The forgotten Seattle Neighborhood: Eastlake
I like to think of Eastlake as the neighborhood in Seattle people forget about. There’s U District and if you don’t blink fast enough you’ll end up in South Lake Union, completely missing the neighborhood east of the lake. After living here for a few years I’ve had the privilege of hitting up a few of the local spots and here are some of my favorites.
Serafina – the jaunt to Italy.
This is a great place when you want to feel like you’re taking a little vacation, it’s something special. Sit at the bar and enjoy one of their hand mixed cocktails. Their spirits and syrups are house-infused and I always find something fun to try in seasonal cocktail section. On the menu start with a traditional Italian dish like sliced meats, cheese and marinaded peppers or Bruschetta. The pork belly has a little northwest twist and is not to be missed. For a second course try the butternut squash ravioli or the eggplant, it’s their signature dish. If you do a meat course the braised short ribs are excellent. Always save room for dessert and end the meal with the Profiteroles – they are divine.
Next door to Serafina is Cichetti – the harth.
No matter where you sit in Cichetti you feel like you’re seated right next to a cozy fireplace or the wood fire oven churning out most of the items on their menu. Everything from the cocktails to food has this homey feeling. Try a classic ruby cocktail or their haymaker. They seasonally update their menu but there are a few constants. Try the pizzas, baked clams or the lamb kabob. The pickled onions on the lamb kabob is an extra special touch. It’s off the menu now but try asking for the Oven Floor Cheese, it’s the simplest dish but amazing! Their dishes are large enough to be a meal or get a few and share the warmth with friends. On Friday nights you’ll find the bar is one of most happening places in Eastlake.
An Eastlake icon. But like all good icons there is a way things are done around here. This local spot is a tavern, beer and wine only, no hard booze. Only cash is accepted so leave your credit card at home. The Skee-Ball machine is in the back. But those are the basics you need the deep cuts. For starters the staff is on it! Keep your beer full or your glass in your hand at all times or someone will come by and scoop it up. Keeping your beer full is preferred. And if all that drinking makes you get hungry and a Zoo hot dog just won’t do it, order a pizza from Pazzo’s next door. It’ll fill you right up. Beer + pizza, it doesn’t get much better than that. Everyone must have at least one beer here in their Seattle-lifetime.
Ravish is every thing you want in a favorite neighborhood bar – good drinks, good food, good atmosphere and a good smile from manager Nick when you walk in. Ravish is good for a quick drink with a friend or bring a group for multiple cocktails and bites at one of their bright green tables. There’s something for everyone at Ravish. Start by perusing the two page cocktail list filled with classics and cocktails with a twist. Move on to food. The menu is built to share with a group or choose a few things for yourself. You can’t go wrong a trio spread, steak skewers, two kinds of sliders, small salads and an amazing mac and cheese that’s worth the wait.
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Thanks for the guest blog post JOAT! Eastlake is definitely growing in prominence as far as the culinary scene is concerned. The patio at Serafina is great on a nice day and Cicchetti is provides such a cozy atmosphere on a cold winters day.