Up on the hill above beautiful South Lake Union is Haymaker, tucked away in the Eastlake Neighborhood of Seattle. Led by Washington State native Chef Brian Clevenger, his take on New American cuisine inspired by Italian dishes and locally sourced ingredients from the Pacific Northwest offers a fresh take on American-style dining.
Haymaker is the perfect place for small or large groups. Entering the restaurant, you will see a large dining table for family-style dining or, for a more intimate experience, cozy up at one of the tables or booths centered around the open kitchen. Outdoor dining is still an option through these colder months; equipped with heaters, the tent outside accommodates those not wanting to dine indoors.
Haymaker incorporates fresh local ingredients to accommodate all food preferences, so whether you are a vegan, vegetarian or gluten-free, you are sure to find something to satisfy your palate.
Kicking off your dining experience with a seasonal burrata is a great choice for a sharable starter. This dish currently features a pumpkin marmalade, mustard seed and aged balsamic. True foodies will find an appreciation for the beef tartare. This classic is bold in flavor filled with chive, shallot, champagne vinaigrette and accompanied by a house-made crostini on the side.
Freshness is important when it comes to pasta, and Chef Clevenger has mastered the art of house-made pasta. Each pasta dish is unique, flavorful and authentic. The tagliatelle is a must try, served with truffle creme fraiche, mushroom and leeks. For those wanting to stick to a true classic Italian dish, the rigatoni is tossed with a tender bolognese sauce, mint and mascarpone. This dish pairs great with the ‘17 Carline Barbera D’asti red wine or a bold Chianti, both showcasing the robust wine regions in Italy. Served with flavorful bone marrow and herbs, Haymaker’s steak frites entree sets itself apart from those served at other restaurants.
The chef’s tasting menu is an excellent option for those wanting to try out a variety of dishes at a good price. For $59 per person, you can pick four courses to share (full table participation is required for this with a two-person minimum). Select a vegetable, pasta, protein and a dessert with this dinner selection. A delicious wine pairing can be added for an additional cost.
Be sure to ask about the seasonal gelato and sorbet flavors when closing out your evening with dessert. The almond olive oil cake topped with blackberry jam and chantilly is beautifully plated, absolutely delicious and wonderful for sharing with the table.
Haymaker is open Wednesday through Sunday for dinner from 5 to 10 p.m., and takeout is available from 5 to 9 p.m. The restaurant also offers happy hour daily from 5 to 6 p.m. in the bar. Check out Haymaker’s original location for a similar contemporary vibe located in West Seattle.
For more information, visit www.haymakerseattle.com.
Review Washington State indoor dining guidelines prior to your visit.