Nestled just steps from Green Lake, Noi Thai Cuisine’s Green Lake location brings the elegance of Thai dining to one of Seattle’s most beloved neighborhoods. Here, traditional recipes are elevated with modern presentation, creating a warm and memorable experience. Noi Thai builds on the family legacy of Bai Tong Thai Restaurants and carries the influence of chefs trained in Thailand’s Royal Culinary traditions. The Green Lake restaurant reflects that heritage while embracing the casual, welcoming spirit of the neighborhood. What’s on the Plate The menu offers a wide range of Thai favorites, from comforting curries to stir-fried noodles and signature house specialties. Some standout dishes include Pad Thai, Green Papaya Salad, Coconut Panang Curry and their Fresh Rolls. Vegetarian options, fresh salads, appetizers, and desserts round out the menu, making it easy for everyone at the table to find a favorite. Why Locals Love It Guests rave about the elegant yet approachable atmosphere, perfect for both casual meals and special gatherings. The location makes it a natural stop after a walk around the lake, and the service balances attentiveness with genuine warmth. Happy hour, weekend brunch, and evening dinners all give reasons to return again and again. Whether you’re craving a comforting curry, sharing plates with friends, or simply looking for a welcoming spot near the water, Noi Thai Green Lake delivers a dining experience that blends rich tradition with the relaxed charm of Seattle’s favorite neighborhood. Noi Thai Cuisine (Green Lake location)📍 7900 East Green Lake Dr N, Seattle, WA 98103https://noithaiselect.com/noithaigreenlake

Meat Lover’s Paradise There’s something electric about the sizzle of meat on a grill, the clink of side dish plates arriving like a colorful army, and the anticipation that comes with dining at a place where the food cooks in front of you. Located at Alderwood Mall in Lynnwood, Baekjeong brings its nationally loved Korean BBQ concept to the North End, and it’s already a must-visit for meat lovers, KBBQ fans, and foodies who live for that smoky, sizzling flavor. Tableside Grilling, Expertly Done What sets Baekjeong apart is the service and technique. Your server doesn’t just bring you raw meat, they also grill it for you. The meats are high quality and cut for max flavor, while the grill’s side compartments slow-cook eggs and cheese corn for an added treat with every bite. What to Order: Combos, Banchan & Cold Noodles First-timers should start with one of the Combo Sets, which is enough to feed about two people, depending on how hard you go. The banchan (small sides) come fast and furious: crunchy kimchi, pickled radish, fish cake, and a salad that balances out all the richness. Don’t skip the cold noodles (naengmyeon) for a refreshing bite between grilled meats. Vibes for Groups, Dates, and KBBQ First-Timers The Lynnwood location at Alderwood is lively but not overwhelming, bustling mall energy meets sleek, modern Korean BBQ house. It’s perfect for double dates, birthdays, or just treating yourself after a day of shopping. Expect upbeat music, the aroma of sizzling meat, and servers who genuinely want you to have a great time. Come Hungry to Baekjeong Lynnwood Whether you’re a seasoned Korean BBQ lover or new to the game, Baekjeong at Alderwood Mall brings big flavor, great energy, and one of the most satisfying meals you can have north of Seattle. Come for the meat, stay for the eggs and cheese corn, and leave full—and probably already planning your next visit. Bring your appetite and maybe wear something you don’t mind smelling like delicious BBQ. Baekjeong Korean BBQ📍 3000 184th St SW #922, Lynnwood, WA 98037https://www.baekjeongkbbq.com/ Photo credit: https://www.instagram.com/baekjeongkbbq/p/DLdtZh4SEfU

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/