What Are the Best Spots for Brunch in Seattle?
Seattle is a city that takes its brunch seriously. During any given weekend morning, the citizens of Seattle have no option other than to queue in a majority of the breakfast/brunch joints to satisfy their appetites on breakfast meals, executed classics such as eggs benedict, and chicken and waffles, big plates of pancakes, glasses of mimosas and everything in-between.
Football games, shopping or whatever once a busy week is over and perhaps a long awaited deep clean provided by Seattle Green Cleaning Fairy, there is no better feeling than sleeping in on Saturday or Sunday morning, rolling out of bed and a casual brunch. The Quest for the best brunch spot in Seattle can be an exciting adventure due to the many choices reaching from small cafes to fine dining restaurants. Here are some of the best:
Tilikum Place Cafe
This Belltown cafe is the epitome of what Seattle brunches are as they custom the Dutch babies here. These German flappen, which are best cooked in an oven, are enjoyed as a sweet or savoury dish with topping inclusing lemon and icing sugar and cream cheese and smoked salmon. The other recommended dishes are eggs benedict and brioche French toast. With a 4.6 star rating on Google and over 1600 reviews, Tilikum Place Cafe is a must-try brunch spot.
The Fat Hen
Nestled in a residential neighborhood in Ballard, The Fat Hen is worth the quest for lovely European-style breakfast/brunch. The most popular dish that is usually served here is the Baked Eggs with cream, herbs, and toasted levain bread not forgetting their Croque Madame. Some of the local comments include one noting that the Eggs Benedict is the ‘‘best I’ve had in Seattle’. This is because there are only a number of chairs available to accommodate the audience members, hence those who come early will get to sit while those who will come later will be expected to wait until there is an available space.
Portage Bay Cafe
With locations in Ballard, Roosevelt, South Lake Union, and Kirkland, Portage Bay Cafe is a reliable choice for classic brunch dishes. The favorite dish, the Bananas Foster French Toast bears caramelized bananas on the top. For a savory meal, try the Dungeness Crab Cake Benedict | For a more appetizing experience, order the Dungeness Crab Cake Benedict. Additional menu attractions like the bar filled with fresh fruits, nuts, and whipped cream is quite appealing. Reservations are recommended as Portage Bay always has a wait.
Lola
For a Mediterranean twist on brunch, head to Lola in Belltown. The Tom's Big Breakfast with octopus and sweet onions is an adventurous choice. For something more traditional, the Smashed Garlic Fried Potatoes with eggs and toast is simple and satisfying. The bright, airy space is inviting.
Glo's
A Capitol Hill mainstay, Glo's is no-frills diner that draws crowds for its huge portions and wallet-friendly prices. You can't go wrong with the Classic Breakfast (eggs, meat, hashbrowns, toast) but the Eggs Benedict is the star here, with options like Crab & Avocado and Veggie. Cash only.
Honorable Mentions
A few other top brunch spots to check out include:
Oddfellows Cafe in Capitol Hill for its biscuits and gravy
The Wandering Goose in North Capitol Hill for its fried chicken and biscuits
Skillet Diner with locations in Capitol Hill, Ballard, and Seattle Center for its enormous cinnamon rolls
Bounty Kitchen in Denny Triangle for healthy and gluten-free options
Watson's Counter in Ballard for Korean-inspired brunch
Union Saloon in Wallingford for its patio and cocktails
With so many tempting options, the hardest part is deciding where to brunch in Seattle. Whether you're in the mood for something sweet, savory, classic, or creative, the city's best brunch spots have you covered. Just be sure to arrive hungry - and maybe wear your stretchy pants. Your taste buds will thank you.