Must Visit Columbia City Restaurants in Seattle, WA
When we make a trip to Columbia City, one of the south side of Seattle’s most diverse neighborhoods, we love planning to grab breakfast, lunch or dinner at one of the amazing restaurants sprinkled all over this charming area. From classic Italian to the freshest seafood, an outstanding meal is easy to snag by locals and visitors in the area. Check out our list of must try restaurants in Columbia City in Seattle.
Marination Columbia City
3714 S Hudson St Seattle, WA 98118
(206) 420-1201
When you are craving a taste of the islands, Marination’s Hawaiian-Korean fusion flavors will make you forget you haven’t left Seattle and settled on the Big Island. We love a classic Luau Plate with gluten-free Kalua Pork white rice and Mac salad, but other favorites here like the Moco Loco taste like they’ve come straight from the best home cooks in Hawaii. And don’t forget to snag an order of Aloha Fries at this counter casual spot. Pro tip: sub in the spicy pork, Bulgogi-style if you dare.
Geraldine’s Counter
4872 Rainier Ave S Seattle, WA 98118
(206) 723-2080
For a tasty breakfast or brunch, locals flock to Geraldine’s Counter, a classic morning spot in Columbia City where visitors gladly wait for a table or place a to-go order to dine at home. Some of the most delicious breakfast offerings at Geraldine’s include the Three Pancakes of the Day as well as the hearty option of Chicken Fried Steak & Eggs. For lunch or brunch, guests nosh on the Italian-inspired Chop Chop salad, the three-meat Kick Butt Chili and the delicious Grilled Vegetable Sandwich, dripping with house-made aioli and loaded with veggies and caramelized onions and goat cheese, the perfect foil to a damp, cold day in Seattle.
Jackalope Tex Mex & Cantina
4868 Rainier Ave S Seattle, WA 98118
(206) 420-4796
We love to stop by the Jackalope when we are craving a treat from (near) south of the border. You have to try the Chile con Queso topped with a smoked brisket to snack on while waiting for your entree. The San Antonio Puffy Tacos or the Dallas-style Texas Brisket tacos always hit the spot. A great cocktail to try while you wait for your food is the Roasted Mango Mojito, a sweet and spicy compliment to the rich flavors at Jackalope.
Persephone
4857 Rainier Ave S Seattle, WA 98118
When you want to nibble a little and sip on the perfect cocktail, stop by Persephone, the little spot adjacent to La Medusa. This aperitif-digestif bar offers little plates from their sister restaurant next door, but guests here are also welcome to shop at Persephone’s honor-system mini-market for delectables while enjoying a glass or two of wine. The modest but flavorful menu includes little plates like Marinated Sicilian Anchovies, cheesy Arancino, Grilled Mackerel and even a sweet dessert offering like Panna Cotta.
Mioposto
3601 S McClellan St Seattle, WA 98144
(206) 760-3400
We love to stop into Mioposto’s cozy dining space for a bite or grab a barstool for a front-row seat to the open kitchen here. This Columbia City favorite is perfect for a rich, flavorful brunch featuring a classic with a twist, the Bacon and Egg Breakfast Pizza. Or when we pop in for dinner, some of our favorites are of course the house specialty pizzas like the unexpected Spring Lamb and the Clam Bake pies. But Mioposto also delivers excellent steaks, salads, sandwiches and a tasty Adult Milkshake you can concoct by combining Madagascar vanilla ice cream with your favorite liquor as a delicious dessert.
Both Ways Cafe & Catering
4922 S Genesee St Seattle, WA 98118
(206) 722-5799
This longtime bakery and lunch spot garnered its clever name from its original location on Pier 52 where it provided breakfast and lunch for patrons going “both ways” on the ferry. But now Both Ways Café is simply known as a fantastic place to snag baked goods or a classic meal. Local favorites at this neighborhood joint are the Breakfast Burrito and literally everything that comes out of the pastry case but we love the fluffy, homemade biscuits.
Island Soul Rum Bar & Soul Shack
4869 Rainier Ave S Seattle, WA 98118
(206) 329-1202
Next time you’re craving big flavors and unique ingredients, head to Island Soul for a big plate of Jerk Chicken, Curried Goat, Oxtail Stew or a Catfish Po’boy. Serving up a blend of Caribbean food and Cajun classics, Island Soul is a fantastic local spot to go to when you miss your southern Louisiana or island roots, or you just want to feel that soul food connection with every bite on your plate.
Off Alley
4903 1/2 Rainier Ave S Seattle, WA 98118
(206) 488-6170
This intimate spot is a gem, but the secret is out about the fantastic food and service at Off Alley. Snag a reservation so you won’t have to wait for one of Off Alley’s 12 seats, but the planning ahead will be worth it. The daily chalkboard menu rotates with the freshest ingredients, but recent offerings have been Smoked Sturgeon, Grille Quail Popovers and Smoked Coppa Ribs. If you plan ahead you can also reserve a night at Upstairs, the beautifully appointed room for rent above Off Alley.
For more recommendations on where to eat and drink in the city, check out our Seattle page, here!
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