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There's no such thing as a free bread basket, at least by many restaurant standards these days. While most of the restaurants on this list actually offer complimentary bread service, they are all worth your hard earned scratch.
One of Seattle's stalwart restaurants. Although, you'd swear the look of this place hasn't been updated since the 80s, it will never go out of style. The food is traditional, the staff is knowledgeable, friendly and professional, and when you eat here, you feel like you are anywhere but in the heart of Pioneer Square. It is truly a restaurant to be celebrated--and to celebrate in.
One of my favorite places in the city to sit in the sunken lounge, have a cocktail (barman James MacWilliams is one of Seattle's best) and order from the bar menu. Chef Jason Franey's attention to detail is mind-blowing, creating works of art out of the simplest ingredients. I can't rave about this place enough.
What used to be Waterfront Seafood Grill is now Aqua. Same owners, though - the venerable Mackay family, known for their expansive, "go big or go home" restaurants, and Aqua is no exception. It looks mostly the same, with splashes of bright blue and rust thrown in to give you the illusion you might be on the Mediterranean. You're not, although the seafood is just as fresh.
Like most things that have been around awhile, this restaurant has morphed and changed from its original incarnation off Broadway. The current space is ridiculously beautiful and the food is still good, despite the venue's ability to serve (at least) three times as many diners. Don't expect the same food you knew back in the day, but expect a warm and welcoming space to have a lovely evening.
Whether you're shopping in the market or not, this is one of the best spots to go when you want a big ol' plate of comfort food. The menu tilts towards Southern fare, but this is some of Seattle's best seafood, locally sourced, with a long list of Washington wines to match. The decor is cheery and will put you right at ease. This is Seattle's version of a modern diner.
The place epitomizes the power lunch and special occasion hangout. The steaks are perfectly executed, the service is attentive, and the warm, masculine steakhouse ambiance is relaxing enough that you'll likely splurge on that big ticket bottle of wine and be happy that you did. You've been warned.
Restaurant Zoe 2.0 is even sexier than its original incarnation in Belltown. The brooding space is the perfect spot for a drink after work or a romantic date night. This place is scoring points for its Wood Fire Painted Hills burger with smoked onion marmalade.
This charming little nook has one of the most magnificent views of Elliott Bay. The perfect place to duck into for some mussels and a glass of wine when you need a respite from the harried Pike Place Market. This place is a gem, and often overlooked by Seattleites, which means there's probably a seat for you at the bar. Hurry!