Volunteer Park Cafe

Known as Seattle’s first gastropub, Black Bottle remains high on our list for its creative take on different cuisines and its cool atmosphere (white walls, exposed brick, and a minimalist black bar). We suggest going with a group of friends so you can try as many tapas as possible.

We like this cozy spot for a laid-back brunch (no waiter service) or an easy dinner. It's hard to order wrong here, and we've never been disappointed by classics like homemade biscuits and eggs, Nicoise salads, and spiced caramel bread pudding. Note: Arrive early on weekend mornings, as they don't take reservations.

While there’s certainly no shortage of great seafood joints in Seattle, Taylor Shellfish Oyster Bars is our pick for pre-dinner appetizers (their selection of oysters is one of the city’s largest). The fifth-generation family fishing business has expanded to include three oyster bars in Seattle, all of which uphold the family commitment to sustainable fish farming and sourcing locally grown produce. The Shuckers Dozen, a composition of various oysters, is a good entry point. The Capitol Hill location is the first of three (they're now in Pioneer Square and Queen Anne as well).

Altura's Italian-focused, rotating, multi-course tasting menu best suits a special-occasion dinner. The open kitchen atmosphere makes it more of an experience, as do the pairings: You can opt for a traditional wine combination or a more modern matching, which also includes cocktails and beers.

This pizza spot is the brainchild of husband-wife team, Brandon Pettit, a former New Yorker with a passion for NY-style dough, and Molly Wizenberg of the popular food blog, Orangette, and author of the book, Delancey, which tells the story of the restaurant's Seattle opening. Their awesome pies (margherita, crimini mushroom with mozzarella and thyme, hot salami) are served out of a wood-fired oven, in a minimalist, small space set with wood tables and drop-ceiling light fixtures. While the pizza here takes its inspiration from New York, many of the ingredients—from the veggies to the flour, cream, honey, and ginger beer—are locally sourced.

The seafood here is fantastic, and that's not a well-kept secret. So go early as The Walrus and the Carpenter doesn't take reservations. (There are other spots along Ballard Avenue, and even in the same building to grab a drink and/or an app while you wait—including sister restaurant, Barnacle.) The plates here are somewhat small and best shared tapas-style. Don't miss the extensive oyster list.

Etta's is one of many restaurants by famed Seattle restauranteur, Tom Douglas. It's situated alongside Pike Place Market, and it has all the seafood staples you'd expect: oysters, Dungeness crab cakes, ahi tuna, and so on—but it's also known in part for its market brunch menu and accompanying house Bloody Mary.

Chef/owner Eric Johnson spent a decade-plus working in Paris, Shanghai, and Hong Kong, time that is reflected in the Vietnamese menu at Stateside, which takes cues from French and Chinese cuisine. The vibe here is great, too. The interior is a mix of clean wood and marble, with fun palm frond wallpaper and retro overhead lights. Make a reservation in advance to avoid a long wait. Grab a drink after dinner at next-door Foreign National.

We like this Belltown sake bar for super-fresh fish with a decidedly neighborhood vibe. Expect a miles-long sushi and sashimi menu, plus plenty of off-the-beaten-path sake options for connoisseurs. Ask to be seated on the covered back porch, where there are casual couches and low tables (these are also the best seats in the house during happy hour).

Matt's in the Market (it overlooks the landmark Public Market clock and neon sign) has been open since 1996, and is now owned by a previous Pike Place fishmonger, Dan Bugge. Not surprisingly, you'll find a lot of fresh fish on the menu (seafood stew; seared scallops with grits and bacon; wild king salmon in a smoked heirloom tomato vinaigrette), plus chicken and steak dishes and crowd-pleasing desserts.

The first major selling point for Westward is that the restaurant can be approached from the water—regulars stop by on boats, kayaks, or paddleboards and tie up on the dock during dinner. That said, it's also entirely worthy destination for landlubbers—the menu is inspired by the Northwest, with a heavy emphasis on fresh oysters and seafood dishes (like albacore crudo, salmon gravlax, and black cod) that rotate daily. Little Gull, their market concept next-door, is one of the best places in the city to get fresh market fish for home cooking—though it's equally nice for a glass of wine and an appetizer. In the evenings, they offer drink service at the Adirondack chairs around the fire pits.

The London Plane serves food all day in their café-style restaurant, offering an array of baked goods and sourdough toasts (e.g., curried avocado with radish, cabbage, and cilantro), as well as granolas, egg dishes, and veggie plates (like baby beets served with pomegranate and pistachio). Their dinner menu, which is available Wednesday through Saturday, includes mains like roasted chicken with wild mushrooms, strawberries, and hazelnuts. What makes The London Plane a bit different is that it's also part grocery and flower shop (overseen by Katherine Anderson of Marigold and Mint), so you can pick up specialty food items, gifts, floral arrangements, croissants to-go, all while brunching.

Nautically designed Manolin (named after the Ernest Hemingway character) is awash in cool blues, and centered around a U-shape bar that provides front-row seats to the bustle of the restaurant's talented bartenders and the chefs manning its wood-fire grill. The menu is updated often (the plantain chips stay), with different, refreshing takes on ceviche rotating in among vegetable mains and grilled fish and meats.

You'll find some of the best pizza in Seattle at this tiny, lakeside joint in Madison Park. Pies are made with organic tomato bases and wheat flour harvested in the Pacific Northwest, and manage to be both dough-y and crisp, as well as works of food-art. Look forward to creations like The Farmer (Grana cheese, mozzarella, ham, topped with a runny egg) and New Haven (arugula, basil, capers, Crimini mushrooms, peppers, olives, spinach, and more).

Tarsan I Jane approaches the entire dining experience from start to finish as the chef’s choice. Everything from the day’s menu to the selection of seasonings available on the table are pre-established, and no changes can be made, so experience is, in the owner's words, about trust. Chef Perfecte Rocher tailors the daily menu to include the freshest seafood and seasonal produce, while staying close to his Catalan roots.

Vendemmia is technically the Italian word for vintage (as in the vintage, or harvest season, of a wine), but it's one of those knotty words that really means so much more—Italians say it also refers to the terroir, culture, and spirit that went into making the bottle. It's just that kind of passion and complexity that chef Brian Clevenger is hoping to capture in his dressed-up Madrona restaurant. In addition to the sophisticated wine list, Clevenger offers handmade pasta and plenty of gorgeous, seasonal vegetable dishes, and since the Washington native grew up near the coast, you can always count on a few fresh seafood dishes. Note: It's definitely worth springing for a reservation at the four-seat chef's counter for a special occasion.

Don’t be fooled by the sweet nature of the light, airy space—Renee Erickson’s James Beard award-winning menu is nothing if not serious, with many of the simple-but-innovative, vegetable-centric dishes (there’s always a roasted vegetable on the menu) coming straight to the table from a wood-burning oven. Relying on seasonal ingredients from local sources, the menu changes daily, though it stays true to chef Renee Erickson’s Southern European style, with dishes like a roasted chicken, crepinettes with ricotta and fried cucumber, and sardines on toast with a curry tomato mayo.

Tallulah's bills itself as a neighborhood café, and with a long, cozy bar and ample patio space that always seem to be buzzing with energy (probably in part because it's outfitted with cozy wool blankets for cold days), the place definitely fulfills that expectation. The vibe is sort of Scandinavian meets vintage, with clean, mid-century furniture juxtaposed against design prints and patinaed brass chandeliers, plus a quirky painting of a cat welcoming you at the entry. The menu is short but sweet, with a selection of small plates like halloumi with local melon, or beet salad and a straightforward roster of locally-inspired mains like a grilled albacore tuna bowl and Samish Bay King salmon; locals recommend getting at least one plate of the hanger steak frites, which are almost always a source of order envy. (P.S. They do excellent weekend brunch and weekday happy hour.)

Despite (or, possibly, because of) its unlikely location in Seattle's Georgetown neighborhood, Matt Dillon's The Corson Building offers what's widely considered to be one of Seattle's most special dining experiences. The restaurant itself is located in a historic 1910 home that's around the corner from the airport and steps from a major highway, but once you walk through the green gates and into the patio of the ivy-covered home, it's easy to forget that bit. Dinner service happens Thursday through Sunday, and everything is served family style at one of two communal tables, around the historic fireplace in the home's cozy living room. Handwritten menus are changed out every day: Thursday and Fridays are a la carte; Saturday is lengthy, multiple-course prix-fixe; and Sunday, while prix-fixe, is a more casual, laid-back version of Saturday's feast. The dishes themselves, like all of Matt Dillon's creations, are soulful iterations of locally-sourced vegetables and meats, and though cuisines can vary week-to-week or dish-to-dish, everything (including the wine pairing) always comes together elegantly.

You’d never guess that a tiki-themed restaurant that plays surf movies and serves vegan food exists in Seattle, but it sure does. Don’t miss the Northwest Nachos (cashew queso, black beans, corn salsa), plus fried avocado tacos and tempeh kabobs, which are marinated in coconut milk, turmeric, and ginger. Predictably, the cocktails are kind of a thing—and every single one, from Mai Tais to Coconut Mojitos, are potent but delicious.

When it comes to Seattle dining establishments, Canlis is OG, located inside a 1950’s modernist home overlooking Lake Union. A bonus: All the tables have water views, meaning there’s not a bad seat in the house. It’s a family-owned spot that began as a steakhouse, though over the years they’ve tweaked the menu, adding Japanese elements here and there. Don’t miss the stellar selection of sake, and be sure to order the truffle fries. Trust.

After a successful stint leading Seattle's legendary fine dining stalwart Canlis, chef Brady Williams set out to create a restaurant of his own in White Center, Washington, that is a hip mix of contemporary globally influenced cooking that leans on his Japanese heritage.

Ada's has been a popular home for nomadic office workers since they first opened their awesomely geeky concept store in 2013. Though the coffee and food are enough to draw the laptop-wielding crowd, the airy, open space and ample community events around their bookstore (which features math, architecture, and engineering books) are also powerful motivators. Last year, they made it official when they opened their formal co-working space, The Office, in the space above the café. Monthly and daily rentals are available for short-term needs, but there's still free WiFi downstairs if you just want to pop in for a few hours.

The baristas at Slate are total connoisseurs—from the source of the beans to the grinding process to the water quality, they're obsessed with every detail of the coffee-making process. What's more, they're extraordinarily friendly and happy to give you a full education on the current (generally always light) roast. While the original Ballard location has Wifi, the tiny space can get pretty crowded: The newer University and Pioneer Square locations are better suited for working.

This small little coffee shop in Ballard is decidedly no-frills, in the best possible way. The upstairs space above the bar (lit by twinkle lights) is quiet and secluded, making it a great place to hide out with your computer for an afternoon. Anchored Ship is known for really excellent espresso, but they also serve coffee soda—a caffeinated, carbonated cold brew over ice that tastes a lot better than it sounds—and coffee cocktails in the afternoons.

Pike Place Market is probably most famous as a fish market—and it has to be acknowledged as a teemingly popular tourist destination—but with more than 80 restaurants and food stands, it’s also the best place in town for lunch to-go. Everyone has their own favorite spot, but the Bavarian Meat Deli (ruebens), Country Dough (Chinese stuffed flatbread), and Oriental Mart (Philipino food) are all great. For a healthier option, Ellenos yogurt offers some of the best Greek-style yogurt we’ve tried. Beecher's handmade cheese, which also has a location in New York, is the city's greatest cheesemonger, too—their tastings and classes make excellent gifts.

An extension of thirteen-acre Kurtwood Farms, which is located outside of Seattle on Vashon Island, Kurt Farm Shop is a little store within the Chophouse Row building in Capitol Hill. It's somewhat easy to miss, which makes it all the more satisfying when you stumble inside. The ice cream flavors here are derived from the farm: lemon verbena, rose geranium, bay laurel, blackberries, tomato jam. You can get cones or pints to go—plus cheese from Kurtwood Farms and other regional creameries, along with some plants from the farm.

The owner of Parfait, Adria Shimada, got her start in the food world with an internship at Amy's Bread in New York, before she headed to the West Coast. Billed as a farm-to-cone shop, Parfait has a garden outside where they grow mint, rosemary, lavender, and berries for their ice cream. Outside of this, they source from organic Washington farms, and get cream and milk delivered from local Smith Brothers Farms. Hosting a large-ish event? Parfait has a food truck that promises to be popular.

If you ask someone who lives in Seattle where to go for ice cream, Molly Moon's is likely to be one of the first places on their must-try list. Mainstay flavors here include vanilla bean, Earl Grey, honey lavender, melted chocolate, balsamic strawberry, and Scout Mint (Molly Moon's buys thousands of boxes of Thin Mint cookies each year from Western Washington Girl Scouts). They have a number of do-good policies: Everything used in the shop (from spoons to milkshake cups) is entirely compostable; their Anna Banana Milk Fund sends fresh milk to families in need every week; they source locally as much as possibly. (About 90% of their ingredients come from the Pacific Northwest. They've been working with the same organic lavender farm, Purple Haze, for several years. And the approximately 16,000 pounds of chocolate that they use annually comes from organic, fair-trade Theo Chocolate, which is made in Seattle.) The original Molly Moon's is in Wallingford, which has a parklet outside with swing seats and a baby hill for play. All of the ice cream in Wallingford is made on-site—same goes for the locations in Capitol Hill, Queen Anne, and U Village. The ice cream at the smaller Madrona shop comes from nearby Capitol Hill. (And the bonus Molly Moon's spot is a seasonal window next to Hello Robin.)

Arguably one of the best partnerships in Seattle is the one between ice cream shop Molly Moon's and cookie bakery, Hello Robin. The result being a no-brainer: some of the very best ice cream cookie sandwiches around. You can also get cookies sans ice cream at Hello Robin, as well as pints of Molly Moon's. Plus there's the seasonal Molly Moon's walk-up window, where you can get scoops from May to September.

In the summer months, the water is one of the best ways to see the city; the café and paddle club make an excellent home base for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding in Portage Bay. Afterwards, enjoy the view over a margarita and our favorite salmon tacos.

What makes Bluebird more than your typical ice cream shop? They also make craft sodas and beers in-house, which means you can order things like a ginger beer float or stout-inspired scoops. Of course, there are still plenty of kid-friendly options, too. You can visit Bluebird here in Pike/Pine, or in Phinney Ridge, or Fremont.

Pike Place Market gets most of the attention in Seattle, but since its opening in 2010, Melrose Market has gained a reputation as a locals' spot for specialty food items. Chef Matt Dillon helped transform the market by moving in two of his popular restaurants: dinner spot Sitka & Spruce as well as his wine bar and shop, Bar Ferd'nand. Take the time to stroll through and enjoy all the cool little stalls, like the cheese at Calf & Kid and the flowers at Marigold and Mint.

Seattle has a reputation for seriously good coffee, in no small part due to the existence of connoisseurs like Andrew Milstead. His little spot in Fremont is a multi-roaster café, meaning the different roasts are switched out multiple times a day (folks in the coffee industry will tell you this is an art that’s difficult to master). Rest assured: While this spot is definitely a pilgrimage for coffee tourists, it’s equally welcoming to beginners—Milstead and his baristas are big on education and happy to answer questions.

Opened in 1929, Madison Park bakery has become an institution in Seattle with a reputation for the largest and best selection of baked goods. They make custom cakes for special occasions, though everyone raves about their maple bars in particular.

Less than a year after launching their cold-pressed juices, the first Juicebox retail space/café was opened in the fall of 2013 in Capitol Hill. The organic juices here are amazing, as are the salads. You can pop in to get food on the go, but the pretty café is the kind of place you want to hang with a girlfriend for brunch: The sunlit space is threaded with ivy plants and flowers, a collage of framed nature photographs decorates a wall above a perched bar counter, and on another wall, rustic white bookcases hold vintage bowls and plates.

Foodies in Seattle know Rachel Coyle for her flaky, buttery cretzels (the perfect lovechild of a pretzel and a croissant), which sold out in record numbers at her Book Larder popups back in 2013. Last year, she opened her very own brick and mortar, and while the cretzels are still a best-seller, neighbors know that her seasonally-inspired creations are really where it's at—regulars check Facebook or Instagram to see what's fresh in the case each day. Consider branching out and trying one of her savory creations, like the ham and cheese croissants, or sandwiches with tomato jam on fresh baguettes. Unsurprisingly, this is an excellent place to pick up a cake for a celebration.

This is the original: the founders of the Ace Hotel fell in love with a former maritime workers’ hotel in Downtown Seattle—built in 1909, so they kept the loft ceilings and hardwood floors intact—and re-purposed it to start their own, first-ever hotel in 1999. Like all their locations, this is a place to rest and a place to see and be seen. (Bonus: Their accommodations are dog-friendly.) Take a pied-à-terre with a shared (“private upon entry”) bathroom option for a free-spirited, low-key stay right in the heart of Seattle—on the cusp of Downtown and Belltown, you’re within walking distance of the waterfront, Pike Place Market, and the Space Needle—or for a more luxurious (yet still relatively low-key) experience, take one of their deluxe rooms, which may boast iconic street-artwork by the likes of Shepard Fairey and KAWS, as well as better-than-bare-bones amenities (including an ensuite bathroom).

The Four Seasons is one of those hotels you can always count on—here, you'll find all the amenities they're known for, including marble bathrooms, comfortable rooms, and a state-of-the-art spa with a eucalyptus steam room. What makes the Seattle location special its location right in the center of Downtown; The hotel is steps from Pike Place Market, right along the water, so many of the rooms look out over gorgeous Elliot Bay. Even if you're traveling for business, set aside some time to spend at the fourth-floor infinity pool—there are plenty of lounge chairs for sunning in the warmer months, and a collection of fire pits for enjoying the view when it's cold.

Whether for last-minute work trips or spontaneous jaunts to cities along the West Coast, Palihotel is one of the most beautifully-decorated, luxurious, efficient, responsive, and personal hotel groups we’ve ever experienced. They’re in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and now, Seattle, and we’re crazy about their exceptional service, chicly cushy design (think Wes Anderson with exquisite linens) and sheer coziness. And considering the level of deluxeness, it’s remarkably affordable. The Seattle iteration is right near Pike Place, the fish market, and the Seattle Art Museum. After a day of meetings or sightseeing (or both), a glass of wine and cheese board in the bar is the perfect wind-down. Guestrooms make clever use of space and are full of thoughtful touches like fresh flowers, mini Smeg fridges, pretty antique tea kettles, and a desk you’ll actually want to work from.

Originally built in 1924, the Fairmont is Seattle's most historic hotel (it's now been in business for more than 92 years). This summer, the hotel unveiled a new renovation, elevating the rooms and other amenities to pretty high standards. We love the Fairmont for in-and-out business trips because of the two great on-site restaurants—the Georgian, a white-tablecloth-style French place, and Shuckers, a charmingly old-school oyster bar. Since this is Seattle, the renovation also brought some interesting environmental initiatives, like a steam-powered energy program and a rooftop pollinator garden including five full-on hives, which provide honey you'll taste in the beer at Shuckers and on the salmon dish at the Georgian.

Like Vintage Park Hotel, The Palladian has all the signature Kipton amenities (i.e. complementary yoga mats and bikes for cruising around downtown Seattle). The building that houses The Palladian dates back to the early 1900's, but Kimpton debuted their 97-room hotel not too long ago in 2015. What makes the hotel stand out is its playful decor (pillow covers wear the faces of pop cultural icons), which feels both retro and classy.

The Sorrento is an OG Seattle hotel: They opened in 1909 in time for the Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition world’s fair. The hotel had been commissioned by a clothing merchant and built by an architect (named Harlan Thomas) who went on to become the first dean at UW's School of Architecture. After changing hands a couple times, The Sorrento went on to become owned by the same family since the 1980's. In 2014, the building underwent a much-needed historic renovation, which updated both the lobby and the guest rooms. The finest details remain, like carved wood moldings and Italian Renaissance period pieces, but the overall effect is now more polished and inviting.

The first PNW Thompson location opened in Seattle in June 2016. The dozen-story, 150-plus-room hotel was designed by Seattle's Olson Kundig Architects and is a marvel of floor-to-ceiling glass windows, with views that overlook Pike Place (the hotel is essentially on top of the market), Puget Sound, and Mt. Rainer beyond the water. Not surprisingly, they've taken advantage of the location with a rooftop bar called The Nest. Inside, the rooms are contemporary, leaning toward sleek. While you can't beat the view (or location), the food isn't that great—avoid room service.

This Kimpton hotel in downtown Seattle is a no-brainer, solid choice. The rooms are nicely appointed, and the suites are particularly well-situated for longer stays. Ask for one with a city view.

Overlooking the Puget Sound and spanning a whopping 534 acres, Discovery Park is the kind of place that makes you forget you're in a city. There are two miles of protected coastline, meadows, and meandering hiking trails for exploring, plus plenty of viewpoints for picnics. During warm summers, you can actually forage for wild blackberries here.

An eight-mile round trip, Mount Si is a beautiful introduction to the Cascade Mountains—the length (plus 3,150 ft. in elevation gain) make it a challenging trek, but the scenery and views from the top are more than worth it. Make sure to purchase a discover pass in advance, so you can park at the trailhead. Arrive early, as this is one of the most popular hikes in the state.

Washington is known for its wet weather and associated greenery, so it should come as no surprise that the arboretum here is pretty out of this world—it's actually the result of a collaboration between UW, which manages the tree and plant collections, and the City of Seattle, which owns the land and keeps up the trails, benches, and buildings. Start at the Graham Visitor Center, where you can meet the friendly botanists on staff (they'll give you the scoop on which parts of the park are in bloom depending on when you visit)—and definitely take the time to walk along Azalea Way to the stunning Japanese gardens. More adventurous tourists might want to explore the arboretum by kayak or canoe, which we've heard is an excellent strategy if you're looking for wildlife like ducks, beavers, turtles, and—if you're a little lucky—bald eagles.

In West Seattle, looking out towards Bainbridge Island (and with stunning views of Downtown Seattle in one direction, and the Olympic Mountains in the other), Alki Beach Park is a nice local hangout on warm days. There's a big wide bike path that's popular with runners and bike riders, and it's one of the only spots this close to the city where you can have beach bonfires—so long as you confine everything to one of the pre-made fire pits. Come hungry, so you can stop at Marination Ma Kai, a Korean/Hawaiian fusion restaurant that's famous for tacos and excellent shaved ice. Photo: Brian Teutsch

Golden Gardens Park is one of those rare outdoor places that's enjoyable regardless of the weather (which is a huge boon in rainy Seattle). On warm days, swim off the dock or go fishing on the pier—if it's cold, bundle up for a walk along the coastline or set up a bonfire in one of the pits. The views of the Olympic Mountains from across the Puget Sounds are some of Seattle's most iconic, so this is also a popular place to get married.

Bainbridge Island is a bedroom community of Seattle that makes a great day trip. The easiest way to get there is to take the ferry (locals just call it "the boat") from Colman Dock downtown across the Bay; the 35-minute ride is an attraction itself, as the route is exceptionally scenic, and it's not uncommon to see whales and other wildlife from the deck. When you arrive, walk around the quaint little downtown—make time to stop at Blackbird Bakery for lunch, or just an extremely good coffee with a side of pastry and cake. Like many spots in this region, Bainbridge is known for gorgeous gardens and greenery. There are a few great gardens to explore, but our favorite is Bloedel Reserve—gardener Prentice Bloedel (a before-his-time environmentalist with a fascinating story in his own right) was colorblind, so the visuals revolve around texture and composition rather than color. If you're traveling with littles, it's worth popping into the small-but-mighty Children's Museum before heading home.

This 6.5-mile loop makes for an exciting day excursion or an overnight camping trip—either way, you'll want to leave ample time for the adventure, as Mason Lake is enroute to the Ira Spring Overlook and the Snoqualmie Falls are only a short detour away. The trail itself is definitely on the challenging side (it includes a little climbing) but is well worth the effort: After a 4,320 feet elevation gain, your view spans from the expansive Alpine Lake Wilderness to Mount Rainier.

The double feature of Bridal Veil Falls and Lake Serene make this 8.2-mile trek one of the most popular hikes in Washington (accordingly, you'll want to get there earlier in the day, as parking fills up quickly and the trail can get crowded). The trailhead itself is about an hour from Seattle—a gorgeous drive that takes you over the Evergreen Point floating bridge and along the Skykomish River. From the trailhead, on the way up to Lake Serene, you'll pass a sign for a lollipop trail that takes you out to Bridal Veil Falls. The diversion will add an extra mile to your total trek, but it shouldn't be missed, as a set of stairs allows views from both above and below the falls themselves. From there, continue climbing until the trail crosses into the basin. You'll be rewarded when you finally arrive at the stunningly clear lake itself, bordered on one side by tall pines and the other by steep grey cliffs leading up to Mt. Index. PSA: Parking requires a Northwest Forest Pass ($30, which you can purchase online). Photos: pixelgerm

Kids, unsurprisingly, go crazy for the factory tour of Theo’s Chocolate. The tour itself is just an hour—you'll spend the first half in a short lecture about the biology and history of cocoa, and the processes required to turn the bean into a chocolate bar. For the second half, you'll walk the factory floor (and experience a sampling of several of their exotic flavors). Note: While tours are available seven-days-a-week, the weekday tours—when the production can be viewed live—are a bit more exciting.

To get to this grand museum overlooking the South Bay of Lake Union, it’s best to take the S.L.U.T. (yes, that’s what some locals call the Seattle Lake Union Streetcar) through downtown. Here you’ll find the artefacts of every definitive moment in Seattle’s history, from pre-colonial times to near-future.

This park is actually located on an oblong peninsula that protrudes into Lake Washington, so there are beaches and water access on almost every edge of the space (which is 300 acres in total). The paved bike path through the lush forests—2.4 miles round-trip—makes it a popular spot for jogging or bike riding, and there are plenty of places for picnicking or just enjoying the view. The park is also home to a gorgeous Audubon Center, which hosts camps for kids during the summer, and kid-friendly birding walks during the year (friends have seen everything from eagles' nests to owls walking the grounds).

Rattlesnake Ridge is one of a handful of classic Seattle hikes, primarily because the view from the top (which looks out over Rattlesnake Lake) shows off the photogenic Northwest in all its green, blue, and gray splendor. At 4 miles round trip, the hike itself is not particularly technical, either (though anyone traveling with kids or dogs should exercise caution as you get close to the top, so littles don't get too close to the steep cliffs on the ledge). On the way up, you'll wind through leafy, mossy forest to a series of switchbacks that don't feel so difficult when you're on them, but add up to a major gain in elevation. Once you make it out of the trees, you'll come to an exposed, rocky area with views in every direction. Photos: Abhinaba Basu

It’s just a 45-minute ride from Seattle’s Lake Union up to the San Juan Islands, but getting there is truly half of the fun. (Think: seals, whales, and orca sightings plus killer views of the Seattle skyline.) Local carrier Kenmore Air offers regular flights for those visiting the islands, as well as the option to do ride-alongs and just sightsee from the seaplane, making for a great weekend activity. (Head here for a full goop itinerary once you arrive.)

Seattle's aquarium isn't the biggest, but what they do have is pretty great: plenty of hands-on activities for the kids, an array of animals from otters and seals to birds (and fish of all sizes), daily mammal feedings, and an amazing underwater dome that gives you a 360-degree fish-eye perspective on the mysterious activities of the Puget Sound. It gets pretty busy during the school season, so if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, it's best to go before noon or after 3pm.

Taking the concept of a local museum shop one step further, not only does the Frye seek out cool design goods and jewelry, but their focus is on local, Northwestern artisans and makers. Should you buy one of their ceramic fortune cookies with fortunes told by a local psychic, say, or an Alice Noon bucket bag, or even an Iacoli & McAllister light fixture, you know you’re leaving Seattle with a real Seattle souvenir.

A Seattle standby since the ‘70s, this men’s and women’s boutique in a historic part of Seattle is achingly beautiful, with a grand spiral staircase, floor-to-ceiling windows, and meticulously merchandised displays—kind if like a mini Barneys, but a bit more boutique-y. Buyer and co-owner Jill Donnelly, who’s been responsible for the assortment for over 20 years, continues to do an impeccable job of introducing under-the-radar Euro lines and supporting tried-and-true faves like Kenzo, Co., and NLST. The end-of-season sales here are known to be epic.

Staffed with patient and knowledgeable fit experts and stocked almost exclusively with boutique European brands, this jewel box of a lingerie shop is a far cry from get-in-get-out department stores. While by no means cheap, you’ll feel good knowing that whether you go for a complete overhaul of your panty drawer or a single, barely-there, super-sexy set, it will be worth the investment.

Much like sister store Les Amis, Essenza takes a decidedly editorial approach to its selection of home décor, bedding, fragrances, skincare, and jewelry: The plush bedding, Diptyque candles, Megan Thorne jewelry, Santa Maria Novella lotions and potions, and more are all thoughtfully handpicked (oftentimes from overseas) and merchandised in a way that feels both approachable and special. It’s the kind of place husbands, boyfriends, brothers, and friends can turn to for gifts when striking out isn’t an option.

It goes without saying that a bookstore devoted entirely to the culinary arts is a bookstore after our own hearts. This is where you want to go to find every cookbook imaginable (both current and out of print) and it’s worth checking the calendar of events beforehand, too, as the cozy space often plays host to chef demos, signings, and cooking classes.

Filson is a Seattle institution and fittingly, the iconic outdoor-wear brand’s flagship store takes up a whopping 6,000 square feet of a massive industrial building which coincidentally, is also home to the workshop where all the design and development magic happens. Even if you’re not the outdoorsy type and camping gear and fishing rods are not your thing, a visit is a must, if only to peruse the museum-like collection of local artifacts, though there’s also a wide selection of giftables and non-camping-related accessories to sift through, not to mention, a meat jerky vending machine.

In a city famous for its temperamental weather, a chunky knit is indispensable, and Les Amis, the most apparel-focused of Becky Buford’s three local shops, is the place to get the perfect one—plus, Ulla Johnson dresses, edgy Isabel Marant separates, and layering basics from Vince, Nili Lotan, and Steven Alan. With its rustic hardwood floors and vintage knick-knacks throughout, the lived-in aesthetic of the shop itself is also distinctly Seattle.

Other than the simple, feminine-but-not-prissy interior and robust but not-too-cluttered displays, Moorea Seal (its namesake owner/buyer has been running the place since 2013) has another major thing going for it: A good portion, 7% to be exact, of the offering—tons of dainty jewelry, accessories, home goods, stationery, and giftables—is backed by some sort of philanthropic mission. A gold-plated opal ring, for example, supports Best Friends Animal Society, while the purchase of a hand-forged brass serving set contributes to the Washington Trails Association.

Lucca is packed from floor to chandelier-filled ceiling with an undeniably reliable assortment of giftables for any and all occasions: Astier de Villatte candles, piles of stationery both vintage-looking and modern, clean beauty favorites from Herbivore Essentials, and the kind of out-there, one-of-a-kind curios that make perfect presents for tough-to-shop-for friends.

This artfully cluttered home-goods shop and its stacks of fabrics (both current and vintage), piles of throw pillows, and rows of furniture and tabletop accessories are an interior decorators dream, whether professional or amateur. The mastermind behind the edit is Pam Robinson, who puts her fashion background to good use by sourcing the wares directly from Europe—particularly useful to anyone interested in vintage but not willing to do the legwork to find the good stuff themselves.

Seattle is home to a healthy roster of excellent bookshops, of which design-focused Peter Miller is arguably the most notable. In addition to a library of tomes that span all manner of topics from architecture to landscape design to interior decorating, the shop carries a tight selection of design-y home décor, drafting supplies, and other related goods.

This plant design studio goes well beyond your average succulent—although you're sure to find some of your favorites here, as well as stumble upon new varieties. Curated by owner Brandon Peterson, the shop has a just-right amount of options ranging from terrariums to kokedama (the moss balls) to larger indoor tropical plants. The Palm Room also carries a good edit of pots and less common plant vessels.

Like so many Seattle mainstays, this little-bit-of-everything shop marches to the beat of its own drum. There’s clothing from obscure international labels, beautiful—and a little bit quirky—home goods, jewelry, gifts, and a generous assortment from Seattle-made fragrance line, Blackbird. It’s also the kind of shop where there’s plenty for dudes to rifle through (skater tees, hats, records, and Pendleton everything).

Paper Hammer's amusing graphic cards are designed and handprinted in their warehouse studio in Tieton, Washington, a few hours outside of Seattle. You can find the cards in select stationery stores around the country but if you're in Seattle, go to their lovely shop downtown, which also carries gift-y items like coasters and letterpress tags with clever sayings.

Part gallery, part shop, KOBO carries rare finds from the art and design world, i.e. vintage Japanese tableware, handmade birdhouses, landscape paintings, and special textiles. Their exhibits, which happen six times each year, highlight Japanese artists, as well as artists from the Northwest. The original KOBO location is in Capitol Hill. The second location downtown is located in the former space of the historic Higo Variety Store—and KOBO has kept many of the vintage furnishings in homage to the almost-century-old, family-run business.

We have the design world (and Instagram’s) current obsession with fiddlehead figs to thank for the current craze for bringing the outdoors in. Husband-and-wife duo Ryan and Michele Tansey who hopped on the trend, first opening the Plant Shop as a pop-up last year before making things permanent this past spring. Here, they’ve stocked the space with a darling selection of little potted cacti and succulents, ferns, Ficuses—and just about anything else your green thumb could desire.

Local photographer Jim Henkens has an eye for finding beautifully weathered vintage kitchenware and props for shoots, so it’s only natural he’d turn his love of a treasure hunt into a brick-and-mortar shop. Tucked into Madison Park, Henkens’ buy expertly mixes old (vintage ironstone dishes, glass beakers) and new (linen dish towels, cookbooks, and earthware from Colombia) in a light-filled space you could easily spend the better part of an hour exploring. In the back of the store is a full kitchen, where he hosts a dinner series with guest chefs, Q&As with cookbook authors, and cooking classes.

Hands-down one of the city’s coolest bookshops, Pacific Standard Books is located in a loft space in Belltown. Here, local creative Strath Shepard (formerly of Visionaire and V Magazine) has curated a rotating selection of hard-to-find art, fashion, and photography books.

Every display here is stunning and exquisite, whether it's an array of antique rings set on an origami-like book, or pendants, set out on cut paper. It's all an extension of Curtis Steiner's imagination, who collects beautiful pieces and makes them as well. His own impossibly dainty jewelry is mixed in with what he sources. The whole shop will make you want to hold your breath.

You can always count on a dive bar for a great burger and beer, and Twilight Exit is considered one of the best in Seattle (the aforementioned burgers are grass-fed and ground in house). At night, they've got a jukebox, a photo booth, shuffleboard, and karaoke every Sunday.

This casual wine bar/shop is in a converted house in the mostly residential neighborhood of Madrona. Come here for a tasting, glass, or a bottle—PNW wines are well represented here, but there's also an international selection, plus microbrews and ciders (and some wine on tap). Bottlehouse's small plates revolve around cheese—there's a cheesemonger board; mac and cheese made with gruyere, cheddar, goat gouda; and a brie sandwich—which you pair with side greens or sweets. Hang in their living room-esque space, or on the outdoor deck on a sunny day.

A summer 2016 addition to Seattle's drink scene, Foreign National is from the same team behind favorite French-Vietnamese restaurant, Stateside. It's dungeon-dark inside but with plenty of playful touches like a spinning, metallic disco(-esque) ball and faucets carved into the shape of swans. The strong cocktail menu here highlights Southeast Asian ingredients, as do the adventurous bar snacks.

The folks behind this Fremont craft brewery have beer down to a science: with a startup-like approach, they merge automated technology with a DIY ethos, ensuring excellent quality control over their brews made from hand-picked, locally sourced ingredients. This so-called "urban beer garden" is serviced by a really friendly bar staff—and, with their beer-hall-style communal tables and free snacks (pretzels, apples), a comfortably laissez-faire attitude. Their sizeable outdoor seating is covered in case of the compulsory Seattle drizzle.

This restaurant-slash-bar in Ballard is the brainchild of owners Jeff Ofelt—formerly of Bimbo's, Cha Cha Lounge, King's Hardware—and Wade Weigel, of Rudy's and Seattle’s Ace Hotel. Chef Dave Lamping, known for his work at restaurants Bastille and Smith, curated their menu of small plates, so whether you’re in for a cocktail or a bite, this is a great spot to grab a seat outside—if you’ve caught a lucky break from the Emerald City’s infamous drizzle. Locals love Percy’s for brunch, as well.

Business partners and husband-wife pair Josh and Nancy Kelly had been dreaming of their own restaurant for years when they fell in love with Good Bar's historic space in Pioneer Square. Unfortunately, preserving the same vintage details they fell in love with severely limited the space Josh (a long-time chef) would have to cook in. To adapt, he flipped the concept from a restaurant with a bar to a bar with food. The cocktail and beer program here is one of the city's best, but Josh's culinary pedigree means that even the limited bar food menu is pretty show-stopping. This place is best enjoyed during happy hour, when you can order a pile of charcuterie, or the surprisingly good sloppy joe, to snack on with an after-work cocktail.

Stoup Brewing has all the aesthetics that have come to define the Northwest's explosion of microbreweries: Aluminum siding, big, garage-style doors, twinkle lights, and tons of both indoor and outdoor seating. Here, in particular, we've found the service to be friendly, and the purveyors to be utterly passionate about their craft—two of the three owners were scientists in their past lives, and admittedly bring a geeky, detail-oriented zeal to every brew. There are almost always food trucks outside, though you're welcome to order delivery if, for some reason, there's a gap in service.

This hidden gem is tucked away behind a staircase right by Pike Place Market—inside you’ll find great craft cocktails, a well-curated local beer offering, and delicious eats—from nibbles, like artisan cheeses and fresh oysters on the half shell, to larger plates influenced by Mediterranean cuisine like octopus, lamb meatballs, and marinated chicken kebabs. Its elegant, well-lit interior has a cozy, upbeat, nice-but-unpretentious vibe. There’s outdoor seating in back, too.

A second bar by the owners of much-adored Twilight Exit, you'll know the Neighbor Lady by a large painted sign on the brick wall outside. Inside, you'll find the bar's signature brocade wallpaper and Victorian light fixtures which, when combined with the dark wood of the bar, make for a decidedly moody vibe that's exactly what the doctor ordered for cozy, rainy nights. It's a point of pride that there are a lot of vegetarian meals on the menu here, but we like it best for a stiff drink and a pile of fries.

Jeff Cerciello (former Thomas Keller culinary director) perfects the bakery-cum-larder-cum-restaurant concept in this sunny space with all-day dining at rustic communal tables, including a wonderful family-style dinner with a market-driven menu. Ingredients here are top-notch, and Cerciello knows what to do with them, keeping the food exciting and tasty without over-complicating. The Roast Jidori Chicken is a standout, along with any of the fresh seafood or excellent produce-based dishes. There's an attached mini-grocery store with an excellent cheese selection, pastries, and prepared salads and sandwiches.

Local, sustainable, and fresh ingredients are the focus at this rustic-meets-modern spot. The roasted salmon is particularly excellent, though there are very few misses on Forage's constantly changing chalkboard menu.

This is one of the main lunch go-tos in Santa Monica, which means there's almost always a line. The Godmother sub is the order of choice for everyone, us included, though we like to swap the pepper salad for pepperoncini for a little extra heat. Also on point: their tuna salad, and the turkey pesto and eggplant parm. While you wait for the deli to call your number, browse the market—it's stocked with authentic, imported Italian goods; the pasta and sauce selections are particularly impressive.

Housed on a residential street in Culver City, Jackson Market has a grocery section (lots of gourmet candy, drinks, and snacks) in addition to a lengthy lunch menu. While the Jamaican Jerk sandwich had a nice kick to it and the Rueben has the perfect brisket-to-sauerkraut ratio (best enjoyed right away as the dressing makes the bread soggy), the classic Italian sub is a definite fan favorite, particularly when you take the build-your-own option and opt for a turkey-and-pesto sandwich.

While it’s billed as a wine and cheese shop—and they do in fact put together an excellent cheese board—it’s the sandwich counter that’s the real draw. At only seven items long, and with the option to order by the half, you can easily sample the entire menu in a few visits—and if you need a good place to start, we always go for #1 (the freshest mozzarella, basil, and tomato situation) or the #3 (Italian salami and manchego cheese smothered in sundried tomato sauce) on fresh-baked baguette, though the ciabatta has a loyal following as well.

Being that it’s a butcher shop first and foremost, ACA is very serious about their meat-centric menu. The hot sandwiches—BBQ pulled pork, roasted turkey club, lemongrass flank steak banh mi with fried egg, and house-smoked pastrami—can be eaten at one of the few tables on-site or taken to-go. The Italian salumi travels particularly well.

Sister bakery/deli/café to the much-adored restaurant Gjelina, Gjusta literally does a little bit of everything. They also smoke their own fish, which means the cured and smoked mackerel, salmon, and trout—served open-face on fresh-baked bread or bialy—taste amazing. At the other end of the spectrum is the chicken parm: light, cheesy, and addictive. Order at the counter for takeaway or to eat here; we love tucking into plates of fresher-than-fresh California bountry at the scattered outdoor tables.

Clementine is a go-to for light, fresh breakfasts, salads, and a solid heat-at-home selection—but their build-your-own grilled cheese is actually one of their best offerings. For the last 15 years, grilled cheese month (April), has been marked by a grilled cheese-specific menu centered on a specific theme, like “Curds Against Humanity” and “Melt the Vote.” Execution? Buttery, goo-ey, salty, and browned to perfection. The first outpost is located in Century City.

Built in 1917, restored in the '90s, and then revamped in the past few years, this downtown market—which has operated continually for the past century—still maintains its original façade in the Homer Laughlin Building. Nowadays, you'll find specialty shops like DTLA Cheese, along with small food joints serving up Mexican, Chinese, and Japanese food, ideal for the downtown office crowd and tourists alike.

With lines out the door by 10am, this is one of those spots where parents with early risers win: We go for the quinoa, veggie, and egg bowls, while our kiddos are bigger fans of the homemade doughnuts, scrambled eggs, mini English muffins, and grilled cheese. You can eat in (the tables turn over quickly) or take your turkey meatballs to go.

A coffee bar with pastries, a counter for prepared salads and sandwiches to go (or linger over), and a mini-grocery's worth of delicious cheeses, wines, snacks, and frozen treats. Though there are a million tables, they're generally always full; and parking in the area is scarce. That said, it's great for a mid-week breakfast or lunch. (There is also a Joan's in Studio City.)

At the beginning, this mother and son duo were just making meals for a few friends. Then it turned into a full-fledged catering company. Now, there's also a café and marketplace, which serves delicious breakfast and lunch fare, with a focus on fresh, organic ingredients. The salads are delicious and varied while the sandwiches range from an artisan grilled cheese to the Austrian-inspired chicken wiener schnitzel. The lunch boxes and DIY picnic baskets are pretty brilliant.

While many grab a seat at one of the tables to linger over eggs and cappucinos, we like this place best for its takeout. Fridges and freezers—loaded with pre-made soups and crowd-pleasing lasagnas—line the shop, and they also do take-out catering with minimal on-site prep. If you want a real sit-down affair, try their other spot, Local Kitchen + Wine Bar.

It can be hard to get really excited about vegetarian food (that can easily go vegan), but Kitchen Mouse makes it wildly appealing—both in the form of their cafe and catering (they do a brisk business in both). They're also nut- and soy-free. Must orders: Crispy Gomasio Rice Cakes and the breakfast sandwich.

Dinette is a sidewalk eatery by Café Stella owner, Gareth Kantner. There's a walk-up window and tiny interior showcasing Dinette's pastry treats. Also on the (changing) menu: heartier options like smoked salmon toast, Kobe beef burger, ricotta frittata, skirt steak with chimichurri, and an all-day breakfast pizza. And of course, coffee. You can take your food to go, or find a spot at one of the small tables outside the café.

Culver City’s food scene is exploding right now, and one of the best additions is understandably Picnic LA. The menu is divided into entrees (meatballs, chicken leg tangine, salmon, etc.) and sides (green salads, potato salad, and all kinds of other vegetables) that can be mixed and matched into a full meal. Everything’s pre-made, so getting in and out quickly is surprisingly fast, and it all packs up easily if you actually want to have a picnic. If that’s the case, don’t miss their desserts, like key lime pie squares or dark chocolate pot de crème.

Located in the old Nabisco building just north of the Meatpacking District, you’ll find a warren-like maze of restaurants and specialty shops. There are many hits, but we like Los Tacos No.1 for authentic Mexican and, if cooking a special meal at home is an option, we’d pick up our bread at Amy’s, fresh groceries at the Manhattan Fruit Market, and crustaceans at Lobster Place (they also do great pre-made rolls). You'll also find Bowery Kitchen Supply and Posman Books, where the offerings are more suitcase-appropriate.

This is kind of foodie nirvana, care of Mario Batali. Essentially Costco-sized, this Italian gourmet grocery store stocks aisle after aisle of the best artisanal ingredients, including truly fantastic fresh pasta. Throughout the space (which also includes cookware), you’ll find plenty of places to sit down and eat. While there are several gussied-up Batali restaurants upstairs, including a rooftop birreria, we find the best way to experience Eataly it is to grab a seat at one of the many bar-size specialty eateries scattered across the main shop floor. Understandably, they offer an excellent array of gelato.

This new development in the formerly sleepy and overlooked West 40s gathers some of the city’s top food purveyors like Blue Bottle Coffee, Jeni’s Ice Cream, and Ivan Ramen Slurp Shop, under one roof, with a stand and bar-seating at each. It’s worth trekking to this desolate part of town purely for Chef Seamus Mullen’s tapas concept, El Colmado.

We’re big fans of this sustainability-first spot, which is growing like crazy. The focus is on local farmers, proper sourcing, and environmental respect, which is also reflected in the hands-down delicious food. Besides the build-your-own salad bar, the bowl-centric dishes range from Mexican-inspired salads to basic cobbs—and in the true spirit of transparency, they reveal calorie content, too. Come lunchtime, the lines extend around the block.

Hearty, meaty sandwiches and Montreal-style deli food (house-smoked meats, poutine, brisket, and more) are served here, deluxe. Make sure to get a pickle on the side and wash it all down with a good glass of wine.

The sandwiches, soups, and salads here are mighty: While the offerings change daily, you can always count on a pretty delicious (and hearty) turkey sandwich, or a chopped salad packed with everything you could ever want. There's also a location in Soho.

This 30,000 square-foot French-style food hall offers a bustling market divided into different “districts" (from a café and an ice cream shop to an ample salad-and-prepared-food spot), as well as multiple restaurants. There’s Le Bar, which as its name suggests is best for a glass of wine and shared plates, and then the gigantic Liberty Bistro, with standard bistro fare and a view of the water.

Co-owned by two brothers from San Francisco—who were dismayed by the dearth of good Mexican spots in NYC—the emphasis here is on the basics: Tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and burritos-in-bowls. The ingredients are fresh and local, and the flavorings are equal parts subdued and complex. This spot is popular: There are now 8 in New York City.

Dig Inn’s philosophy is “farm to counter,” which means that they serve sustainably sourced, usually local food in a casual setting and in a price range that makes it a reasonable option for everyday lunch. The salads and the market plates are easy to take back to the office (or home for dinner), and the menu changes with the seasons, so you won't ever be bored with the offerings. There are locations in Morningside Heights, Union Square, Tribeca, and in Midtown on 52nd, Madison, and 55th, in Lower Manhattan on Pine, Liberty, and Broad St., in Nomad, and off Madison Square Park.

This tiny little café on Lexington serves great coffee, alongside a small-but-mighty food menu. While there's no denying how good the schnitzel and breaded chicken sandwiches are, this is an especially great choice for vegetarians. The avocado smash (which is drenched in pumpkin seeds) is fresh-tasting yet totally filling. The tiny space can get a little bit crowded during the lunch hour, so it's best to take your brown bag to go.

Goop HQ will enthusiastically vouch for the fact that Schnippers (the original outpost is conveniently located on the first floor of the New York Times building) has the best chicken fingers in the city. While kids go wild for their fries and milkshakes, it’s a pretty great indulgence if you’re working late and need a convenient sugar bomb. They also have locations in Flatiron, Midtown, and in the Financial District.

This Manhattan mini-chain specializes in healthful, Mediterranean food and is particularly convenient for lunch if you work in the area. Unlike the delis and salad bars you’ll find on every corner, the focus here is on mostly organic, impeccably sourced foods, meaning there's no mystery surrounding the origin or freshness of your salad, sandwich, or soup.

Ask someone with a gluten allergy about the Little Beet, and you're bound to get an earful of praise—the entire, delicious menu is celiac-friendly. Chef Franklin Becker was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes when he was in his 20's and devoted the rest of his career to rebuilding his cooking style; the menu is full of light, healthy meals with an emphasis on lean protein and tons of vegetables. The seasonal menu items are always a sure bet, as are the make-your-own-plate options. There are also locations on Park Ave. and at Penn Plaza.

Chloe Coscarelli was fresh out of culinary school when she won an episode of Cupcake Wars with a vegan cupcake recipe: She was the first person to do so on that show or any other televised cooking competition. She’s since opened a casual restaurant in the West Village (followed by others), with an adorable interior (striped wooden floors, colorful tiles, hanging swing) and a little fridge with pre-packaged food. While the menu is focused on smoothies, juices, and great vegan burgers, you can still pick up her famous cupcakes.

Just Salad was an early adopter of the fast casual dining option, and they now have locations in practically every New York neighborhood. While they have some great existing menu options (including a few rotating seasonal choices), the main move here is to create your own salad and have it chopped. The ingredients are always really fresh, as they source them from within 350 miles of the restaurant at New York, New Jersey, and Vermont farms; everything is organic and exclusively non-GMO. Other locations: Flatiron, Fashion District, Financial District (on Broad St., Gold St., and Broadway), 30 Rock, Murray Hill, Chelsea (there's one on 8th Avenue and one on 6th Avenue), World Wide Plaza, Lexington, Park Slope, Downtown, Upper East Side (on 3rd Avenue and also on 1st Avenue), Hudson Square, Downtown Brooklyn, Macy’s Herald Square, Upper West Side, and the Woolworth Building.

The cast of characters at Pennsy is surprisingly star-studded, all things considered. Vegetable lovers, as always, will appreciate the presence of The Little Beet, but the market is also home to The Cinnamon Snail, a brick-and-mortar version of the beloved vegan food truck, which serves the kinds of sandwiches that make veganism much more appealing. Lobster Press is there as well, Marc Forgione's take on a casual seafood spot, where the thing to order is the sandwich for which the cart was named—a hot lobster panini, pressed and served hot. There's something here for carnivores too, at Mario by Mary (a fast-casual Italian collaboration between Mario Batali and Mary Giuliani that promises excellent Italian sandwiches and muffalatas) and butcher Pat LaFrieda's first restaurant (order the filet mignon sandwich or the meatball sub). While that line-up is enough to garner a lot of regulars, La Colombe coffee really cinches the deal.

Union Fare, a newish foodhall smack-dab in the center of Union Square, has a little something for everyone: made-to-order salads, tacos, poké, burgers, pizzas under one roof. Bonus: there’s a coffee bar that serves matcha croissants for a midday pick-me-up.

All of the adorable locations in Brookline, Cambridge (Third Street, Broadway, Main Street), and Charles Street offer the same classic light aesthetic, brightened up by crisp subway tiles and a haphazard collection of Edison bulbs and other industrial light fixtures. Chef Tzurit Or was born in Israel, and regulars rave about her Mediterranean-style fare, like savory tarts and sweet baked goods. She's also incredibly thoughtful when it comes to her ingredients, which she sources locally and humanely.

Bon Me was started by Boston natives Patrick Lynch and Ali Fong, who ran it as a food truck in the early years. Now, their Asian-style cuisine is served at restaurants across the city. The Chipotle-style ordering system asks you to choose between a sandwich, noodle salad, rice bowl, and green salad—then, choose from fillings like tofu, pork, and chicken. Veggies are included no matter what, and it's worth noting that the sandwich is by far the most popular item. These guys are expanding fast, with more than ten food trucks scattered around the city, and locations in Cambridge (Fresh Pond and Kendall Square), Chestnut Hill, and the South End.

Clover actually bills itself as “fast food,” a comparison that’s not totally wrong considering that their average serve time is 3.5 minutes (seriously)—though that’s pretty much where the similarities end. Ayr Muir, the passionate founder behind the food-truck-turned-chain sources all of his produce fresh daily and scrawls the daily-changing menu on a whiteboard each day to reflect what’s been delivered. There are no freezers, and all of the food is prepared directly in front of you, as there’s no back of house whatsoever. While the daily changing menu means you never know what lunch is going to be, you can always expect it to be fresh, veggie-heavy, and flavorful. Clover's growing quickly, with several food trucks roaming constantly and brick-and-mortars in Harvard Square, East Cambridge, and Brookline.

This cheery little spot is right next door to city hall, meaning that it’s within striking distance of countless offices come lunchtime. Founder Kyle actually started the business when his wife, Lydia, was diagnosed with breast cancer and their doctor recommended trying out a “plant-packed” diet for her recovery. There’s a lot going on here—a juice bar with multiple-day meal plans, made-to-order smoothies and lunches, and a cooler stocked with premade meals. Everything is fresh, organic, vegan, and non-GMO; fan favorites include the chia seed pudding and quinoa sliders.

Flour Bakery is best known for their pastries and desserts (owner Joanne Chang famously beat Bobby Flay when he tried to take on her sticky buns in Throwdown), which are more than enough to justify a visit. Less famous but equally good are her lunchtime sandwiches and salads, which can be ordered at the counter and taken to go. Needless to say, the bread on the sandwiches is game-changing—we’re partial to the focaccia—and it’s kind of sinful to leave without taking dessert to-go, also. Locations Downtown, on the South End, and in Cambridge.

This Greek spot has a pretty short menu—they stick to gyros and an excellent Mediterranean salad. The pork loin for the traditional gyro is marinated and stacked on a rotisserie (no horrifying cone in sight), and then sliced on to fresh pita to-order. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to black-book for your next craving. There's a second location Downtown.

Locals love Filter because in a lot of ways it feels like a friend's living room—lived-in, mismatched couches, dim lighting, and good music. And with disco fries, wraps, sandwiches, and veggie options on the menu, it's pretty easy to set up shop for the day with no real need to leave.

From the Mason jar–topped wood tables (huge—so feel free to spread out), to the distressed floors, to the taxidermied deer head on the wall, there’s a distinct rustic flavor to this Logan Square café. Unlike many spots that can easily coast on the quality of their coffee alone, the food offering here—simple, delicious breakfast, toasts, and sandwiches—can also hold its own.

This self-professed “fast-casual” eatery prides itself on giving guests a 100 percent customizable experience. The tech-to-table system allows for lightning-fast service (order from a digital menu board, and then take a wireless tracker to your table), though if traditional waiter service is more your speed, there’s that too. Food-wise, the focus is on healthful, fresh fare, with the menus at both locations brimming with veggie-driven dishes (for the most part, produce is sourced locally) like kale slaw and grilled artichokes, in addition to comfort staples like matzo ball soup and close to a dozen burger variations (the turkey burger is a GP favorite). There's also a location in River North.

Just like the NYC outpost, and the dozen or so locations all over Italy (as well as recent offshoots in Japan, Dubai, and Istanbul)—Eataly Chicago is a foodie wonderland. The sprawling space is packed with imported sauces, beers, sweets, and so much more. There’s even a selection of housewares and books. Stalls offering house-made breads, pastas, and cheeses are scattered throughout—we recommend doing a lap to get the lay of the land first before committing to any one spot. For more formal dining there are several restaurants that are pretty efficient about taking walk-ins. No big surprise, but they have great gelato.

Cold Storage is actually inside the Swift & Sons steakhouse—it’s their take on a seafood bar, with oysters and tons of shellfish. While the seafood tower doesn’t really make the best to-go order, you can get their excellent grilled fish and sandwiches (crab salad on brioche with avocado and lemon, anyone?) packaged up and ready for take-out. Dangerously, the desserts make for great takeout, too.

Situated next door to its sister restaurant, the Publican, PQM offers a full butchery plus sandwiches and old-fashioned breakfasts. In the evenings, it gets converted into a dining room for the Publican's private events.

Despite the name, José Andrés’ fast-casual joint in D.C. (there’s also a location in Philly now) puts all of the focus on vegetables. You’ll pick a base of bulgur, quinoa, rice, or leafy greens, and top it with vegetables and some oomph, like an avocado or a poached egg. The pre-made favorites, like the excellently named “Frida Kale,” or the “Kimchi-wa” bowls, sort of take out the guesswork. There's a second location in Foggy Bottom.

Suzanne Simon and Bettina Stern first started serving their vegetarian tacos at D.C.-area farmers markets, and it wasn’t long before the lines began, even on cold mornings. As expected, their first-ever brick-and-mortar has been wildly popular. The menu changes daily based on what’s fresh, and tacos can be ordered single or in three’s. In response to popular demand, any of them can now be ordered with a fried egg for protein-hounds.

This tiny little spot off Dupont Circle serves hummus the way it’s served in Israel—rather than a side dish, it’s actually the base of the meal. When you order, you’ll receive a bowl of hummus topped with a medley of (typically sautéed) vegetables and/or meats, along with a small green side salad and a warm piece of pita bread. The meals are incredibly filling but never overwhelming.

The three owners of this easy lunch spot are actually cousins whose parents owned a series of traditional Afghan kebab spots in town—SKWR is their modern take on the cooking style they learned form their parents. The classic kebab elements, like seasoned meat and basmati rice, are reminiscent of mom-and-pop spots, but the serving style takes cues from Chipotle. Decide between a bowl, a plate, and a wrap, pick a meat, and top with endless mixtures of spreads and dips.

Taylor Gourmet is the blood, sweat, and tears of two Philadelphia transplants who opened the chain’s first deli after determining there wasn’t a single good Philly-style hoagie spot in all of D.C. Today the chain is many locations strong, making it a lunchtime staple for everyone from college students to President Obama. The salads are perfectly suitable if you’re trying to keep lunchtime healthy, but the real order here is anything on their freshly baked bread (which gets delivered daily). The Italian sandwich and the Philly cheesesteak are obviously excellent, though anything involving their fried chicken cutlets is also worth a try. They're expanding fast, with locations in Dupont Circle, Mount Vernon Triangle, and the H Street Corridor.

Breken Kitchen occupies a stand-alone space with train tracks on one side and highway overpasses on the other—it sounds loud, but it's actually quite cool. Coffee flows freely here, they offer salads and sandwiches, and the brick-lined interior is always filled with light. There are also varied seating options, from couches to café tables, to long community tables.

Think of Garden Bar as the Sweetgreen of Portland. Mix-your-own salads (or choose from a few well-executed menu items) that are mixed and tossed for you on site. The advantage of going local for a quick salad joint? Most of the organic vegetables on order are sourced from Oregon farmers. There are also locations in the Pearl District, Old Town, and Park Square.

Kenny and Zuke’s almost seems out of place in the Pacific Northwest, since they easily meet New York standards for Jewish deli food—if it wasn’t for the hand tie-dyed t-shirts on the staff, you might think you were on the Upper West Side. These guys first became famous for the pastrami, which they make in-house, but they do all of the classics really well, from pickles to bagels to rye bread.

Like so many good casual spots, Kure started out as a food cart—when the lines got out of control, the owners knew it was time to expand into brick-and-mortar. The menu is full of fresh-tasting acai bowls and smoothies, along with a healthy selection of cold-pressed juices and other healthy eats, like oatmeal and matcha (the West End location actually has some heartier lunch options, too, like salads and quinoa bowls). Astonishingly (and awesomely), 90% of the ingredients used in their products are grown or made in Portland. The other locations only have juice, smoothies and açai bowls, but they're in almost every neighborhood:SE Division, Downtown, Hawthorne, and Moda Center.

This restaurant is named for a salumi made from backfat, which is an appropriate name, as the entire menu is really an ode to pork from the meatball banh mi to the pastrami cheeseburger to the french fries (which are made with pork fat). Part of the charm of the place, too, is that it’s such a Portland story: started as a food cart, check, adventurous foodie menu, check, enormous craft beer list, check. There are locations on both sides of the river, in Northeast Portland and Downtown.

Today, it’s not unusual for a restaurant to list the farmers and other local purveyors it sources ingredients from on the menu—though that wasn’t the case fifteen years ago, when Portage Bay Cafe started doing it. Four locations strong, we come here for easy lunches and all of the brunch staples, which they make with eggs from nearby Stirs farms (which, amazingly, includes plenty of actual images of their henhouses on their website). While it’s not technically grab-and-go, you can order takeout ahead and pick it up upon arrival. There are also locations in University, South Lake Union, and Ballard.

Portland’s Alder Street food carts, which occupy an entire city block of space downtown, are emblematic of the city to the point that they’re one of downtown’s major tourist attractions. Don’t let that deter you, though—plenty of locals like to hang out here, too, and come lunchtime the entire parking lot is buzzing with vendors and customers. The lines themselves are usually the best indicator of where to find the best-tasting dishes, but we recommend Whole Bowl for veggie-centric rice bowls and Nong’s Khao Man Gai, which, as the name suggests, only serves khao man gai.

Historically, vegan, gluten, and dairy-free food can resemble cardboard in both taste and consistency. That's not the case at Seed + Salt. Here, the 100% clean menu is thoughtfully developed to make the most of local ingredients' inherent flavor, which translates to delicious plant-based dishes like the S+S Beet Burger, Quinoa Falafel, and Horchata Chia pudding. And while the light-filled café is great for a casual hang, the takeout menu is a welcome alternative to fast food on busy weeknights.

This gorgeous building right on the Embarcadero houses some of San Francisco's most notable food merchants including Hog Island Oyster Company, Cowgirl Creamery's Artisan Cheese Shop, and Blue Bottle Coffee. It's the ideal place to bum around on rainy day and the outdoor farmers market (they set up on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays) is not to be missed.

Sure, it's technically a deli, but that's only because there isn't really a fitting name yet for a quick and easy lunch spot (they're great for dinner and breakfast, too) that does the requisite sandwiches, soups, and salads while adhering to the tenets of the slow food movement. This means that everything on the menu is sustainably and locally sourced, mainly from Sonoma's family-owned Oak Hill Farm. The grilled cheese sandwiches are especially insane.

The name kind of says it all—house-cured meats are the main draw. The minimalist (and mini) space serves as an artisanal grocery store and Italian-themed lunch counter where the food selection, while on the skimpy side, totally hits the spot when a sad store-bought salad won't do. The oversized sandwiches are stuffed with gourmet meats (get the Salumi sandwich to get a good idea of their offering) and organic veggies while the salads are sprinkled with fancy add-ons. Needles to say, the charcuterie boards are the real deal. There's another location in the Mission.

Jane is known for venturing beyond the expected coffee-and-pastry formula and providing locals with wholesome and delicious organic breakfast and lunch. The granola, which they sell in to-go jars, is particularly memorable. Owner Amanda Michael made it a point to make each of the two locations (there's also an outpost in Pacific Heights) as comfy and welcoming as possible, which explains why both are perpetually packed.

Lucca deli has been a family operation since 1929—brother-and-sister pair Paul and Linda Bosco are actually the grandchildren of the original owner. Accordingly, the place has all the trappings of an amazing Italian deli: salami hanging from the ceiling, cheese wheels aging behind the counter, shelves packed with canned and jarred goods, and fresh tortellini and ravioli, which is still made by hand. The Italian sandwiches are a worthy lunch indulgence, with crusty rolls (delivered fresh daily), provolone, fresh-sliced meats, and their secret ingredient, a roasted red pepper spread.

Working Girls is specifically designed for grab-and-go lunch, so it’s exactly the kind of place you can stop into for quick breakfast when you’re running late, or head to for lunch when you just can’t leave the desk (you can order online so the food’s ready when you arrive). The menu is miles-long, so they’ve got whatever you’re in the mood for, from classic sandwiches and paninis to light salads. They’re now three locations strong. There are locations on New Montgomery Street and Mission Street, too.

The concept of Eatsa is to provide the convenience and speed of fast food with the nutrition of the slow food movement. The speed comes from their specially designed ordering system—you’ll order and pay either on your phone ahead of time or on an iPad in store. When you arrive (or in a few minutes if you order on-site) your food is ready to take away with you. They achieve this efficiency in the kitchen by offering a few easy-to-build bowls that you can customize to suit your tastes. The mediterranean salad is great for the carb-conscious, as is the “no worry curry.” There's a second location on Spear Street.

The Golden West is tucked into a small alley in the Financial District, and its takeout-only counter is marked with a neon “Au” sign. The menu is limited to a few items, and while everything from the salads to the daily specials is excellent, they’re really famous for the pork rib sandwich—a messy, sauce-y pile of stewed short ribs topped with caramelized onions and served on a freshly baked roll. If you must be health-conscious, the spicy chicken salad is also great. Photo: Alex Roberts.

While finding a Ruthie’s food truck near your office on a weekday is practically a godsend, knowing that they cater just makes it that much better. They rolled by the goop pop and served their famous grilled cheese heart attack (aptly called The Boss), which comes complete with slices of BBQ brisket tucked inside. Wash this or the mac ’n’ cheese down with their soup shooters on a day when you’re feeling particularly indulgent—it’s worth it.

Snap Kitchen has revolved around grab-and-go meals since 2010, making them one of the older companies in the relatively new healthy-pre-made-meal space. There are convenient pickup locations in Austin, Houston, Dallas, and Chicago, but you can also arrange delivery through their app. Snap also offers a 21-day "commit" program, which offers healthy takes on hearty meals like gluten-free beef stroganoff, bison quinoa hash, chicken butternut squash macaroni, and fettucine and vegetable “alfredo.” The cooking style is relatively free from the niche health foods that turn some people off of clean eating, making it an easy transition for health-food rookies.

Chi’lantro BBQ’s most famous dish is their kimchi fries—classic french fries topped with caramelized kimchi and melted cheese that taste as good as they sound. The rest of the menu offers comfort food inspired by Korean BBQ, including a rice bowl, an asian salad, an excellent burger, and more. Cubicle types, take note: Their online ordering system is really easy and streamlined.

Whole Foods is a lunchtime staple no matter where you live, but the flagship Austin location sort of takes everything to the next level. Inside, you’ll find 80,000 square feet of fresh, local, and organic goodness, and a prepared food section that matches. HQ is right upstairs.