Must-try Dishes
Salmon Lox - Lox (smoked salmon) - This delicate, thinly sliced smoked salmon is served on a bagel with cream cheese, capers, and onions. Locals enjoy it as a casual brunch, especially on lazy weekend mornings.
Fish and Chips - Fish ‘n’ Chips (beer-battered fish) - Crispy golden fish, typically cod or haddock, served with thick-cut fries and tartar sauce. You’ll find this classic dish at pubs, often paired with a good chat and a pint.
Bowl of Clam Chowder - Clam Chowder (creamy soup) - Creamy, rich soup filled with tender clams, potatoes, and herbs, often served in a sourdough bread bowl. Perfect for a chilly Seattle day, it's commonly enjoyed as a hearty lunch option.
Teriyaki Chicken - Teriyaki (glazed grilled chicken) - Juicy grilled chicken glazed in a sweet soy sauce, served over rice with a side of steamed veggies. A staple among locals for quick weeknight dinners, it captures the Asian influence in Seattle's cuisine.
Crab Roll - Crab Roll (chilled crab sandwich) - Freshly picked Dungeness crab mixed with mayo and herbs, served on a soft roll, often garnished with a slice of lemon. It's a favorite street food to grab while walking along the waterfront.
Pickled Herring - Sild (marinated fish) - Tender herring fillets marinated in vinegar, onions, and spices, often served with rye bread or boiled potatoes. It’s traditionally consumed during Nordic festivals, but you can enjoy it year-round at many local markets.
Seasonal Halibut - Halibut (pan-seared fish) - Fresh halibut cooked to flaky perfection, often served with seasonal vegetables. Locals look forward to its spring availability, making it a highlight for spring dinner menus.
Pierogi - Pierogi (stuffed dumplings) - Dough pockets filled with potatoes, cheese, or even sauerkraut, usually pan-fried and served with a dollop of sour cream. It’s a delightful blend of flavors, enjoyed particularly during winter gatherings.
Desserts & Drinks
Caffè Latte - Caffè con Latte (coffee with milk) - A smooth blend of rich espresso and steamed milk, often topped with a light layer of foam. You’ll find locals savoring this cozy drink in the morning at cafés, especially on drizzly days (which is pretty much every day).
Cold Brew - Cold Brew Coffee (chilled coffee) - Made by steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water for an extended period, resulting in a brew that's smooth and less acidic. Perfect for sipping on patio decks during Seattle's rare sunny afternoons; locals often order it with a splash of cream for added richness.
Hard Cider - Sidra (fermented apple drink) - Fermented from locally sourced apples, this drink can range from sweet to dry, giving it a refreshing kick. Enjoy it at any local festival where it’s often showcased alongside artisan cheeses; many prefer the dry varieties (just don't confuse it with sweet cider!).
Berry Galette - Galette de Baies (rustic tart) - This is a flaky pastry filled with mixed seasonal berries like blueberries and raspberries, baked until golden and bubbly. It's a summer favorite when berries are ripe, often served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream during backyard gatherings.
Snow Cone - Raspa (shaved ice dessert) - Finely shaved ice drizzled with flavored syrups, commonly topped with condensed milk for an extra treat. You’ll find these at fairs and outdoor events, especially during the sizzling summer days, offering a cool, refreshing escape from the heat. By the way, the flavor choices can be overwhelming, so don’t hesitate to ask for local favorites!