Seattle Washington, USA Travel Guide
Seattle's food culture is deeply influenced by abundant Pacific Northwest resources from nature, notably rich seafood. A strong emphasis on fresh, local, seasonal ingredients from the vicinity farms and waters defines its "farm-to-table" ethos.
The city also has a significant history of Asian immigration, resulting in a thriving Asian culinary scene. Seattle is the birthplace of Starbucks, a pioneer of global coffee culture, and has a strong independent coffee scene and a booming craft beer and wine industry.
Pacific salmon (wild-caught), halibut, Dungeness crab, oysters, and geoduck are staples. Preparations highlight natural freshness.
Seasonal berries (summer), apples (fall), and foraged mushrooms. Coffee, craft beer, and Washington wine are ubiquitous.
International District for Asian cuisine, Ballard/Fremont for breweries and gastropubs, Pike Place Market for fresh seafood and artisan foods.
Enjoy salmon grilled, baked, or smoked. Dungeness crab is served steamed, roasted, or in chowders. Find these at seafood restaurants throughout the city.
Available at Pike Place Market and seafood establishments.
Award-winning clam chowder is at Pike Place Chowder. The Seattle-style hot dog has cream cheese and grilled onions, sold by street vendors.
Chowder in the market, hot dogs from street carts (late-night).
Geoduck (sashimi or stir-fried) and freshly shucked local oysters (Kumamoto, Pacific varieties). Taste coffee beyond major chains at Espresso Vivace.
Asian restaurants for Geoduck, oyster bars for oysters, local roasters for coffee.
Discover excellent wines from Eastern Washington. A growing craft cider scene has refreshing alternatives.
Organic, fair-trade chocolate from Theo Chocolate in Fremont. Molly Moon's Homemade Ice Cream for unique, seasonal flavors.
Exceptional cuisine and refined settings.
Diverse options for various budgets.
Experience regional tastes and international tastes.
Vegetarian dishes are widely available. Many places have dedicated vegan options or adapt dishes. A strong vegan/vegetarian community supports numerous dedicated restaurants.
Happycow for vegan options can locate vegan/vegetarian establishments.
Many Seattle restaurants accommodate gluten-free, dairy-free, and other allergen requests. Inform your server about restrictions.
Dedicated gluten-free bakeries and restaurants are available.
Some Middle Eastern and South Asian restaurants, grocery stores.
More limited. Kosher markets and some certified products in supermarkets.
Yelp, Google Maps filter by dietary preferences. HappyCow for vegan/vegetarian.
Always inform restaurant staff of specific dietary needs.
In Fremont, learn about chocolate-making and enjoy tastings.
Organic, fair-trade chocolate.
Seattle Street Food Festival (summer), Taste of Seattle, and various Seafood Festivals.
Celebrate local culinary talent and regional bounty.
Take a scenic and affordable ferry trip across Puget Sound to Bainbridge Island for waterfront views.
Beyond Starbucks, discover independent coffee shops and roasters. Enjoy artisan pour-overs or unique espresso creations.
A Seattle culinary icon known for his diverse restaurant empire and championing local ingredients.
Known for his approachable, Italian-inspired cuisine and numerous neighborhood restaurants.
Acclaimed for her seafood-focused, French-inspired restaurants.
These chefs have defined Pacific Northwest cuisine, emphasizing fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Their work has garnered national recognition for Seattle.
Their success has inspired new talent and fostered a lively, competitive restaurant scene.
Seattle's culinary landscape continues to evolve.
Craft brewers and Washington State vintners contribute to the city's robust beverage scene.
Local culinary schools train the next generation of Seattle's chefs and food professionals.
Do not hesitate to explore beyond the tourist hotspots. Seattle's diverse neighborhoods each have culinary treasures.
