13 of Capitol Hill’s Absolute Best Restaurants in Seattle
Capitol Hill is one of our favorite neighborhoods in Seattle, packed with diverse attractions from restaurants and eateries to shops to clubs. You’ll have plenty of great choices while you’re there. So next time you’re in the area, try out a few of these Capitol Hill Restaurants in Seattle.
Barrio Mexican Kitchen & Bar
1420 12th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122-3906
(206) 588-8105
Barrio Mexican Kitchen & Bar is a favorite among the locals around Seattle. Their signature combination of Mexican flavors is truly tantalizing. Don’t miss out on one of their margaritas. They’ve won several local awards for their great flavors. All their plates draw some inspiration from the Pacific Northwest as well. So, you’ll have a tough time finding somewhere tastier to spend the afternoon.
Osteria la Spiga
1429 12th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122-3905
(206) 323-8881
Osteria la Spiga is a relative newcomer to the Capitol Hill area. They’ve relocated into the historic Piston & Ring building. Their menu features a ton of distinctive Italian flavors. You’ll feel like you’re spending the afternoon somewhere in Northern Italy while you’re there. Check out one of their seasonal dishes when you get the chance. It’s tough to find something this delicious around town!
Cactus
4220 E Madison St, Seattle, WA 98112-3237
(206) 324-4140
Cactus Southwest Bar & Grill has been a popular dining location on Capitol Hill since 1990. They’ve got some of the area’s best Antojitos, which means “little cravings” or Mexican street snacks. Plus, you’ll have a full selection of guacamole at your disposal. We’d recommend tasting their Austin-style guac before leaving. It’s got such a savory flavor profile that it’s hard to describe. Of course, you’ll want to order a plate of Spicy Ahi Tacos while you’re there, too. Yum!
Glo’s (Popup at Captain Blacks)
129 Belmont Ave E, Seattle, WA 98102
Gloreen Raineri first opened her restaurant’s doors way back in 1987. Since then, it’s become the most popular breakfast and lunch diner on all Capitol Hill. Their flagship dish would be the Eggs Benedict. However, they’ve also got some mean biscuits if you’re a fan of this southern delicacy. You should also get a plate of their corned beef hash. It’s one of the most delicious breakfast meats around! Currently operating out of Captain Blacks bar while undergoing renovations, you can still access the full delicious menu!
HoneyHole Sandwiches
703 E Pike St, Seattle, WA 98122-3719
(206) 709-1399
Finding a good sandwich isn’t always easy. But, when you’re on Capitol Hill, you’ve always got HoneyHole Sandwiches. They’ve got an eclectic menu, full of inspired items. You can even get a vegetarian-friendly lunch if you’d like. Remember to order one of their Strawberry-Lime Daiquiris. These cocktails contain a medley of delectable flavors. They’re sure to delight your tastebuds.
Ristorante Machiavelli
1215 Pine St, Seattle, WA 98101-1931
(206) 621-7941
Ristorante Machiavelli has been entertaining Capitol Hill guests for more than 30 years. The neighborhood might’ve changed, but they’re still one of the best eateries around. Try one of their signature pizzas if you’ve brought the whole family. Or, you might want to taste some of their Tortellini Formaggio. Their whole menu is full of Italian inspiration, so everyone can find something they love. However, if it’s pizza you’re looking for make sure to check out our list of best Pizza in Seattle!
Plum Vegan Bistro
1429 12th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122-3905
(206) 838-5333
You might’ve seen Plum Vegan Bistro on King 5’s evening show. They’ve had a huge cult following ever since becoming a regular feature on that program. All their menu items are vegan-friendly. So, you don’t have to worry if you’ve got dietary restrictions. They’re the best vegan restaurant around Capitol Hill by far. You can even order a vegan frozen dessert. Let your tastebuds guide you to your favorite dish. They’re all delicious, so you can’t go wrong with anything!
Oddfellows Cafe + Bar
1525 10th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122-3806
(206) 325-0807
Oddfellows Cafe + Bar has an intriguing ambiance. You’ll notice it as soon as you step into their establishment. Their menu features a combination of French and Italian influences. They’ve created an exquisite fusion. Try out a few of their craft brews with your meal. They’ve got a ton of them on tap. Don’t forget to test some of their baked goods before leaving!
Harvest Vine
2701 E Madison St, Seattle, WA 98112-4761
(206) 320-9771
Are you craving something Basque? If so, you’ve got to spend a day sampling Harvest Vine’s menu. You’ll enjoy savoring every single morsel. Their Remolachas are some of our favorite appetizers at any restaurant. It’s not easy to find a true Basque restaurant. But, you’ll always have Harvest Vine to fall back on.
Spinasse
1531 14th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122-4023
(206) 251-7673
Spinasse takes its inspiration from the Piedmont region of northern Italy. Not all Italian flavors are easy to replicate. But, they’ve got a ton of talented people working the kitchen at this eatery. All their pasta is made on site, so you’ll definitely want to check out a couple of them! Even their angel-haired pasta feels like something you’d find in the peninsula.
Cafe Flora
2901 E Madison St, Seattle, WA 98112-4213
(206) 325-9100
Taste some of Cafe Flora’s delicious vegetarian cuisine when you’re near Capitol Hill. They’ve built their business on creating partnerships with local producers. So, everything on their menu is from the region. Not only does it taste great, but it’s also good for the environment. That’s a win win! They’re open for breakfast, brunch and dinner. So, you might want to stop by a couple of times to try a bit of everything!
Espresso Vivace Roasteria
532 Broadway E, Seattle, WA 98102-5024
(206) 860-5869
Espresso Vivace Roasteria is the best Italian-inspired coffee house on the west coast. You’ve got to sample some of their baked goods while sipping on a latte. The combination of decadent cookies and savory coffee is hard to beat!
Nishino
3130 E Madison St Ste 106, Seattle, WA 98112-4264
(206) 322-5800
Nishino is easily the best Japanese eatery around Capitol Hill. Eating their cuisine is like visiting Japan in person. They’ve got several award-winning sushi rolls. Plus, you’ll be able to choose from plenty of gluten-free options as well. Sampling their sushi should be at the top of your list next time you’re in the area. It’s something everybody has to try at least once! If you have a craving for sushi make sure to check out these other phenomenal restaurants in Seattle.
For more information on where to eat and drink in Seattle, check out our city page!
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published on April 5, 2022 and last updated on March 10, 2023. Please refer to restaurant websites and social media pages for the most up-to-date information.
Featured Blog Posts
The Wallingford Neighborhood Dining Guide in Seattle, WA
Seattle’s funky “Center of the Universe,” Wallingford and nearby artsy Fremont, offers visitors plenty of tasty spots to snag a meal, sip on a coffee or even nosh on a late-night treat. Located just north of Lake Washington’s ship canal, the Wallingford neighborhood is bustling with restaurants we love for everything from a quick breakfast to a white-tablecloth dinner. Check out this article for our Wallingford Neighborhood Dining Guide in Seattle, WA.
Where to Eat Near the Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle, WA
Seattle is home to many amazing restaurants with all different kinds of cuisines. Whether you’re in town for an event at the Climate Pledge Arena or simply happen to be in that area, it’s important to know where to go for the best bites. Take a look at this article when trying to find a spot to eat near the Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle.
The Coziest Restaurants in Seattle, WA
The infamous Seattle drizzle won’t bother you once you’ve found a cozy restaurant to settle into for a great meal. Emerald City is waiting to wrap its arms around you with a collection of toasty and charming eateries and lounges. If you’re looking for spots where you can shrug off the dampness of the Pacific Northwest, this list of warm and cozy restaurants in Seattle, WA is going to give you all of the wholesome vibes you’re craving!
The Most Delicious Guide to Brunch Spots in Seattle
One of the best things about living in Seattle is that the city offers a nearly endless array of dining opportunities. If you love brunch, you’ll find lots of places that let you grab a meal that combines lunch and diner in a single meal. From an intimate, relaxed gathering to an upscale, elegant meal, Seattle has it all for brunch and a lot more. These spaces are the best brunch restaurants in Seattle.