The November Hit List: Noodle/Bar, Jerk Shack, Rock & Rye, and More

At chef Travis Post’s Noodle/Bar, every toothsome noodle is crafted in-house from Washington wheat. His standout dish, beef meatball soup with buckwheat noodles, wood ear mushrooms, bok choi, and a fragrant, chile oil-infused broth is oh-so satisfying on a damp Seattle day. While Sichuan-inspired dishes dominate the menu, great vegan and vegetarian options are available too. Enjoy a cup of chrysanthemum tea alongside your meal. Its cooling qualities make a great match for Post’s bold, spicy dishes.

Melissa Miranda, the culinary genius behind Musang, just debuted her latest culinary adventure — a fast-casual haven open weekdays only. The star of the brief menu is bulalo, a robust soup brimming with simmered beef shanks, cabbage, corn, and potatoes. For vegetarians, there’s a delightful mushroom-based version with seared oyster mushrooms. Miranda also explores the world of pancit, a Filipino noodle classic with infinite variations. Pair your meal with inventive drinks like the Beautiful, which consists of Cognac chased with a shot of bulalo broth. Or try the nonalcoholic Ube Cereal Milk, a sweet, fizzy sip made with ube, pineapple juice, coconut milk, and soda.

Find more info here.

Occupying a beautifully converted bank building right in the heart of downtown Snoqualmie, Dave Storm’s barbecue restaurant presents an unparalleled smoked meat experience. Highlights include the The Dave’s Way sandwich, featuring a half-pound of smoked brisket, rye, roasted onions, pickled peppers, black pepper mayo, and provolone “cheese whiz.” Or go all out with the Little Si board, offering one pound of pulled pork or brisket, accompanied by three sides and an assortment of sauces, ranging from sweet and smoky to a tangy vinegar-based concoction. Add some mac ‘n’ cheese and cornbread to round out the perfect comfort food meal.

Find more info here.

Indulge in a Pig War Martini as you bask in breathtaking bay views and sunsets at this Roche Harbor treasure. Whether it’s a special occasion or a date night, this upscale establishment is sure to impress. Must-try delights comprise the delectable Guemes Island mushroom en croute, sumptuous seafood ravioli in a velvety Meyer lemon cream sauce, and McMillins’ legendary 10-hour roasted prime rib of beef, a beloved favorite since 1958. Wind down your exquisite dining experience with a delightful crème brûlée sampler.

The Jerk Shack excels in crafting authentic Caribbean dishes that capture the robust flavors of the region, with a special emphasis on jerk seasoning. For example, the menu boasts delectable options like half-jerk fried chicken and a butter-seared Cuban-spiced salmon, served with a side of rice, peas, and plantains. Complement your meal with unforgettable sides such as ginger yams, spicy Cuban beans, and luscious plantains. As owner Trey Lamont diligently works on reopening the original Jerk Shack (in Belltown), find a top-tier, community-supported takeout experience at the still-open spinoff in the heart of Central District’s Midtown Square.

No reservations; more info here.

Housed in the historic Herald building right in downtown Bellingham, Rock & Rye’s industrial loft vibe oozes character and charm. Oysters shine, raw and cooked, but the menu has so much more: mussels bathed in chile basil butter, sauteed lion’s mane mushrooms, and seared wild Alaskan halibut. The liquor selection focuses on whiskey, complemented by non-alcoholic options like the refreshing Northern Flicker. Enjoy outdoor seating, happy hour Tuesday to Saturday (4-6 p.m.), and Steak Night every Wednesday.

Perched on Mount Baker ridge, iconiq boasts some of the city’s most breathtaking views — and sunsets — from its westward window-side seats. This fine-dining haven, led by Chef Toshiyuki Kawai, offers an elevated culinary experience in a relaxed neighborhood setting. Start with the cauliflower trio — a yuzu butter-infused delight. The caramelized scallops, a fusion of French techniques and Japanese ingredients, are simply exquisite. For a perfect finish, savor the peach melba with almond crumble, vanilla ice cream, and raspberry-yuzu coulis. Iconiq’s extensive wine and sake list, along with delectable dessert wines from Portugal and Japan, round out a memorable dining adventure.

Step into this enchanting maritime-themed oyster bar tucked within Hotel 1000. This locale’s rich history traces back to 1936 when it began as a tackle and bait shop, paying homage to its coastal roots. While raw oysters steal the spotlight, don’t overlook the steamed Washington mussels and crispy frites, or the PNW halibut tacos adorned with sea beans and avocado mousse. For an indulgent experience, consider the caviar service, complete with all the traditional accompaniments. And come lunchtime, the smoked king salmon club sandwich adds a delightful oceanic twist to the classic BLT.

Locals can’t stop raving about the wood-fired magic that happens in Samara’s brick oven. The bison heart tartare, served with mustard, herbs, grilled bread, and bone marrow, is a must-try. And don’t miss the comforting slow-roasted broccoli, adorned with black trumpet mushroom butter and garlic breadcrumbs. While the wine list is concise, it’s thoughtfully curated. Save room for the divine dark chocolate cake, adorned with sumptuous caramel ganache and a drizzle of coffee crème anglaise. To cap off your perfect evening, savor an old fashioned, upgraded with brown butter and maple syrup.

This past summer, the immensely popular pop-up created by chef Janet Becerra  found its permanent home in the serene Ravenna neighborhood. Offering a vibrant tribute to Mexican cuisine, Pancita provides an experience where every dish is crafted from scratch, including the slightly chewy, slightly crispy, golden brown masa tortillas. The Mad Hatcher chicken and mole, a labor of love with over 35 carefully selected ingredients, takes center stage, while suadero tacos and albacore tostadas are both not to be missed. To wrap up your journey, savor the indulgent Choco Flan, beautifully complemented with Mexican Damiana liqueur, a herbal gem with a rich historical legacy.

Find more info here.