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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Downtown Seattle

Salmon spots

Made for those who prioritize wild-caught, traditional preparations and refuse to accept anything but the genuine article.

Based on 628 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Gyo Gyo En image 1
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Japanese restaurant

Small, cozy space channels a nostalgic Japanese izakaya vibe with ancient posters and authentic decor. Atmosphere feels like stepping into Japan, lively yet intimate, though seating is limited and minimal. Music and heat levels vary, creating a distinct but uneven energy.

Food here is fresh, high-quality, and beautifully presented. The dishes offer a level of authenticity rarely found in Japanese restaurants in the US.

Salmon dishes range from a spicy miso salmon bowl to a salmon poke bowl with perfectly balanced flavors. The Salmon Bara-Chirashi Bento stands out as a phenomenal option with fresh fish and well-seasoned rice.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the delicious, flavorful curry."

"The Salmon Bara-Chirashi Bento is phenomenal."

"I found the Japanese food here to be the most authentic I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers good deals on many plates.

2

Seating is very limited, primarily offering counter seats.

3

Takeout is a better option due to limited seating.

02
Maneki Restaurant image 1
Japanese restaurant

Restaurant occupies one of the oldest buildings with historical significance and traditional Japanese decor. Atmosphere feels authentic and casual, with tatami rooms offering cozy, low-key spaces for conversation. Seating includes chabudai-style tables with leg openings for comfort, enhancing the cultural experience.

Authentic Japanese cuisine shines through with a wide variety of traditional dishes and an authentic atmosphere that captures genuine Japanese vibes. The food quality consistently reflects true Japanese flavors.

Alaskan salmon stands out with its steamed salmon in foil and ora king salmon nigiri. The menu also features salmon in dishes like Ocha Zuke and salmon nanban, offering both hot and cold options.

People are saying

"I learned this place opened in 1904, making it the oldest sushi restaurant."

"I experienced authentic Japanese food that tasted like it was made with care."

"I learned the Salmon nanban is meant to be served cold."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dining; book in advance to secure a table.

2

Street parking is the only option available near the restaurant.

3

Expect long wait times even with a reservation, especially during peak hours.

03
The Crumpet Shop image 1

Small café with handmade crumpets cooked in view and psychedelic Alice in Wonderland mural sets a whimsical tone. Cozy, nostalgic atmosphere feels like stepping into 1920s America with a local secret vibe despite popularity. Limited seating and narrow walkways create a tight, bustling space near a busy market.

Crumpets here have a distinctive texture with one side often harder than the other. The shop stays true to its roots as a family-owned business using local quality ingredients for an authentic taste.

Smoked salmon pairs with creamy textures and crunchy cucumber for a balanced bite. Crumpets topped with smoked salmon, egg, and cream cheese offer a savory twist on traditional flavors.

People are saying

"Their breakfast crumpets are so buttery good."

"The smoked salmon cream cheese was light, filling, and just sweet enough."

"I found their crumpets to be authentic and yummy."

Good to know

1

The shop is cashless and does not accept cash.

2

Seating is limited, but crumpets can be taken to go.

3

The tea and iced tea are free with unlimited refills.

04
Le Pichet image 1
French restaurant

Small, intimate space with rustic vintage decor and original tile floors creates a cozy, authentic French bistro vibe. Buzzing atmosphere fills the room with lively energy and a zinc bar adds character. Patio welcomes dogs, blending cafe, bar, and bistro functions in one spot.

Simple menu features homemade charcuterie and typical French dishes. Duck breast comes undercooked, reflecting authentic French style. Food blends French cuisine with Northwest flair.

Salmon comes out perfectly cooked with a focus on sockeye and king salmon varieties. Preparation avoids dryness, keeping the fish moist and flavorful.

People are saying

"It's like stepping into an authentic Parisian bistro for French food."

"I felt like I was in authentic Paris here."

"I've never had salmon cooked this perfectly."

Good to know

1

Breakfast and lunch are first come, first served; reservations are needed for dinner.

2

The restaurant automatically applies a 20% service fee to all bills.

3

Parking can be difficult; arrive early to secure a spot.

05
Onibaba by Tsukushinbo image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, intimate space with cozy vibes and anime music playing softly. Clean and simple design creates a homey atmosphere that feels welcoming despite limited seating. Unmarked entrance adds a sense of mystery and charm to the experience.

Small dishes and main plates like grilled rice, curry udon, and fried chicken show authentic Japanese flavors. Ingredients stay fresh and the food delivers a genuine taste experience throughout.

Salmon dishes feature a hot green tea-dashi broth poured over rice with edamame, pickled daikon, and nori. The salmon ochazuke and salmon mayo onigiri offer fresh, simple flavors with reasonable prices.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the onigiri, is delicious and generously portioned."

"The onigiri here are a delightful celebration of flavor and texture."

"The salmon ochazuke is simple, delicious, and comforting."

Good to know

1

They don’t take reservations, so expect to wait during busy hours.

2

The wait during weekends can exceed 30 minutes due to limited seating.

3

There are few tables, so arrive early to secure a spot.

06
Urara Japanese Cuisine image 1
Authentic Japanese restaurant

Small, cozy Japanese restaurant with a simple entrance and intimate seating. Atmosphere stays quiet and authentic, with friendly staff and casual chef interactions. Known for fresh sushi, affordable prices, and a welcoming vibe despite its tiny space.

Sushi crafted by Chef Yoshi stands out with fresh, authentic flavors. The environment feels authentic and chill, matching the exquisite Japanese food served.

Salmon here is fatty and fresh, melting in your mouth with each bite. Options include seared salmon aburi sake don and King Salmon nigiri, both showcasing high-quality sashimi that stands out in every dish.

People are saying

"I thought the sushi here was fantastic and delicious."

"The salmon sashimi here is so fatty and fresh."

"The food here is authentic, fresh, and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating at the restaurant.

2

Expect high prices, with chirashi sushi costing around $60-70.

3

The restaurant is small, so plan for potential wait times.

07
Manzoku Izakaya image 1
Japanese restaurant

Space combines authentic Japanese decor with a partially open kitchen showcasing chefs at work. Atmosphere stays quiet and relaxing, with Japanese rock and K-pop music playing at a moderate volume. The environment feels clean, chic, and inviting, suitable for comfortable dining.

Authentic Japanese flavors shine in the yakitori and other dishes, matching tastes found in Japan. The interior blends modern Japanese design with cozy energy, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Fresh salmon sashimi stands out with clean flavors. The salmon bowl and salmon tataki don offer satisfying, rich tastes in donburi style.

People are saying

"It's a great late night spot for delicious yakitori."

"The food here is so authentic, it feels like returning to Japan."

"The salmon bowl was especially good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers 50% off drinks after 9pm on weekdays.

2

The restaurant is open until midnight on weekdays.

3

All-you-can-eat yakitori is available, but limited to 90 minutes.

08
Assaggio Ristorante image 1
Italian restaurant

Classic Italian restaurant with authentic decor and a relaxed, elegant atmosphere. Space feels cozy yet cramped, filled with artwork like a gallery. Outdoor seating adds a pleasant option, while a TV above the bar offers casual entertainment.

Classic East Coast Italian vibes come through in the fresh pasta and perfectly seasoned sauces. The food delivers authentic Italian cooking in a quaint, hole-in-the-wall setting.

Perfect sear highlights the salmon, cooked tender and flaky with delicate flavors that complement the fish well. Specials often feature salmon prepared beyond just the usual pasta options.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing; I had the best salmon ever."

"The authentic Italian food here tastes like classic East Coast Italian."

"The salmon here is cooked to perfection, tender and flaky."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended especially for Friday and Saturdays.

2

The price point is mid-to-high, reflecting the quality of the food.

09
Nana’s Green Tea image 1
Japanese sweets restaurant

Spacious interior with tall ceilings and many windows creates an airy, modern vibe. Bright lighting contrasts with a cozy atmosphere that suits relaxing or studying. Seating spreads indoors and on a covered patio, with WiFi and outlets supporting longer stays.

Smooth, earthy matcha stands out with its authentic flavor. Drinks and desserts stay rich and not overly sweet, capturing true Japanese comfort food.

Freshness stands out with the salmon sashimi being tender and flavorful. Donburi bowls deliver a satisfying mix of well-prepared and authentic tastes.

People are saying

"The matcha desserts here are rich and not overly sweet."

"I found the matcha here to be super authentic and amazing tasting."

"The salmon sashimi donburi bowls are fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Nana’s Green Tea does not accept cash payments.

2

Nana’s Green Tea gets quite busy, so I recommend ordering ahead.

3

There is a pickup window outside that allows quick collection without waiting in line.

10
Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse image 1

Small venue with an intimate dining space and upscale aesthetic offers a cozy vibe ideal for dates. A market table and salad bar provide fresh, healthy options, while a caipirinha bar serves cocktails tableside. Rooftop lounge adds a beautiful, sophisticated touch to the experience.

Brazilian barbecue stands out with its delicious and authentic flavors. The atmosphere feels warm and genuine, making every visit memorable.

Smoked salmon stands out with its rich flavor and pairs well with the corn salad and basil dressing at the market table. Salmon lox is a popular choice, often added to meals or taken home for later.

People are saying

"The service during dinner was attentive and made the experience pleasant."

"Rigoberto made this an authentic experience; he was one of the best managers."

"I thought the salmon was delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day every day in the bar.

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner service, especially on weekends.

3

Parking is available nearby, but can be limited during events.

11
The 5 Point Cafe image 1

Dive bar with dark, cozy atmosphere and walls covered in quirky art and neon signs. Music plays from a digital jukebox featuring random and classic tunes, creating a lively vibe. Open 24 hours, it draws a mix of characters and offers a genuine Seattle rock ‘n’ roll spirit.

Neon signs and eclectic memorabilia create a kitschy grungy diner feel. The lively atmosphere captures an authentic Seattle dive bar vibe with a no-nonsense, local touch.

Smoked Salmon Hash offers a rich, savory flavor. The Salmon Eggs Benedict features fresh salmon paired with classic eggs Benedict components.

People are saying

"This dive bar has a cool, retro 90s vibe and artwork."

"It's an authentic local spot with a gritty, unpolished vibe."

"The Salmon Egg Benedict is super delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great deals on drinks.

2

Breakfast happy hour specials start before 8:00am with discounted menu items.

3

The cafe is open 24 hours a day, making it a convenient option.

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