Seattle’s Top Restaurant Standbys of 2019

As is tradition, Eater closes out the year by surveying local food writers on various restaurant-related topics. Here, the experts weigh in on this question: What were the top restaurant standbys of 2019?

Allecia Vermillion, editor-in-chief, Seattle Met: Alas, I don’t get to eat at the same place on the regular, but L’Oursin would be it for me.

Chelsea Lin, editor-in-chief, Seattle Magazine: If I’m home with my family with no time to cook, we rely pretty heavily on Pagliacci and whatever mediocre teriyaki spot delivers. For special occasions — my birthday, wooing out-of-town friends, etc. — it’s always Wataru. When I want a quick date with my husband or nightcap with friends, The Shambles (though I wish it were open later).

Providence Cicero, food writer, former restaurant critic for the Seattle Times: Now that I’m no longer chasing new restaurants for review purposes, I’ve enjoyed circling back to some longstanding favorites: Altura, Brimmer & Heeltap, Café Juanita, Cook Weaver, Copine, The Fat Hen, Kathakali, Spicy Talk, and Union Saloon. None of them disappointed.

Frank Guanco, food and wine writer, Seattle Refined: I found myself returning to Koku, Manolin, King Noodle, GH Pasta Co., and Le Pichet over and over again. So consistently good, interesting, and satisfying.

Rosin Saez, former associate editor, Seattle Met: Eric Rivera’s Addo. Whatever you’re craving he’s probably got a dinner or lunch or brunch that will satisfy it. Carmelo’s Tacos are the best tacos in the city proper (there I said it). Pho Bac Súp Shop, Gourmet Noodle Bowl, Artusi ...

Jill Lightner, Seattle food writer, author, and person who gets asked, “Is it still safe to eat this?” a lot: Super Six, Corte Fino, Breezy Town Pizza, The Comfort Zone, and Good Day Donuts.