Restaurant Review: Ugly Burger

Ugly Burger 19939 Ballinger Way NE

Story & Photos by David Carlos

Dinner for tonight had to be a juicy burger.

No thanks to dry, cardboard burgers.

It had to be a highly caloric, guilt-inducing type of messiness that you don't tell your doctor at your checkup.

I asked Google what burger places were nearby. Google listed "Ugly Burger" at 19939 Ballinger Way NE as a possibility.

It was worth a visit.

A crew of three worked there. One cashier and two cooks in the kitchen.

Ugly Burger menu

I ordered two mushroom burgers, fries, and onion rings.

The cashier gave me a restaurant pager that buzzed when your order was ready. I could've sat in my car and waited.

Instead, I decided to sit at one of their clean, pine-colored tables.

Right after, three sets of customers came in. One of them was a large family. "This place must be popular," I thought to myself.

The man who took my order passed by to clean the tables. I asked, "Did this place used to be a teriyaki place?"

"Yeah, that's what I heard," he said. I asked him how long they'd been in business. "Seven months," he said.

Background music played. "Ain’t nobody gonna break my stride." Followed by "Jack and Diane."

By the third song, my order was ready.

Mushroom Burger

I rushed home to place the food on plates and take pictures. No matter how many I took, I couldn't make the burger look...presentable. "That's what you wanted," said my wife, "ugly burgers."

As soon as the picture-taking was done, I dug in. The burger was so messy I had to keep the wrapper around it.

Verdict: Ugly, but beautifully made. A hearty patty accompanied with "Ugly sauce," mushrooms, red onion, lettuce, tomato, and gooey melted Swiss cheese.

The ugly sauce? It's a blend of mayo, ketchup, mustard, garlic, onion powder, dill pickle, and other spices.

The fries and onion rings were also good. But they were pretty much ignored; the burgers filled us fast.

My wife said, "This is the best burger I’ve had in…I don't know how long."

There will be time to hit the treadmill. At that moment, I enjoyed dinner to my heart's content.

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Restaurant Review: Ristorante Machiavelli

Ristorante Machiavelli
Photo by TCA

Ristorante Machiavelli

316 Main St, Edmonds, WA 98020
425-774-0650

This establishment was a mainstay of Capitol Hill for 35 years, but has relocated, bringing downtown dining to the happy denizens of Edmonds.

Started by Tom & Linda McElroy in 1988, the hostess and chef liked it so much they bought the store to continue its legend. 

Acquired by Suzette Jarding in 2013, she moved to the heart of Edmonds in 2023, taking the baton from the much-lamented Chanterelle. 

It has a bright, open-concept dining room, with sidewalk seating, weather permitting. 

At a glance, it is traditional Italian with many classic favorites. An original “Red Sauce Joint”, its roots and recipes have endured from origins in North Beach of San Francisco. It has met expectations for well over three decades and aims to continue in its new premises. 

It should be noted that all their sauces are made from scratch, keeping true to their heritage and decades of expertise. 

There will be mozzarella, olives, anchovies, capers, parmesan, gorgonzola, arugula, parmigiano reggiano, coppa, basil, fontina, gruyere, ricotta, prosciutto, gianduja, tending towards the pescatarian, but suitably omnivore. 

Appetizers feature Macrina bread, antipasto, Caesar salad, tuna carpaccio, olive/anchovy tapenade, bresaola, minestrone soup. 

Pizza selections include mushroom, pesto, artichoke/mushroom, coppa/garlic, spicy salame, sausage/peppers (Mama Lil’s). 

Pasta selections are linguini, fettuccine, penne, spaghetti, conchiglie, to create vongole, carbonara, marinara, Bolognese, puttanesca, pepper pesto, Alfredo, meatballs, sausage, prawns, garlic/olive oil. 

Specialties are meat lasagna, spinach ravioli, eggplant parmesan, gnocchi, tortellini formaggio, prawns/spinach. 

Other entrees are veal/chicken piccata, veal/chicken parmigiana, veal saltimbocca, veal/chicken Milanese, chicken al forno, filet mignon. 

But to order veal/chicken/steak at a pasta & pizza haven would be a mystery, as it has marinara & garlic and plenty of it! 

And if you have any more room, a must-have is their famous Il Diplomatico (ladyfingers, espresso, rum, choc mousse), or affogato or cheesecake or gelato – or you could come again just for dessert. 

The bar is well stocked with reds, whites, beers and sodas. They also have impressive options for brunch, lunch, and happy hour. 

You want Italian comfort food, you got it, without the fuss of a trip into the big city, due to a renaissance. 

Buon appetito!

--TCA

See previous restaurant reviews here

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Restaurant Review: Fire & The Feast

Fire & The Feast

526 Main St
Edmonds, WA 98020
(425) 549-2852

This relative newcomer (about 5 years old) professes Pacific Northwest ingredients with Italian artistry. 

Located in the heart of downtown Edmonds, it replaced the relocated Epulo, with ambition to match or exceed its predecessor. 

It is dark, cozy and intimate with dark wood furniture, accented by shrubbery – reminds me of a grotto. 

At a glance, it is contemporary Italian, with locally-sourced PNW ingredients, and intends to bring a taste of Italy to your table. 

It should be noted that the pizza dough is made from scratch, as is the in-house pasta with the Arcobaleno pasta machine. 

It is a blend of traditional and innovative culinary styles, executed with flair and skill. Italian cuisine is regional because it uses local ingredients, and this kitchen attempts to emulate in a loving homage. 

Some of the more eye-catching and interesting ingredients are polenta, chicory, ricotta, prosciutto, burrata, conserva, arugula, bagna cauda, fennel, labneh, coriander, agrodolce, pecorino romano, capers, truffles, arils, pancetta, pangrattato, gorgonzola, confit, besciamella, fontina, gremolata, kale, sage, leeks, tending towards the vegetarian, but is reluctantly omnivore. 

Available starters are focaccia, meatballs, calamari, bruschetta, prosciutto/burrata, Brussels sprouts, clams, carrots, olives. 

Salads are Caesar, truffle/prosciutto, beet/burrata. 

Starch selections are rigatoni, bucatini, linguine, polenta, risotto, paired with Bolognese, carbonara, clams, shrimp. 

The pizza choices are of course not ordinary, namely potato/squash, pear/gorgonzola, Margherita, pepperoni/honey, mushroom/salciccia, prosciutto/arugula/fig. 

After the Primi comes the Secondi, which are short rib, Osso Buco, chicken Marsala, scallops, veg lasagna, truffle risotto. 

Then there must be Dolci, represented by Tiramisu, crostata, budino, gelato, affogato. There is a bar to serve wine, cocktails, mocktails, beer and cider. 

It certainly has a mysterious name, but there is no mystery to the feast that emerges from the fire, artistically presented. It does not disappoint.

-TCA

See previous Restaurant Reviews here

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Restaurant Review: Five

Five restaurant bistro in Edmonds
Photo by TCA

FIVE

650 Edmonds Way, Edmonds, WA 98020

(425) 563-7117

It was established 14 years ago in the Pine Park neighborhood of Edmonds, which you could, but should not, overlook. 

Located in the suburbs with an understated minimalist exterior, you might mistake it for a nouvelle art gallery, with a chandelier and an outdoor patio. 

At a glance, the menu is posh modern Italian, Northwest, with infusion of Mediterranean. The selections are restrained but well-appointed with the essentials, aiming for quality than variety, befitting its artisan ascetic. 

It is intentional and precise, using a carefully chosen blend of ingredients, lovingly combined. You might infer a mix of the familiar and unique, with pistachio, dijon-tarragon, reggiano, provolone, garbanzo, miso, gorgonzola, cilantro, capers, broccolini, portabella, chimichurri, sriracha, unagi, mirepoix, gremolata, farro, tending towards the pescatarian. 

Starters are baguette, prawns, calamari, hummus, goat cheese, bruschetta, clam/mussel combo, poblano soup, crispy rice Ahi tuna. 

Available salads are Caesar, beet, salami, arugula, fennel, seafood. 

There is a decent pizza selection, with creative ingredients - pancetta, pepperoni, pear, sausage, prosciutto, margherita, carne asada, asparagus. 

The pasta selections are limited to linguine & rigatoni, combined with seafood and Italian sausage. 

Other entrees are chicken piccata, pork chop, carne asada, salmon, steak filet, Osso Buco, bacon-wrapped scallops. 

Dessert seems constrained to dark chocolate brownie & ice-cream (with seasonal items). 

You suspect that they can deliver more than advertised, and they do, based on the freshly-sourced ingredients they have on hand. I have no doubt that whenever they unleash their imagination, it will be done with care and creativity. 

Go for an adventure in this artistic gastronomic gallery.
 

--TCA

See previous restaurant reviews here

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Restaurant Review: Epulo Bistro

Epulo Bistro

190 Sunset Ave, Suite B

Edmonds, WA 98020
(425) 678-8680

‘Epulo’ is a Latin term for ‘guest at a feast’, which declares a promising statement of intent. 

In times past, Epulo was a respectable eatery founded 15 years ago, located in the heart of downtown Edmonds, but has since relocated near the waterfront into more spacious premises. 

Not only that, the Morris family had a vision to perform a complete makeover into much more than a humble bistro, namely a large, upscale restaurant with an interesting and ambitious menu. 

It has a chic and elegant feel with stylish European ambience, parquet-style floor, and an outdoor covered deck with propane patio heating. And a seemingly gratuitous table-top fire pit to enhance your al fresco dining experience. 

It is clear they mean to transport you to a palatial oasis away from the mundane, a destination banquet space (Fireside Room) that caters to events beyond a simple dinner. 

At a glance, the menu is modern Italian, with Northwest influences and continental flair. It has a compact but tantalizing selection with uncommon ingredients such as tapenade, grana padano, pangrattato, prosciutto, kale, farro, cornichon, feta, brodo, burrata, polenta, arugula, beurre blanc, gruyere, pancetta, pecorino, gorgonzola, gastrique, fontina. 

It promises fine dining, beyond the ordinary, meticulously prepared - worth noting that the burrata, pork sausage and ice-cream are made in-house. 

Available starters are baguette, flatbread, clams, burrata, salad options aplenty (lettuce, beet, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts & more). 

There is some pasta, such as pappardelle, rigatoni, fettuccine, risotto, paired with lamb, formaggio, pistachio, pancetta, pumpkin (not your usual marinara/alfredo/pesto sauces). No spaghetti Bolognese here! 

The pizzas are gourmand-worthy (not pepperoni & cheese) with margherita, fig, parma ham, sausage/mushroom. 

In the House Special category are chicken piccata, scallops, beef short rib, steak filet, duck confit, Kobe beef burger. 

You notice it leans somewhat to the vegetarian, limited shellfish/crustaceans/fish, but the burger does come with truffle frites (a popular item). 

If you were good and ate your yummy veggies, you may consider the zeppole, affogato, torte and pudding. 

Their bar seems well-stocked and tended with cocktails, mocktails, bubbles, whites, reds, aperitifs and nightcaps. 

Epulo feels a very deluxe and grownup place, perhaps more suited to a more formal or special occasion. You almost feel underdressed when you're there - come for the atmosphere, stay for the feast!

--TCA

See previous restaurant reviews here

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Restaurant Review: Saltoro

Saltoro

14051 Greenwood Ave N, Seattle WA 98133

(206) 365-6025

‘Saltoro’ as far as I can tell, is a mountain range in the mists of the Himalayas of the Indian subcontinent. This may or may not be related to the origin story of this Broadview ristorante, it does not say. 

From the outside, it’s an unassuming building in an understated suburb, which could be easily missed but for the giant, yellow-neon sign, with the bobbing ‘O’s (Salt8r8). 

The inside is stylish, with warm accents and dark lighting. At a glance, it has a heavily Italianate influence with Northwest contemporary, and streaks of cosmopolitan styling, a true fusion cuisine. 

It professes fresh, locally-sourced, sustainable ingredients and produce. It demands your attention, with unusual and exotic touches, such as truffles, amaretti, pangrattato, fontina, arugula, prosciutto, fennel, chipotle, nicoise, gruyere, harissa, gouda, faro, sumac, gremolata, Shiitake, jicama. 

It is artisanal, and wants you to know it, with pizzettas, spaghettini, broccolini, which as far as I can tell are cuter versions of pizza, spaghetti and broccoli. You can have meat substitutes, gluten-free, vegan, but don’t expect cheddar and pepperoni here. 

You do have pasta, such as ravioli, garganelli, linguine, pappardelle, spaghettini, penne, paired with butternut squash, smoked salmon, prawns, veal, mushrooms, prosciutto, seasonal veg, marinara (not your usual red/white/green sauces). 

The pizzettas are of course gourmet with fennel, ricotta, fontina, basil, chile, wild mushroom, truffles, chutney (sorry, not Hawaiian). 

In the category of House Specials would be short rib, sea-salt roasted half chicken (a local favorite), Ahi tuna salad, Kobe beef burger, steak frites, lamb burger, fish & chips, Alaskan halibut, braised farro, sautéed salad (probably with generous lashings of truffle oil, upon request). 

Did I mention the truffle fries? And ask about the rotating specials such as barracuda, swordfish, Portuguese seafood stew (not cioppino). 

Desserts involve chocolate, Grand Marnier, apple-cranberry crisp, ice-cream, sorbet, flan, to go with a nightcap of port, cognac or wine. 

Which means there is a good bartender to keep track of the many cocktails and wines they also have on offer. 

You have a plethora of options on your plate, so be bold, be brave, stray from the ordinary to experience the enigma.

--TCA

See previous restaurant reviews here

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Restaurant Review: Girardi’s Osteria

Girardi’s Osteria

504 5th Ave S, Edmonds, WA 98020

(425) 673-5278

An ‘Osteria’ is a casual restaurant that serves local food, but that is deceptive as it is much, much more than that. 

Located in the heart of Edmonds, just a few blocks south of the landmark fountain, it has been around for 25 years. 

From the outside, you might mistake it as a low-slung bungalow tucked in a leafy neighborhood. The exterior is rustic with antique touches, but the interior is sleek and bright, with an outdoor covered terrace. 

At a glance, the menu is extensive, with a variety of salads/soups, seafood, meats, and vegetarian options. You’ll immediately notice some Italian favorites not commonly found, like calamari, polenta, cioppino, porcini, risotto, cannoli, mascarpone. 

It is insistent that you have the bread and soup, such as bruschetta, focaccia, crostini, with minestrone, lobster bisque and cioppino. 

For your pasta, they have conchiglie, linguine, penne, ravioli, pappardelle, gnocchi, tortellini, but creatively blended with crustaceans, fish, & shellfish, chicken, beef, wild boar, lamb, pork belly, porchetta, in addition to spaghetti Bolognese. 

For you herbivores, there is puttanesca, eggplant marinara, zucca, gorgonzola, pesto, primavera. 

But you also sense a Northwest contemporary influence to broaden its appeal with coconut prawns, green bean fries, crab cakes, lobster Louie, stuffed cod/sole, paella, fish & chips, seafood tacos, as it fights to retain its traditional heritage from the Girardi brothers. 

For those with a sweet tooth, there is cannoli with ricotta, tiramisu, limoncello mascarpone cake, chocolate cakes and cheesecakes. They must have a good barkeeper, as their cocktail selections allow plenty of choice. 

You could come here for the seafood, but the attentive and expertly produced modern Italian cuisine should lure you in time and again.

--TCA

See previous restaurant reviews here

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Restaurant Review: Spiro's Pizza & Pasta

Spiro’s Pizza & Pasta

18411 Aurora Ave N

Shoreline WA 98133

(206) 546-2900

‘Spiro’ is a Latin word for respiration, in this case quite apt for a place that lives, breathes, and eats pizza/pasta.

This Shoreline institution has been present for almost 30 years, next to but not overshadowed by Fred, as in Fred Meyer. 

It is a family-owned and family-run restaurant, namely the very Greek Voltsis family. This is your down-home basic pizza & pasta joint, serving Greek-Italian comfort food - no kale, quinoa or arugula here! 

You have expectations, and they will fulfill most if not all of them, that is delicious and satisfying. They have a basic salad of lettuce, tomato, cucumber, mozzarella, olives, that you can tweak with onions, feta, Greek olives, antipasto, chicken, spinach, and pepperoncini. 

Let’s start with the pizzas – all you really need are the specials – either House or Vangellis, which are a good mix of meats, veg, and cheese, and a garden special for the vegetarians. 

Then you need to know pizza numbers, namely 2, 6, 8, 11, 12, 14, 19, 22, 24 – essentially cheese, Greek veg, Italian sausage, Hawaiian, Hawaiian plus, pepperoni, meat-lovers (aka The Blake Snell), Canadian-Greek, and pep-sau, with likely sprinkles of feta/mozzarella. 

For your pasta, you have spaghetti, penne, cheese tortellini, lasagna, fettuccini, to be accompanied by meat sauce, marinara, alfredo, pesto (or any combination thereof), ricotta, butter, mizithra, with optional addition of chicken or sausage, and extra feta/mozzarella always an option. 

The red, white & green Brent’s Special combo is a popular favorite. 

For balance, there are a variety of eleven vegetables used in the pizzas/pastas. Calzones are essentially a stuffed turnover, available with any two pizza ingredients named above. 

Why you would come to a pizza/pasta joint for a sub is beyond me, but for you outliers, there are mozzarella sandwiches with pepperoni, salami, meatball, Canadian bacon, meat-lovers, and vegetables. 

Seafood? Fuhgeddaboudit! After this feast, it seems redundant to suggest cake and ice-cream, which they will serve, if asked nicely. 

Their ace is a large banquet room available for meetings, parties, large groups, etc. They serve it hot, fast and good, a regular community gathering place, where they treat you like family. Opa!

--TCA

See previous restaurant reviews here

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Restaurant Review: Portofino

Portofino restaurant

Portofino

1306 Olympic View Dr Edmonds, WA 98020
425-771-4788

‘Portofino’ is a northwest Italian town on the coast of the Italian Riviera, just below Genoa.

This Italian trattoria has been an Edmonds fixture for over 30 years. Located just off Puget Drive, north of the Edmonds Bowl, in an unremarkable strip mall, it warrants your attention.

The décor is modern, and the interior is deceptively large. The allure is the in-house, homemade dough, sauces, dressings and meatballs, and a specialty for pizza. 

At a glance, the menu has a Greek/northwest twist with Italian favorites. There’s a good selection of salads – Antipasti, Caesar, Caprese, Greek, and various other greens. 

Starters on offer are Bruschetta, Calamari, sliders, buffalo wings, poutine, fried ravioli, and more. 

The entrees feature a wide selection of pastas and sauces, such as Lasagna, Rigatoni, Fettuccine, Gnocchi, Linguine, Tortellini with Marinara, Bolognese, Marsala, Alfredo, Carbonara, Pesto, with perhaps a touch of basil and butter. 

In addition are the Grinders, Gyros and Calzones, filled with chicken, beef, Italian cold-cuts, meatballs, Canadian Bacon, with cheeses and sauces. 

Some surprise, if not incongruous, dishes are wild salmon, Thai prawns, Hawaiian French bread, but most intriguing, the pear stuffed pasta. 

However, the main attraction must be the fresh-made pizza, with basic toppings of Mozzarella, Pepperoni, black olives, Pancetta, mushroom, Italian sausage, Canadian bacon, pineapple, beside the Specialty and Gourmet options, apart from the 27 other toppings you could customize – pizza galore! 

And if you want to indulge, the desserts feature cheesecake, crème brulee, Tiramisu, chocolate ganache, and Italian doughnuts. 

The array of dishes on offer is dizzying, produced efficiently, and well-executed. Though I wouldn’t waste my taste buds on Thai prawns and Alaskan salmon here (although I’m sure are pretty good) but given the choices in pasta, sandwiches, and pizza, why would you? 

Or you could return again and again in order to experience the entire menu.

--TCA

See previous restaurant reviews here

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Restaurant Review: Bucatini - Italian restaurant on Edmonds Way

Bucatini

9818 Edmonds Way, Edmonds WA 98020

425-361-1487

‘Bucatini’ translates to a pasta shape that is long like spaghetti, but is a hollow tube, like a hose. 

This unassuming bistro, tucked in a nondescript strip mall on SR 104 (Edmonds Way), is worthy of a visit or two (or three). The décor is dark, wood-panelled, warm and cozy. 

At a glance, the menu provides classic Italian fare, with most of the familiar favorites well-represented, with seafood as well. Salad choices are House, Caesar and Caprese. 

Of course, starters have garlic bread, antipasti, and Minestrone, and a surprise twist of shellfish and crustacean options. 

There are Ciabatta sandwiches with a wide variety of fillings of meats, sausage, seafood and vegetarian. 

And of course, pasta – with the usual chicken, beef, pork, cheese, primavera, but also a big seafood presence of clams, mussels, prawns and snapper - Saltimbocca, Parmigiana, Gorgonzola all present. 

But there’s more, as in the House Specials, namely ribeye, lobster, salmon, belly pork, venison, with possibly garlic embedded somewhere. 

There is a great bambino menu that I would not refuse, with Marinara, Alfredo, Pesto, Bolognese, not just buttered spaghetti and toasted cheese. And to top it off, classic desserts such as Spumoni, Tiramisu, Gelato, in addition to cheesecake. 

Their wine list is more extensive than expected, with Prosecco, Chianti, Cabernet, Merlot, Pinot, Syrah, Chardonnay, Riesling, so much so that I wanted the help of a sommelier. 

This is not a flashy, hip or trendy establishment, but it knows what it’s doing, and does it well. The owner/chef unexpectedly stopped by for an extended chat, was gregarious and charming, which rounded off a very enjoyable dining experience. Mangia! 

--TCA

See previous restaurant reviews here

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New Chinese restaurants in Shoreline replace old ones

Two long-time Shoreline restaurants have closed but are being replaced with new ones.

The Black Pearl, next to Goodwill on 15th NE is a new establishment called Chen.s Shanghai.

Susan Westphal is enthusiastic about Chen.s.

Today I noticed for the first time that the Black Pearl on 146th and 15th Ave NE has new owners. It is now called Chen.s Shanghai. Always wanting to support new business ventures, my housemate and I went there for dinner tonight. Parking is horrid (as always) and we parked in the Goodwill parking lot. 

Inside has been refreshed (bright pink!) and is clean. We ordered combination fried rice, dry-fried green beans (spicy is an option but we declined), Special crispy pork with mixed vegetables and buns (to make sandwiches) and Xiaolongbao (meat dumplings). 

Way too much food for the two of us but we love leftovers. Don't let the pictures on the menu put you off. The actual food is much more attractive. It was SO GOOD!  We will be going back and hope others in the neighborhood support our new restaurant. They appear to be doing a bang-up UberEats business already.

Chen.s Shanghai at 14602 15th NE, Shoreline WA 98155. 10:30am to 9:30pm. Traditional flavors and dishes of Shanghai 

Photo by Patricia Hale

At Shoreline Place, the Super China Buffet has closed and will be replaced with Triumph Valley Restaurant

Patty Hale reports:

I spoke with Jern today, who will be the restaurant manager when the totally remodeled building opens about two months from now. Triumph Valley will have a full menu of traditional Chinese food. To get an idea of what will be served at this new Shoreline restaurant, check out the menu for their sister restaurant in Renton.

Triumph Valley at 15323 Westminster Way N, Shoreline WA 98133. Traditional Chinese cuisine

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Anne Stadler: When my daughter comes to town...

Sue and Anne Stadler at The Local 104

…her first stop is The Local 104, in what used to be the 7/11 next to LFP Elementary at 35th and Ballinger Way in Lake Forest Park. 

Great pizza! Great oysters! Great service!

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On the Menu at Le Petit Paquet: Change!

Le Petit Paquet photo by Wayne Pridemore

By Jamie Holter

It’s been just over a year since Le Petit Paquet opened in the old Streetzeria Pizza location in Richmond Beach on Richmond Beach Road at 20th Ave NW. 

On the menu for year two? Change! And it’s all good.

Zephyr Paquette is the owner, a little dynamo package herself, just as her restaurant’s name implies. 

In the last year, she’s stayed true to the excellent pizza we have come to expect and added a bit more: fresh ingredients from local farmers. 

She dries her own herbs and continues to focus relentlessly on quality and tasty food.

Date night. Photo by Jamie Holter

But here’s what’s new. Wednesday is Date Night! 

$50 and tip includes a pizza + salad + a bottle of wine. What??? That’s amazing. 

It’s not just any bottle of wine. Zephyr prides herself on carefully chosen wine, chosen with her best customers’ tastes in mind. 

You can buy a bottle to take home with you from the retail wall, too.

On Fridays, she releases the “Fresh Sheet.” The Friday night dinner menu goes beyond pizza to include Duck Confit or Halibut or Scallops, whatever is fresh at the moment. 

Her summer burrata has roasted peaches, pickled cherries and white balsamic reduction. Yum. Oh, and lemon bars. Yes, the lemon bars.

She’s wrapping up work on the outside patio. Dogs are not only welcome, but enthusiastically so. (Her pup, Ziggy, herded me around the restaurant for a while then sat down, allowing me to scratch his shoulder for 10 minutes. Sorry, I was distracted by this adorable dog.)

Zephyr sees movie nights and outdoor dining
Photo by Jamie Holter

But wait, there’s more! 

Zephyr is going to use the huge open space behind the restaurant to expand the eating area and show big screen movies over the summer. 

Buy dinner (or her new “lunch box” concept), bring a blanket, and watch a movie. 

That’s her plan and she hopes it is yours as well. 

New tables for the back yard
Photo by Jamie Holter

The day I visited, she was sanding and priming two gorgeous pieces of wood that will soon become tables. She plans a bar out back too.

Photo by Jamie Holter

But it’s the staff who she is proudest of right now. 

Every kitchen employee is 19 and under so she considers the workplace a teaching kitchen. 

She knows the backstory of each student which was impressive.

So if you haven’t been to Le Petit Paquet in a while, consider a visit before summer. 

Bring a date on Wednesday or your best dog anytime and definitely make a plan for a family or friends movie night with the big blow up screen between May and October.

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Restaurant Review: Pizza at The Local 104

Sue Stadler at The Local 104
Photo by Anne Stadler

Sue Stadler, LFP Elementary/Kellogg/Shorecrest graduate, enjoys a mushroom pizza at The Local 104 where she was having supper with her mother, Anne Stadler.

Anne talked with Chef Tony Vujovich, co-owner of The Local 104. 

Chef Tony is truly the KING of local food!! Awesome supper at Local 104!!

He uses a method for creating the dough that he invented. It makes an incredibly delicious thin crust.

He’s really super thoughtful about sourcing locally, paying careful attention to climate change issues and practices. The place is a pleasure to eat in! And he’s an impressive guy!

The Local 104 is on Ballinger Way and 35th Ave NE, 18498 Ballinger Way NE, Lake Forest Park, WA 98155

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Seattle Times discovers some Shoreline restaurants

Waken Bacon counter
Photo by Cynthia Sheridan

We knew they were there but the folk in that big city south of us had no idea. But now, thanks to an article published on Wednesday, they know about four great places to eat in Shoreline.

From pretty poke bowls to huge barbecue platters that will feed you for days, Shoreline boasts these great eats

Hint to The Times: here's a few more

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The Aurora Borealis shines in Shoreline

Text and photos by Rob Oxford

Since the legendary Parker's Ballroom closed its doors in 2012, the community of Shoreline has desperately needed a quality live music venue. One that could host local as well as national acts.

Thankfully with the recent opening of Aurora Borealis at 16708 Aurora Ave N, we now have one.

This is not to say that live music couldn’t be found in the City of Shoreline before, but bands hoping to play to more than a handful of close friends had to either pack their gear all the way downtown to Seattle or north to Lynnwood. Luckily, that is no longer the case.

The new restaurant and event space which is coincidentally only a stone’s throw from the lot that once housed Parkers, is the perfect addition to a growing Shoreline. Owner Tyler Myers, who had never been in the old Drift on Inn Roadhouse Casino which houses the new establishment, knew exactly what he wanted to do with the space the minute he walked in the door.

Tyler is a business entrepreneur, part-time musician and local resident, which makes spreading the word about his new restaurant even more important. During our recent meeting, Mr. Myers made it very clear than his plans for Aurora Borealis are long term and he hopes to have many opportunities to give back to the community that has welcomed him and that he calls home.

While driving to the restaurant for an introduction, the first thing that popped into my head was, “this is Aurora Ave, where in the heck am I going to park?” Upon my arrival I was overjoyed to find out that I had 250 stalls from which to choose. Bonus!

Restaurant menu has a wide variety of food

The upper level of the building which houses the restaurant is aesthetically pleasing and well lit, which will immediately appeal to any 57-year-old restaurant reviewer who may have forgotten his “readers”. Clean and professionally designed, along one wall are several booths for more intimate dining, while the main floor is spacious and welcoming.

The menu is chock full of comfort food favorites such as meatloaf, pot roast, mac ‘n cheese, a half dozen burgers to choose from or, if you’re in the mood for a steak, try the 8 oz filet, 10 oz rib eye or loosen your belt and order the 24 oz. porterhouse. If pasta, fish or salad are more to your liking, there’s something on the menu for you as well. The mussels, steamers and cheese fondue from the appetizer menu immediately caught my eye, as did the bleu cheese bacon wrapped dates.

Two full bars with draft beers, wines, and bourbons

 

The Aurora Borealis also features two full bars with an assortment of draft beers, wines and bourbons to choose from, including a 28-year-old bottle of Pappy Van Winkle, one of only eight available in the entire state this year. It is also the first bar in the state to feature the Azbar system which delivers over 200 cocktails perfectly poured.

What could be most appealing to local corporations, businesses and charitable organizations just might be the availability of The Aurora Room to host private parties, wedding receptions, sports banquets or other various events and seminars. For smaller business meetings there is an additional conference room two floors up that can be catered to your own specifications.

A massive music venue with stage, digital lighting,
professional sound and video system

Stroll down the stairs and you’ll find a massive music venue with a total capacity of 338, designed by a music lover, for music lovers. From the expansive stage with its digital lighting, to the professional sound and video system capable of video streaming to the posh greenroom for performers, Aurora Borealis has it all and will soon be hosting some of the best talent the Pacific Northwest has to offer.

The restaurant has already scheduled several very funny comedians for its Wednesday Night Comedy Series, but has plans to also host World Cup matches, Seahawk gameday parties and the occasional live radio event.

This weekend the 25th and 26th, check out The Popoffs from 9 – Midnight on Friday and the Michelle Taylor band on Saturday.

Although your family is sure to love it, the new Aurora Borealis Restaurant at 16708 Aurora Ave. N. is much more than a family restaurant. It is an “event space” unmatched by any other for miles around and… a breath of fresh air for Shoreline residents.

The restaurant is currently hiring hosts, servers, kitchen staff and bartenders. For employment information and a complete menu got to their website.

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The Seattle Times discovers the Mediterranean Oasis

Dining area of Mediterranean Oasis
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

The Seattle Times has discovered Shoreline's Mediterranean Oasis.

The Oasis is in Parkwood Plaza, near Joann Fabrics.

We published an enthusiastic review of the Oasis last fall, written by reader Donna Luke-Peterson.

Compare that to the review by The Times reporter: here

The Mediterranean Oasis is open daily from 9am to 11pm; 15238 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline.

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Restaurant review: Mediterranean Oasis Bakery and Kitchen

Counter and seating area
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

By Donna Luke-Peterson

My family saw the Grand Opening sign on the new Mediterranean Oasis Bakery and Kitchen next to the Joann's store at the Parkwood Plaza Mall.

It was much bigger than I expected, with a large cafe and eating area with lots of modern chairs and tables -- and delicious food!

The owner is Palestinian from Jerusalem. He spent 20 years in
Chicago in the restaurant business before returning to Seattle.
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

Amazing crispy falafel, beef shawarma, freshly baked pita bread, and fresh-made hummus! We were even given samples of the beef and hummus to try beforehand.

Our combo plates came with a fresh mixed salad (no raw onions, yay!) Big portion of the beef shawarma -- but I will be coming back for the savory, puffy, crisp, falafel next time for sure.

Large amount of tasty pita bread baked daily
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

They also had "pies" on their menu that looked like large flatbreads (like pizza pie, maybe?) with meat, cheese, or spices -- something else to try next time.

Friendly staff, very helpful. We also bought a large package of fresh baklava treats -- delicious! Ate a few there, and lots to take home to share, too.

About half of the packaging is in Arabic
then you run into something like French's mustard
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

Big selection of groceries, spices, exotic spices, drinks, candy, canned goods, plus refrigerated and frozen section. And dishes, tea, hookahs ... just about everything! And looks like a fresh meat / butcher section coming in the near future, too.

Give it a try!!

Mediterranean Oasis 

Bakery and Kitchen

15238 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline 98133. 

Parkwood Plaza (Joann's, Shari's, new Starbucks)
206-913-2857

Hours are from 10am - 10pm every day - and sometimes later. 

If they are there and still have food in the kitchen, they'll feed you.

They will also cater your events. 

They have signed on with GrubHub, if you want to have your food delivered.

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Restaurant review: Black Pearl

Black Pearl
Review and photos by Carolyn Keopanya

Who can turn a selective vegetarian into a ravenous carnivore? The same ones who can create a leftover sauté enthusiast out of my picky 10 year old food separatist - Black Pearl. With inviting dishes of brightly colored crisp vegetables, and tantalizing smells of marinated meats, Black Pearl is a wonderland for the experienced and new to Chinese cuisine.

My family and I recently visited Black Pearl for lunch. Black Pearl is a fantastic Chinese restaurant on the north side of Goodwill on 15th NE and 145th. They have an open line concept so you can watch your food being prepared while you wait. Lunch is a great time to try a variety of items there for a really great price. Each entree item comes with a choice of rice, choice of soup (their hot and sour is the best!) and either a spring roll or bbq pork.

We chose to share our entrees family style. I couldn't believe the enthusiasm that came from my kids - never witnessing such eagerness to try new foods before! My children are as selective as they come, so this can only attest to the offerings at Black Pearl.

We chose to have General Tso's Chicken, Stir-Fried Green Vegetables, 10 Ingredient Chow Mein, and a full entree size of the Mongolian Beef. My boys had a fork fight to compete for who got the last of the General Tso's - one of them being the aforementioned vegetarian.

This General Tso's is like none other I've had. Light and crispy coating, large pieces of breast meat chicken, and a sauce that is the best blend of all that the palate desires: Savory garlic and soy with just the right touch of sweetness, followed with that bit of spice the dish is known for. Nothing needed, nothing missed.

The Green Veggies was a total hit! Those picky kids I mentioned.... wouldn't leave them alone! Frosted in garlic, simply sautéd to an al dente perfection, this dish was a great accompaniment to our meat and noodle dishes without overpowering them.

The Mongolian Beef was definitely the favorite all around, eliciting the highest amount of praise from the crowd. When I asked what made the beef so tender, Chef giggled and said she bought a machine especially to cut the meat for this dish. First the beef is defatted, tendons removed, then marinated. The sauce for the final preparation is as delicate as the meat itself, tossed with green onions, and poured over crispy noodles.

The 10 Ingredient Chow Mein combined an array of meats, shrimp, and vegetables with soft noodles. This dish is available with the house homemade noodles ($1.25 up charge) which is a recipe Chef learned from her mother. Other recipes Chef Tieth-Sun Cheng brought from home are the Mu Shu pancakes and Pot Stickers.

Fresh, healthy ingredients are important to Black Pearl. They use absolutely no MSG, no nitrites, as well as no artificial colors. And they limit the amount of sugar, sodium, and corn starch in their dishes, and use only white meat chicken. So often I leave Asian restaurants feeling sluggish. This wasn't the case with Black Pearl -  I was satisfied and energized!

Chef Juei-Hsi Cheng and Chef Tieth-Sun Cheng,
"Ray" and "Marlene", owners of Black Pearl

Chef Tieth-Sun Cheng and husband Chef Juei-Hsi Cheng, who most know as Marlene and Ray, moved to Shoreline in 1987. In 1989 they opened the first Black Pearl in the Wedgwood neighborhood. Ten years later, they opened their current location here in Shoreline.

They are the kindest people and treat their customers as an extension of their family. Their restaurant is clean, and staff is courteous. Free delivery to a 3 mile radius with a $10 minimum order.

Lunch Specials $6.75-8.25 (served until 4pm)
Appetizers $1.75-7.50
Entrees $8.25-11.95
Specialty Items $13-15

14602 15th Ave NE, Shoreline, WA 98155, 206-365-8989

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 11-9pm
Friday, Saturday 11-9:30pm
Sunday 4-9pm
Monday Closed

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Puerto Bonito Family Mexican Restaurant on Richmond Beach Road

Photo by John Crawford

PUERTO BONITO Family Mexican Restaurant

630 Richmond Beach Road, Shoreline, WA  98177

Liquor license - Mexican beer, raspberry Margaritas, etc.

By John Crawford

My wife and I were pleasantly surprised and pleased with our dinner at the Puerto Bonito Family Mexican Restaurant on Sunday afternoon.

It is relatively new, and we had never tried it before. 

Try the raspberry margaritas
Photo by John Crawford

Abraham Garcia and his partner Felipe Sanchez opened Puerto Bonito Family Mexican Restaurant at 630 Richmond Beach Road in November. They have operated the Magnolia El Ranchon restaurant in Magnolia for the past 18 years.

  

We didn’t expect the restaurant would be so good.

We were pleasantly surprised, although truthfully it was just a tad pricey for Mexican food.  BUT – it WAS very good food. 

Booths or tables are available
Photo by John Crawford

The menu offers a broad selection of choices, including a number of seafood combinations. 

My deluxe seafood enchilada, stuffed with shrimp, crab and scallops ($16.25), was scrumptious.  My wife’s arroz con mariscos ($16.25) was equally tasty.

The owners completely gutted the place, which was previously Ricky's Bar, and remodeled it into a friendly restaurant space. Everything is bright and clean.

Patio dining in good weather
Photo by John Crawford

Once the weather improves, there is a patio for outdoor dining.

The service was friendly, and the food delicious.

Definitely worth a return trip.

We also liked the chips, salsa and guacamole….

Don't forget dessert
Photo by Diane Hettrick

Puerto Bonito is located in the shopping plaza on Richmond Beach Road anchored by QFC and Ace Hardware.  This is the area known as 4-Corners, where the neighborhoods of Hillwood, Richmond Highlands, Richmond Beach, and Innis Arden meet.

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