There are a ton of Instagram-worthy restaurants in Seattle. The city is beautiful in general, with a ton of Instagrammable viewpoints, shops, and tasting rooms. So obviously we have picture-perfect restaurants that make as much of a statement with their decor as they do their food.
So if you’re an aesthete always looking for the perfect photo opp, you’re going to love this list of Instagrammable restaurants in Seattle. And the best part? The restaurants on this list also have killer food to match the quality of their interiors.
35 Instagram-Worthy Restaurants in Seattle
Save this to Pinterest for later because I’ll add more Instagram-worthy restaurants in Seattle as I discover them!
Molly Moon’s
website | 917 E Pine St (get directions) | neighborhood: Capitol Hill | cuisine: dessert
Molly Moon’s has a few locations around Seattle, but the Cap Hill location is arguably the cutest. It gives off old-fashioned soda shop vibes and serves up creamy scoops in classic waffle cones. More than 90% of the restaurant’s ingredients are sourced from the Pacific Northwest, which keeps all their ice cream incredibly fresh while supporting local suppliers. You’ll want to snap a few photos of your loaded cones and the colorful staircase.
Sea Creatures Restaurant Group
The Sea Creatures Restaurant Group is a family of restaurants owned by award-winning chef Renee Erickson. From quirky European brasseries to waterfront dining spots, each place deserves a spot on this list of the most Instagram-worthy restaurants in Seattle because she has a true gift of creating restaurants with a sense of place.
Boat Bar
website | 1060 E Union St (get directions) | neighborhood: Capitol Hill | cuisine: seafood
Boat Bar is one of my favorite spots to grab oysters in Seattle. The décor is bright white with green chairs that pop against the elegant marble bar area. The half-shell oysters are always my go-to as they’re locally sourced from Hama Hama. But you can easily grab something light at Boat Bar before heading to Bateau next door for something heartier.
Bateau
website | 1040 E Union St (get directions) | neighborhood: Capitol Hill | cuisine: steakhouse
If I’m ever in the mood for one of the best burgers in Seattle, but want a bit more ambiance, I’ll always make a beeline for Bateau. The hanging basket lights, blackboard menu, and gorgeous circular bar are also worthy of a spot on your Instagram feed. Plus the beef here is specialty dry-aged and grass-fed, so you can seriously taste the difference with every bite.
The Walrus and the Carpenter
website | 4743 Ballard Ave NW (get directions) | neighborhood: Ballard | cuisine: French
The Walrus and the Carpenter is the oldest of Renee Erickson’s restaurants that is still open (RIP Boat Street Cafe) and it’s still one of my go-to restaurants in Seattle. The atmosphere is upscale but beachy, making it the perfect spot for a fresh plate of seasonal oysters. Like Renee’s other restaurants, this small but trendy spot has a clean and fresh feel with a large circular bar area that opens the space up. Oh, and make sure you get a few photos of the central chandelier and pastel bar stools while you’re here!
Barnacle
website | 4743 Ballard Ave NW (get directions) | neighborhood: Ballard | cuisine: Italian
If I’m ever having a rough week, I’ll stop by Barnacle for a delicious aperitif and a plate of cured meats. It’s connected to The Walrus and the Carpenter, so it’s also a great spot to grab a drink while you wait for a table.
The warm and inviting décor instantly reels you in, but it’s the row of alcohol bottles haphazardly housed behind the bar that makes this spot photo-worthy. If you can angle your camera up slightly, you’ll even be able to get the weird and wonderful ceiling lights in-frame. Somehow feeling like a bougie bar and a home-away-from-home, Barnacle is one of my ultimate comfort spots.
General Porpoise
website | neighborhoods: Capitol Hill, Pioneer Square, Laurelhurst, SLU | cuisine: dessert
You know when you’re scrolling through your feed and you come across perfectly filled donuts that are bursting with sweet cream and jam? Well, they might just be from General Porpoise. This is one of the best spots in Seattle for dessert as these perfectly fluffy brioche rounds are filled with everything from rich custards to seasonal jams. If you’re not sure what to order, the iconic vanilla custard donut is always a winner.
The inside isn’t half bad to look at either. There are a few stunning locations, but the Pioneer Square location is the most beautiful. The large windows at the front of the store flood it with light and the historic tile, marble counters, and industrial lights make the space feel both modern and timeless.
Bistro Shirlee
website | 3600 NE 45th St (get directions) | neighborhood: Laurelhurst | cuisine: French
With its long rows of leather booths and huge bar area, it’s unsurprising that Bistro Shirlee is considered one of the most Instagram-worthy restaurants in Seattle. This spot is your quintessential Parisian-inspired wine bar and it boasts delicious small plates like smoked salmon, charcuterie boards, and imported cheeses that will lift any pour to the next level. You’ll want to check out the huge wine wall near the back stairs before leaving. And don’t miss the sprawling patio if you’re visiting during the summertime.
Willmott’s Ghost
website | 2100 6th Ave (get directions) | neighborhood: South Lake Union | cuisine: Italian
Tucked away inside the Amazon Spheres is Willmott’s Ghost, and it’s the most Instagram-worthy restaurant in Seattle’s South Lake Union area. From the huge windows, you’ll catch glimpses of the signature lines and curves of the spheres. Inside, you’ll be blown away by the brass and marble bar, beautiful hanging lights, and distinctive trendy ambiance. This place is frequented by the after-work crowd, but anyone’s welcome to try their doughy Roman-style pizzas and meatballs in red sauce.
Pro tip: Renee also has a speakeasy-style bar underneath The Spheres called Deep Dive that’s moody in vibe and equally Instagrammable.
Westward
website | 2501 N Northlake Way (get directions) | neighborhood: Northlake | cuisine: seafood
Westward is another one of the Instagram-worthy restaurants in Seattle that’s owned by Renee Erickson. Thanks to its Lake Union location, it offers visitors seriously impressive views from every angle. The restaurant is best known for its shellfish (including fresh oysters!) but you can also grab the famous ceviche if you’re in the mood for something different. As this place is right on the waterfront, you can head here by foot or pull up a boat or kayak which you can moor on the dock.
Stateside
website | 300 E Pike St (get directions) | neighborhood: Capitol Hill | cuisine: Asian fusion
I first came across Stateside when I was scrolling through social media. I was drawn in by the airy décor and the stripped-back beachy feel of the entire layout as soon as I walked in. But what kept me around was the amazing global menu. The small plates are always worth trying (hello duck rolls and sticky rice dumplings!), but the goat curry is a dish that I wouldn’t hesitate to order again.
Oddfellows Café + Bar
website | 1525 10th Ave (get directions) | neighborhood: Capitol Hill | cuisine: American
Oddfellows is one of my go-to neighborhood cafes that’s known for its baked goods, natural wines, and amazing craft cocktails. The fare is classic American, but you’ll find influences of French and Italian cuisine weaved through each plate. Everything is seasonal, so you’ll know you’re getting the freshest eats possible.
The interior is rustic and homely, but it’s the outdoor patio area that truly makes this place IG-worthy. It’s a hidden gem in the otherwise bustling city that’s decorated with string lights and plants for an otherworldly feel.
Shug’s Soda Fountain
website | 1525 1st Ave. (get directions) | neighborhood: Pike Place | cuisine: dessert
When I first moved to the city, I knew I had to find the best ice cream in Seattle. Shug’s is on that list. Along with the delicious sundaes, floats, and signature scoops, this place has a retro soda shop vibe that’s incredibly charming. Part of what makes this spot one of the top Instagram-worthy restaurants in Seattle is the adorable bar stools and pastel paintwork. But the towering banana split with dark cherries and caramelized bananas takes the cake if you’re looking for something Instagrammable.
Bar Vacilando
website | 405 15th Ave E (get directions) | neighborhood: Capitol Hill | cuisine: international
The first time I visited Bar Vacilando, I was blown away by how refined and polished it was. Everything from the dark wooden seats to the enormous windows and plant life gave off sophisticated vibes. And I was hooked. I’ve always found that this was an ideal spot for an after-work drink, but you can easily stop by for a pre-lunch cocktail or a glass of wine and a few small plates at the weekend. Seriously, anything goes when the interior looks this good.
The Mountaineering Club
website | 4507 Brooklyn Ave NE (get directions) | neighborhood: U-District | cuisine: American
I couldn’t create a list of the most Instagram-worthy restaurants in Seattle without mentioning The Mountaineering Club. It’s among the most gorgeous rooftop bars in the city and is tucked inside the Graduate Hotel. Along with amazing views of Lake Union and Lake Washington, you’ll be able to grab cocktails and bar snacks late into the evening.
Mbar
website | 400 Fairview Ave N (get directions) | neighborhood: South Lake Union | cuisine: Lebanese/mezze
Another rooftop bar in Seattle that serves surprisingly good food is Mbar. It’s located inside the 400 Fairview building’s 14th floor. It hosts everyone from late-night revelers to the more sophisticated after-work crowds that often head to South Lake Union to decompress. The views of the Space Needle and Lake from here are ridiculous and you can easily grab a few photos of your cocktail held against the skyline for the ultimate Seattle tourist shot.
The Nest
website | 110 Stewart St (get directions) | neighborhood: Downtown | cuisine: Pacific Northwest
The Nest is perched on top of the Thompson Hotel and is one of the Instagram-worthy restaurants in Seattle that’s right by Pike Place Market. The atmosphere is posh and bougie, and you’ll get incredible views of the Big Wheel, Elliott Bay, and the iconic Pike Place Market sign. I usually grab the tequila-based False Alarm cocktail while I’m here, as I adore its sweet and rich flavor. But you really can’t go wrong with any of their bestsellers.
Pro tip: A reservation for $5 per person is required to get in. The cost goes toward your bill, though!
San Fermo
website | 5341 Ballard Ave NW (get directions) | neighborhood: Ballard | cuisine: Italian
I’ve always felt that San Fermo was one of the cutest restaurants in Seattle because it’s built inside a historic farmhouse-style home. It’s a little gem tucked between the historic brick buildings of downtown Ballard and serves seriously good Italian food. I usually stick to their pasta dishes (the saffron Bolognese is divine), but you can’t really go wrong with anything on the menu.
Conversation
website | 110 Stewart St (get directions) | neighborhood: Downtown | cuisine: Pacific Northwest
Conversation is a relatively new kid on the block, but this quaint restaurant inside the Thompson Hotel has major staying power. The focus here is on Pacific Northwest ingredients like farm-raised proteins and fresh produce. I’ll often head here for brunch to grab one of their super-aesthetic Belgian waffles. But everything from the coffees to the boozy mimosas will spice up your grid.
Ben Paris
website | 130 Pike St (get directions) | neighborhood: Downtown | cuisine: Pacific Northwest
Ben Paris is not only one of the most Instagram-worthy restaurants in Seattle, but it’s also one of the best restaurants near Pike Place Market. The incredible cocktails and classic dishes are worth capturing, but it’s the vibrant atmosphere and elegant interior that’ll have you coming back for seconds. I mean, just look at that whimsical wallpaper. What a showstopper!
Homer
website | 3013 Beacon Ave S (get directions) | neighborhood: Beacon Hill | cuisine: Mediterranean/Middle Eastern
Homer is among my favorite Mediterranean restaurants in Seattle. It’s tucked away in South Seattle and can be tricky to snag a spot for considering they don’t take reservations for groups under 6. But once you try their huge fluffy pita bread and signature soft serve ice cream, you’ll see why.
The décor is simple but inviting and the whitewashed walls gorgeously contrast with the pops of blue that you see throughout the restaurant. Oh, and the wooden tables? Perfect for taking photos of any hearty spread.
Preserve and Gather
website | 358 NW 85th St (get directions) | neighborhood: Greenwood | cuisine: breakfast
Preserve and Gather is one of my top spots for the best brunch in Seattle. A Greenwood staple, this place is loved by locals for being the perfect cozy coffee shop. The menu is small but mighty and I’ll almost always order the ricotta radish toast or chocolate chip cookie while I’m here. Although the food itself is Instagrammable, the bright furniture, industrial ceilings, graphic wallpaper, and huge windows make it seriously photogenic.
Frankie & Jo’s
website | neighborhood: Capitol Hill, Ballard, and U-Village | cuisine: vegan dessert
The first time I had a scoop of ice cream at Frankie & Jo’s I literally couldn’t believe it was entirely plant-based. I could have sworn I tasted cream, but it was all cashew milk and gum-free coconut milk that was making the magic happen.
If the ice cream itself wasn’t enough of a draw, the entire place has a kitsch tropical feel with adorable palm tree wallpaper and tons of potted plants. Whether you’re searching for healthier ice cream alternatives or need options for dietary restrictions within your party, this is one of the Instagram-worthy restaurants in Seattle that has got your back.
Ciudad
website | 6118 12th Ave S (get directions) | neighborhood: Georgetown | cuisine: Portuguese
I’m always up for a trip to Ciudad. It doesn’t look like much from the outside, but once you step through the door you’ll find an enormous wall of vibrant murals, colorful chairs, and throw pillows strewn across most seats. To make things even sweeter, you’ll get a huge flood of natural light through the windows. The small plates are worthy of being shared on social media as they’re ridiculously photogenic, but you’ll definitely want to pose in front of the mural wall before calling it a day.
Di Fiora
website | 1320 University St (get directions) | neighborhood: Capitol Hill | cuisine: Asian fusion
Di Flora is a beautiful restaurant in Capitol Hill that’s hip, trendy, and serves delicious fusion dishes. You can expect classic curries and pasta dishes here, but it’s the presentation that takes things to the next level. Whether that’s edible flowers, perfectly placed lemongrass, or a ridiculously aesthetic side salad, these guys always nail it. The food and cocktails are the main things that make this one of the most Instagram-worthy restaurants in Seattle. But you can’t knock the murals, lanterns, or impressive flower arrangements either.
Nick’s on Madison
website | 3131 E Madison St (get directions) | neighborhood: Madison Park | cuisine: American
If you’re planning to head to the Arboretum, I suggest stopping by Nick’s on Madison on your way out. I haven’t eaten here yet, but the place is super contemporary and blends white and blue paint with tons of windows to create a modern and almost nautical vibe that I can’t get enough of.
The George
website | 411 University St (get directions) | neighborhood: Downtown | cuisine: Pacific Northwest
The George is an American Brasserie in the heart of Downtown Seattle. It’s tucked inside the Fairmont Olympic Hotel and is possibly the most upscale spot on this list of Instagram-worthy restaurants in Seattle. The interior is simply stunning. From the art deco flooring to the plush seats and amazingly high ceilings, you won’t know what to snap pictures of first. Once you’ve had your fill of the Pacific Northwest grub, be sure to head to The Founders Club speakeasy inside the hotel. It’s a moody 1920s-themed bar with velvet sofas and dim lighting that’s super atmospheric.
Stoneburner
website | 5214 Ballard Ave NW (get directions) | neighborhood: Ballard | cuisine: Italian
Stoneburner is one of the spots on my Ballard food tour and I have a huge soft spot for it. It’s a charming and rustic wood-paneled restaurant inside the Hotel Ballard that serves top-notch Italian dishes and one of the best salads in Seattle. I adore sitting on the cozy patio during fall, but I suggest heading inside if you want to appreciate the stunning lighting, smooth wooden bar, and crazy wine collection.
Maiz
website | 1914 Pike Pl (get directions) | neighborhood: Downtown | cuisine: Mexican
If I’m wandering around Pike Place Market, I’ll usually stop by Maiz for a few amazing street tacos before braving the tourist crowds. It’s tucked away next to the first Starbucks and is home to some of Seattle’s most authentic street tacos in Seattle. What makes this place seriously Instagram-worthy though is the breathtaking tile work covering just about every wall. It makes the whole tiny space cheerful and inviting.
Matcha Man
website | 6014 12th Ave S (get directions) | neighborhood: Georgetown | cuisine: dessert
Matcha Man has been making the rounds on Instagram for years thanks to its fish-shaped taiyaki cones that are utterly kawaii. These adorable cones are kind of a novelty in Seattle, but they’re super common in Japan. You can get a few classic toppings like Oreos, sprinkles, or Nutella, but I recommend going rogue for your ice cream flavor to spice things up.
They also have beautiful tile work and custom art created by local artist, Doozy. So the inside is just as beautiful at their takeaway cones!
Atulea
website | 1715 12th Ave #100 (get directions) | neighborhood: Capitol Hill | cuisine: bubble tea
Atulea was founded by married bubble tea enthusiasts Kathy Wang and Vince Shi and it’s one of the cutest pitstops in the city. The “cheese tea” is by far their bestselling beverage and it consists of iced tea that’s topped with a layer of cream cheese. It might sound gross, but it’s completely delicious. If you’re not a fan of bubble tea, you can pick up a classic cup of coffee or a bag of incredible mochi donuts for the road. Before leaving, make sure you stop for a picture in front of the amazing leaf wall that spreads from the store’s main archway to the back wall.
Eden Hill
website | 2209 Queen Anne Ave N (get directions) | neighborhood: Queen Anne | cuisine: Pacific Northwest
Eden Hill isn’t the cheapest restaurant in Seattle, but it’s a glorious place to visit for special occasions. The tasting menu is out of this world and I still think about the tender pork belly I ate here to this day. Basically, everything on the menu is Pacific Northwest fare done right.
The restaurant is undeniably elegant, but the floral wallpaper and new-age furniture keep things eclectic and modern. If you fancy something slightly more casual, hop next door to its sister restaurant Big Max Burger Co. for the juiciest stacks in town.
Cafe Flora
website | 2901 E Madison St (get directions) | neighborhood: Madison Valley | cuisine: veggie/vegan
Café Flora is one of the best vegetarian restaurants in Seattle and I used to head here all the time for their banging brunch. The vibe is chilled-out and casual with tons of plant life scattered around the airy atrium. The natural lighting makes any photo look uber-flattering. But you’ll probably be too busy stuffing your face with the incredible huevos napolitos and yam fries to post much on your story.
Pro tip: If you have time, stop by Café Flora’s sister restaurant Flora Bakehouse in Georgetown for fresh-baked pastries and piping-hot espressos.
Treat Cookies
website | 825 SW 152nd St (get directions) | neighborhood: Burien | cuisine: dessert
Treat Cookies might just be the pinkest restaurant in Seattle. I’ll always head down when I want a hit of feminine fun. It’s a little out of the way in Burien, but is always worth the trek. The entire business is woman-owned and the handmade cookies are probably the most sinful I’ve ever tried. Stuffed with chocolate chips, topped with pretzels, filled with Nutella? You name it, they’ve got it. Whether you want to take a few pictures against the pink walls or pose with a 6-pack of their bestsellers, this spot will brighten up your feed in a flash.
Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi
website | 10400 NE 4th St (get directions) | neighborhood: Bellevue | cuisine: steak and sushi
If you’re all about theatrics, head down to Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi on the 31st floor of Lincoln Square Mall. This place is always heavily featured on Instagram as it’s never afraid to use dry ice to make its dishes look smokin’ hot. But it never sacrifices substance for fancy food styling. Not only should you expect excellent fine-dining fare here, but you can’t go wrong with any of the rooftop views from the floor-to-ceiling windows.
Inside Passage
website | 1108 Pike St (get directions) | neighborhood: Capitol Hill | cuisine: Fusion/Hawaiian
Inside Passage is an immersive bar located inside Rumba rum bar. It always has a hefty waitlist and it’s easy to see why. The place is built to look like an underwater ship with hanging lanterns, eclectic lighting, and a few trinkets displayed by the bar area.
But what makes this one of the most Instagram-worthy restaurants in Seattle are the drinks. Most of them are smoking or served in unique glasses. They pour simpler cocktails into glowing Space Needle glasses, but the One-Eyed Willy is served inside a treasure chest and can be sipped from a pirate’s skull.
Pro tip: Want more theatrics? Carnelian Bay inside Dreamland Diner in Fremont is another tiki bar with psychedelic decor and whimsical drinks.
More amazing photo opps in Seattle
After you try these Instagram worthy restaurants in Seattle, check out these other places with great photo opportunities.
