Photo:
iStock
The Puget Sound region attracts a diverse medley of families from all over the nation that are proud to call it their new home. But while there’s plenty to love about the Evergreen State — from our stunning nature to the great coffee — that doesn’t mean transplants from other corners of the country are immune to the occasional bout of homesickness. Longing for the sights, sounds and people left behind is a common experience for anyone who’s moved a long distance, but at least one aspect of that homesickness — missing the food — can be resolved without crossing state lines.
Seattle’s dining scene is a cultural melting pot, and that means that many newcomers can find a new favorite spot where they can tuck into the familiar flavors of their hometown’s signature dishes. We are here to help, rounding up our picks of local restaurants serving regional specialties. From authentic Cal-Mex tacos to succulent Texas barbeque and Hawaiian kalua pork, these eight Seattle-area restaurants are here to satisfy newly minted residents’ cravings for fare from home.
If you’re missing Tennessee, try Sisters and Brothers in Seattle
What came first, the chicken or the egg? In Nashville, Tennessee, there’s no debate — chicken is most definitely number one! Originating in African American communities in the 1930s, Nashville hot chicken is a Southern favorite that’s gained popularity all over the country. And in Seattle, few know the spicy deep-fried specialty better than Jake Manny, owner of Sisters and Brothers. This unassuming, family-friendly bar and restaurant has garnered media accolades for its juicy, perfectly spiced chicken, which is served alongside soul-food sides like Alabama slaw, mac and cheese, or fried green tomatoes. There are five heat levels to choose from, from the kid-suitable “naked” all the way to “insane” for adventurous grown-ups. And the homey interior will keep kids entertained with its mishmash of quirky memorabilia — from countless stuffies, books and arcade games to the (only slightly creepy) toy “aquarium,” plus a funky graffiti wall patio.
If you’re missing Maine, try Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls in Seattle
The lobster roll — a classic sandwich of lobster meat on crusty bread — has its roots in 1920s Connecticut, where it was first served in a restaurant. Today, it’s a mainstay of New England cuisine, particularly in Maine, where some of the nation’s best lobsters are sourced. And it’s straight from the cold waters of the Atlantic that those crustaceans make their way to the Seattle location of Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls — courtesy of founder Dan Beck and Maine’s fisheries. At Mason’s, New England transplants can dig into one of several variations on the authentic lobster roll, along with soups, salads, lobster-loaded mac and cheese or grilled cheese. There is also a kids menu that includes non-lobster items for palates that have not yet grown to appreciate the delicacy.
If you’re missing California, try Rocket Taco in Seattle and on Whidbey Island
Former Californians who have made their way up the coast often lament three things: the lack of year-round sunshine (duh!), the rocky beaches, and the dearth of Cali-Mex tacos. A lighter, California-inspired take on authentic Mexican cuisine — in contrast to its heavier Tex-Mex counterpart — Cali-Mex combines traditional recipes with local ingredients and modern techniques. And the shining example of this type of food are the tacos — often found at local shops and food trucks, and loaded with fresh, seasonal toppings. That’s exactly what you can expect to find at Rocket Taco: a cozy taco shop (which includes a cute indoor patio) that dishes out California-style tacos on handmade tortillas, heaped with fillings such as spit-roasted pork, chili-rubbed cod, ancho-seasoned chicken and more. A cauliflower chickpea version is available for those seeking vegetarian fare, and there’s also a small kids menu. The 12-taco family pack makes for an easy way to feed a crowd. Finish it off with the hot churros for dessert.
If you’re missing Texas, try Jack’s BBQ at various locations
Hopping across a few state lines — or a short drive away to one of Jack’s BBQ’s six locations — takes us right to the nation’s heartland of Texas. If there’s one food the Lone Star State is known for, it’s barbecue, and at Jack’s, carnivores of Texas and beyond will find meat done the cowboy-approved way. Imagine tender, fall-apart brisket, dry-rubbed and smoked for more than 14 hours over imported Texas hardwoods; or Frito Pie — a central Texas specialty of brisket chili topped with Fritos, cheese and sour cream. And while we’re on the topic of pie, don’t miss the pecan pie, which won the 1996 Texas State Fair award. Want a taste of everything? Jack’s Picnic for Four serves four meats and various sides to feed the whole fam!
If you’re missing Chicago, try Delfino’s Chicago Style Pizza in Seattle
Seattle does not lack for pizza options of all regional variations, but if there’s one iconic pie style that’s set itself apart from the rest, it’s arguably Chicago-style deep-dish pizza. Former Midwesterners missing the hearty sauce and toppings nestled on top of the deep, flaky crust can satisfy their cravings at Delfino’s Chicago Style Pizza. This University Village landmark has been a Northwest ambassador for authentic Chicago-style pizza for more than 35 years, baking piping-hot, 2-inch-deep pies in a special oven imported from Chicago. Along with the oven came some proprietary recipes dating back 75 years. Try the Delfino’s Special pie, or make your own from endless crust-and-topping combos. And finish off with a deep-dish apple pie or root beer float.
If you’re missing Hawaii, try Kauai Family Restaurant in Seattle
Adjusting to your first “Big Dark” winter in Washington state is not easy for many transplants, and it must be especially tough if you’re coming from a tropical paradise like Hawaii. While you may not be able to source the turquoise waters and sugar-sweet pineapples around here, you can ease the transition and enjoy a little slice of the islands with some authentic Hawaiian eats. At Georgetown’s Kauai Family Restaurant, you’ll be welcomed like ohana by Kauai-born owners Peter Buza and Randi Buza, his daughter. You’ll find a taste of island hospitality with homey favorites like succulent kalua pork, traditional loco moco breakfast platters and fluffy malasadas — Portuguese doughnuts that have become a mainstay in Hawaiian cuisine.
If you’re missing New York City, try Rubinstein Bagels at various locations
If there is one place that takes its bagels seriously, whether for a quick breakfast or a lazy weekend brunch, it’s New York City. Living up to a New Yorker’s standards for these chewy, carby delights is a daunting task, but one that Andrew Rubinstein was prepared to take on when he opened the first Rubinstein Bagels in South Lake Union. Now with four shop locations, Rubinstein has been lauded as king of Seattle’s bagel scene, even making Food & Wine magazine’s “Best Bagels in America” list. What sets these bagels apart are the sourdough leavening and a long fermenting process, yielding a perfectly textured, tangy dough that’s then baked on a stone hearth. Choose from a handful of classic-with-a-twist varieties, such as caraway salt and chocolate cherry, along with a selection of shmears and sandwich options. Just close your eyes and pretend you’re strolling in Central Park when you bite into one.
If you’re missing Louisiana, try Crawfish House in Seattle and Renton
Is it a tiny lobster? An overgrown shrimp? Nope — it’s a crawfish! These little freshwater crustaceans were first harvested by Native Americans in Louisiana, later becoming a staple of the state’s Cajun cuisine. The tasty critters, which have a sweet flavor reminiscent of lobster or crab, are typically served as “boils”: steamed in the shell and eaten in heaping piles, often served alongside corn, sausage or potatoes. Whether you’re a Louisiana native seeking a taste of home or just curious about giving the regional delicacy a try, Crawfish House is the place to go. Owner Hiep Ngo is a Louisiana transplant who wanted to bring Southern flavors infused with his Vietnamese heritage to the Northwest. Try the freshest seafood boils or other Cajun specialties, such as po’boy sandwiches or baskets of fried fish. And for a really fun dessert, there’s a cotton candy machine that will delight the kids!
