Molly Amber is a travel and food writer (who has visited 37 countries and counting) and the content creator behind the popular accounts, @mollywanderstheworld and @mollywandersandeats. Though she grew up in the Portland area, she has called Seattle home for many years. Here, she shares her five favorite Seattle restaurants, from standout special occasion spots to a casual cafe with a killer burrito.
Best Fine Dining: Canlis. For decades, Canlis has been a Seattle fine-dining favorite located in a gorgeous storied building was first designed by Roland Terry in 1950. Here, incredible service pairs with stunning views and an ever-changing menu. “Canlis offers a multi-course dining experience where you choose three of the courses, and they surprise you with several others.”
Best Italian: Spinasse. Simply put: “The most authentic Italian food I’ve found in the PNW.” Molly suggests opting for the tasting menu in order to try a little of everything and not to leave without sampling the tajarin (fine hand-cut, egg yolk pasta that can currently be ordered with butter and sage or pork and beef ragù).
Best Sushi: Sushi by Scratch. This intimate, 10-seat Seattle sushi restaurant wows diners with a 17-course omakase and speakeasy vibes. Molly particularly likes its creative take on traditional sushi, using the likes of bone marrow and wagyu in its mouthwatering offerings.
Best Poke: 45th Stop N Shop. This unassuming poke spot is found inside of a convenience store–of all places. “The fish is always super fresh and high quality. My favorites are the salmon and the unagi.”
Best Breakfast Burrito: Stone Way Café. “Stone Way Café is a neighborhood favorite—it’s always busy!” In addition to a great patio for soaking up sunny days, the eatery is also home to Molly’s favorite breakfast burrito in Seattle, packed with scrambled eggs, homefries, cheddar cheese, pico de gallo, chipotle-lime sauce, and choice of meat or veggies.