Shoreline's Best

5 Places not to miss north of Seattle

Ask just about anyone living north of 145^th street what the best places are to eat in Shoreline and you'll hear a long sigh. Most would agree that the city is short on good food and we're right there with them on this. It does seem odd that considering the income levels around places like Richmond Beach, Lake Forest Park and The Highlands, there would be some better places to eat. The fact is - there are and not even certain Shoreline dwellers are aware of them.

Red Crane Steak & Sushi

This is without a doubt one of the most unknown places that's really worth dining at weekly if you like to go out. Hidden inside on the top floor of Club Hollywood casino, non-gamblers just drive right by the building and don't bat an eye. But what's going inside is worthy of a visit. Grade A sushi selections are at the front end of a diverse menu with an Asian/American focus. Excellent rolls, nigiri and sashimi take center stage next to good quality tempura, steak and otherwise. You don't have to be a gambler to eat here. In fact, the casino is downstairs so you won't even notice. Although connected to a casino, you won't find a hint of cigarette smoke here. If you like movie memorabilia, a walk through their excellent exhibit of posters and Hollywood kitsch makes a fun beginning or end to your visit. Happy hour specials on weeknights are unique and a value.

16716 Aurora Ave N · Website

Hill's Restaurant & Bar

Early on these folks ditched their website and some locals thought they went out of business. Not so. Owner Chris Hill continues to serve up Shoreline's best with regular dishes like Vietnamese Skewers, Lemon Chicken and a Mixed Grill that are top drawer on this menu. The Happy Hour menu pleases with a too-big-to-enjoy-in-one-sitting, but too-inexpensive-to-pass-up Margherita Flatbread pizza, or a Wild Mushroom Quesadilla. If you're looking for Shoreline's best you've found it. Readers familiar with Redmond's Matt's Rotisserie & Oyster Lounge already can imagine what a great experience this would be.

1843 NW 195th St  · Website

Taqueria El Sabor

Occupying the shell of a former Taco Bell, Taqueria El Sabor brings together the essence of true Mexican cooking. Need proof? Ask around, or step inside any weekday during lunch hour, and if you're of any descent other than Mexican, you're outnumbered. Beyond the expected tacos, burritos, and rice and beans, you have a lot more to choose from including a variety of seafood. Hot tip – take advantage of the salsa bar any way you want, mix it together with your rice and beans for a wonderful blend.

15221 Aurora Ave N · No Website 

North City Bistro & Wine Shop

North City's local wine bar is the only one of its kind within about a five mile radius –  serving up a lot more than just wine and cheese. Sure, you can enjoy their breadth of charcuterie, cheeses and nuts, but on top of it all lies a very secret society of musicians who can turn your date night out into an evening of grand entertainment. Visit the website for a schedule of players, and if you see a list of young bucks, don't pass up the chance to realize where jazz music is going.

1520 NE 177th St · Website

Central Market

Ever since we started this magazine, we've been about eating out AND eating at home. Luckily, Shoreline has a Central Market that is stocked full of local and organic options – more than any other corporate competitor in Seattle - so if you live here, take advantage. If you don't live here, take a visit and explore the wonderful options like their extensive bulk foods area (save lots on spices, dried fruits, nuts, and more), the wine department, and extensive meat and seafood departments. If you think going to the Pike Place Market is a hassle, you owe it to yourself to take this field trip. Make a list before you go.

15505 Westminster Way N · Website

Tom Mehren/December 2013