Seattle Eats

A Malaysian pop-up that feels like home

Thu, 07 May 2026 07:05:00 +0000

This week, Host Brandi Fullwood talks to Emily Kim,co-founder of the Pastry Project and the founder of Crumb Magazine, about her go-to spot for a great meal. Kim seeks out Masakan, a Malaysian pop-up, wherever they spring up. From the pop-up booths to catered meals, their meals have become a fixture in her life.

Discussed in this episode:

Hawker stall realness at the Ballard Farmers Market
Beef rendang that makes you feel like family
Pandan before it gets a Trader Joe’s moment
And curry puffs, curry puffs, curry puffs. Crispy, buttery, and aromatic

Seattle Eats is a podcast about Seattle's food scene and the best things to eat in it.

Do you have a question for the Seattle Eats team? Do you want to share your go-to-spot to eat? Give us a call at 206-543-8510 and leave a voicemail. You can also email us at seattleeats@kuow.org.

Seattle Eats is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network. Our editor is Jim Gates. Our host and producer is Brandi Fullwood.

Become a member today at kuow.org/eats.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Three Seattle restaurant openings you must try

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 07:05:00 +0000

From ancient grains to firefly squid, Seattle’s newest restaurants are trying it all. This week, host Brandi Fullwood talks to Seattle Met food writer Naomi Tomky about the restaurant openings— and one closing— that are hot on critics' minds. They discuss why these long-anticipated openings have diners and critics buzzing and which ones you’ll want to try.

Read more about Seattle restaurant openings: https://www.seattlemet.com/eat-and-drink/2026/04/xian-noodles-ethan-stow ell-gordo-steak

Discussed in this episode:

Beast & Cleaver — a fan favorite makes a weeknight change
Gordo Steak — a steakhouse with fresh tortillas
Cafe Lolo — ancient grains-to-table
Kakurenbo — omakase with classics and firefly squid!
And... what's actually “working" in the Seattle restaurant scene (hint: Spicy Hunan Kitchen)

Seattle Eats is a podcast about Seattle's food scene and the best things to eat in it.

Seattle Eats is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network. Our editor is Jim Gates. Our host and producer is Brandi Fullwood.

Become a member today at kuow.org/eats.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your Seattle Restaurant Week cheat sheet

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 07:05:00 +0000

Call your friends, call your partner and maybe call a babysitter… It's Seattle Restaurant Week! From April 19 to May 2, restaurants are serving prix fixe menus for $20 to $65. But with over 200 hundred participating spots, how do you decide where to eat? Host Brandi Fullwood talks to Seattle food writer Harry Cheadle about which Seattle Restaurant Week menus have the best food and better deals.

Discussed in this episode:

Time traveling for juicy, buttery palm wine
The DINKS vs parent SRW experience
Wearing hiking boots to eat a 14oz steak
$65 Cajun dinner for two (includes cocktails)

Read more about Seattle Restaurant Week: https://www.kuow.org/stories/seattle-restaurant-week-do-the-math-get-a-baby-sitter

Seattle Eats is a podcast about Seattle's food scene and the best things to eat in it.

Do you have a question for the Seattle Eats team? Do you want to share your go-to-spot to eat? Give us a call at 206-543-8510 and leave a voicemail. You can also email us at seattleeats@kuow.org.

Seattle Eats is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network. Our editor is Jim Gates. Lucy Soucek helped edit and produce this episode. Our host and producer is Brandi Fullwood.

Become a member today at kuow.org/eats.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This Seattle chef's go-to spot for late night dim sum

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 07:05:00 +0000

This week, host Brandi Fullwood talks to Victor Steinbrueck, the chef and owner of Local Tide in Fremont, about his go-to-spot to eat in the city. He's been going to this late night dim sum spot with his family, his friends... really anyone for 25 years.

Read more about this story a list of what to order: https://www.kuow.org/stories/the-late-night-spot-this-seattle-chef-has-been-going-to-for-25-years

Discussed in this episode:

Being a 25 year regular
Organized chaos at a late night dim sum spot
How to order for a full squad (hint: ask for the whole fish)
Local Tide’s new spot coming soon.

Seattle Eats is a podcast about Seattle's food scene and the best things to eat in it.

Seattle Eats is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network. Our editor is Jim Gates. Lucy Soucek helped edit this episode. Our host and producer is Brandi Fullwood.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The best jambon-beurre in Seattle

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 07:05:00 +0000

This week host Brandi Fullwood talks to Seattle Times food writer Jackie Varriano about what a gal has to do to get a good ham sandwich around here. Jackie has reviewed dozens of jambon beurre sandwiches (French for ham and butter) and she has plucked the best ones from the bunch to share with us.

Read more about Jamon Beurre from Seattle Times food writer Jackie Varriano: https://www.seattletimes.com/life/food-drink/seattles-best-french-sandwich-seeking-out-the-perfect-jambon-beurre/

Discussed in this episode:

The alchemy of salty ham, good creamy butter and pockets of pickle.
Jambon Beurre Spring
Channeling Anthony Bourdain at the neighborhood cafe
Ham, ham, and more ham.

Seattle Eats is a podcast about Seattle's food scene and the best things to eat in it.

Seattle Eats is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network. Our editor is Jim Gates. Our host and producer is Brandi Fullwood.

Become a member today at kuow.org/eats.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Winner winner James Beard Awards dinner

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 07:05:00 +0000

This week, host Brandi Fullwood talks to Seattle Times critic Tan Vinh about the nominees for the James Beard Awards. They'll breakdown the restaurants up for nomination and help you make a reservation before it gets too tough. Plus, what these awards mean for the Seattle food scene.

Read more about the James Beard Awards nominations in the Seattle Times: https://www.seattletimes.com/life/food-drink/james-beard-awards-2026-2-seattle-chefs-named-finalists/

Discussed in this episode:

Anonymous judges of the food industry Oscars
Tidepools and teamwork on the plate
Putting a ‘W’ in the chat for Washington wine
"Acceptance speeches" from the chefs at Atoma and Surrell

Seattle Eats is a podcast about Seattle's food scene and the best things to eat in it.

Do you have a question for the Seattle Eats team? Do you want to share your go-to-spot to eat? Give us a call at 206-543-8510 and leave a voicemail. You can also email us at seattleeats@kuow.org.

Seattle Eats is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network. Our editor is Jim Gates. Our host and producer is Brandi Fullwood.

Become a member today at kuow.org/eats.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The bakery in Seattle's City Hall

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 07:05:00 +0000

This week host Brandi Fullwood talks to Seattle Times food writer Bethany Jean Clement about which pastries to snag at bakery tucked inside of Seattle’s City Hall.

Read more about this story from Seattle Times food writer Bethany Jean Clement: https://www.seattletimes.com/pacific-nw-magazine/this-gift-of-a-bakery-is-hidden-in-plain-sight-at-seattles-city-hall/

Discussed in this episode:

"Activating" downtown with a bakery inside Seattle City Hall
Conchas so good you don't even need coffee
Bakery fails even the crows won't eat
A pastry with cashew cream, poblanos, and corn that's way better than soup

Seattle Eats is a podcast about Seattle's food scene and the best things to eat in it.

Seattle Eats is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network. Our editor is Jim Gates. Our host and producer is Brandi Fullwood.

Become a member today at kuow.org/eats.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Seattle's most exceptional fries

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 07:05:00 +0000

This week host Brandi Fullwood talks to Seattle Met’s Naomi Tomky about finding truly special and exceptional fries in Seattle.

Discussed in this episode:

Washington Middle School’s absolute mastery of the French fry
McDonald’s beef tallow era (RIP)
The lingering scent of garlic sauce
And whether In-N-Out fries are actually good

Read more about the best fries in Seattle from Seattle Met’s Naomi Tomky: https://www.seattlemet.com/eat-and-drink/seattle-best-french-fries

Seattle Eats is a podcast about Seattle's food scene and the best things to eat in it.

Do you have a question for the Seattle Eats team? Do you want to share your go-to-spot to eat? Give us a call at 206-543-8510 and leave a voicemail. You can also email us at seattleeats@kuow.org.

Seattle Eats is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network. Our editor is Jim Gates. Our host and producer is Brandi Fullwood.

Become a member today at kuow.org/eats.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Seattle's new restaurants worth the hype

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 07:05:00 +0000

This week, host Brandi Fullwood spoke to Seattle Times food critic Tan Vinh about which new openings deserve the hype – and Tan makes his case for trying something new in this city.

Discussed in this episode:

A Pioneer Square bistro with deliciously tender lamb ribs
The chicken shop worth standing in line for
And why people won’t, but should, try new things in Ballard like a tagine packed with prunes

Read more about the newest restaurant openings from Seattle Times food critic Tan Vinh: Raising Cane’s finally opens — and 33 other new Seattle restaurants to visit

Seattle Eats is a podcast about Seattle's food scene and the best things to eat in it.

Do you have a question for the Seattle Eats team? Do you want to share your go-to-spot to eat? Give us a call at 206-543-8510 and leave a voicemail. You can also email us at seattleeats@kuow.org.

Seattle Eats is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network. Our editor is Jim Gates. Our host and producer is Brandi Fullwood.

Become a member today at kuow.org/eats.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From Booming: Grocery sticker shock and the rise of the dollar-store dinner

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 08:05:00 +0000

If you have sticker shock at the grocery store, you’re not alone. In Seattle, the cost of groceries is about 30% higher today than before the pandemic.

Those high prices are straining family budgets and causing many people to change how they shop.

Today, a special episode brought to us by our friends at Booming

GUESTS:
Rebecca Chobat, Dollar Tree Dinners
James McCafferty, Director of Western Washington University's Center for Economic and Business Research

Thank you to the supporters of KUOW, you help make this show possible! If you want to help out, go to kuow.org/donate/boomingnotes.

Booming is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network. Our editor is Carol Smith. Our producers are Lucy Soucek and Alec Cowan. Our hosts are Joshua McNichols and Monica Nickelsburg.

Become a member today at kuow.org/eats.

Seattle Eats is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wake up and smell the $12 coffee

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 08:05:00 +0000

Seattle is a haven for coffee fans. And the price of that fandom just got a whole lot more expensive. Seattle Times food critic Tan Vinh speaks with Seattle Times Business reporter Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton to find out why jitter juice prices are skyrocketing. But don’t fret, they also share some good-cheap coffee spots and tips for navigating the high priced bean juice landscape.

Read more about rising coffee prices in The Seattle Times: https://www.seattletimes.com/business/seattle-a-coffee-haven-is-watching-java-prices-spike-why/

Recommendations in this episode:

The Seattle Grind, Seattle Center
Herkimer Coffee, Capitol Hill, SLU, and U-District
Espresso Vivace, Capitol Hill
Push/Pull, Central District
Stella Deli and Market, Lower Queen Anne

Seattle Eats is a production of The Seattle Times and KUOW, part of the NPR Network. You can support Seattle Eats by investing in the local newsrooms and the specialized beats that make this sort of storytelling possible. Please consider joining and subscribing at kuow.org/eats and seattletimes.com.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A guide to Bellevue's best Chinese food

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 08:05:00 +0000

While Seattle food lovers flock to Richmond, BC, Bellevue is steadily becoming home to some of the Pacific Northwest’s most diverse and authentic Chinese food. The dishes you’ll find there tell the story of a community cooking for itself, not just the tourists. From braised goose to smoked tea duck, Tan highlights the regional specialties worth crossing the 520 bridge for.

Read more of Tan’s reporting on the Bellevue food scene here: How Bellevue became an international hub for Chinese food | The Seattle Times

And here: Bellevue’s best Chinese restaurants: 10 picks from our food team | The Seattle Times

Recommendations in this episode:

Mr. Huang Claypot Braised Chicken
Master Bing
Nuodle
Shaoshan Impression
Little Garden Restaurant
Dan Gui Sichuan Cuisine
Looking for Chai

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I ate 300 items at the best Chinese supermarket

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 08:05:00 +0000

From hot pot to dim sum to made-to-order crepes, T&T Supermarket is a treasure trove of delicious food. Seattle Times food writer, Tan Vinh, tried 300 items and shares his favorites with KUOW producer Brandi Fullwood.

Read more about T&T Supermarket in The Seattle Times:

T&T Supermarket: 12 best things to eat from the Asian grocery chain

How T&T’s Bellevue food court became our writer’s office for a year

Four favorite cozy coffee spots...it's all about the couch

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 08:05:00 +0000

Seattle is a big coffee town. It's also known for its literary scene. So it's only natural that reading and coffee go hand-in-hand. Seattle Times arts and economy reporter Margo Vansynghel joins Tan to share her favorite cozy coffee shops to grab a warm beverage and read a good book.

Read more about cozy coffee shops in The Seattle Times:

https://www.seattletimes.com/entertainment/books/6-cozy-seattle-coffeeshops-that-are-great-for-reading/

Recommendations in this episode:

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bar hoppin' in Tacoma

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 08:05:00 +0000

When it comes to writing about Tacoma’s bar scene, Seattle Times food and drink writer, Tan Vinh almost ran out of ink. From kitschy tiki bars to serious cocktails, there is plenty to drink and even better food to wash it all down with.

Kristine Sherred, a food reporter at The Tacoma News Tribune, joins Tan for a bar hopping chat about her neck of the woods.

Read all ten of Tan’s picks and more on the Tacoma food scene at The Seattle Times:

https://www.seattletimes.com/life/food-drink/10-great-tacoma-bars-that-our-drinks-writer-loves/

https://www.seattletimes.com/life/food-drink/3-great-tacoma-spots-to-try-in-a-city-of-restaurant-possibilities/

Recommendations in this episode:

Proof
Field Bar + Bottle
Parky’s Pizza Bar
Da Tiki Hut
Bonus from Kristine: Cider & Cedar

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Reprise: Lumen Field Food Guide for Seahawks Fans

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 08:05:00 +0000

Stadium food can be a letdown. Many sports games and concerts are accompanied by soggy chicken fingers or cold burgers — at a premium price, of course. But the Seattle Seahawks and Lumen Field are making a big play for dining. They want 12s to see the stadium as a destination for dinner as well as a show.

Tan and KUOW producer Brandi Fullwood sample new menu items on offer during the Hawks season and pick the three best items to eat at a game.

Read more of Tan’s takes about stadium food in The Seattle Times: https://www.seattletimes.com/life/food-drink/best-food-at-seahawks-games-new-dishes-land-at-lumen-field-in-2025/

Recommendations in this episode:

King’s Hawaiian BBQ — Rib Sandwich platter (serves 2-4 people)
- $48.99
- Sections 120, 131, 305, 335
Big Walt’s Kitchen — Flaming Hot Cheetos Chicken Tenders
- $17.49
- Sections 126, 214, 230
ChungChun — Game Day Rice Hot Dog with Squid Ink and Spicy Half & Half Rice Hot Dog
- $12.99 - $13.99
- Section 323

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Three bites of Othello

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 08:05:00 +0000

Seattle Times food writers discuss a hot food neighborhood in South Seattle. From a very hyped pizza to neighborhood staple ban xeo you’ll learn how to order like a local …and a very meticulous food writer.

Read more about the Othello neighborhood eats in The Seattle Times: https://www.seattletimes.com/life/food-drink/is-seattles-hottest-ak-pizza-worth-the-hype-and-more-good-food-in-othello/

Recommendations in this episode:

A.K. Pizza
Nissi Banh
Sma5h

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Seattle (and Bothell’s) most anticipated restaurants of 2026

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 08:05:00 +0000

From fancy street food to, yes, even more pizza – Seattle Times food critic Tan Vinh highlights the most anticipated restaurants of 2026 with two-time Emmy-winning journalist, filmmaker Thanh Tân. Plus, he gives tips on how to navigate the never-ending list of new restaurants from the best ones.

Read more about the top picks so far for 2026 in The Seattle Times: https://www.seattletimes.com/life/food-drink/20-seattle-area-restaurants-and-bars-were-most-excited-about-in-2026/

Check out Second Wave with Thanh Tân’s episode on Pho: https://www.kuow.org/stories/pho-second-wave

Recommendations in this episode:

Roma Roma, Capitol Hill
Tacos Cometa, Capitol Hill
Ilmu, Bothell
Baiana, Pike Place

Seattle Eats is a production of The Seattle Times and KUOW. You can support Seattle Eats by investing in the local newsrooms and the specialized beats that make this sort of storytelling possible:

Become a member today at kuow.org/donate/seattleeatsnotesSubscribe today at seattletimes.com

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Live from Town Hall: A conversation with Kenji Lopez-Alt and Rachel Belle

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 08:01:00 +0000

Pizza, bagels, best date night spots and the unwritten rules of hot pot etiquette. Culinary luminaries J Kenji López-Alt and Rachel Belle covered a wide range of topics with Tan at Seattle Eats live event at Town Hall Seattle on November 10, 2025.

Recommendations in this episode:

Favorite bagel spot

Hey Bagel - University Village
Backyard bagel - Fremont
Mt. Bagel - Madison Valley

Favorite sandwich

Post Alley Pizza - Pike Place Market - try the hoagie with side of hoagie jazz
Fortuna - Greenwood - mortadella sandwich
Tivoli - Fremont - mortadella sandwich

Favorite pizza:

Lupo - Fremont
The Independent - Madison Park
my friend derek’s - Tangletown
AK Pizza - Othello
Ben’s Bread - Phinney Ridge
Windy City Pie - Phinney Ridge
Sunny Hill - Ballard

Best date night spot:

The Tin Hat (Taco Tuesday) - Phinney Ridge
Hattie’s Hat - Ballard
Sushi Kappo Tamura - Eastlake
Serafina - Eastlake
Canlis - Queen Anne

Favorite third place

Open Form - Capitol Hill
Olympia Pizza III - Capitol Hill
Metropolitan Grill - Downtown Seattle
Empire Roosters and Records - Columbia City
Standard Brewing - Central District

Seattle Eats is a production of The Seattle Times and KUOW, part of the NPR Network. You can support Seattle Eats by investing in the local newsrooms and the specialized beats that make this sort of storytelling possible:

Become a member today at kuow.org/donate/seattleeatsnotes
Subscribe today at seattletimes.com

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Revisiting Seattle's udon scene

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 23:00:00 +0000

Our town was made for soup. The sooty dusks of December. The dampness of March. We dive into caldrons of smoking pho and ramen.

So, why not udon?

On today’s episode, Tan ventures out to find some of the best udon in Seattle. He visits Azuki in Madison Valley to learn about how Chef Ryuji Miyata makes his noodles by hand. Later, Tan recommends some more casual and budget-friendly udon places.

The best Costco wines of 2025

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 08:05:00 +0000

It’s that time of year! Seattle Times food critic Tan Vinh is back with the best Costco wines you will want to buy for holiday dinner parties… or last minute gifts. Plus, Tan has pairings to go with the top three wines! Seattle Times politics reporter (and former French sous chef) David Gutman, joins Tan for an early morning wine tasting and review.

Read more about the top rated Costco wines of 2025 in The Seattle Times: https://www.seattletimes.com/life/food-drink/costco-wine-best-cheapest-bottles-rated-by-our-holiday-sommeliers/

Recommendations in this episode:

NV Prosecco Rosé + Roy Thai, Phinney Ridge
2023 Gigondas + Meat Moot (take out!), SLU
2020 Brunello Di Montalcino + Stevie’s Famous Pizza

Seattle Eats is a production of The Seattle Times and KUOW, part of the NPR Network. You can support Seattle Eats by investing in the local newsrooms and the specialized beats that make this sort of storytelling possible. Support the show at kuow.org/eats and seattletimes.com.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Goodbye bacon jam, hello Meat Moot Mondays!

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 08:05:00 +0000

Another round of closures hits the Seattle food scene. But when one door closes, the employees buy it to save it?? Seattle Times restaurant critic Tan Vinh shares his latest closing and three new spots that have the restaurant industry buzzing.

Read more about the latest restaurant openings and closings in The Seattle Times:

Recommendations in this episode:

Carmine’s on Fifth, Downtown
Meat Moot, South Lake Union
Kingfisher, Bainbridge Island

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What the heck is happening at Canlis?

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 08:05:00 +0000

For decades Seattle fine dining has been synonymous with Canlis. But things have changed since 1950 when Canlis first hit the scene creating dishes that highlighted Pacific Northwest cuisine. Seattle Times food critics weigh in on their controversial review of a beloved special occasion spot as Canlis rings in its 75th anniversary on December 11th this year. Plus, they tell you where they’re seeing Seattle better celebrated on the plate.

Read the Canlis review in The Seattle Times: https://www.seattletimes.com/life/food-drink/review-why-our-critic-no-longer-recommends-seattles-famous-canlis/

Recommendations in this episode:

Tomo, White Center
Houlme, Orcas Island
La Marea, Ballard
Ramie, Capitol Hill

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our favorite happy hours have $10 pasta, 99¢ wings, and tons of oysters!

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 08:05:00 +0000

The holiday season is a great time to hit happy hour with co-workers, friends or out-of-town visitors. But where should you go? Tan and friends of Seattle Eats share their favorite happy hour spots.

Happy Hour recommendations:

Lupe Situ Tacos (Ballard, all day Mondays) – Bethany Jean Clement
Vindictive Wings (Belltown, 99c Wing Wednesdays) — Jackie Varriano
Rumba (Capitol Hill) – Adam Weintraub
Oyster Happy Hour at The Garrison (Ballard) Half Shell (Pike Place) Taylor’s Shellfish and Kokkaku (Wallingford) –Rachel Belle
Tamari Bar – (Capitol Hill) Trevor Lenzmeier
Donna’s (Capitol Hill, every day from 4-6PM and 10PM-12am) –Brandi Fullwood
Rockcreek (Fremont and Kirkland) –Tan Vinh

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus: Nothing says Thanksgiving like ham, lamb and more sides

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 08:01:00 +0000

This is an excerpt from Tan’s conversation with J Kenji Lopez-Alt and Rachel Belle about their Thanksgiving meal preparation tips. But mostly it’s about green bean casserole.This was recorded at a Seattle Eats live event at Town Hall Seattle on Nov 10, 2025.

References from this episode:

The recipe for Tan’s favorite Thanksgiving side dish, green bean casserole.
In Memory of Dorkus Reilly inventor of the green bean casserole

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Seattle's Thanksgiving Teriyaki Turkey

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 08:05:00 +0000

Every year it seems like there’s a new way to make the dry, beige Thanksgiving turkey taste…better. Deep fried, spatchcocking, herb butters. But what about a Seattle way? Seattle Times food writer, Tan Vinh, sits down with Taichi Kitamura, chef and co-owner of Sushi Kappo Tamura to talk about his teriyaki turkey twist. Plus, this recipe revolutionary comes with sides!

Read more about teriyaki turkey (and grab a special bonus recipe) in The Seattle Times here.

Recommendations for sides:

Steamy, hot rice
Kenji Lopez-Alt’s roasted potatoes
Green bean salad with sesame
Peach cobbler

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Seattle’s hottest food neighborhood has everything (except parking)

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 08:05:00 +0000

The food scene in Phinney Ridge is popping off. There are long lines for pizza, shrimp sandwiches and Italian delis. The biggest challenge is finding a place to park. Seattle Times food writers, Tan Vinh and Jackie Varriano, highlight the neighborhood spots so good you won’t even care about driving around the block five times to find parking.

Read more about this hot food neighborhoods in The Seattle Times.

Recommendations in this episode:

Ben’s Bread (particularly pizza night)
Grillbird/Salad Party
Fortuna
Roy Thai
Sweet Bakery

BONUS! Steve's Famous Pizza is coming to Phinney Ridge: https://www.seattletimes.com/life/food-drink/stevies-famous-will-open-third-pizzeria-in-this-seattle-neighborhood/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

RIP Tasting Menus. Long Live Fancy Burgers!

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 08:05:00 +0000

The fine dining spots are nixing their prix fixe menus in favor of a more casual model. Seattle Times food writer, Tan Vinh, talks with producer Brandi Fullwood about why these changes are helping keep doors open. Plus, Tan shares why change is good for customer’s wallets and appetites.

Read more about changes in high end dining in The Seattle Times: https://www.seattletimes.com/life/food-drink/in-seattle-prix-fixe-menus-are-out-lower-price-points-are-en-vogue/

Recommendations in this episode:

Bateau, Capital Hill
Tomo, White Center
Off Alley, Columbia City

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wake up and smell the $12 coffee

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 07:05:00 +0000

Read more about rising coffee prices in The Seattle Times: https://www.seattletimes.com/business/seattle-a-coffee-haven-is-watching-java-prices-spike-why/

Recommendations in this episode:

The Seattle Grind, Seattle Center
Herkimer Coffee, Capitol Hill, SLU, and U-District
Espresso Vivace, Capitol Hill
Push/Pull, Central District
Stella Deli and Market, Lower Queen Anne

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

My sixth sense for cheap eats

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 07:05:00 +0000

If it seems like the best bites around town are gourmet twists on fast food classics, well, you’re onto something. Seattle Times writers Tan Vinh and David Gutman share their latest food finds from around Seattle– including what Gutman calls the best cheap breakfast sandwich in the city. Tan shares his pick for the best nachos in the entire Pacific Northwest.

Recommendations in this episode:

Ken’s Market, Greenwood for $3.99 breakfast sandwich
Grillbird, Phinney Ridge for a shrimp forward fast food twist
Due Cucina, Capitol Hill for fast casual pasta
Ben’s Bread, Phinney Ridge for chef-y cheese crackers
Friendship BBQ, Haller Lake for tiny, juicy lambs skewers
Delille Cellars, Woodinville for glistening, bougie nachos with carnitas

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Confessions of a Seattle food critic

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 07:05:00 +0000

Tan Vinh has been a food journalist and restaurant critic for 12 years. Some parts of the job are glamorous (Eating for work! Meals on the company card!) But...there are loads of ups and downs that don’t make it onto the front page. Today, Tan answers questions from listeners about being a food critic — from how he picks restaurants to review, to dealing with heartburn on the job. Plus, he shares tips on how to see Seattle’s restaurant scene through the eyes of a critic.

Read more about being a critic in The Seattle Times: https://www.seattletimes.com/life/food-drink/life-of-a-food-critic-our-writer-takes-readers-behind-the-scenes/

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Revisiting Seattle’s new third place: Breweries

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 07:05:00 +0000

Two big-name Washington breweries have expanded with new locations in Seattle, complete with food offerings from local chefs. Seattle Times food critic Tan Vinh explains how the news points to two trends shaping the city’s brewery scene. He's joined by Seattle Times editor Trevor Lenzmeier!

Plus, a listener tells us about his favorite family friendly (and dog friendly) spots to check out.

Tell us about your favorite neighborhood hang out! Email us at SeattleEats@kuow.org

Read Tan’s coverage of brewery expansions and follow the saga of Sushi by Scratch in The Seattle Times.

Family-friendly beer tasting rooms with great food:

Aslan Brewing with seafood by Ethan Stowell (Tangletown, not yet open)
Ruben’s Brews with fish and chips (Downtown, not yet open)
Project 9 Brewing with food from Mexican Seoul (Roosevelt)
Figurehead Brewing with food from Midnite Ramen and Nanking Ramen (Fremont)
Fair Isle Brewing with Tacos Extranjeros (Ballard)
Holy Mountain Brewing with a pasta pop-up (Phinney Ridge)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Seattle restaurants get creative to keep doors open

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 07:05:00 +0000

Seattle’s restaurant scene is playing chess, not checkers. And the latest moves reveal what is actually thriving in this economy. Seattle Times food critic Tan Vinh and editor Trevor Lenzmeier break down the openings focused on sandwiches and fast-casual small plates, while large format restaurants and fine dining spots are closing or pivoting.

Read more about openings, closures, and pivots in The Seattle Times:

Recommendations in this episode:

M Bar, South Lake Union
Beast and Cleaver, Ballard area
Communion, Central District
Fortuna Bottega, Greenwood/Phinney Ridge
Occhi Belli, Wallingford

Seattle Eats is a production of The Seattle Times and KUOW, part of the NPR Network. You can support Seattle Eats by investing in the local newsrooms and the specialized beats that make this kind of storytelling possible. Please consider joining and subscribing at kuow.org/eats and seattletimes.com.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Seahawks stadium food is changing the game

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 07:05:00 +0000

Today, Tan and producer Brandi Fullwood sample new menu items on offer during the Hawks season and pick the three best items to eat at a game.

Read more of Tan’s takes about stadium food in The Seattle Times: https://www.seattletimes.com/life/food-drink/best-food-at-seahawks-games-new-dishes-land-at-lumen-field-in-2025/

Recommendations in this episode:

King’s Hawaiian BBQ — Rib Sandwich platter (serves 2-4 people)
- $48.99
- Sections 120, 131, 305, 335
Big Walt’s Kitchen — Flaming Hot Cheetos Chicken Tenders
- $17.49
- Sections 126, 214, 230
ChungChun — Game Day Rice Hot Dog with Squid Ink and Spicy Half & Half Rice Hot Dog
- $12.99 - $13.99
- Section 323

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Keep Seattle ice cream weird

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 07:05:00 +0000

Portland based ice cream Salt & Straw is betting big on Seattle with four new locations, but expansion doesn’t mean playing it safe (or going vanilla). In this episode, Seattle Times food writer Tan Vinh tastes and guesses some seasonal and secret scoops with Salt & Straw’s head ice cream maker Tyler Malek. We find out why doubling down on unique flavors is good for business.

Read more of The Seattle Times' reporting on Salt & Straw's expansion: https://www.seattletimes.com/life/food-drink/new-salt-straw-will-open-across-from-pike-place-market-after-all/
https://www.seattletimes.com/pacific-nw-magazine/the-scoop-on-how-to-make-salt-straws-twisted-ice-cream-sorbet-flavors/

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Seattle is having a mortadella moment

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 07:05:00 +0000

The classic mortadella sandwich is a simple affair: High quality focaccia, thinly sliced mortadella (a deli meat hailing from Bologna, Italy), and maybe one or two toppings. This formula is taking off in Seattle, leading Tan to dub mortadella “the sandwich of the summer.” He breaks down three standout sandwiches with mortadella enthusiast and food tour producer Adam Weintraub.

Read more about Seattle’s Hot Mortadella Summer: Mortadella is the sandwich of the summer in Seattle | The Seattle Times

Recommendations in this episode:

Nomadic Wine Dispensary, Capitol Hill – for a simple and excellent mortadella sandwich ($18)
Wilmott’s Ghost, Denny Triangle – for a chefy take on the classic ($18)
Tivoli, Fremont – for a unique, umami twist on the mortadella formula ($16)

Tan wants to answer your questions about his life is a food critic. Wanna know how he eats three dinners in one day? How he picks spots to review? Send us your questions at SeattleEats@kuow.org.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last Call: Best Summer Bites

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 07:05:00 +0000

There’s something about eating a Seattle dog with a beer in August at the baseball game that just can’t be replicated in February. In this episode, Tan Vinh and Rachel Belle talk about the bites that hooked them this summer and which quintessential bites you should try ASAP.

Read more of Tan’s reporting on what to try before summer ends: new Seattle restaurants to try before summer ends

And find everything Rachel Belle is cookin’ up and talking about here: https://www.hellorachelbelle.com/

Recommendations in this episode:

Brimmer and Heeltap
Pie School by Kate Lebo
La Marea
Radio Whiskey
Carnal

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Goodbye Seattle darling, hello meat pies

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 07:05:00 +0000

Capitol Hill diners were surprised when Vietnamese restaurant Stateside and its sister bar, Foreign National, closed suddenly this month. Both businesses left a distinct mark on Seattle’s restaurant scene.

But as per usual, August also brought its fair share of new restaurant openings, including a rare spot focused just on British food. Did someone say ‘sausage roll’?? Tan breaks down the ins and outs of August restaurant news with Seattle Eats producer Clare McGrane.

Do you have a question for Tan about his life as a food critic? Send it to the Seattle Eats team: seattleEats@kuow.org

Read more about new restaurant openings in the Seattle Times: 28 new Seattle restaurants to try before summer ends | The Seattle Times

Recommendations in this episode:

Cornelly, Upper Queen Anne and Capitol Hill
Little Beast, Ballard

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A tip for enjoying ripe summer raspberries: Get them frozen

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 07:05:00 +0000

Summer fruit season is in full swing, but many Washington farmers are preparing fruit for weeks or months down the line. Farms in Lynden, Washington, produce 90% of the country’s frozen raspberries. The berries make their way into baked goods, jams and freezer aisles all over the country. And while frozen food gets a bad rap, farmers in Lynden say these finicky berries are just as good frozen as they are fresh.

Seattle Times journalist Jackie Varriano visited a farm in Lynden to see the process first-hand. She tells Tan all about it and taste tests some dishes made with frozen Washington raspberries.

Read about Washington’s frozen raspberry industry and see photos of the harvesting process in The Seattle Times: 90% of frozen raspberries grown in the U.S. come from this WA town | The Seattle Times

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Elevating instant ramen: A guide to hacking this simple staple

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 07:05:00 +0000

To many people, instant ramen is a simple (and cheap) snack. But to chef Josh Ratza, it’s an opportunity for delight. Josh is the owner and chef at Setsunai Noodle Bar on Lopez Island and the self-published author of Elevated Instant Ramen. The book is a guide to leveling-up any instant ramen, without breaking the bank.

In this episode, Tan and Josh shop for ramen at Uwajimaya in Seattle’s Chinatown International District. Josh points out his favorites and shows Tan how to ‘hack’ a ramen packet with simple ingredients.

Read Tan’s profile of Josh: This creative Lopez Island chef is a wizard with instant ramen | The Seattle Times

Information on Josh’s book: Elevated Instant Ramen

Chef Josh Ratza’s instant ramen hacks:

Pick your ramen style: Brick ramen works best for adding ingredients, but one in a Styrofoam cup or bowl will work in a pinch.
Try whatever ramen flavors and brands catch your eye.
Keep ingredients on hand to boost flavor (chili crisp, hot sauce, furikake).
Add fat and protein for more nutrients (an egg, sliced avocado, tinned fish or meat).
Use up whatever you have in your fridge!
Paint outside the lines. Experiment with new ingredients and flavor combos.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See Ya B.C.! Bellevue is a Chinese food lover’s dream

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 07:05:00 +0000

Read more of Tan’s reporting on the Bellevue food scene here: How Bellevue became an international hub for Chinese food | The Seattle Times

And here: Bellevue’s best Chinese restaurants: 10 picks from our food team | The Seattle Times

Recommendations in this episode:

Mr. Huang Claypot Braised Chicken
Master Bing
Nuodle
Shaoshan Impression
Little Garden Restaurant
Dan Gui Sichuan Cuisine
Looking for Chai

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Best eats on Seattle’s $800 million waterfront

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 07:05:00 +0000

Seattle spent a whopping $800 million dollars on the new waterfront to create a vibrant public space. But is it just a tourist trap with expensive food? Seattle Times writers chat about the history of the waterfront and the food spots worth braving the crowds to check out on Seattle's new "front porch."

Read more of Tan's reporting on the Waterfront food scene here.

Check out David’s essay on the Seattle’s “front porch” here.

Recommendations in this episode:

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Three new restaurants you should know about

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 07:05:00 +0000

It’s restaurant season in Seattle! Dozens of new spots are opening in hopes of riding a summer wave of tourists and sunshine. In this episode, Tan highlights three restaurants the industry is watching and reviews the menus at each.

Read more of Tan’s reporting on new restaurants in The Seattle Times.

Recommendations in this episode:

The Wayland Mill, Wallingford
Mr. Fish, Downtown
La Loba, South Lake Union

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Five of the best dishes we’ve eaten recently

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 07:05:00 +0000

Seattle Times food critics Tan Vinh and Jackie Varriano eat hundreds of meals each month: At new restaurants, old-school dive bars, tiny pop-ups and national chains. In this episode, Tan and Jackie highlight five of the best dishes they’ve tasted recently, from high-concept Vietnamese fusion to an Italian cookie pop-up.

Read more about Tan and Jackie’s picks in The Seattle Times, linked below.

Recommendations in this episode:

Ramie, Capitol Hill – Hột Vịt Lộn (duck) custard
Nue, Capitol Hill – Balut (steamed duck embryo)
The Lonely Siren, Downtown – Batatas (potato) Bravas
Pizzas Locas, Des Moines – Mexican corn pizza
Good Lazy, Issaquah – Cereal Milk Donut
Tremonte’s Italian American – pop-up and online

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Revisiting Seattle’s best pizza

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 07:05:00 +0000

Who makes the best slice of pizza in Seattle? Last summer, the Seattle Times food team went in search of an answer to that question. They polled Seattle diners and narrowed 32 pizzerias down to 4 finalists and 1 winner. Today, we’re re-sharing our episode breaking down the results, so you can enjoy a pristine slice this holiday weekend.

Read more about the results of The Seattle Times Pizza Smackdown.

Recommendations in this episode:

Bar del Corso, Beacon Hill
Delancey, Ballard
The Independent Pizzeria, Madison Park
My Friend Derek’s, Fremont
Post Alley Pizza, Downtown
Stevie’s Famous, Burien / Beacon Hill

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Goodbye dive bars, hello rooftop bars?

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 07:05:00 +0000

June brought a slate of closed restaurants in Seattle, from a half-century-old dive bar to some of the city’s most high-end dining. But it was also a good month for new spots, with two popular rooftop bars debuting in Central Seattle just as the weather heats up.

Tan breaks down all the trends in openings and closings this month with Seattle Eats producer Clare McGrane.

Read more about The College Inn Pub’s closure, Sea Creatures Restaurants’ pivot and this summer’s new openings in The Seattle Times.

Recommendations in this episode:

Firn, Pioneer Square
Cantina Del Sol, Capitol Hill

Closed restaurants:

Bateu and Boat Bar, Capitol Hill (temporary)
General Porpoise donuts, Laurelhurst and Capitol Hill
The College Inn Pub, University District

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why Seattle keeps losing at the Oscars of the food world

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 07:05:00 +0000

This week, 25 restaurants and chefs were crowned with James Beard Awards – the Oscars of the food world. And for the fifth year in a row, Washington state came away with zero wins.

Tan breaks down the three Seattle-area finalists with Seattle Times food writer Jackie Varriano, and asks: What are we doing wrong?

Read more about this year’s local James Beard Award finalists, including seven-time finalist Jay Blackington, in The Seattle Times.

Recommendations in this episode:

Atoma, Wallingford – Best New Restaurant finalist
Archipelago, Hillman City – Outstanding Hospitality finalist
Houlme, Orcas Island – chef Jay Blackington, Best Chef: Northwest and Pacific finalist

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Crying and feasting at a Georgian Supra

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 07:05:00 +0000

Dinner parties are a staple in many cultures, but in Georgia – in the Caucus mountains of Eastern Europe — dinner parties are another deal all together. Almost any occasion in Georgia calls for a Supra, a feasting tradition that goes far beyond the food on the table and the wine in the glasses. It’s about connecting with the other people around the table, sometimes getting extremely vulnerable.

The Supra Dinner Society wants to make this Georgian tradition a feature in Seattle. In this episode, Tan attends a Supra and explains how the tradition works.

Read more about the Supra Dinner Society in The Seattle Times.

The group hosts weekly public Supras in Seattle. Find more details on its website.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BONUS: Seattle’s pinball renaissance

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 07:05:00 +0000

Ever stopped by a Seattle bar or casual food spot and noticed a pinball machine or two? The region is a center for pinball enthusiasts, in part thanks to its culture of barcades and general geekiness.

Today, we’re sharing a glimpse into Seattle’s pinball haunts from Meet Me Here, a new podcast from KUOW. Find more episodes of Meet Me Here in the KUOW app or your favorite podcast app.

Recommendations in this episode:

8-bit, Renton
ADD-A-Ball, Fremont
Ice Box, Ballard (all ages)
Jupiter, Belltown
Pinball Museum, Chinatown-International District
Shorty’s, Belltown
Time Warp, Capitol Hill
Triple Knock, Tacoma

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BONUS: Our favorite summer patios

Thu, 29 May 2025 07:05:00 +0000

Memorial Day is behind us, meaning summer has officially started. The Seattle Eats team is taking a short summer break to cook up new shows. To get the vacation vibes going, we asked friends of the show to send us their favorite patio to enjoy the summer weather.

Seattle Eats will be back with regular episodes June 12.

Patio recommendations:

Marination Ma Kai – West Seattle (Rachel Belle)
Little Water Cantina – Eastlake (Trevor Lenzmeier)
Bar Harbor – South Lake Union (Bethany Jean Clement)
Hook and Fork – Union, WA (Chris Cvetkovich)
Brimmer & Heeltap – Ballard (Jackie Varriano)
Magnuson Brewery – Sand Point (Jane Park)
Ballard Brewery District - Ballard (Tan Vinh)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Northwest delicacy you won’t find in stores

Thu, 22 May 2025 07:05:00 +0000

The Pacific Northwest is a great place to hunt for clams of all types: Razor, manilla, butter, and even the elusive geoduck. But one bivalve flies under the radar: horse clams.

Horse clams are the little cousin of the geoduck and share many of the qualities that make geoduck a delicacy. But while geoduck costs upwards of $40 a pound, horse clams aren’t available in stores. The only way to eat them is to get a $15 license, find a beach at low tide and start digging.

In this episode, Tan takes a horse clamming lesson with Chris Cvetkovich, owner of Nue on Capitol Hill. Chris digs up a bounty of horse clams and shares his recipe for preparing them in a Peruvian ceviche.

Read Tan’s story about horse clamming in The Seattle Times.

Chris’s ceviche recipe:

Clean and thinly slice the neck of your horse clams.
Place the sliced clams in a bowl and add fresh juice from 2-3 lemons or limes (or both!)
Slice sweet onion into thin crescents. Chop up a ripe avocado, a handful of cilantro (with stems) and a pepper of your preferred spiciness.
Mix veggies and a healthy amount of salt into the clam and juice.
Taste and add more citrus juice and salt if needed.
Let rest for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld (optional).
Enjoy with tortilla chips or a crunchy topping for added texture.

Remember to get a shellfish license from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife before any clamming trip.

Clamming season varies by beach. Look up a beach on the WDFW website to see if it is open and safe for harvest.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Roy Choi's journey to healthier eating (hamburgers allowed)

Thu, 15 May 2025 07:01:00 +0000

Roy Choi is best known as the father of the Korean fusion taco. His food truck Kogi went viral in 2008, making him one of the first food influencers on social media.

But in his new book The Choi of Cooking, Roy offers a look into a different part of his life: His journey to eat healthier while still having the comfort foods he loves.

Tan interviewed Roy in front of a sold-out audience at Freemont Abbey in Seattle during his book tour. Special thanks to Book Larder for organizing the event.

More information on The Choi of Cooking: https://booklarder.com/products/the-choi-of-cooking-flavor-packed-rule-breaking-recipes-for-a-delicious-life

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mexico + Korea = Seattle’s hottest taco truck

Thu, 08 May 2025 07:05:00 +0000

Mexican Seoul is making waves among Seattle foodies. But instead of traditional carne asada or cheesy quesadillas, the food truck in Roosevelt is serving up a meld of Korean and Mexican flavors. Their menu features bulgogi-style pork cooked al pastor, kimchi pico de gallo and steak marinated in spices from Korean kalbi.

Tan tastes two of Mexican Seoul’s most popular tacos with local Korean food aficionados Ellen Acuario and Jane Park, co-hosts of the podcast Reply Yeochin. Plus, the trio debates the best spot for Korean food in the area and proper etiquette when cooking Korean BBQ.

Read Tan’s full review of Mexican Seoul in The Seattle Times.

Recommendations in this episode:

Mexican Seoul, Roosevelt
So Moon Nan Jib, Federal Way
Yummy Banchan, Federal Way
Yi's Traditional Korean Beef Soup, Federal Way
JangAn Sullungtang, Lynwood
Woobling Korean BBQ, Bellevue
Southgate Mart, Bellevue
Paju, South Lake Union
Made in House, Fremont

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Seattle’s Asian chefs are reinventing fine dining

Thu, 01 May 2025 07:05:00 +0000

Seattle has some truly stellar food that draws on cultures from around the world, but not all cuisines get equal time in the limelight.

At a recent live event at Town Hall Seattle for the Splendid Table podcast, Tan and Seattle chef Melissa Miranda joined Splendid Table host Francis Lam to put a spotlight on fine dining in Vietnamese and Filipino cuisines.

Recommendations in this episode:

Musang, Beacon Hill (Filipino)
Ramie, Capitol Hill
Pho Hein Trang, Renton
Café La Vie, Tacoma
Ba Bar, various locations

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Seattle’s new third place: Breweries

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 07:05:00 +0000

Two big-name Washington breweries are expanding with new locations in Seattle, complete with food offerings from local chefs. Tan explains how the news points to two trends shaping the city’s brewery scene.

Plus, Seattle Times editor Trevor Lenzmeier tells the story of an acclaimed sushi restaurant that shut down this month, and not for reasons you would expect.

Tell us about your favorite neighborhood hang out spot! Email us at SeattleEats@kuow.org

Read Tan’s coverage of brewery expansions and follow the saga of Sushi by Scratch in The Seattle Times.

Family-friendly beer tasting rooms with great food:

Aslan Brewing with seafood by Ethan Stowell (Tangletown, not yet open)
Ruben’s Brews with fish and chips (Downtown, not yet open)
Project 9 Brewing with food from Mexican Seoul (Roosevelt)
Figurehead Brewing with food from Midnite Ramen and Nanking Ramen (Fremont)
Fair Isle Brewing with Tacos Extranjeros (Ballard)
Holy Mountain Brewing with a pasta pop-up (Phinney Ridge)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The makings of a perfect hot sandwich

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 07:05:00 +0000

There are plenty of good hot sandwiches in any town. But making a great hot sandwich is something of an art form. There are too many ways for things to go wrong: Sharp crusts that scratch the roof of the mouth; one-note fillings; sad lettuce; etc. Seattle Times journalist and restaurant critic Bethany Jean Clement joins Tan to discuss her criteria for a stellar hot sandwich, and they taste three from her top-10 list.

Read Bethany’s list of the 10 best hot sandwiches in the city in The Seattle Times.

Sandwiches we tasted in this episode:

Croque monsieur — $15, Bar Bayonne, Central District
Pho-rench dip panini — $19-200, Ba Bar, various locations
Vegetarian Pabellón arepa — Arepa Venezuelan Kitchen, University District

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is fancy craft chocolate worth the price tag?

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 07:01:00 +0000

Like many cities, Seattle has a long history of turning pre-made cacao into chocolate confections. But there’s a new kind of chocolate maker in town: Small, artisanal makers that are crafting “bean to bar” chocolates that retail for as much as $13 a bar.

Seattle Times food writer Jackie Varriano dug into this shift, and the kind of chocolate these new operations are churning out. She joins Tan for a taste test of three Seattle-area brands and they ask the question: Is this fancy treat worth the high price tag?

Read all of Jackie’s reporting on Seattle’s chocolate scene in The Seattle Times.

Recommendations in this episode:

Maeve Chocolate, Tukwila — Jcoco milk chocolate with toffee and Himalayan salt
Cocoa Legato, Greenwood — Colombian dark chocolate
Spinnaker Chocolate, Bryant/Wallingford — 70% Vanuatu dark chocolate, Haiti dark with oat milk and maple sugar

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

‘I didn’t know tahini could taste like this’

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 07:05:00 +0000

Tahini is a simple ingredient — toasted sesame seeds, ground into an oily paste. It had a moment in the food fad cycle in 2016, but has since faded into the background. Local writer and cookbook author Rachel Belle thinks that is a mistake. In her new book Open Sesame!, she argues that tahini deserves a spot in the center of every kitchen.

In this episode, Tan visits Rachel for a blind taste test of four tahinis, and learns the role the ingredient plays in Rachel’s homemade hummus recipe.

Rachel’s book Open Sesame! is out now. She also hosts local food show The Nosh on Cascade PBS and the podcast Your Last Meal.

Recommendations in this episode:

Haddar by Baracke tahini
365 Whole Foods Market tahini
Soom tahini
Aviv Hummus Bar, Capitol Hill — try the classic hummus bowl and pita bread

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The biggest restaurant shake-ups in March

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 07:05:00 +0000

This month, Seattle lost three iconic restaurants, including one in the heart of Chinatown. At the same time, the two hottest new restaurants in the region are Chinese spots in cities outside Seattle. On this episode, Tan and dining partner and writer Chris Solomon share some of their favorite bites at these new restaurants and discuss what this shift says about the region.

Read more about the hottest new restaurants in The Seattle Times.

Recommendations in this episode:

Jiang Nan, Downtown Bellevue — Soup dumplings and Peking duck
Triumph Valley, Renton and Shoreline — Prawn roll and salted egg yolk mochi

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

5 screaming meal deals

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 07:05:00 +0000

Eating out is getting pricier. But if you’re looking for a great deal at Seattle-area restaurants, all you have to do is adventure out on a quieter day. Many local eateries run deals during their slowest hours, like Monday evenings or mid-week lunch times. In this episode, Tan explains his list of the 5 best meal deals in the region.

Read more about Tan’s meal deal picks in The Seattle Times.

Recommendations in this episode:

Itadaki Yakiniku, Bellevue — $9.99 Wagyu cheeseburger (lunch only, M-F)
STK Steakhouse, Bellevue — $9.99 Wagyu cheeseburger (lunch only, M-F
Rupee Bar, Ballard — $20 dinner deal (Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday)
Cafe Lago, Montlake — $15 pizza (Mondays)
Jack’s BBQ, various locations — $29 steak and sides (until the end of March)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Seattle’s latest trend: Fusion pizza

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 07:05:00 +0000

There is a new trend popping up all over the Seattle Pizza Scene:

Fusion pizzas. And we’re not talking about controversial toppings like pineapple or olives. Instead, think pizza topped with ingredients for a Seattle Dog, or a crust slathered in mac and cheese.

Tan is joined by Seattle Times Food Editor Trevor Lenzmeier for a breakdown of the best and wildest fusion pies in the city.

Read Tan’s reporting on fusion pizzas in The Seattle Times.

Recommendations in this episode:

Bar Flohr & Pizza Pies, Fremont — Mac and Cheese pizza
Capitale Pizzeria, Capitol Hill — The Madrid, a tortilla española pie
Dude’z, Portage Bay – The Seattle Dog
KODE Pizza, Bellevue – Bulgogi kimchi pizza
MOTO, various locations – Mr. Pig
Pizza Rasoi, various pop-up locations — The Achari Chicken Pizza
Pizza by Ruffin, South Lake Union – A Fun Guy, mushroom and Jamaican curry
Serious Pie, various locations – Spaghetti and Meatballs pizza (available on Sundays)
Smoking Monkey Pizza, Magnolia – The Buffalo Soldier

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Restaurants get pricey (and creative) as costs rise

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 08:05:00 +0000

You’re not imagining it: Restaurant prices are soaring, particularly in Seattle. A combination of food inflation, bird flu and the city’s recent minimum wage hike mean many restaurant owners are raising prices and getting creative to stay in business. Tan explains how things might be changing at your favorite spot, and what budget-friendly dishes to look for if your wallet is feeling the sting.

Read Tan’s reporting on the effects of the minimum wage increase in The Seattle Times.

Restaurants we discuss in this episode:

Geraldine’s Counter, Columbia City
Merchant’s Cafe and Saloon, Pioneer Square
Jack’s BBQ, SoDo and South Lake Union
Anchovies and Salt, Renton
Off Alley, Columbia City

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your guide to Seattle's udon scene

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 08:05:00 +0000

Our town was made for soup. The sooty dusks of December. The dampness of March. We dive into caldrons of smoking pho and ramen.

So, why not udon?

The Detroit-style pizza everyone’s talking about

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 08:05:00 +0000

There are 15 new bars and restaurants that Tan check-marked as must visit this year. But there’s one opening that just might be the most anticipated. It’s called My Friend Derek’s. A hotspot for Detroit-style pizza, run by self-taught baker Derek Reiff. It’s in the Tangletown neighborhood, just south of Green Lake.

On today’s episode, Tan visits Derek at his restaurant the day before it opens to talk about what Detroit-style pizza is and what it’s like to go from a pop-up sensation to a sit-down restaurant. Even though Derek's new at this game, he’s a bit of a perfectionist who considers a four star yelp review a failure.

The tastiest dishes we ate this past year

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 08:05:00 +0000

There are thousands of restaurants all over Puget Sound, and each of these restaurants serve different dishes. So how do you know which ones to pick? Well, The Seattle Times food team tried over 1500 dishes in the past year, so you don’t have to.

In this episode, Tan talks with Times food writers Jackie Varriano and Bethany Jean Clement about the best dishes they ate last year.

Read more about their favorite dishes here.

Seattle Eats is a production of The Seattle Times and KUOW. You can support Seattle Eats by investing in the local newsrooms and the specialized beats that make this sort of storytelling possible:

Become a member today at kuow.org/donate/seattleeatsnotes
Subscribe today at seattletimes.com

Recommendations in this episode:

Gold Coast Ghal Kitchen, First Hill
Tivoli, Fremont
Tacos Extranjeros, Ballard
Birrieria Grumpy’s, Tukwila
Paju, South Lake Union
Jeff’s Texas Style BBQ, Marysville

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The best wine at Costco for under 20 bucks

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Costco is a great place to stock up on holiday staples, and nowhere is that more true than its wine selection. Tan and sommelier Owen Bargreen break down their picks for this year’s best wine offerings, and share tips on how to find them.

Plus, a loophole at restaurants that lets you save money by bringing your own bottle of wine to dinner.

Recommendations in this episode:

Sparkling wine: Kirkland brand champagne, $19.99

Red wine: 2022 Kirkland Signature Malbec, $6.99

White wine: 2022 Kirkland Signature Premier Cru Chablis, $18.99

Corkage deals:

Canlis, Queen Anne

Mainstay Provisions, Ballard and Denny Triangle

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BONUS: Why are restaurants so expensive?

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 08:05:00 +0000

$20 burgers. $50 pizzas. Eating out in Seattle has never been so expensive – and there’s lots of reasons why. In this bonus episode of Seattle Eats, we share a conversation about the economics of restaurant prices with four local chefs and restaurateurs.

Panel:

Kristi Brown (Communion)
Victor Steinbrueck (Local Tide)
Ethan Stowell (Ethan Stowell Restaurants)
Rachel Yang (Revel, Joule)

Moderated by Jackie Varriano, Seattle Times food writer

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Illegal food pop-ups are booming in Seattle

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 08:05:00 +0000

Food pop-ups, trucks and carts are blossoming all over Seattle – but not all of them are above board. The city is seeing a huge spike in mobile food vendors that aren’t permitted. Today we tell the story of how Tan found out about this trend thanks to the hottest food truck of the summer, and talk to Seattle Times reporter Jackie Varriano about how to tell if a food vendor is following health rules.

Plus, Seattle is having an al pastor taco moment. Tan shares tips for where to get a great bite.

Read Tan and Jackie’s story in the Seattle Times.

Recommendations in this episode:

Tacos La Cuadra – Rainier Beach, Mount Baker, Northgate
Tacos Extranjeros – inside Fair Isle Brewing, Ballard

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Teriyaki Quest with J. Kenji López-Alt

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 07:01:00 +0000

Teriyaki as we know it was invented in Seattle in the 1970s. It’s why there’s a teriyaki joint almost every other block across the city. On this episode, we join author and food influencer J. Kenji López-Alt on his mission to eat at every single teriyaki restaurant in Seattle (and some outside) and discover the ultimate form of this native Seattle cuisine.

Plus, Kenji and Tan discuss one of the best restaurants in Colombia that may soon be making an appearance in the Seattle area.

Recommendations in this episode:

Rainier Teriyaki, Columbia City
Grillbird, West Seattle
Prudencia, Bogota, Colombia

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The best Vietnamese dishes in Seattle

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 07:01:00 +0000

Pho and Banh mi shops are ubiquitous in Seattle, but Vietnamese food here is evolving far beyond these two dishes. In this episode, Seattle Times Food Writers Bethany Jean Clement and Jackie Varriano join Tan for a taste test of their favorite Vietnamese dishes in the city, courtesy of the Times’ Vietnamese Food Guide.

Plus, a neighborhood in Seattle with great cheap eats that you’ve probably never heard of.

Read the Vietnamese Food Guide: https://www.seattletimes.com/life/food-drink/the-best-of-seattles-vietnamese-food-scene/

Our favorite Vietnamese dishes in Seattle:

Paté Chaude — Q Bakery, Hillman City

Bún Chả Hà Nội — Ba Bar, multiple locations

Banh Mi Nem Nướng Hà Nội — Voi Cà Phê, Georgetown

Other recommendations in this episode:

The Tin Hat, West Woodland – 99¢ Taco Tuesdays

Molly Maguires, West Woodland – lunch buffet

The Dray, West Woodland

Anchovies and Salt, Renton — try the fish sauce coffee

Hello Em, Little Saigon — try the Caphe Trung (egg coffee)

Phin, Little Saigon — pick up some pandan waffles

Voi Cà Phê — try the Miso Caramel Latte or Pho Spice Latte

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The surprise success of Seattle's only Guamanian restaurant

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 07:01:00 +0000

Only one spot in Washington state made the New York Time’s list of 50 best restaurants this year: familyfriend. The Beacon Hill eatery’s menu is filled with stand-out meals from Guam and other Pacific Islands, but the one responsible for its meteoric rise is all American.

In this episode, Tan chats with familyfriend owner Elmer Dulla about the restaurant’s sudden success and its Guamanian roots. Plus, tips for enjoying fresh hop season in Seattle, even if you’re not a beer fan.

Read more about Elmer Dulla and familyfriend in The Seattle Times.

Recommendations in this episode:

Familyfriend, Beacon Hill – try the corn soup, the shrimp and octopus tostada or the La Beacon Bachoy (if you’re feeling adventurous)
Cloudburst Brewing, Downtown
Single Hill Brewing, Yakima
The Dray, West Woodland
Chuck’s Hop Shop, Central District / Greenwood / Seward Park

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Seattle’s best pizza

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 07:01:00 +0000

Where can you get the best slice of pizza in Seattle? That’s what the Seattle Times asked readers in its Summer Pizza Smackdown — and the Times’ food writers happen to agree with the answer. This episode, Tan counts down the 4 best pies in the city with fellow Seattle Times food writers Jackie Varriano and Bethany Jean Clement

Plus, tips on getting a table at the hottest new restaurant this fall: A giant dim sum hall in Chinatown.

Read more about The Seattle Times Pizza Smackdown.

Recommendations in this episode:

- Bar del Corso, Beacon Hill
- Delancey, Ballard
- The Independent Pizzeria, Madison Park
- My Friend Derek’s, Fremont
- Post Alley Pizza, Downtown
- Stevie’s Famous, Burien / Beacon Hill
- Diamond Bay, International District
- Sun Sui Wah, Bellevue

Seattle Eats is a production of The Seattle Times and KUOW. You can support Seattle Eats by investing in the local newsrooms and the specialized beats that make this sort of storytelling possible:

Become a member today at kuow.org/donate/seattleeatsnotes
Subscribe today at seattletimes.com

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Introducing: Seattle Eats with Tan Vinh

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 22:45:59 +0000

Where should I take a date for dinner? What’s up with that taco stand down the street? Is the hottest new restaurant really worth waiting in line for an hour?

Whatever question you have about Seattle’s food scene, Tan Vinh has the answer. Join him on Seattle Eats, a new podcast that pulls back the curtain on the dishes – and the people – that make Seattle’s food iconic. Episodes drop every other Thursday, starting September 19.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.