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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Rainier Valley

Food spots

You are looking for a meal that fits the neighborhood.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Saigon's Garden image 1
Saigon's Garden image 2
Saigon's Garden image 3
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Vietnamese restaurant

Bright, spacious dining offers a cozy vibe with attractive greenery. Authentic Vietnamese dishes shine with fresh, homemade taste at reasonable prices. Lively yet welcoming atmosphere draws a busy crowd, especially for flavorful pho in the evenings.

Food here is authentic Vietnamese with a fresh, homemade taste. Prices stay reasonable while serving delicious, clean dishes.

People are saying

"I found the Vietnamese food here to be really solid and authentic."

"I found plenty of parking available, the lot was spacious."

"The Vietnamese food here is authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and ample at the restaurant.

2

Prices are reasonable for the quality and portion sizes.

3

The restaurant is clean and comfortable for dining.

02
Mi Patria image 1
Puerto Rican restaurant

Food truck serves authentic Puerto Rican cuisine with huge portions and flavorful mofongo. Shaded outdoor seating offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for relaxing. Vibe reflects genuine Caribbean culture enjoyed by a diverse crowd.

Authentic Puerto Rican food shines here with flavors that remind of home cooking. The dishes are consistently delicious and true to Caribbean roots.

People are saying

"This Puerto Rican food tastes like home, made with love."

"There's lots of street parking available nearby."

"The garlic shrimp mofongo was a delight."

Good to know

1

Mi Patria offers generous portions that can feed two people for the price of one.

2

Parking can be tight on S Dawson; consider 42nd Ave S or 46th Ave S for more options.

3

Prices are fair for the portion sizes, and everything tastes fresh.

03
Vientiane Grocery image 1
Asian grocery store

Small Asian grocery store with authentic Lao flavors and a mini restaurant offers made-to-order dishes with friendly service. Warm, family-run spot creates a cozy atmosphere and stocks unique grocery items for a true neighborhood treasure.

Offers authentic Laotian food with a home cook style that feels very genuine. Made-to-order dishes come with friendly service that explains unfamiliar items clearly.

People are saying

"The food at this grocery store is delicious and made with high-quality ingredients."

"The Lao sausage here is amazing, worth the visit."

"I found the Lao food here to be authentic and home cook style."

Good to know

1

Vientiane Grocery is a family-run business offering both groceries and a small restaurant.

2

Expect affordable meals with high-quality ingredients in their dishes.

3

Desserts are made in small batches and are usually warm when served.

04
Billiard Hoang image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Pool hall buzzes with three well-kept tables and lively chatter in Vietnamese. Food shines with authentic Vietnamese dishes that taste like home cooking. Constant NFL and NBA streams create a fun, familial vibe blending games and dining.

Food here offers delicious Vietnamese fare at affordable prices. The dishes stand out as some of the best in the area, comparable to home-cooked meals with Vietnamese families.

People are saying

"You have to try the fish sauce wings; they're the best Vietnamese food."

"The banh mi here is fresh, crisp, and so flavorful."

"The Vietnamese food here is amazing, especially the fish sauce wings."

Good to know

1

There is free parking with approximately 20 spots available.

2

Street parking is available, but the neighborhood can be unsafe.

3

They charge a fee for using credit cards.

05
Royal Esquire Club Inc image 1
Non-profit organization

Open, well-lit space with cozy atmosphere invites locals to enjoy delicious food and great flavors. Friendly patrons create a safe vibe perfect for networking and partying. Long-standing presence adds urban charm to the lively scene.

Food here is consistently delicious and well-catered. Every meal offers great flavors that stand out.

People are saying

"I had so much fun at the birthday party."

"I thought the food here was great."

"It's a great dance spot."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging, so plan ahead to find a spot.

2

The dress code is inconsistent, so check before you go.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere, especially during events.

06
Maa Kiin Seattle image 1
Thai restaurant

Cozy spot with modern decor and calm atmosphere suits quiet meals or dates. Authentic Thai dishes like delicious curry and fried rice shine in taste and quality. Space feels tight, and LED lights may distract.

Food features authentic Thai cuisine with delicious curry dishes, fried rice, soups, and noodles. Quality and taste stand out, making it a spot worth returning to.

People are saying

"The green papaya salad was a great starter, bright and fresh."

"I found their cocktails and mango sticky rice to be amazing."

"I thought the Thai food here was really great."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging in the area, so plan accordingly.

2

The restaurant is currently understaffed, which may affect service times.

3

Takeout is a popular option, especially during busy hours.

07
Pizzeria Pulcinella image 1
Pizza restaurant

Cozy, swanky vibe shines with authentic Italian decor and certified Vera Pizza Napoletana. Enjoy excellent Italian soda and a great wine and beer selection. Front patio offers relaxing views of water and trees.

Italian cuisine stands out with delicious dishes and excellent Italian soda. Prices stay reasonable while the vibe blends cozy and elevated dining.

People are saying

"I found the pizza here to be delicious and amazing."

"I'd put this pesto on my wedding registry; it's the best I've ever had."

"The food here is delicious and fantastic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

2

Parking can fill up quickly on the neighborhood street.

3

Thereโ€™s convenient parking available right behind the restaurant.

08
Columbia City Bakery image 1

Bakery offers a calm, inviting atmosphere with well-executed classics and creative flavor twists. Signature bread and peanut butter cookies shine alongside amazing flavors beyond cinnamon rolls. Great coffee complements the standout aroma and appearance of all dishes.

Food features amazing flavors and a variety beyond just cinnamon rolls. The aroma and appearance of all dishes stand out, paired well with great coffee.

People are saying

"You've got to try their hand pies, especially the chorizo."

"I found the bread here to be phenomenal and amazing."

"The peanut butter cookie food is chewy with high peanut butter flavor."

Good to know

1

Columbia City Bakery is open Thursday to Saturday only.

2

Online pre-orders are available for hot sandwiches and baked goods.

3

Expect limited indoor seating at the bakery.

09
Spice Waala image 1
Restaurant

Outdoor seating with covered picnic tables offers a casual vibe. Bold, authentic Indian street food arrives fresh and fast. Rotating soft serve flavors add a sweet touch to this affordable, relaxed spot.

Food here is bold and comforting, with a focus on authentic Indian street flavors. Dishes come out fresh and flavorful, prepared quickly to keep the experience convenient.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and made with pride."

"The soft serve ice cream is a favorite, especially with the kathi rolls."

"I enjoyed the mango lassi; it was good."

Good to know

1

Best to order ahead to avoid waiting during busy times.

2

Street parking is available, but can be limited.

3

Expect food turnaround times of under five minutes on average.

10
Yuu Tea Cafe image 1

Spacious cafe shines with natural lighting and handmade bagels that arrive quickly. Soft music and real plants create a cozy atmosphere perfect for relaxing or studying. Quality drinks and fast service make it a family-owned gem.

Food arrives quickly and is hand delivered. The menu offers a huge variety with good quality ingredients. Bagels stand out as very good, and both food and tea are consistently phenomenal.

People are saying

"I found the teas here to be delicious and super high quality."

"These bagels are comparable to those in New York City."

"The food here is amazing and affordable."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers a wide variety of breakfast bagels and baked goods.

2

Yuu Tea Cafe is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

3

The cafe has an EV charging station available for electric vehicles.

11
Twilight Rainier image 1

Dive bar offers a laid-back vibe with music from Cumbia to 80s mash-ups. Food is better than average, with late-night kitchen serving burgers and wings. Outdoor seating is dog-friendly, creating a homey atmosphere where regulars enjoy good drinks and friendly chats.

Food here is consistently good and better than average for bar fare. The kitchen stays open late, serving great food that matches the friendly, comfortable vibe.

People are saying

"This bar has surprisingly good food, especially the burgers and nachos."

"It's a wonderfully chill and laid-back dive bar."

"I thought the food here was really good and worth the price."

Good to know

1

The kitchen stays open until 12am for late-night food options.

2

Happy hour runs until 6pm with special deals on select items.

3

The pub burger is only available during happy hour.

12
Olympia Coffee Roasting image 1

Bright, airy space with natural light and retro decor offers a welcoming vibe. Coffee is great flavor and pairs with consistently good food, though options are limited. Live jazz adds energy without noise, perfect for quick visits or casual meet-ups.

Coffee stands out with great flavor and pairs well with amazing food. Food options remain somewhat limited but consistently good.

People are saying

"Their coffee is great, bold, and robust."

"Their pastries are really yummy and look great."

"The food and coffee here are always great."

Good to know

1

Jazz Night School fundraiser happens every Thursday at 7pm with a $10 entry fee.

2

Parking in Columbia City can be challenging; arrive early to find a spot.

3

The cafe is popular for working, so tables may be limited during peak hours.

13
Q Bakery Sandwiches image 1

Freshly baked baguettes and authentic banh mi define this spot. Expect Vietnamese comfort dishes with solid taste and quick service. Lines form for affordable prices and Asian baked goods to go, but no seating is available.

Food focuses on Vietnamese comfort dishes with generally good to great taste. Packaging uses plastic-lined paper bags, which can be weak for wet or oily items.

People are saying

"The banh mi here is so tasty, especially the tofu."

"I could eat the tofu Banh Mi here every day."

"I found the food here to be great."

Good to know

1

Q Bakery Sandwiches is a grab-and-go place with no seating available.

2

Expect long lines, especially during peak hours.

3

An 8-inch baguette costs $6.25, which is a great deal.

14
Bua 9 Thai Cuisine image 1
Thai restaurant

Open kitchen shows cooks crafting authentic Thai flavors in a cozy, family-run spot. Food is fresh and healthy, served fast by friendly staff. Quiet, clean atmosphere invites regulars who enjoy spice level variety and a wide menu of well-prepared dishes.

Food arrives quickly with fresh, healthy flavors that stand out from typical Americanized Asian dishes. The menu offers authentic Thai tastes served by friendly staff in a simple, no-frills setting.

People are saying

"I found the Thai food here to be truly authentic and spicy."

"The portions at this Lunch Spot are huge; you'll have leftovers."

"I found the food here to be amazing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a lunch menu with dishes starting at $14.

2

Expect a minimum wait time of 5-15 minutes for takeout orders.

3

Spice levels vary, with some dishes starting at a minimum of 2 stars.

15
Taqueria El Asadero image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open-air tent creates a covered outdoor dining spot where rain adds to the calm vibe. Burritos and menudo shine with generous portions and quality ingredients. Open till 10 pm, it serves hot, satisfying meals late into the evening.

Food stays delicious and flavorful with options like burritos and quesadillas. Open till 10 pm, it offers hot, satisfying meals later in the evening beyond fast food.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food, especially the tacos, to be delicious."

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"I love the birria burrito here; it's my favorite."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open till 10 pm for late-night food options.

2

Expect wait times of no more than 10 minutes for your order.

3

There is no visible menu with prices, so ask before ordering.

16
Safari Njema image 1
African restaurant

Rustic setting offers authentic East African cuisine with large portions and gluten-free options. Food tastes like home and arrives promptly, though fresh cooking means some wait. Laid-back vibe includes occasional bugs due to open doors.

Authentic East African cuisine shines through with every dish, offering delicious Kenyan food that tastes almost like home. The food arrives promptly from the staff and keeps you coming back for more.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and tastes almost like home."

"I loved the authentic East African cuisine here."

"The Goat Curry here is amazing, truly to die for."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially on weekends.

2

Calling ahead with your order can help reduce wait times.

3

Expect a wait of 30-60 minutes for food preparation during peak times.

17
Canton Noodle House image 1
Cantonese restaurant

Renovated space offers a calm vibe with old-fashioned Cantonese music. Flavorful dishes like authentic Cantonese noodle soups and fried chicken serve huge portions at reasonable prices. Family-owned spot stays packed with families and workers enjoying comfort food.

Flavorful dishes deliver consistent satisfaction. Comfort noodle food stands out with great taste and quality.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing."

"I found the wonton noodle soup to be authentic and delicious."

"I thought the fried chicken here was very good."

Good to know

1

Payment is made directly at the cashier; credit cards accepted.

2

Expect large portion sizes, perfect for sharing.

3

Parking is generally easy and available nearby.

18
Lottie's Lounge image 1

Old hotel turned bar offers a cozy patio and a friendly crowd for a chill vibe. Locally inspired cocktails pair well with underrated bar food that stays consistently great. Spot feels like a homey gathering place where locals relax and connect.

Bar food stands out as quite good and often underrated. Overall, the food maintains a consistently great quality.

People are saying

"The people behind the bar are so sweet and welcoming."

"The cocktails here are great and worth the price."

"I thought the food here was good."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays feature special deals on tacos and drinks.

2

Karaoke happens every Tuesday night, starting at 8pm.

3

Happy Hour runs until 7pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

19
Baked From The Hart image 1

Cute converted house with giant pie window offers a cozy, quiet spot. Food is mostly average with a fast food burger and limited Southern options. Known for excellent pies, it draws those seeking heartfelt baked goods.

Food here is mostly average with a burger that tastes like fast food. Southern food options are limited and not very authentic.

People are saying

"I thought the cheesecake here was simply amazing and really, really good."

"I often think about the sweet potato pie."

"You have to try the delicious pies; they're a new favorite."

Good to know

1

Parking next to the shop might be difficult; street parking is available nearby.

2

The hours of operation can be unpredictable, so check before visiting.

3

They offer both mini and regular pies for different appetites.

20
Empire Roasters & Records image 1

Espresso bar offers gluten-free waffles and delicious coffee in a cozy, chill space with a vinyl record shop and rooftop deck. Dogs roam freely, adding to the welcoming vibe. Comfortable seating suits work or relaxation with natural breeze and music.

Food comes fresh with clear care in preparation. Gluten-free waffles and delicious coffee stand out, while dogs freely roam the cafรฉ, sometimes shaking fur near the food.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was great and delicious."

"The third floor seating areas are so cozy with lots of natural light."

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is available and easy to access nearby.

2

Dogs are allowed inside, but cats in carriers are not permitted.

3

The top patio is open for the summer, providing outdoor seating.

21
PCC Community Markets - Columbia City Co-op image 1

Offers organic produce and a hot food bar with fresh, ready meals. Vibrant space with lively outdoor seating creates a welcoming vibe. Known for a well-stocked deli and bakery that adds to the community feel.

Freshness stands out with organic produce and a variety of cheese. Ready-to-eat options include a hot food bar and tasty pastries.

People are saying

"This grocery store has amazing local, organic, and ethically sourced products."

"I found the food here to be fresh and tasty."

"The deli here has hot, fresh pizza that tastes amazing."

Good to know

1

There is a farmers market outside the store every Wednesday from 3 to 7 pm.

2

The self checkouts do not accept cash.

3

The store offers many organic, non-GMO products.

22
Emma's BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Take-out only spot with tender brisket and affordable prices. Family-owned vibe makes it feel like home. Limited days open add to its casual atmosphere.

Food features affordable prices and southern comfort flavors with dishes like melting brisket and Friday gumbo that reflect home-style cooking.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the brisket, is tender and flavorful."

"I considered this the best BBQ I had across the entire United States."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Emma's BBQ is a take-out only place.

2

The sandwich costs $15.49.

3

Expect inconsistent hours; they may not always be open.

23
The Royal Room Seattle image 1

Intimate venue offers exceptional acoustics and natural lighting for a warm vibe. Live jazz fills the space with varied performances and well-designed stage lighting. Food and drinks are consistently yummy, making it a cozy spot for music and dining.

Food and drinks here are consistently good and often described as yummy. The venue pairs great food with live music and a lively atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here was pretty good and delicious."

"I enjoyed the live jazz performances here; they were fantastic."

"It's an intimate venue with a casual neighborhood vibe."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner as tables fill up quickly.

2

Parking is limited; consider using nearby lots on S. Ferdinand St.

3

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6pm with no cover charge in the outer bar area.

24
Tony's Bakery image 1

Small Vietnamese bakery shines with authentic banh mi and addictive mango salad. Offers fresh deli items and snacks with generous portions. Neighborhood gem with great take-out and party trays.

Food here is authentic, clean, and fresh with a great selection of Vietnamese deli items and snacks. Staff prepare fresh items even when out of stock, offering good take-out value and an enticing smell that draws people in.

People are saying

"This Banh Mi is the best I've had in ages."

"I found the papaya lotus salad addictive."

"I loved the food, especially the fish sauce wings and bรกnh mรฌ."

Good to know

1

Party trays are ready for pickup after 9 am.

2

Catering orders need to be placed a couple of days in advance.

3

The bakery offers a large selection of Vietnamese food and desserts.

25
Ezell's Famous Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Takeout-only spot serves crispy fried chicken with a spicy seasoned option and comforting sides like rolls and baked beans. Food comes out fast and offers good value portions that often leave leftovers. Busy lines make online ordering a smart choice.

Food comes out quickly with comfort food that satisfies both dine-in and takeout. Portions offer good value and often leave enough for leftovers.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, crispy, and tender."

"The fried chicken here is so crispy and flavorful."

"I loved the Mac & cheese here."

Good to know

1

Ezell's is a takeout restaurant with no dine-in seating available.

2

Online ordering reduces wait times significantly compared to in-store ordering.

3

Expect to pay around $52 for 2 pounds of chicken and fries.

26
Fryzone image 1
American restaurant

Casual spot with an old school donut shop feel and big TV keeps vibes chill. Food is fully halal, with standout fried chicken and fresh, flavorful dishes. Atmosphere is comfortable despite some messy areas, making it a solid choice for tasty American eats.

Food here is consistently fresh, flavorful, and delicious. Every dish delivers solid taste and quality.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and super tasty."

"I thought the American Food here was the best halal fried chicken I had tried."

Good to know

1

All menu items at Fryzone are fully halal.

2

There is plenty of seating available for dine-in, even for larger groups.

3

The total cost was $38 after tip.

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