Located just two blocks from Seattle’s waterfront, Canlis offers remarkable views over the Lake Union and has built a reputation for itself since 1950 as being one of the top restaurants to experience in the city. Praised by many local and national media outlets such as the Seattle Magazine, The Wall Street Journal and Seattle Metropolitan magazine, Canlis has received much critical acclaim. This family owned restaurant has a menu that is centered on seasonal Pacific Northwest seafood and produce.

Suppose you want to literally impress the pants off of a date. In that case, the mid-century modern panache of Canlis will probably achieve this goal of yours, especially if you use the word “panache” during the evening’s conversation. Between the overall darkness, dress code, thoughtful service, worth-it-at-least-once tweezer food, a pianist on hire every night, and stunning view of a glittering Lake Union, it doesn’t get much more romantic than this Queen Anne institution.

Opened in 1950, Canlis still occupies an important place on Seattle's food landscape and serves some of the retro-steakhouse dishes that put it on the map. But you won't find them on the menu, which lists only three-courses of modern creations from chef Aisha Ibrahim—dishes like a chilled Dungeness crab, tofu, and cucumber salad, with an oil of grilled cucumber skins. Expect far more to sashay to the table, including the Caesar-esque Canlis salad from the classics menu.

Great for an important date or a super fancy celebration, the restaurant has expert sommeliers to help you pick out a perfect pairing from their extensive wine list, gorgeous panoramic views of the city (including the Cascade Mountain range and Lake Union), and delicious dishes to boot.

One of Seattle's all-time great upscale restaurants, Canlis has been around since the 1950s. It specializes in New American cuisine, and its posh dining room is situated right on the water with a gorgeous view of the sound.

The only restaurant in the city to legitimately rate as mythic has been perched out over the vertiginous eastern edge of Queen Anne Hill since 1950. That makes it about as classic as it gets around here—right down to the midcentury split-level architecture ( Design Icon Award 2019), the dress code (jackets for some of the gents), the noblest mixed drinks in town, fathoms-deep wine list ( Outstanding Wine Program 2017), perfectionist standard of service (where the valets remember your car without aid of a claim ticket), and the whole breathtaking sweep of Lake Union twinkling just beyond the windows. Because the third generation of Canlis family restaurateurs insist on culinary relevance, the food is every bit as grand: Both the warhorses (yes, the Canlis salad is still on the menu) and the more experimental, rigorously Northwest multicourse dinners from chef Brady Williams ( Best Chef Northwest 2019) are genuinely impeccable.

Since 1950, this revered restaurant has been universally considered the apex of Seattle fine dining. The warm and polished midcentury interior with sweeping views of Lake Union, downtown Seattle, and the Cascade Mountains; the impeccable service, at the same time gracious and unpretentious; the unique and much-celebrated cuisine that chef Jason Franey calls “comfort geek” – modernist and molecular without being unapproachable: these superb elements combine to create evenings that guests consider more an experience than a meal. It’s special occasion, blow-your-paycheck dining, and you are expected to dress the part – this is the only restaurant in Seattle which requires a suit or sport coat for men.

This emblematic Pacific Northwestern classic suspended regular operations the week of Mar. 9, posting a message on its website saying that “Fine dining is not what Seattle needs right now.” In place of its usual in-dining-room tasting menu ($135 for four courses), it has now set up three new options (weekdays only): Drive On Thru, serving a burgers or veggie melt with fries ($14) and the famed Canlis salad ($12); The Bagel Shed, with a menu of bagels, breakfast sandwiches, and coffee; and Family Meal, a daily changing dinner complete with a bottle of wine for home delivery (prices aren’t specified for The Bagel Shed or Family Meal).

Canlis is Seattle’s elevated fine‑dining landmark perched above Lake Union in its iconic mid‑century modern building, offering sweeping views of the city and the Cascade Mountains. A three‐course tasting menu is what to order here, and lets you choose from meat, fish, or vegetable across courses—plus the kitchen slips in inventive surprises like scallop‑mousse amuse‑bouches or sake‑lees glazed squash. Since 2021, chef Aisha Ibrahim—Canlis’s first female executive chef—has infused Pacific flavors, Japanese techniques, and personal flourishes into the menu, while steering the restaurant to new heights of creativity and inclusivity.

Fine dining is synonymous with Canlis in Seattle, as it has been for over 70 years. Founder Peter Canlis, the son of immigrants and restauranteurs, already had a successful restaurant in Waikiki when he came to Seattle in 1950 with "an idea so crazy that Seattle would never go for it" (via Canlis). He combined his mother's recipes, Polynesian cuisine, and Japanese-inspired hospitality "in the most beautiful restaurant in the world." Canlis made his dream a reality, and it remains in the family three generations later — a steadfast staple of the Seattle fine-dining scene.

As an enduring beacon for fine dining in the city, the restaurant has, unsurprisingly, made a huge investment in the wine program—which, at nearly 90 pages, is the most comprehensive in Seattle. Along with all of the Burgundy, Bordeaux and Northern Italian blue-chip wines you’d expect in a restaurant like this, there’s a serious commitment to aged German riesling, grower champagne and, of course, one of deepest lists of Washington wine. If you're not a wine drinker, the well-considered cocktail and beer programs are also worth the trip.

Canlis, a longtime Seattle institution, floats high above Lake Union. A menu highlight is the Canlis salad, which is in some measure a basic steakhouse salad: chopped romaine with bacon and croutons and cherry tomatoes, all cloaked in a thick, lemony dressing that recalls Caesar (you all did love him once, and not without cause). But a strong scent of the Middle East flows through it as well, courtesy of the Canlis clan’s roots in Greece and Lebanon, with heaps of chopped mint and oregano mixed in with the greens.

Canlis is a legendary fine dining destination that offers incredible Pacific Northwest cuisine, wine pairings, and a tasting menu. Enjoy the multi-course dining experience and relish the incredible flavors of sablefish with sunchoke, mushroom teriyaki, and striploin with kosho. Additionally, the restaurant boasts one of the best wine lists in the world — don’t leave without trying Julien Pinon Brut Vouvray, Conde Valdemar Finca Alto Cantabria Rioja, or Domaine de Chassorney Combe Bazin Saint-Romain.

At the Canlis family’s restaurant, grab a seat in front of floor-to-ceiling windows, and enjoy a breathtaking view of Lake Union, the city and the Cascade mountain range. Despite having opened way back in 1950, his flagship of fine dining remains impressively fresh, offering a delicious multi-course menu that keeps people returning meal after meal. But its high-quality dishes (including the restaurant’s renowned “Canlis Salad” prepared tableside) are not the only thing that draws gastronomes back.

Let’s start with the basics: Canlis and The Walrus & the Carpenter are classics that have managed to evolve with the times and are still worth a visit even among some of the trendiest and best new restaurants in the country. And Seattle has beyond its fair share of those. Off Alley has awfully excellent offal (sorry), you’ll end up ordering everything off of Paju’s menu of Korean hits, and Archipelago and Musang are Filipino standouts, the latter led by 2022 F&W Best New Chef Melissa Miranda.

But the Canlis salad (available as part of the $135 prix fixe menu) is the very definition of something being greater than the sum of its parts, which are little more than lettuce, herbs, Romano, bacon and a zingy dressing of lemon juice and olive oil. It’s been a favorite of Canlis regulars for decades, and co-owner Mark Canlis says it’s still the most coveted dish at Canlis family gatherings, too: “It’s all my wife craved during her pregnancies. It’s the only salad my kids will eat.

Seattle’s food guide is not complete without mentioning the Canlis, for generations a stalwart standby for special occasions and memorable dining experiences. The traditional, white-tablecloth dining room lets visitors take in relaxing views of beautiful and busy Lake Union below. Such mesmerizing surrounding adds value to the overall services, which includes offerings of stuffed chicken, lamb shank with pureed mint and garlic, plus delectable cuts of beef and fresh seafood.

Reservations at this exclusive Queen Anne restaurant are hard to come by, and Canlis is often booked up months in advance. First opened in 1950, the fine dining destination is now run by brothers Mark and Brian Canlis, and serves a multicourse dining experience featuring Pacific Northwest favorites. Guests, often dressed to impress, get to choose three different courses for the multicourse menu, while the remainder of the meal (several other courses) is up to the restaurant.

No Seattle food guide would be complete without a mention of Canlis, for generations a stalwart standby for special occasions and wowing visitors. Since the pandemic began, the Canlis team has made countless pivots to make their offerings more approachable while also supporting their local community members. The traditional, white-tablecloth dining room now runs a four-course dining program, while visitors take in serene views of beautiful and busy Lake Union below.

If you’re looking for ambiance and an overall incredible experience, Canlis might be the spot for you. Canlis is a 70-year-old family-owned restaurant in the Queen Anne neighborhood of Seattle that has grown into a veritable fine-dining giant. If you are looking for a truly intimate experience, consider reserving The Caché, the totally private room on the second floor where you can enjoy your meal in true privacy with your party (for up to three hours).

From the iconic and gorgeously updated mid-century modern building, to the casual confidence of the service, to the flawless execution of chef Aisha Ibrahim’s Filipino- and Japanese-inflected tasting menu, Canlis is a rare example of a historic restaurant that has managed to not just keep up with the times, but to continue to lead the way. (On a personal note, my dad is rarely impressed by my restaurant choices. I took him to Canlis. He was impressed.)

In place of its usual in-dining-room tasting menu ($135 for four courses), it has now set up three new options (weekdays only): Drive On Thru, serving a burger or veggie melt with fries ($14) and the famed Canlis salad ($12); The Bagel Shed, with a menu of bagels, breakfast sandwiches, and coffee; and Family Meal, a daily changing dinner complete with a bottle of wine for home delivery (prices aren't specified for The Bagel Shed or Family Meal).

Perched atop the upscale neighborhood of Queen Anne Hill, Canlis is an iconic Seattle fine-dining restaurant. Offering fanciful charms, from the dazzling Frank Lloyd Wright-style cantilevered building to the beautiful all-encompassing view of Lake Union, Canlis is a delightful place to enjoy an unforgettable meal. Canlis offers dinner only and serves Northwest-style cuisine prepared with high-quality ingredients and sophisticated flavors.

No Seattle fine dining guide would be complete without a mention of Canlis, an award-winning stalwart standby for special occasions and wowing visitors. Once enter Canlis, you’ll be experiencing a whole new level of seafood with a Japanese influence on the menu. Canlis is serving a multi-course dining experience where you choose three of the available courses, and of course, they’ll surprise you with some unexpected side dishes as well!

It’s hard to resist the ambiance, history and service at one of Seattle’s most iconic fine dining establishments. They’re known for their service; even down to details like the valet pulling your car up to the door as you exit the restaurant, without you telling a soul who you are or what car you drive (seriously, it’s like magic). A reservation is required in the main dining room, though their award-winning bar has a more casual menu.

Seattle families have celebrated special occasions at this Relais & Châteaux fine-dining establishment since 1950 – a storied legacy that third-generation owners Brian and Mark Canlis take seriously. But they also ushered in a new era in May, 2021 when they hired Aisha Ibrahim as the restaurant’s seventh executive chef. The first woman to hold that position, Ibrahim has shifted the prix-fixe menu focus from steaks to sustainability.

Set in a mid-century modern home with breathtaking views of Lake Union and the Cascade Mountains, Canlis is a staple of Seattle’s fine dining scene. The restaurant seamlessly blends tradition and innovation, serving up a refined menu that changes with the seasons. Whether you choose the exquisite four-course meal or the grand tasting menu, a meal at Canlis is a celebration of the Pacific Northwest’s bounty and culinary heritage.

One perennial favorite is Canlis, arguably Seattle's most renowned luxury restaurant. Housed in a midcentury modern architectural gem with sweeping views of Lake Union and the Cascades, Canlis has maintained its reputation for excellence ever since it opened back in 1950. From their extensive wine cellar with over 25,000 bottles to masterful culinary techniques honed over decades, dinner here is nothing short of an event.

One of the most awarded restaurants in Seattle, Canlis offers mid-century Mad Men vibes and a panoramic view of Lake Union, the cityscape, and the Cascade Mountains. A renowned restaurant here for nearly three-quarters of a century, the menu is focused on Japanese-influenced Pacific Northwest fare. It’s a whole new level of deliciousness that even rivals the stunning views, making it ideal for a special occasion.

Canlis is a Seattle institution, founded in 1950, and has garnered a reputation for its fine dining and stunning views of Lake Union and the city skyline. This noteworthy restaurant is situated in the Queen Anne neighborhood and offers a variety of gourmet dishes that have earned them local and national acclaim. Unfortunately, there have been many reports of food quality inconsistencies at this restaurant.

Consistently ranked among the best restaurants in the country, Canlis sits within a striking mid-century building with panoramic views of the cityscape, Lake Union, and the Cascades. Getting a table here requires booking months in advance so you’ll need to plan well ahead. But it’s worth the wait with an impressive menu of Japanese-influenced PNW cuisine that can even rival that incredible vista.

This waterfront wonder combines top-notch views and culinary wizardry to create a dining experience that’s pure magic. Nestled in Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood, its enchanting atmosphere and Pacific Northwest cuisine make it one of the most legendary spots in town. Canlis has been crafting unforgettable moments since the 1950s, and each bite is a delightful taste of Seattle’s rich past.

Location: 2576 Aurora Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109 Cuisine: American, Fine Dining Notable Dishes: Canlis Salad, Roast Duck Why Visit: Established in 1950, Canlis has been a Seattle icon known for its stunning views of Lake Union and sophisticated menu. The restaurant offers a fine dining experience, where you can indulge in meticulously crafted dishes paired with an extensive wine selection.

Canlis, one of Seattle’s most highly decorated restaurants, offers its patrons a stunning view of the Cascade Mountains and Lake Washington to complement their multi-course fine dining experience. With reservations booked out months in advance and a menu inspired by the founder’s time around Hawaiian cuisine and Japanese hospitality, a visit to Canlis is surely an unbeatable experience.

Despite having lived in Seattle for 16 years, I have never eaten at Canlis, arguably the city's most iconic and revered (not to mention expensive) restaurant. Canlis has always seemed like it was for other people—people who drive luxury cars, not people, like me, who drive Toyota Corollas with tape decks. But there's no denying or escaping the restaurant's reputation and status.

For a truly elevated dining experience, Canlis is a Seattle classic. Known for its award-winning service and elevated Pacific Northwest cuisine, this family-run restaurant has been setting the standard for fine dining in Seattle for decades. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame beautiful views of Lake Union, while the mid-century modern decor adds a timeless elegance to the space.

Canlis is one of Seattle’s most iconic fine-dining destinations, known for its elegant atmosphere and impeccable service. Overlooking Lake Union, the restaurant offers breathtaking views and a carefully curated menu featuring Pacific Northwest flavors. The tasting menu changes seasonally, with dishes like Dungeness crab salad and dry-aged duck highlighting local ingredients.

Canlis is a modern architectural marvel sitting on the edge of Queen Ann Hill. You and your date will be privy to spectacular views of the city, Lake Union and the Cascade Mountains from here. Their menu provides an exquisite selection of dishes per course (salads/veggies, two sets of main courses, and desserts), all finely prepared and presented with much flair.

Reopened and reimagined, with the same upscale food Seattleites know and love, Canlis now offers Family Meals to go. Each week, you’ll find different menu offerings, like Homemade Lasagna with dry-aged beef bolognese or vegetarian enchiladas, complete with sides, dessert and (sometimes) salads to make ordering easy. Weekly options go live on Wednesdays at 1 p.m.

Canlis is not all about view, as in not all tables are situated by a window. However, Canlis is a fine dining establishment with a romantic atmosphere and the floor-to-ceiling windows open up to views of Lake Union, Gas Works Park and downtown Seattle. The restaurant requests that dress be classy, but requires it for those sitting at coveted window seats.

For those seeking a combination of gourmet dining and spectacular views, Canlis is the epitome of romance. This iconic Seattle restaurant, known for its exquisite cuisine and elegant atmosphere, offers panoramic views of Lake Union and the Cascade Mountains. A proposal here, paired with an unforgettable meal, is the perfect way to celebrate your love.

To impress visitors, Brian McGowan, CEO of Greater Seattle Partners, a regional trade and investment group, says he books dinner at "the legendary Canlis, whose view, cuisine and service are equally amazing." The iconic fine-dining destination has view of the city, Lake Union and the Cascade mountain range and four course dinners for $135 per person.

With more than seven decades on the scene, Canlis has long been considered not only one of the best romantic restaurants in Seattle but simply one of the best all around. Views of the Cascade Mountains, Lake Union and Gas Works Park are truly just the appetizer. A trip to this fine-dining establishment in mid-century modern digs is an experience.

(To be fair, he’s 32, but he’s already put in 17 years in restaurant kitchens—you do the math.) That juxtaposition is something you’ll find true for Seattle as well: arts patrons who wear sweatpants to the ballet, food nerds who follow a tasting menu at Canlis with a burger at Dick’s, city folk who can’t get enough of the mountains and water.

Canlis offers a combination of classic, high quality food and a truly one of a kind experience. Throughout the pandemic, this restaurant has pivoted to a variety of fresh approaches, including Camp Canlis, which features the options such as The Yurt Village – private dining in individual tents -, and The TreeHouse – private rooftop dining.

website | 2576 Aurora Ave N (East Queen Anne) | pro tip: add on the original Canlis salad from their 1950 menu. When you’re looking for the best example of fine dining in Seattle, most will point you to Canlis. That’s because they were the OG fine dining establishment in the Puget Sound when they first opened their doors in 1950.

With amazing views of Lake Union and the Cascade Mountains, it’s the perfect place for special nights. Here, you'll find elegance and warmth, twinkling lights, and soothing piano music. Why we love it: Canlis is more than a restaurant; it's where every little thing is perfect, from the beautiful setting to the top-notch service.

Canlis is not just a restaurant; it's a Seattle institution that exemplifies fine dining with its elegant ambiance, exceptional service, and meticulously crafted menu. It’s been a local favorite since the 1950s. The breathtaking views of Lake Union serve as the perfect backdrop for its innovative Pacific Northwest cuisine.

Some have higher ambitions than others (Canlis comes to mind), some are tried & true (Duke's and Anthony's, for example), or tired & true (Ivar's could use a little sprucing up), some just capitalize on their location (Eastlake Grill), others don't really seem to care where they are (McCormick's Harborside, Joey's).

Canlis is a symbol of fine dining in Seattle and is perched gently on the beaches of Lake Union. Canlis is a renowned brand in the city’s dining scene that combines stunning vistas with contemporary American food. This renowned restaurant is more than simply a place to eat; it’s a sophisticated experience.

Canlis isn’t just one of Seattle’s premier fine dining spots, it also has stunning views. For your next special occasion head here to enjoy over 70 years of history and expertly crafted dishes and drinks all while looking out over Seattle. Where: 2576 Aurora Ave NHours: Tuesday-Saturday 5 PM-12 AM

After that stop, Bourdain popped into Ballard’s The Walrus and Carpenter where he dined on oysters, steamed clams, and prawn crudo and finished the day with an upscale dinner at Canlis. Other stops included Rainier Restaurant and BBQ where Bourdain tried their signature dish: sour seafood soup.

If you are searching for fine dining experiences, or trying to hit the top 10 best restaurants in Seattle, try Canlis. This truly is one of the best restaurants in the city, and it books out months in advance, so plan ahead!. At Canlis, you’ll find multi-course meals served with excellence.

#date #lemon8challenge Canlis - Renowned for its fine dining and exceptional service, featuring a menu that highlights Pacific Northwest cuisine. The Georgian - Located in the Fairmont Olympic Hotel, it offers an elegant setting with upscale American cuisine and an extensive wine list.

We all know about Seattle’s well known restaurants such as Canlis, Wild Ginger, Metropolitan Grill(one of my favorites), Pike Place Chowder, Dahlia Lounge, etc. These are the restaurants you find in guide books. By no means are we disparaging people from going to these restaurants.

Canlis is a landmark restaurant in Seattle, and its old-world charm in addition to an upscale menu make it one of the most romantic spots in town. The near 70-year-old restaurant is located in a midcentury-modern house, and the menu comes to life with creative New American dishes.

The restaurant has been a Seattle icon and has been serving the people of the city, as well as visitors, for over 70 years. The restaurant has received multiple James Beard awards and nominations. Their menu is outstanding, and they have one of the best wine lists in the world.

Canlis is THE special occasion restaurant in Seattle, serving course after course of delicious food with unparalleled views of Lake Union. Be sure to check out this cool restaurant in Seattle if you ever have the chance. Read more on what you can expect from Canlis.

A family owned company, the Canlis family first opened this restaurant “way out of town” because they felt Seattle couldn’t appreciate fine dining. From there, the restaurant has been modernized, but still holds the same values and great food that it was built on.

This isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a time machine to the golden age of fine dining. Perched on a hill, Canlis is a stunning mid-century modern masterpiece with giant windows offering insane views of the city. The service is unreal—they practically read your mind.

A post shared by Chris Sands (@chrissandstech) on Nov 22, 2019 at 11:00pm PST. From the architecture to the dishes, nothing is an afterthought at Canlis. The dressy, fine-dining restaurant will have you and your date feeling as Instagram-worthy as their food.

Upscale and posh, Canlis is a popular restaurant for a fine dining experience. So popular, that the recipe for their signature salad dish is a nationwide hit. Canlis has been around since the 1950s and their salad is a landmark food in Seattle.

Canlis has served as a fine dining restaurant in Seattle for over 70 years. Roland Terry designed this 2-storied establishment in 1950. The place has a beautiful view of Lake Union, Cascade Mountain Range, and other parts of Seattle.

🍽️ Pacific Northwest | $$$$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 (206) 283-3313. Canlis provides the most upscale dining experience in Seattle. Executive Chef Aisha Ibrahim ensures that diners here have a memorable meal and experience.

2576 Aurora Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, United States (206) 283-3313. There isn’t a single Seattle food guide that will end without mentioning Canlis. It’s a very romantic place because of the view of the beautiful lake union below.

For an upscale dining experience, Canlis provides a refined menu emphasizing Pacific Northwest ingredients. Alternatively, The Walrus and the Carpenter in Ballard offers a more casual atmosphere with its acclaimed oyster bar.

We’re starting this list off in a big way with Canlis Restaurant!. An upscale dining experience with a gorgeous private space to host your rehearsal dinner. The private space at Canlis is on the main level.

Canlis is pricey and—unlike most of Seattle’s restaurants—has a dress code, but it’s worth it for the sophisticated mid-century modern design and the stunning view of Lake Union.

However, if your children are really well behaved in fancy restaurants or you have friends willing to watch the kids for a night, Canlis promises an unforgettable meal.

2576 Aurora Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109Phone: 206-283-3313 Visit Website. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by Canlis (@canlisrestaurant)

Canlis last Friday settled a lawsuit, filed in 2023, by former and current employees related to wages. October 8, 2024 at 11:10 am