Restaurants in Belltown (Seattle)

Queen City Grill

Located in the popular Belltown area, Queen City Grill restaurant is more than it appears. Long and narrow with dark wooden pew-like booths, warmly colored walls that are almost tea-stained in appearance and a well-worn floor makes this shabby-chic place a popular stop for locals and visitors alike. While success has perhaps slightly overwhelmed the kitchen, you can always rely on the Grilled Salmon and Crab Cakes. Come to meet people and savor one of the approximately 500 wines from the cellar.

The Crocodile Cafe

Just look for the crocodile skin-patterned sign in the window and you'll have found this popular hangout. Part eclectic diner, part rock club, it draws people from all over to its location in chic Belltown. This popular 21+ dive club attracts people from all over to hear live rock and alternative music. Famous rock stars that have Seattle roots are said to play inexpensive, unannounced shows at this location. There is a full bar and a full menu of burgers like the Cajun Burger is especially popular.

El Gaucho

Recalling upper-crust New York in the 1940s, El Gaucho is not typical Seattle, but it is excellent. The waiters are tuxedoed. Live piano plays in the background. Candles flicker, shedding light over lots of dark wood. Perfectly prepared steak and seafood dishes fill the menu. Order Chateaubriand for two, carved table side, or an 18-ounce Australian Lobster Tail. The establishment also includes two cigar lounges and a full bar. Private rooms accommodate up to 45 people.

Avenue One

The young fashionable crowd gathers at the bar over appetizers. Couples out for a romantic evening sit just off the main dining room near the fireplace and take in the view of Elliott Bay. The dining room of Avenue One has a 30-foot ceiling and the tables are covered in white tablecloths with candles and roses. And, a chandelier drips from above giving the whole place a very classy look. Yet the feel is still that of a modern bistro. Classic savory bistro entrees on the seasonal menu usually include steak frites, roasted duck and rabbit. First courses may include seared sea scallops, tuna tartare or a salad of sweetbreads.

Cascadia

In restaurant-heavy Belltown, Cascadia makes a bold statement. Its North West style has hints of true elegance such as the use of Limoges china. Light floods through the many windows while the pianist plays soulful melodies. A fire flickers in the fireplace and water flows over carved glass. Chef Kerry Sear, formerly of The Georgian Room, uses only the freshest, most flavorful ingredients from the Northwest to prepare exceptional dishes. Wines include many North West varieties.

Tini Bigs

Tini Bigs is a spot for the young, trendy crowd that attracts singles looking to meet and greet. The name comes from the trademark over sized martinis, with 27 variations available. The interior is dark wood, with both counter and table seating available. The menu consists of salads, finger foods, sandwiches, satays and other entrees. With more than 100 types of liquor, you're sure to find your favorite. You can also choose from a menu of seven cigars but if the pungent smoke disturbs you, outdoor seating is available.

Two Bells Tavern

The burgers at this Belltown tavern are likely to put you in a state of ecstasy. They are considered by many locals to be the best in town. Oh sure, there's other standard American pub grub on the menu (soups, salads, sandwiches), but it is hardly worth mentioning. People of all kinds flock here for the fat, juicy burgers. Strangely, visitors still seem unaware of this tavern's existence, but that is bound to change. The friendly, crowded atmosphere can't be beat. Please call ahead for timings.

Shilla Restaurant

If you want to treat your taste buds with exotic Asian flavors head to Shilla Restaurant. The menu here offers many choices of fresh vegetables and marinated meats, grilled right at your table. Popular entrees include Bi Bim Bap which is marinated vegetables and beef tossed together with a fried egg on top and Mandoo Gook. Also order from the full-service sushi bar. Entrees come with white rice and zesty sides of Kim Chee that are pickled cabbage. There is also a full-service cocktail lounge.

Ohana

The tiki-torch and beach decor may not thrill everyone but no one who stays to eat will be disappointed. Making the most of Hawaiian plate-lunch tradition, Chef Dennis Odea serves up delicious island comfort food from appetizer pupus to hearty entrees. Try the classic ahi poke. Also try the Japanese menu items. A tender and not-too-sweet beef teriyaki competes with Seattle's best. Desserts include a decadent bananas foster. The full bar features more tiki drinks. A late-night menu is available. Reservations are recommended.

Brasa

This Mediterranean-inspired restaurant became an instant hit when it first opened and has developed a devoted following. Located near trendy Belltown, this is the place, rumor has it, to hobnob with celebrities who escape to the Pacific Northwest for outdoor recreation and indoor relaxation. The refined crowd comes for dishes mixing Mediterranean and Northwest influences, such as roast suckling pig and risotto with chanterelles. The rich velvety desserts add sweet finishing touches.

Flying Fish

Opened in 1997, this fashionable and modern restaurant is located in Belltown. The décor here at Flying Fish is sleek and industrial, and the atmosphere is lively, even a little noisy. Chef and owner Christine Keff focuses on fresh seafood with an Asian twist. To start, try the crab cakes with orange-jicama salad. The salt and pepper Dungeness crab, seared Ahi and lobster with hoisin sauce are also recommended. Reservations are strongly advised. In fact, make them at least one week in advance.

Marco's Supperclub

This candlelit Belltown restaurant called Marco's Supper club has become one of the area's most popular eateries. The patrons tend to be couples out for romantic evenings or small groups of friends. On warm summer nights, there is outdoor dining, so you can gaze into someone's eyes under the stars. The eclectic, multicultural menu features everything from Thai-spiced seared tuna to luscious gnocchi to a fried sage leaf appetizer-one of the specialties of the house. A full bar is available.