Plant Based, Full Flavor If you’ve ever doubted vegan ice cream, Frankie & Jo’s in Seattle will change your mind in a single scoop. Their small batch flavors are rich, creamy, and never overly sweet proof that plant based can be just as indulgent as dairy (if not more). The menu rotates, but standouts include Salty Caramel Ash with its toasty, almost black sesame like depth, Mint Cookie Crunch, Brown Sugar Vanilla, and Super Cookies & Cream. Each spoonful feels like a little luxury made with care, without compromise. Whether you’re vegan, dairy free, or simply curious, this is the kind of ice cream that leaves you thinking about your next visit before you’ve even finished your cup. From the first bite to the last, it’s pure joy in plant based form proof that a thoughtfully made scoop can be every bit as satisfying, nostalgic, and crave worthy as the ice cream you grew up loving. Frankie & Jo’s (University Village)4619 Village Terrace Dr NE, Seattle, WA 98105https://frankieandjos.com/ Photo credit: https://frankieandjos.com/

Spice Lovers, Meet Your New Obsession If you’ve been on the hunt for a legit malatang spot in the Seattle area, your search ends at Zhangliang Malatang in Bellevue. This place nails it with a fully customizable bowl. You pick the ingredients, and they bring the heat. From meats, tofu, and veggies to a variety of noodles, everything is freshly prepared and cooked in a rich, spicy mala broth that delivers that signature numbing kick. Whether you’re new to malatang or a longtime fan, Zhangliang hits the sweet spot: bold flavor, great portions, and total freedom to make it your way. It’s casual enough for a solo meal and fun to visit with friends, and as a bonus, they’re open until midnight, making it a go-to for late-night cravings or post-party recovery. One bite of that fiery broth, and all your stress melts away.You know the feeling. Zhangliang Malatang2221 140th Ave NE, Bellevue, WAhttps://www.zhangliangmalatang-bellevue.com/

Bellevue’s Omakase Masterpiece If you’ve ever wondered what sushi perfection tastes like, you’ll find the answer behind the whisper-quiet doors of Takai by Kashiba. Tucked into Downtown Bellevue, this serene and elegant sushi bar is the Eastside’s answer to Seattle’s legendary Sushi Kashiba created by none other than Chef Jun Takai, a protégé of sushi master Shiro Kashiba himself. With limited counter seating (main dining room available), Takai by Kashiba offers an omakase experience that is deeply personal, quietly luxurious, and completely unforgettable. At Takai, there’s no menu to browse. Instead, you’re guided by Chef Takai’s intuition and the freshest seasonal ingredients, flown in daily from Toyosu Market in Tokyo. The result? A sequence of exquisite nigiri, each piece hand-formed and brushed with delicate housemade soy or a whisper of citrus, served in perfect order and temperature. From the hinoki wood sushi bar to the quiet, polished service, everything at Takai by Kashiba is intentional. The pace is unhurried. The sake pairings are thoughtful. The fish is impeccably sliced, served at body temperature, and never masked by heavy sauces or gimmicks. It’s about honoring the purity of each ingredient. Takai by Kashiba180 Bellevue Way NE, Bellevue, WA 98004https://takaibykashiba.com/

Bold Vietnamese Brunch in Pioneer Square: Saigon Drip Café In the heart of Seattle’s historic Pioneer Square, Saigon Drip Café is making waves with its vibrant blend of traditional Vietnamese flavors and West Coast brunch culture. This locally owned café brings soul, spice, and seriously good coffee to the neighborhood—no frills, just flavor. The star of the menu? Their signature Saigon drip coffee—strong, slow-brewed, and served over ice with rich condensed milk. It's the perfect pairing for their flaky croissant bánh mì, filled with options like five-spice pork belly or lemongrass tofu. Every dish is layered with texture, freshness, and a punch of house-made sauces that keep regulars coming back. With warm service and a laid-back vibe, Saigon Drip Café is more than a brunch stop—it’s a slice of Vietnamese street food culture, reimagined for Seattle mornings. Whether you're a coffee purist or a bánh mì devotee, this hidden gem is worth the stop. Saigon Drip Cafe📍 161 S Washington St, Seattle, WA 98104https://saigondripcafe.com/ Photo credit: https://saigondripcafe.com/

Seattle’s barbecue scene is heating up—and Bellwether BBQ & Grill in Chinatown is one of the newest must-visit spots. Now celebrating its first anniversary, this spacious Korean BBQ joint brings together upbeat K-pop vibes with a full buffet setup: unlimited salads, appetizers, and endless lettuce wraps to build your perfect bite. The grill menu features juicy brisket points, beef belly, pork belly, LA-style ribs, and the standout—marinated king-cut ribs that keep diners coming back for more. Bonus perks include a membership program that rewards repeat visits and special birthday group deals that make celebrations extra memorable. Whether you're a seasoned BBQ lover or just in the mood for a lively, flavor-packed meal with friends, Bellwether BBQ serves up a smoky, satisfying experience in the heart of Chinatown. Bellwether BBQ & Grill609 S Weller St Suite C,Seattle, WA 98104https://bellwetherbbq.com/ Photo credit: https://bellwetherbbq.com/

Sizzle and Spice in Mill Creek: Hot Iron Mongolian Grill If you're craving a meal that's fast, flavorful, and totally customizable, Hot Iron Mongolian Grill in Mill Creek hits all the right notes. This casual stir-fry spot puts you in charge—stack your bowl high with fresh ingredients, and watch it come to life on a blazing hot iron grill. Start with a base of noodles or rice, then pile on your choice of proteins like marinated beef, chicken, pork, or tofu. Next comes the fun part: fresh vegetables and house-made sauces that range from mild and savory to bold and spicy. Once your bowl is built, the crew behind the massive round grill cooks it right in front of you—stir-frying everything to smoky, seared perfection in minutes. What makes Hot Iron stand out is the balance of speed and quality. The ingredients are fresh, the portions are generous, and the flavors are big. You can keep it classic with a garlic soy blend or turn up the heat with their chili-infused sauces. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite with friends, feeding the family, or just craving something satisfying and saucy, Hot Iron Mongolian Grill is a go-to in Mill Creek for hearty, hands-on meals made your way.Hot Iron Mongolian Grill15418 Main St #101, Mill Creek, WA 98012https://www.hotironmongoliangrill.com/

K-Street Flavor in Bellevue: Paik’s Noodle Brings Korean Comfort Food to the Eastside If you’re craving bold, slurp-worthy Korean noodles, look no further than Paik’s Noodle in Bellevue. Part of a global franchise founded by South Korean celebrity chef Paik Jong-won, this fast-casual spot delivers soul-warming comfort food straight from the streets of Seoul—no passport required. The menu highlights two Korean classics: jjamppong, a spicy seafood noodle soup packed with mussels, squid, and vegetables in a smoky red broth, and jajangmyeon, thick wheat noodles drenched in a rich black bean sauce. Both are beloved staples in Korean cuisine, and Paik’s Noodle serves them up fast, hot, and full of flavor. Beyond noodles, the menu features hearty rice dishes and entrées like sweet & sour pork, shrimp fried rice, stir-fried jajangmyeon, chili shrimp, spicy chicken, tofu plates, dumplings, and more. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Korean comfort food or just dipping your chopsticks into something new, Paik’s Noodle in Bellevue is a go-to for craveable, no-fuss meals that hit the spot. Paik’s Noodle677 120th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98005https://www.eatpaiks.com/ Photo credit: https://www.eatpaiks.com/

If you’re on the hunt for unbeatable value and hands‑on fun, look no further than Hot Iron Mongolian Grill in Mill Creek Town Center. First, fill your bowl with fresh veggies (bean sprouts, broccoli, mushrooms), noodles, and your choice of protein—like beef, chicken, shrimp—and then pick a sauce: Mongolian, soy, hot chili, garlic broth—even coconut milk! Hand it to the chef, and they cook it on the iron‑hot grill right in front of you. It’s both a visual treat and a delicious build‑your‑own stir‑fry experience. What makes it even better? The prices: as of May 2025, lunch runs about $15.50 and dinner $19 (kids’ pricing is available), making it a wallet‑friendly option for families. Just note: the all‑you‑can‑eat option lets you refill as much as you want at the bar, but you can’t take leftovers home. No reservations are needed! Come early, especially at lunch, to beat the rush. Hot Iron Mongolian Grill is located at 15418 Main St #101, Mill Creek, WA 98012. A must‑try for fans of value‑packed, customizable meals.