Bisato, Samara, Orchard Kitchen, Now on the Resy Hit List

Because acclaimed chef Scott Carsberg has revived Bisato after a seven-year hiatus; and diners new and old are raving about the small-plate Venetian dining concept. Expect favorite dishes from the original—including the beet blini and ravioli aperto—as well as new options like black cod kasu baked on pine paper and bass fillet cooked with Bronte pistachios and raisins.

Because upgrade your summer grill cravings with Samara’s hearth-cooked fare, featuring local produce, sustainable seafood, and heritage-breed animals. Focused on simplicity, Samara fires up dishes like grilled Alaskan octopus with roasted potato, garlic scape, fennel pickle, and pimenton aioli; and buttered Dungeness crab with charred rice cake and tarragon.

Because who doesn’t want to take a trip to Whidbey Island in the summer? Go for the beautiful scenery the island has to offer, and stay for one of Orchard Kitchen’s weekly farm dinners. The ever-changing menu features hyper-local foods, including chanterelles, garden beans, and summer squash.

Because Mioposto serves sensational pizzas that you won’t find anywhere else—think clam bake pizza with whole Hood Canal clams. Beyond the pies, specialty sandwiches, entrees, and salads are available, too. And happy hour means 8” personal pizzas—perfect for  sampling all the inventive varieties on offer.

Walk-ins only.

Because if there’s one thing we know about James Beard Award-nominated chef Mike Easton, it’s that he knows his Italian. And his highly anticipated Il Nido sure delivers, with dazzling handmade pasta, market-driven plates, and a back patio that overlooks Alki Beach.

Because the food is elevated but approachable, and the ambience is special but comfortable. Former chef de cuisine at Lark, Mitch Mayers opened Sawyer—a 2019 James Beard Award semifinalist for Best New Restaurant—late last year and started brunch service just in time for sunny summer weekends. Highlights include cheesy bread with ’nduja pimento cheese, an “Animal Style” burger featuring a double Wagyu beef patty, and local strawberry salad.

For reservations, contact the restaurant at (206) 420-7225.

Because step into Dino’s, and be transported to an old-time Sicilian pizza parlour. The retro interior is lined with mirrored walls, and features large wooden booths with red-and-yellow stained glass throughout. In addition to the pizza, available by the slice and whole pies, there’s a delightful and quirky cocktail menu.

Walk-ins only.

Because this hole-in-the-wall restaurant is a staple for its handmade dumplings and hand-cut noodles. Popular popular among locals for its simple and traditional homemade dishes, Szechuan Noodle Bowl’s offerings range from green onion pancakes and spicy pickled cabbage to vegetable dumplings and spicy beef noodle soup. Pro-tip: if you’re lucky, you can get a front-row seat to the cooks making dumplings nearby.

Walk-ins only.

Because come for the Japanese drinking snacks and street food, and stay for the lively scene. Gather a group of friends and venture to Tamari Bar’s outdoor patio; from baos and dan dan noodles to sashimi and Rockin’ Wagyu Beef, the menu features something for every craving.

Walk-ins only.

Because neighborhood gem Bun & Oc has boasts a destination-worthy menu packed with extraordinary dishes. While Vietnamese comfort food favorites are available, specialty dishes include grilled bloody clams, razor clams, and grilled snails, available with a variety of sauces.

For reservations, contact the restaurant at (206) 860-1556.