Best Restaurants in Bellevue Washington: Top Picks for Dining Out

vegetable dish in white and black bowl

September 7, 2023

Bellevue, Washington is a bustling city with a diverse range of restaurants to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual meal or a fine dining experience, there’s something for everyone in Bellevue. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best restaurants in Bellevue, based on customer reviews and ratings.

One restaurant that consistently receives high praise is Seastar Restaurant & Raw Bar. Known for its excellent seafood and overall dining experience, Seastar is a popular choice for special occasions or a night out with friends. Another highly rated restaurant is Din Tai Fung, which offers delicious Chinese dim sum in a casual atmosphere. Both of these restaurants have received numerous positive reviews and are definitely worth checking out.

For those looking for a more casual dining experience, Supreme Dumplings is a popular choice. This restaurant serves up tasty Shanghainese dim sum and Taiwanese dishes, and has a fun and lively atmosphere. Other top-rated restaurants in Bellevue include Cactus Restaurant, Water Grill Bellevue, and La Chingona Taqueria. No matter what your taste buds are craving, Bellevue has plenty of options to choose from.

Overview of Bellevue’s Dining Scene

Bellevue, Washington, is a city that offers a diverse and exciting dining scene. With a variety of cuisines available, from classic American fare to international specialties, there is something for every taste and budget.

Bellevue is home to several upscale restaurants, including Seastar Restaurant & Raw Bar, which serves fresh seafood and American cuisine, and John Howie Steak, which offers prime cuts of beef and an extensive wine list. For those looking for a more casual dining experience, Joey Bellevue and Bake’s Place Bar & Bistro are popular options.

In addition to traditional American cuisine, Bellevue also has a thriving international dining scene. Din Tai Fung is a must-visit for lovers of Chinese cuisine, while Chantanee Thai Restaurant and Saffron Spice offer delicious Thai and Indian dishes, respectively. For those looking for something a little different, the city also has several Mexican restaurants, including La Chingona Taqueria and Señor Taco.

Bellevue’s dining scene is not limited to traditional restaurants. The city also has several food trucks and food courts, including the Crossroads Bellevue Farmers Market and the Bellevue Collection’s Dining Terrace. These are great options for those looking for a quick bite or a unique dining experience.

Overall, Bellevue’s dining scene is diverse and exciting, offering something for every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience or a quick bite on the go, Bellevue has plenty of options to choose from.

Top Rated Restaurants

Bellevue, Washington is home to some of the best restaurants in the Pacific Northwest. Here are some of the top-rated restaurants in Bellevue that are worth a visit.

The French Bakery

The French Bakery is a local favorite for breakfast and lunch. They offer a variety of French pastries, sandwiches, and salads. Their croissants are some of the best in the area, and they also have a great selection of macarons. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, making it a great spot for a quick bite or a leisurely meal.

Din Tai Fung

Din Tai Fung is a world-renowned chain of restaurants that originated in Taiwan. Their Bellevue location offers some of the best Chinese food in the area, with a focus on dumplings and noodles. The xiao long bao (soup dumplings) are a must-try, and they also have a great selection of vegetable dishes for those who are vegetarian or vegan. The restaurant is always busy, so be prepared for a wait during peak hours.

John Howie Steak

John Howie Steak is a high-end steakhouse located in the heart of Bellevue. They offer a variety of cuts of meat, including wagyu beef, as well as seafood and vegetarian options. The restaurant has an elegant atmosphere, with white tablecloths and dim lighting. It’s a great spot for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.

Seastar Restaurant and Raw Bar

Seastar Restaurant and Raw Bar is a seafood-focused restaurant that offers a variety of dishes, from sushi to grilled fish. They have a great selection of oysters, and their seafood tower is a popular choice for groups. The restaurant also has a raw bar, where you can watch the chefs shuck oysters and prepare sashimi. The atmosphere is upscale but not stuffy, making it a great spot for a date night or a business dinner.

Best Italian Restaurants

Bellevue offers a variety of Italian restaurants that serve delicious and authentic Italian cuisine. Here are two of the best Italian restaurants in Bellevue:

Maggiano’s Little Italy

Maggiano’s Little Italy is a popular Italian restaurant located in the Lincoln Square South shopping center. The restaurant has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with classic Italian decor and a cozy fireplace. Maggiano’s Little Italy is known for its generous portions, made-from-scratch dishes, and family-style dining.

Some of the must-try dishes at Maggiano’s Little Italy include the famous Rigatoni “D” and the Chicken Parmesan. The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list and a variety of cocktails to complement your meal.

Tutta Bella Neapolitan Pizzeria

Tutta Bella Neapolitan Pizzeria is a casual Italian restaurant that specializes in authentic Neapolitan-style pizza. The restaurant uses only the freshest ingredients, including imported Italian tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and hand-stretched dough. Tutta Bella Neapolitan Pizzeria also offers a variety of antipasti, salads, and pasta dishes.

The must-try dish at Tutta Bella Neapolitan Pizzeria is the Margherita pizza, which is made with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. The restaurant also offers gluten-free and vegan options for those with dietary restrictions.

Overall, both Maggiano’s Little Italy and Tutta Bella Neapolitan Pizzeria are great options for Italian cuisine in Bellevue. Whether you’re in the mood for classic Italian dishes or authentic Neapolitan-style pizza, you won’t be disappointed with these restaurants.

Best Asian Cuisine

Bellevue is home to some of the best Asian cuisine in Washington. From Chinese to Thai to Taiwanese, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are two of the best Asian restaurants in Bellevue:

Wild Ginger

Wild Ginger is a popular restaurant that serves Asian cuisine with a Pacific Northwest twist. The menu features dishes from China, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Thailand. Some of the most popular dishes include the Seven Flavor Beef, the Fragrant Duck, and the Siam Lettuce Cups. Wild Ginger also has an extensive cocktail menu, with drinks like the Ginger Margarita and the Singapore Sling.

Peony Kitchen

Peony Kitchen is a Taiwanese restaurant that serves authentic dishes like beef noodle soup, pork belly bao, and scallion pancakes. The restaurant also has a selection of bubble teas and other Taiwanese drinks. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, making it a great spot for a casual meal with friends or family.

Overall, Bellevue has a lot to offer when it comes to Asian cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for dim sum, hot pot, or noodles, there’s sure to be a restaurant that fits the bill.

Best Seafood Spots

Bellevue, Washington is known for its excellent seafood restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh oysters, succulent crab, or perfectly cooked salmon, Bellevue has something to offer. Here are two of the best seafood spots in Bellevue:

Duke’s Seafood

Duke’s Seafood is a beloved local institution that serves up some of the freshest seafood in Bellevue. The restaurant is known for its award-winning clam chowder, which is made daily using fresh, local ingredients. In addition to the chowder, Duke’s Seafood offers a wide variety of seafood dishes, including fish and chips, oysters, and crab cakes.

One of the best things about Duke’s Seafood is its commitment to sustainability. The restaurant sources its seafood from local, sustainable fisheries, ensuring that every dish is both delicious and environmentally responsible. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a great meal, Duke’s Seafood is not to be missed.

The Crab Pot

If you’re in the mood for a seafood feast, look no further than The Crab Pot. This restaurant is famous for its “Seafeasts,” which include a variety of seafood, corn on the cob, and potatoes all cooked together in a giant pot. The Seafeasts are perfect for sharing with friends and family and are a great way to try a little bit of everything.

In addition to the Seafeasts, The Crab Pot offers a variety of other seafood dishes, including crab, shrimp, and clam chowder. The restaurant has a fun, laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for a casual night out with friends. If you’re looking for a fun and delicious seafood experience, The Crab Pot is a must-visit spot in Bellevue.

Best Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Bellevue, Washington is home to a variety of restaurants that cater to vegetarians and vegans. Here are two of the best options:

MokSHA Indian Cuisine

MokSHA Indian Cuisine is a vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurant that offers a wide range of Indian dishes. The restaurant uses fresh, organic, and locally sourced ingredients to create flavorful and healthy meals. Some of the popular vegetarian and vegan options include the Chana Masala, Aloo Gobi, and Saag Paneer. The restaurant also offers a lunch buffet that includes several vegetarian and vegan options.

Teapot Vegetarian House

Teapot Vegetarian House is a vegan restaurant that specializes in Chinese cuisine. The restaurant uses fresh and organic ingredients to create healthy and flavorful dishes. Some of the popular dishes include the Kung Pao Tofu, General Tso’s Tofu, and Vegetable Fried Rice. The restaurant also offers a lunch special that includes a soup, an entree, and a spring roll.

Both MokSHA Indian Cuisine and Teapot Vegetarian House offer delicious vegetarian and vegan options that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate.

Hidden Gems

Bellevue has a lot of great restaurants, but some of the best ones are the hidden gems that not everyone knows about. Here are two hidden gem restaurants in Bellevue that are worth checking out:

Bake’s Place Bar & Bistro

Bake’s Place Bar & Bistro is a cozy spot in downtown Bellevue that offers live music and great food. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with brick walls and a fireplace. They offer a variety of dishes, including steak, seafood, and pasta. They also have a great selection of cocktails and wine.

Some of the standout dishes at Bake’s Place Bar & Bistro include:

  • Baked Brie: A warm and gooey brie cheese served with crostini and fruit.
  • Steak Frites: A tender and juicy steak served with crispy fries.
  • Seafood Linguine: A delicious pasta dish with shrimp, scallops, and clams in a garlic cream sauce.

Lil’ Jon Restaurant

Lil’ Jon Restaurant is a family-owned restaurant that serves up delicious Korean food. The restaurant is small and unassuming, but the food is top-notch. They offer a variety of dishes, including bibimbap, bulgogi, and kimchi stew.

Some of the standout dishes at Lil’ Jon Restaurant include:

  • Spicy Pork Bulgogi: A spicy and flavorful dish with marinated pork and vegetables.
  • Seafood Pancake: A crispy and savory pancake with shrimp, squid, and vegetables.
  • Kimchi Fried Rice: A delicious and spicy fried rice with kimchi and vegetables.

Both of these hidden gem restaurants offer a unique dining experience that is worth seeking out. Whether you’re in the mood for live music and cocktails or delicious Korean food, these restaurants won’t disappoint.

Conclusion

Bellevue, Washington is a city that boasts a diverse and thriving food scene. From classic American comfort cuisine to authentic Mexican dishes and fresh seafood, there is something for everyone.

Seastar Restaurant & Raw Bar is a must-visit for seafood lovers, with its extensive menu of fresh catches and creative preparations. For those in the mood for Chinese cuisine, Din Tai Fung is a popular spot known for its flavorful dumplings and other dim sum offerings.

Those looking for a taste of Mexico should head to Señor Taco, a relaxed open-air restaurant serving up classic favorites like tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. Meanwhile, Lot No. 3 is a great spot for American comfort food, craft beer, and cocktails.

Bellevue’s dining scene also includes a variety of international options, such as the Taiwanese cuisine at Facing East, the Korean barbecue at Arirang, and the Indian flavors at Spice Room.

Overall, Bellevue’s restaurants offer a range of flavors and experiences, from high-end fine dining to casual neighborhood haunts. With so many options to choose from, visitors and locals alike are sure to find something delicious to satisfy their cravings.

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