Above: El Encanto sets a lively lakeside scene in Kirkland. Photographs by Amber Fouts. 

The notion that going out for a memorable meal requires a trip into Seattle for folks who live in the suburbs is obsolete. Maybe even comically obsolete.

The Eastside’s dining scene has grown and shifted radically in the past few years, keeping pace with the changes in the demographics and the landscape. Now chefs with global profiles sign leases in Bellevue (look for restaurants from Masaharu Morimoto and Gastón Acurio to open in 2024). Coveted ramen chains seek out Kirkland locations. Seattle chefs who once swore allegiance to the 206 have followed the growth eastward.

That’s not to say the best restaurants here are all imports from somewhere else. Holly Smith won a James Beard Award for the Northwest-Italian food at Cafe Juanita; Redmond locals Tony and Carolyn Scott run two essential restaurants rooted in their community. Hell, Dough Zone began in Bellevue, then spread its dumplings across Seattle, and even as far south as California.

This guide includes favorite spots in Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond, and Mercer Island. Look for additions and updates in the coming months. We’re coming for you Issaquah, Sammamish, Bothell, and Woodinville. (Though, yes, we're aware that there's some debate about where, precisely, the Eastside ends.)

Bellevue
High Rises, High Times

Redmond
The Worldly Mix

Kirkland
On the Lake, at the Mall

Mercer Island
More Than a Midpoint