Recipe for a Beloved Italian Restaurant: 1. Take a charming Old Ballard location. 2. Add a Tuscan menu of antipasti, secundi, and piatti forti including house-made pastas. 3. Mix in a romantic atmosphere. 4. Serve to grateful chowhounds.

Photo: Courtesy of DailyCandy

Tune in to Tokyo at the urbane Asian den of delights. Experiment with over 70 types of sake, authentic Japanese cuisine, and inventive rolls. And just say hai to their generous happy hour.

Photo: Courtesy of Umi Sushi Restaurant and Sake Bar

Sometimes fancy can be overly fussy. (Do smashed spuds need ten seasonings and four garnishes?) Understatedly elegant, Zoe serves a Seattleite’s dream dinner. Simple seasonal ingredients mingle with masterfully prepared meats and fresh seafood.

Photo: Tammy Fujihara / Courtesy of Restaurant Zoe

Feel like a fish out of water? Head to chef Taichi Kitamura’s inventive sushi hole. The intimate Kappo dining room offers omakase (chefs make what they will) while diners watch the preparation of colorful Northwest-inspired but authentic Japanese plates.

Photo: Courtesy of DailyCandy

Sublime French atmosphere including imported lighting, clocks, tiles, and art at this grand cafe that serves simple food with elan. Don’t miss the back bar’s extravagant chandelier. Or the custom zinc bar in front.

Photo: Bob Peterson/Courtesy of Bastille Cafe & Bar

Be like the French: Drink wine all day at a charming street-side cafe. White Beaujolais with oeufs plats starts the day, pair pinot with paté for le déjeuner, then share a pichet over a très authentique dinner. 

Photo: Courtesy of Le Pichet