Canlis

Canlis has been a family-owned fine-dining restaurant since 1950 and is one of the best-known places to eat in Seattle. It sits on Aurora Avenue North in a building first designed in 1950 by the architect Roland Terry, with later work by the architects Jim Cutler and George Suyama. The design itself is part of the experience, and in 2019 it was recognised with a James Beard Design Icon award.

The kitchen is led by James Huffman, the restaurant's eighth executive chef. One long-standing dish is the Canlis Salad, prepared at the table. The menu changes, so check the restaurant's website before you go to see the current format and what is being served.

The restaurant's awards explain why people plan trips around a meal here. Canlis has won three James Beard Awards, and it has received the Wine Spectator Grand Award for twenty-nine years in a row, which says a lot about the depth of the wine list. It is also a member of Relais & Châteaux. There is a separate lounge, which is a good option if you want a drink and a smaller taste of the place.

This is a special-occasion restaurant, best suited to couples celebrating, food lovers and anyone who enjoys a formal, polished evening. Book through Tock well in advance, especially for weekends. Before your visit, read the restaurant's guidance on attire, children, dietary needs and cancellations, which is published on its website, and let the team know about allergies when you book.

Allow a full evening, as a meal here is unhurried. Questions about reservations can be sent to the restaurant by email, and private events are also catered for. If you are planning a trip around a meal here, fix the date and book first, then build the rest of your itinerary around it, as the most popular evenings go early. Mention any celebration when you reserve so the team can prepare.

Canlis is on Aurora Avenue North, a main road rather than a walking street, so it is best reached by taxi or ride-share. Seattle Center and the Space Needle are a short drive away, which makes it easy to combine an afternoon of sightseeing with dinner here, and Fremont and Queen Anne are also close.