Seattle - June 04, 2008

See Food, Get It?

Branzino Opens

Your pulse quickens.

Duh nuh.

They’re coming. You feel it.

Duh nuh.

It’s the attack of the tourists. Soon, no well-known downtown resto will be safe.

Duh nuh, duh nuh, duh nuh, duh nuh. Aaaaaaah (high-pitched scream).

Seek refuge at Branzino, an Italian-influenced seafood restaurant opening today. Owners Peter Lamb (Il Bistro, Queen City Grill) and Michael Rico (El Gaucho) are vintage Belltown, as is the cozy mahogany decor.

Chef Ashley Merriman (Tilth) shines in the kitchen with market-fresh catches, contorni (gazpacho, panzanella salad with house-made mozzarella), and hearty pasta (braised short rib, pork, and pancetta Bolognese; octopus puttanesca).

Let salted caramel semifreddo from Fran’s Chocolates punctuate your peaceful meal.

But remember: You’re still in Belltown.

So keep an eye out for sharks in suits.

Branzino, 2429 Second Avenue, at Wall Street (206-728-5181).