques applied to Japanese flavors is the height of refined creativity. After taking a year-long break and returning last fall, chef Toshiyuki Kawai is back and serving unique dishes like Japanese clam chowder, mushroom spelt risotto featuring matsutakes, and saiko-yaki foie gras risotto with miso glaze.

Because dining here is the next best thing to a summer vacation in Greece. Walking into this light-filled space will make you feel good about being inside on a sunny summer evening. Dishes like the Octopadi (grilled octopus) are constructed to perfection with a balance of flavors. Opa!

For reservations, contact the restaurant at (206) 257-4515.

Because enjoy Hawaiian-Korean eats with a waterfront view. With postcard views of downtown Seattle and the Puget Sound splayed before you, enjoy options like kalbi beef tacos, kimchi fried rice, and a pork katsu sandwich. And don’t forget the full bar, which features on-theme cocktails like lychee margaritas and a jalapeno fizz.

Walk-ins only.