The Spots
Tomo
Tomo, located in White Center, has become a bit more accessible compared to its early days. While it’s still a high-end American restaurant, the shift away from tasting menus and the decision to open six days a week, including Mondays, have made it easier to secure a table. If you’re looking for a casual meal, the bar is an excellent option where you can enjoy their unique steamburgers or snowy mounds of kakigori.
- How Far In Advance Should You Book?
Day-of, though a week out is a slightly better bet if you prefer indoor tables.
Musang
Musang, situated on Beacon Hill, is known for serving some of Seattle’s most exciting Filipino food. The restaurant fills up quickly, but it doesn’t take much effort to grab a table, either inside or on the heated patio out front. The short rib kare kare is a must-try dish that makes the trip worthwhile.
- How Far In Advance Should You Book?
Day-of for weeknight reservations, at least a week out for primetime weekend slots.
Sushi Kashiba
Sushi Kashiba is a long-standing institution in Seattle, offering incredible imported and local fish prepared by a talented chef. Every dish is made with ultimate precision, making for a seafood-eating experience that you can brag about. The online reservation system has become more flexible, making it easier to secure a spot.
- How Far In Advance Should You Book?
A week or two, if possible. For counter spots, a little further out.
Canlis
Canlis is a well-known spot for its stunning Lake Union view and luxurious steak. While the quality has been inconsistent lately, the experience is still worth it for the ambiance and the chance to wear a gala-type outfit. Planning ahead is key, especially for Friday and Saturday nights.
- How Far In Advance Should You Book?
Don’t expect to nail down a last-minute table on a Friday or Saturday night here, but you can pretty much have your pick of the litter by planning just a few weeks ahead.
Beast & Cleaver
Beast & Cleaver, known for its tasting menu, used to require elaborate planning. However, recent changes have made it easier to secure a table. The restaurant offers outstanding steaks, burgers, and homemade sausages, along with excellent salads, desserts, and a great wine list.
- How Far In Advance Should You Book?
At least a week or two for prime dinner times.
Communion R&B
Communion R&B is a lively Central District soul food restaurant that remains a popular spot despite its popularity. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for larger groups. The sweet potato hoe cakes and shatteringly crispy Unc’s Wings are highly recommended.
- How Far In Advance Should You Book?
A day before, if planning a weeknight dinner; two weeks out for primetime weekend meals.
Hamdi
Hamdi, a Turkish restaurant known for dry-aged steak and mezze, used to be difficult to get into. Now, it’s more manageable. The best seat in the house is near the wood-fired grill, where the chefs put on a show. It’s ideal for a special date night.
- How Far In Advance Should You Book?
Day-of for smaller groups, a couple of weeks out for parties of four or more.
Delancey
Delancey, an exciting pizzeria, has loosened up its reservation policy. You can now book tables for less than six people Tuesdays through Thursdays. If you don’t find a time slot during that window, showing up a few minutes before they open or rounding up some friends for a pizza party is a good alternative.
- How Far In Advance Should You Book?
This exciting pizzeria still gets busy, but they’ve loosened up their reservation policy.
Cafe Juanita
Cafe Juanita, a fancy northern Italian restaurant in Kirkland, is a great spot for a birthday dinner or anniversary. It’s one of those rare places where you can dress up without feeling out of place. The braised lamb and delicate homemade tagliatelle are highlights of the menu.
- How Far In Advance Should You Book?
Day-of for weeknight reservations; at least a week out for primetime weekend slots.
The Corson Building
The Corson Building, a special occasion spot in Georgetown, used to be difficult to book. Now, you can have your pick of times for tables in the enclosed outdoor area, which is lovely in warmer months. However, it’s still a popular place for private parties during peak seasons.
- How Far In Advance Should You Book?
Week-of should be enough time, if you don’t mind outdoor tables—plan at least two weeks ahead to eat inside.
Cantina Monarca
Cantina Monarca, a glitzy Bellevue restaurant, was once difficult to get into. Now, even casual viewers can secure a spot. While it’s still a bit challenging to find availability on Fridays and Saturdays before 6pm, weeknights are wide open. The bar is an excellent option for a flashy night out.
- How Far In Advance Should You Book?
A week or two out for prime weekend times; less than that for weeknights.
Sushi By Scratch Restaurants
Sushi By Scratch Restaurants, an omakase counter in South Lake Union, closed for months due to a licensing issue. After a quiet re-opening, bookings are more obtainable. While the 7:15pm omakase is still a tough ticket, the 5pm and 9:30pm slots are frequently available last-minute.
- How Far In Advance Should You Book?
The 7:15pm omakase is still a tough ticket, so plan at least two weeks out for that. But the 5pm and 9:30pm slots are frequently available last-minute.
