We're a huge fan of sausages and Seattle has some incredibly talented tube steak makers. Here are a few spots where you'll find winning wieners.
Old-fashioned butchers at The Pike Place Market have a dynamite selection, and are happy to offer cooking advice. If you don't see it in the case, ask. They might have it in the back. Love the "working man specials", great deals on marinated cuts like flank steaks or cornish hens. The sausages are top-notch, and with advance notice, they can put together a crown pork roast that will wow any dinner party.
A little slice of Europe in the middle of Pike Place Market, this newly expanded space is packed with incredible food, especially the housemade sausages and exceptional potato salad, red cabbage and cheese you won't find anywhere but The Continent. In 2013, the deli will begin offering dishes that can be enjoyed while sitting at the brand new counter. Don't be surprised if the German-speaking ladies who run the place offer you a wiener!
Most University of Washington students come in to this friendly, family-owned pub for the awesome, ever-changing lineup of beer, but the sausage is the true star here. It's all made in-house and grilled just right. Try one of the sausage burgers like the Ragin' Cajun, topped with caramelized onions and peppers. For more heat, order a cup of gumbo on the side.
A secret spot in the Pike Place Market. This started out as a retail counter, but expanded into a snug spot for some of the best sausages in Seattle. The menu takes a world view, with Italy, Germany, Mexico and others represented in vibrantly seasoned, perfectly juicy links.
A neighborhood fave, so cozy with a warm, welcoming dining room and a menu that screams comfort me with deeply delish dishes that are more upscale than down home.
The food at this Tom Douglas watering hole is truly outstanding, from the burger down to the baked-to-order chocolate chip cookies. Pretzel sandwiches, house-made brats and excellent deviled eggs are fine complements to the impressive lineup of beers on tap. But there's also an elegant entree-size salad that showcase veggies from the owner's farm in Eastern Washington.
Could spend hours in here, looking at all the exotic imports on the shelves and in the cases. Good for pantry staples, picnic supplies (love the antipasti options), as well as pasta cut to order. Head upstairs to check out the extensive wine selection, as well as one of the best collections of bitters sold in the city, and a fine assortment of bulk food items such as dried beans, risotto and nuts.