Finding hidden gems in Seattle must be what explorers and archeologists feel like when they stumble upon a new treasure. After all, with Seattle being one of the fastest-growing cities in the US, it feels less common to find off-the-beaten-path gems before everyone else does.
There are tons of travel guides claiming to know the true hidden gems, but they only focus on the same small selection of acclaimed spots. So if you really want to explore the city like a local, you’re going to love this list of Seattle hidden gems not nearly enough people are talking about.
Hidden Gems in Seattle
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Under-the-radar restaurants
Since I love food, let’s start this hidden gems in Seattle list with places to eat. Here are some of the best restaurants in the city that only the truly discerning locals know about. I have a whole list of hidden gem restaurants in Seattle if you want more ideas!
OOLA Capitol Hill
website | neighborhood: Capitol Hill (get directions) | best for: seasonally-driven dishes
Many Seattleites recognize the OOLA name because it’s the oldest distillery in Seattle. Founders KT and Kirby bought a raw building on 14th & Union back in 2010 and transformed it into a distillery and event space. During the day they rented the space out to dancers for free, many from the non-profit KT co-founded called Velocity.
While OOLA’s distillery is now in SODO, KT instituted a lot of programs that were instrumental to growing the Seattle dance community during her 10-year tenure working in Cap Hill at Velocity. Pair that with the fact that Kirby and KT have been active arts and community members for more than 20 years, it was a no-brainer that the distillery’s first restaurant would be in Capitol Hill.
OOLA’s restaurant space is tucked on a quiet street away from the hustle and bustle, a rare find in this trendy area. They have an adorable (dog friendly!) covered patio surrounded by planters and mature trees, so it feels like a little garden oasis in the middle of the city. The interior is architectural and modern, but flooded with natural light and accented with beautiful art to make the space feel intimate. If you crave even more privacy, OOLA also has a cozy event space in the back building hidden from street view.
Food wise, OOLA takes a similar approach to cooking as they do with their spirits: work with local producers and keep it seasonally driven. The menu changes regularly, but don’t miss their most popular menu mainstay: the St. Jude Albacore Tuna Crudo, Potato Rosti, and Wild Boar Meatballs. I’m still thinking about the tuna that’s reminiscent of banh mi with that iconic contrast of bright acidity and crunch from shallots and carrots.
Obviously OOLA also has a fantastic cocktail program.
Most of the drinks feature their own spirits, which allows them to have one of the best happy hours in the city: $7 cocktails and $10 flights! They also have non-alcoholic or less boozy options if that’s more your speed.
If you choose to do a cocktail, many of them include herbs from KT and Kirby’s home garden a few blocks from the restaurant. But if you’re up for it, I recommend getting a gin flight so you can try their creative award-winning spirits. You can buy a bottle of your favorite to take home, which is unheard of at most Seattle restaurants.
All in all, OOLA Capitol Hill is one of my favorite hidden gem restaurants for those times I need a date night or a meal out that will impress my friends.
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La Cabaña
website | neighborhood: Greenwood (get directions) | best for: Latin/Central American
La Cabaña is one of my favorite 5-star restaurants in Seattle, and that’s not just because it’s around the corner from my house. They serve up reasonably priced Central American dishes like pupusas, plantains, and my beloved molcajete served in a mortar and pestle-like dish.
In addition to delicious, housemade Latin American dishes, La Cabaña also offers some of the best takeout in Seattle. You can order over the phone or in person to pick up everything perfectly packaged for the drive home. I suggest ordering one of their sampler plates so you can try a bit of everything. Then get a second order of plantains. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did!
Beacon Hill Shell Station
website | neighborhood: Beacon Hill (get directions) | best for: fried catfish
If you read my post on the best Ballard spots for lunch, you know it’s possible to find delicious dishes in unconventional spots. Just like El Taco Loco is a hidden gem inside a Ballard Liquor Store, the Beacon Hill Shell Station hides away some of the best catfish in Seattle.
Their catfish is fried perfectly in a cornmeal batter, leaving a crispy and natural texture that’s far removed from those rotating corndogs or saran-wrapped egg salad sandwiches. They even come in a plastic bag, so you can eat them without utensils and avoid greasy fingers. Unsurprisingly the catfish is reasonably priced, making it one of my favorite cheap eats in Seattle.
Quick Pack
website | neighborhood: Central District (get directions) | best for: fried chicken
Quick Pack is one of my favorite Black-owned restaurants in Seattle. They’re located in an unassuming pink building and offer a no-frills menu of fried chicken that’s prepared ahead of time and kept under a heat lamp. You might think this doesn’t sound like quality fried chicken, but I promise it’s every bit as crackling crisp, juicy, and expertly seasoned.
Now, if you want your chicken fresh, the owner will do it for you if you order at least 7 pieces. That’s not a big ask considering it’s one of the cheapest spots in Seattle at less than $2 per piece.
Pro tip: The owner prefers cash, so keep that in mind when you go.
Ciudad
website | neighborhood: Georgetown (get directions) | best for: veg-forward Portuguese
People often overlook Ciudad because of its discreet exterior, but it’s low key one of the most Instagrammable restaurants in Seattle. Once you step inside from the austere exterior, you’ll be surprised to find a dining room decorated with colorful cushions, a vibrant mural, and rich aromas of grilled Portuguese dishes wafting from the kitchen.
Aside from the photogenic setting, the food alone is worth a stop. That’s why I include them in my Georgetown food tour. They have small plates that are perfect for a light lunch or if you want to try a bit of everything. They also have a selection of grilled meat and veggies which you can order by the pound. Whatever you decide, definitely don’t sleep on the black garlic aioli.
Maruta Shoten
website | neighborhood: Georgetown (get directions) | best for: Japanese grocery store with high-quality prepackaged sushi
Maruta Shoten is a Japanese grocery store that’s perfect if you’re in need of authentic ingredients, but I always recommend them for their cold case of prepackaged sushi.
It’s inexpensive yet a surprisingly good quality that would rival the best sushi restaurants in Seattle. Plus, since they specialize in authentic Japanese ingredients, you know it’s fresher than the stuff from the grocery store. I suggest getting the nigiri since they don’t skimp on the fish.
Spicy Style of Sichuan
website | neighborhood: Northgate (get directions) | best for: spicy Chinese food
Spicy Style of Sichuan is located at the entrance of Asian Family Market off Aurora Ave in Shoreline just north of Seattle. They specialize in Sichuan cuisine, which means this is where you come when you want some heat.
However, while spicy is in the name, they offer a wide variety of dishes at all spice levels, so it’s safe to bring your mild-palate friends and kiddos. The place is usually packed with locals grabbing lunch before food shopping, but service is fast so I’ve never had to wait long for a table.
They have a wide menu with both vegetable and meat dishes, all served in generous portions. The fried eggplant with peppers and preserved eggs is one of my go-to’s since the eggplant is nicely crisp, and the spice of the peppers is balanced out by the savoriness of the eggs.
Cakes of Paradise Bakery
website | neighborhood: Georgetown (get directions) | best for: tropical desserts
Cakes of Paradise is one of my favorite Hawaiian spots in Seattle, which is saying something because I visit Maui every year, so I don’t take this title lightly. They make fruit-flavored cakes that are layered with fresh fruit curds made with guava, mango, or passionfruit, to name a few. Whichever one you order, I promise it’ll be the most moist, fluffy cake you’ve ever had.
After you’ve picked up your cake, do yourself a favor and grab a plate lunch from the Kauai Family Restaurant next door. Their loco moco comes stacked with white rice, hamburger, egg, and sautéed onions. It’s the best one I’ve had on the mainland.
Big John’s PFI
website | neighborhood: Central District (get directions) | best for: eclectic European grocery store
Big John’s is a specialty imported food store that focuses on Mediterranean and European groceries, including imported cheeses, dry goods, wines, olive oils, and tons more.
It’s easy to walk right on by, and most people do. But once you step inside you’re going to be shocked at how you never visited earlier. In addition to offering hard-to-find ingredients from Italy, you’ll find a great cheese counter for picking up party snacks.
Secret parks & beaches
I love that there are so many hidden gems in Seattle where you can visit without spending any money. The best of them are the parks and beaches that make our city so beautiful.
Waterfall Garden Park
website | neighborhood: Pioneer Square (get directions) | best for: enjoying lunch
Fun fact, did you know that before Pioneer Square was known for being home to some of Seattle’s best urban wineries, it held the original headquarters of UPS? Even though the headquarters have long since relocated to Connecticut, in its place is an often overlooked pocket park.
Waterfall Garden Park features a 22-foot manmade waterfall that overlooks a multi-level patio equipped with tables and chairs. Being in the center of a city known for its hustle, the park is fairly quiet. Since it’s just a quick walk from some of the best sandwiches in Seattle like Salumi and Tat’s, I like to grab lunch and eat it outside on sunny afternoons.
Freeway Park
website | neighborhood: Downtown (get directions) | best for: a concrete jungle
Freeway Park is a small but architecturally fascinating park located above the interstate in a terraced garden. Walking through the park gives you a unique view of the city while also providing a convenient way to cross I-5. The park is equipped with several walking paths, a lawn, chairs, and a decorative fountain.
Secret Beach
website | neighborhood: Ballard (get directions) | best for: secluded beach time
One of the biggest perks of being a Seattle local is knowing where the hidden beaches are. Many neighborhoods have mini beaches that rarely get much foot traffic, even in the summertime, so they’re a must visit on this list of hidden gems in Seattle.
The Secret Beach next door to Ballard’s Elk Lodge, also called Point Shilshole Beach, is one of my favorite hidden beaches for catching the sunset. Or more likely, for enjoying a Caribbean sandwich from the nearby Un Bien sandwich shop. The parking lot is for Elk Lodge members only, but you can park on the street!
Beacon Hill Food Forest
website | neighborhood: Beacon Hill (get directions) | best for: urban foraging
The Beacon Hill Food Forest is a community-led urban garden located in the heart of Seattle. It features a 2-acre edible food farm where visitors can walk, sample berries, or get their hands dirty. You can volunteer for the food forest, take a class to sharpen your gardening skills, or rent a plot and grow your own fruits and veggies.
Discovery Park
website | neighborhood: Magnolia (get directions) | best for: walking trails & a secluded sunset on the beach
Magnolia is one of Seattle’s most underrated neighborhoods. This is surprising because nestled within it is Seattle’s largest green space, Discovery Park. While this is probably one of the more well-known parks on this list of hidden gems in Seattle, tourists rarely visit because it doesn’t end up in guidebooks.
The park overlooks the Puget Sound and offers tons of walking trails, a beach, and a gorgeous lighthouse, giving you the city’s best vantage point of the Olympic Mountains.
I definitely suggest stopping by to catch the sunset, which is around 8:30-9:15 PM in the summer. It’s the best way to spend my perfect Seattle 3-day itinerary, especially if you grab dinner at Chinook’s for the best fish and chips in Seattle or a drink at Figurehead Brewing afterwards.
Hidden places to grab a drink
Want to find truly hidden bars? Check out my guide to the best speakeasies in Seattle once you make your way through these hidden gems in Seattle.
The Velvet Elk
website | neighborhood: Mt. Baker (get directions) | best for: craft cocktails in an intimate setting
The Velvet Elk is self-proclaimed as “Mt. Baker’s best-kept secret.” It’s a two-story bar serving craft cocktails in an eclectic and intimate space. The first floor is filled with nooks and crannies, which make for a great Seattle date night spot. The second story has a more open layout with board games, a typewriter, a zodiac-themed vending machine, and a movie projector for themed movie nights.
In addition to knowledgeable bartenders and delicious cocktails, they also have housemade corn dogs and bar snacks. You can also bring food inside which is great because Mioposto is right next door and serves up some yummy Neapolitan-style pizza.
Le Caviste
website | neighborhood: Downtown (get directions) | best for: French wine & charcuterie
Le Caviste is one of the undercover must-go restaurants in Seattle that no one talks about. It’s run by master sommelier David Butler and features an intimate dining space with a chalkboard menu that clearly shows it’s about French wine first, then the food.
While the food menu is limited, what they offer is stellar. They serve charcuterie that’s themed around different regions in France. My favorite is the Beaujolais board, which comes with butter that I shamelessly eat with a spoon. It’s that good.
If you’re overwhelmed with the options on the chalkboard, you can pepper the staff with as many questions as you want. I usually pick my board, then ask them to pair it with whatever wine they think is best.
Pro tip: Le Caviste is low key one of the best wine shops in Seattle because you can take home bottles at a discount. Just ask your server.
Coupe & Flute
website | neighborhood: Beacon Hill (get directions) | best for: bubbles & brunch
Coupe & Flute is a “Champagne Tavern” that specializes in a wide selection of bubbles served alongside a hearty food menu. They share the street with other must-stop Seattle spots like Homer and Bar del Corso, making it a great pitstop if you have reservations elsewhere.
If you’re craving champagne and brunch, Coupe knows how to pair the two perfectly. By the time you order their tempura battered cream puffs and braised duck benny, a mug of their vacation coffee is the only thing that can stop you from drifting into a food coma right at the table.
Baker’s
website | neighborhood: Sunset Hill (get directions) | best for: craft cocktails & small plates
Baker’s is a legit neighborhood craft cocktail bar that also boasts an impressive wine list. Most people stop by for a creative cocktail before heading to dinner, but the locals know they have one of the best small bites menus around. I remember them most fondly for having one of the best salads in Seattle.
Pro tip: If you love the wine you’re drinking, you can also buy a bottle here to take home at 40% off the menu price. Just ask your server.
Flying Lion Brewing
website | neighborhood: Columbia City (get directions) | best for: craft brews
In a city known for its craft beer bars and countless breweries, it can be hard to find a brewery with a locals-only vibe. But Flying Lion Brewing is one of those rare hidden gems in Seattle that flies under the radar.
The brewery itself is clearly visible from the taphouse, and kegs line the wall adding to the rustic, warehouse-esque feel. They have a variety of beers, from light lagers to IPAs and dark ales, and you can order a flight if you can’t decide. The taphouse is dog- and kid-friendly, plus has a heated patio open year-round.
Cloudlift Cellars
website | neighborhood: Industrial District (get directions) | best for: urban winery tasting room
Not many people know that Washington’s wine scene is the second biggest in the country behind California. Those who do know still haven’t explored the many urban wineries throughout Seattle.
Cloudlift Cellars was one of my first urban winery visits in SODO. I instantly fell in love with it when I met owner/winemaker Tom Stangeland and learned his story of how he got into making wine via furniture making. With a focus on food-friendly, dry red wines from the Columbia Valley, this is a perfect hidden gem in Seattle if you want to taste high-quality Washington wine off the beaten path. I love them so much I’m a wine club member!
Aroom Coffee
website | neighborhood: Fremont (get directions) | best for: Vietnamese coffee
Aroom Coffee is one of the best coffee shops in Seattle for its uniqueness and minimalist decor. The cafe is decorated with giant orb lighting and sleek contemporary seating that just screams “posh”.
The coffee features old-school phin-brewed Vietnamese coffee served with condensed milk and a variety of flavorings. I’m obsessed with the sesame latte for its uniquely nutty flavor that only amplifies the robust flavor of the darkly roasted coffee. It’s a must-try if you’re looking for best Fremont restaurants!
Hidden gem neighborhoods
Here are areas of Seattle most tourists miss. But not you!
Chinatown-International District
website | get directions | best for: delicious Asian restaurants
The C-ID may be a notorious neighborhood in Seattle, but I’d argue it doesn’t get the credit it deserves. A lot of guidebooks glaze over this area, but it’s one of the coolest neighborhoods in Seattle. Not only is it rich with Asian American history, but it’s also got a plethora of must-visit Asian restaurants.
No matter what type of Asian food you’re craving, you can probably find it in the C-ID. My favorite spots to stop at are Harbor City for dim sum, The Boat for Vietnamese fried chicken, or the A+ Hong Kong Restaurant for authentic Cantonese cuisine. You also can’t beat the C-ID’s first Chinese restaurant, Tai Tung.
Pro tip: Can’t decide where to go? The Wing Luke Museum offers food and history walking tours. Or check out the neighborhood’s food walks and night markets scheduled throughout the year.
Ballard
website | get directions | best for: shopping and quirky events
I live in Ballard so it’s not surprising it’s one of my favorite neighborhoods in Seattle. With a plethora of restaurants, craft breweries, and neighborhood events, it’s an undervalued part of Seattle with so much to do.
It’s probably best known for it’s restaurant scene, great boutique shopping, and hosting one of the best Seattle farmers markets. However, the area hosts a ton of quirky neighborhood events that most tourists and even locls don’t know about.
There are a few events that never leave my calendar. One of them is the edible gardens tour hosted by Sustainable Ballard, a nonprofit focused on promoting sustainability. It’s essentially a full-day event where visitors can go on a walking tour of the edible gardens in town and munch on their neighbor’s edible garden treats.
Crown Hill just north of Ballard also hosts unique events throughout the year. For example, there’s a holiday market every year where hyper-local artists sell goods outside their house. They similarly host a summer art walk every so often. The best way to keep up with these events is to check the Crown Hill Village website.
Pro tip: If you’re looking for even more events, I keep track of all the food, drink, and art-related happenings via my Seattle events calendar.
Georgetown
website | neighborhood: Georgetown (get directions) | best for: vintage thrifting and food
Georgetown as a whole often goes unnoticed by visitors and locals, but I find it to be one of the coolest neighborhoods due to its history and recent revitalization. It’s actually Seattle’s oldest neighborhood and was known as a big beer-producing area before Prohibition turned it into a ghost town.
It’s since been revitalized and is known for being fiercely artsy. You’ll find a ton of unique shops selling vintage clothing shops, and antique decor stores, plus a big craft beer scene and epic restaurants. There are also a lot of great events, such as the monthly Art Attack and Georgetown Flea.
The Georgetown Trailer Park Mall is a great place to experience most of these specialties. They have everything from vintage threads to handmade items, jewelry, and even home goods. Plus it’s right in the middle of the neighborhood’s main street, so it’s a perfect jumping off point for exploring the area.
Central District
website | get directions | best for: tons of awesome Black-owned businesses
Central District in Seattle is home to Seattle’s Black community. Stars like Jimi Hendrix, Ernestine Anderson, and Quincy Jones have called this area of Seattle home. Today it’s rich with culture, from art galleries to live music, bars, restaurants, and more.
Some of my favorite spots to check out are Boon Boona for their locally roasted coffee and Communion for their New York Times award-winning international dishes. However, just roam the streets and you’ll find amazing bakeries, Southern food, Mediterranean, beer, and more.
Off-the-beaten-path gift shops
I love exploring the best gift shops in Seattle. Here are some of my favorite hidden gems in Seattle that not nearly enough people know about.
Book Larder
website | neighborhood: Fremont (get directions) | best for: cooking classes and cookbooks
Only in Seattle will you find a bookstore dedicated to cookbooks. Book Larder is a community bookstore centered around new and vintage cookbooks. In addition, they also offer author events and regular cooking classes.
When I have guests visiting from out of town, I love to surprise them with a cooking class since it’s one of my favorite things to do in Fremont. The themes change regularly and are always unique. They have everything from a Washington cheese pairing course to Indian takeout, so be sure to check their calendar often as classes sell out quickly.
Mox Boarding House
website | neighborhood: Ballard (get directions) | best for: try before you buy board games
Mox Boarding House is one of my favorite ways to spend a rainy day indoors in Seattle. It’s technically a board game store, but to sweeten the pot, they let you try the games before you buy them in their cafe while you sip on tasty coffees or cocktails. If you don’t like the game, then you return it to the front desk and try another. It’s a fun way to spend an afternoon or evening, especially if you have teenage kids.
More Seattle hidden gems to explore
After you explore these hidden gems in Seattle, check out my other guides for other areas of the city to discover.
Can’t decide where to go?
Let me help. I’ve done the hard work of making my way through many of Seattle’s neighborhoods and uncovered the true hidden gems. I can plan you a custom trip itinerary filled with the best stops that fit your preferences.
Or pick up one of my self-guided food tours. Each is a digital download that includes 8-9 stops plus 12-14 honorable mentions so you can customize your food crawl and take your time. I also include tips on what to order, when to go to avoid the crowds, and fun places to stop between eats.
