Ivar's Salmon House

"If you hear “Ivar’s” and only think of fast food, quit it. At the northeastern-most corner of Lake Union, Ivar’s Salmon House is a whole different kettle of fish. Although it comes equipped with the spectacular water/city view you’d expect in this location, it’s just as beautiful inside, where half the building comprises a pretty faithful replica of a Coast Salish cedar longhouse, replete with a fire pit for smoking salmon on-site. The seafood-heavy menus feature a whole lot of salmon, speaking of — hey, it’s right there in the name — and include pasta, seafood stew, crab-stuffed halibut, seared scallops, and the same fish ‘n’ chips you know from Ivar’s Fish Bar. Eat it in a booth with a view, alongside the gorgeous longhouse, or al fresco on the deck, as downtown Seattle winks at you from across the water." - Meg van Huygen, Harry Cheadle, Gabe Guarente

"All Ivar’ses are good Ivar’ses, but the crown jewel among them is the Salmon House on Lake Union, hands down. All of the seafood will astound, especially the chowder and salmon, naturally — but the special holiday brunch buffets are true spectacles to behold, with six different chef stations and dozens of options, including crab legs, clams, mussels, prime rib, and a full-on chocolate fountain. Read more on Ivar’s history here." - Meg van Huygen