The picks below are grouped by the kind of meal you have in mind. Use them to plan a long lunch, a dumpling run or a dinner built around a piece of local history.
Historic Tables with Deep Roots
Tai Tung
Pull up a chair at Tai Tung, which opened its doors in 1935 and holds the title of Seattle's oldest remaining Chinese restaurant. Order the almond chicken, the dish regulars most closely tie to the place. The restaurant also shares a story with Bruce Lee, whose favorite dishes are part of its lore, making it the right choice when you want a meal with real neighborhood roots.
Maneki
Book a table at Maneki when you want Japanese food with more than a century of history behind it, since its roots reach back to 1904 and it is widely regarded as Seattle's first sushi restaurant. The miso-marinated black cod collars are the dish everyone talks about. A James Beard award in 2008 cemented the restaurant's standing.
Dim Sum and Dumplings
Jade Garden
Gather your friends at Jade Garden, a go-to address for dim sum in the Chinatown-International District. It is made for groups who love ordering a spread of small plates and passing them around the table. Plan on it for a weekend get-together or a relaxed midday meal.
Dough Zone
Head to Dough Zone for dumplings at one of the most highly rated spots in the neighborhood. It makes a quick, satisfying meal before or after you explore the nearby streets. Dumpling devotees and first-time visitors alike tend to find something to love here.
Vietnamese Favorites
Pho Bac Sup Shop
Duck into Pho Bac Sup Shop, one of the district's iconic Vietnamese destinations. As the name promises, a steaming bowl of soup is the reason to come. It feels especially welcome on a cool, gray Seattle day.
The Boat
Stop by The Boat, another longtime Vietnamese landmark whose reputation reaches well beyond the district. Pair it with Pho Bac Sup Shop and you will understand why the area is known for Vietnamese cooking. Come here for a casual, no-fuss meal.
A Retro Japanese Cafe
Fort St. George
Fort St. George takes its cue from the Japanese kissaten, the classic coffee shop style, and works as both cafe and bar. Dig into Japanese pasta or omurice, the rice omelet beloved in Japan. The retro mood makes it a fun stop for an easygoing lunch or an evening drink with friends.
Make a Day of It Nearby
Walk off your meal at Hing Hay Park, the community square with its pavilion, 1977 dragon mural, summer tai chi and the yearly Dragon Fest. Then climb uphill to Kobe Terrace, which honors sister city Kobe, Japan, and includes the Danny Woo International District Community Garden.
Bring the kids to International Children's Park, the small playground locals call Dragon Park for its bronze dragon by Gerard Tsutakawa. History lovers can seek out the Eastern Hotel, a 1911 City of Seattle landmark built for the Wa Chong Company. For more places to wander, browse our Seattle neighborhoods guide.
Tips Before You Go
- Go with a group for dim sum, so you can sample more dishes.
- Order the signature dish at the historic spots: almond chicken at Tai Tung and black cod collars at Maneki.
- Confirm details ahead, since hours and menus can change.
Check each restaurant's own website for current hours, menus and reservation details before you set out.
