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Dining Out

The Island may be small and quaint but there is nothing 'country' about its restaurants. Check out some of my favorites. (This is not a complete list of Island restaurants. Consult the phone directory for additional selections.)


Big Star Diner
305 Madison Avenue North
(206) 842-5786

An authentic 1940's diner was moved to the Island, remodeled in 2001 and renamed the Big Star Diner. In this classic atmosphere is served diner-like, comfort food for breakfast, lunch and on specified days, dinner.


Blackbird Bakery
210 Winslow Way East
(206) 780-1322

Blackbird Bakery is located on Winslow Way. It's a popular place to get a great cup of coffee/latte, enjoy a side of vegan chocolate cake and take home a loaf of their amazing organic bread.


Cafe Nola
101 Winslow Way East
(206) 842-3822

Café Nola is a European style-cafe with an eclectic cuisine in a bistro setting and an Island favorite place to eat. When possible, island-grown produce and local seasonal ingredients are used throughout the menu. In the summer, get a seat on the outdoor patio with its glimpse of Island life.


Four Swallows
481 Madison Avenue North
(206) 842-3397

Photo courtesy of Four Swallows

Want a special place to celebrate a special occasion? Then make a reservation at the Four Swallows. Enjoy fine dining in a casual atmosphere of primarily European cuisine with a Northwest twist in this converted comfy farmhouse. Don't look for brunch here… they only serve dinners.


Harbour Public House
233 Parfitt Way SW
(206) 842-0969

If the only thing that will satisfy your hunger is a great burger, big home fries and a microbrew, then The Pub - as the locals call it - is the place to be. The fish and chips aren't too shabby either.


Madoka
241 Winslow Way
(206) 842-2448

The elegance and simplicity of the presentation will bring you back over and over again to Madoka. As they state, the "cuisine is based on the bounty of the Pacific ocean, influenced by the multitude of surrounding countries and cultures." What I appreciate most is the quality of the ingredients used: wild seafood, hormone/antibiotic-free meats and poultry plus, seasonal vegetables, fruits and herbs. Don't forget to try one of their amazing teas.


Metro Market Cafe & Catering
360 Knechtel Way
(206) 842-4114

Robert Freitag Catering
(206) 842-8524

If a great bowl of creatively made soup with the freshest ingredients is what makes your mouth water, then go to the Metro Market Café. My favorite is ginger sweet potato - oh my. Take a quart home for the freezer. But, if you are looking for an elegant solution to a busy dinner party, call Robert to have it catered. Take it from me, the chicken satay with peanut sauce will woo your guests all evening long.


Mon Elisa's
450 Winslow Way E
(206) 780-3233

Busy day? Can't move another muscle to make dinner? Then drop into Mon Elisa's to take home one of their frozen homemade Italian entrées to bake. Add salad and dinner is ready. Vegetarian or meat-lovers, you'll find the perfect choice for you. My favorite… can't choose!


San Carlos Restaurant
279 Madison Avenue North
(206) 842-1999

Don't expect typical Mexican food at San Carlos. What you will get is terrific, authentic, properly prepared Nuevo Mexican/Southwestern style dinners. They've won awards for their Herbed Crab Chimichanga and Grilled Chicken with Santa Fe Sauce. But of course, if you want a taco… taco you can have.


Sawatdy Thai Cuisine LLC
8770 Fletcher Bay Road NE
(206) 780-2429

As you become more of an Islander, you will discover Sawatdy's located in the interior of the Island. Rave reviews come from both visitors and locals alike… great Thai food! You can always take it home with you.


Streamliner Diner
397 Winslow Way East
(206) 842-8595

The Streamliner Diner is the best place for breakfast. As an Island favorite for over 20 years, breakfast is served throughout the day. Lunch includes specials, daily soups and freshly baked treats.


Treehouse Cafe
4569 Lynwood Center Road
(206) 842-2814

You'll find great coffee/expresso, great pastries and great salads at the Treehouse Cafe. But what brings me back is the great pizza! You'll find the Treehouse Café next to The Historic Lynwood Theatre - make a night of it.