Restaurant Recommendations by Jeff and Kate Hirsch

We really enjoy living in the Northwest because of the great climate, people, and wonderful activities available here. We both enjoy cooking and eating all kinds of interesting and delicious cuisine. Here is a listing of some of our favorite restaurants and hangouts. For many years the "food scene" on the Eastside had been lacking compared to Seattle. In recent years, many new restaurants and Shops have opened and have given Eastsiders many great and fun choices. This small guide may be helpful to new-comers and old-timers alike.

Casual and Ethnic Fare on the Eastside 

Dixie’s BBQ 11522 Northrup Way, Bellevue, 828-2460. Located in an automotive garage under Route 520, this BBQ joint is a favorite of anyone who enjoys real barbecue meats. Very popular for lunch with the Microsoft crowd. Don't be shocked by the fold-out tables and the old, un-matching chairs. Open Monday - Saturday for lunch or Early dinner. "Meet the Man" at Dixie’s! $
Chantanee Family Thai Restaurant 150 105^TH AVE., NE, Bellevue, 455-3226. Located on a small alley street in downtown Bellevue ( near Pete’s Wine and Beer), this new Thai Restaurant is what all Thai restaurants should be… authentic and delicious. The owners, Julie Chantanee and her parents, have created a warm and inviting restaurant that features the highest quality Thai food we have ever enjoyed, anywhere! If you like Thai food, this restaurant is a must! $
The Orexi 31 Bellevue Way NE, Bellevue, 455-5344. The first Greek Cuisine restaurant to open in Bellevue. Authentic Greek food prepared by and experienced restaurant family. Great for lunch with large portions and good prices. Try their Mousaka or Spanakopeta.$-$$
Mediterranean Kitchen 130 NE Bellevue Way, Bellevue, 462-9422. Authentic Middle Eastern Food is serve up in large portions at reasonable prices. This is a restaurant for serious garlic lovers. The menu includes grilled chicken and lamb and other Lebanese dishes. $-$$
Z-Tejas   Contemporary Southwestern food in a smart and lively environment. They have a great happy hour where you can choose any appetizer at half price and don't forget their great frozen house (6th Street) Margaritas. Located at the Lodge at the corner of Bellevue Square, on the second floor. $$-$$$
California Pizza Kitchen 595 106^th AVE., NE, Bellevue, 454-2545. This restaurant chain started by two Los Angeles attorneys is one of the best examples of the "flavor-principle". Having over 25 different pizzas with names like "Tandoori Chicken" and "Shrimp Scampi", this restaurant successfully creates interesting and flavorful food that works! The "BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad" is a must! $-$$
Burgermaster 10606 NE Northrup Way, Kirkland, 827-9566. The quintessential "dine-in-your-car" experience. For or over 30 years this Burgermaster location has been pumping out great fast food right to your car window, complete with window tray! The real milk shakes are worth the trip on a lazy evening when you feel like slumming. Burgers and fries that beat out MacDonalds and Wendys. $
La Cocina Del Puerco 10246 Main Street, Bellevue, 455-1151. Stepping into this Mexican café is like entering a roadside café in Mazatlan. The food is authentic. No refried beans or plates smothered with melted cheese, just a small selection of healthy Mexican food that you order at the counter. Favorites include "Tres Tacos" and great "Pork Carnitas." $
Pogacha Restaurant 119 106^th AVE.,NE, Bellevue, 455-5670. The owners of this small and casual restaurant are originally from Yugoslavia. The cuisine reflects this Mediterranean influence. You can order expertly prepared pastas, lamb dishes, and seafood. A "Pogacha" is a flat-bread pizza that headlines their nice menu. Popular with the Bellevue lunch crowd and with evening diners who enjoy this satisfying food in a relaxed atmosphere. $$
Tosoni's Restaurant 14320 NE 20th ST., Bellevue, WA (425) 644-1668.  This restaurant has been operating in Bellevue for over 10 years, but is often unknown. Located in a strip plaza near Fred Meyers, the Austrian born chef/owner, Walter Walcher prepares his renditions of European classics with great skill and flair.  The atmosphere is cozy and it is a great place for a special romantic dinner or to take visitors if you want to stay on the Eastside. Call for reservations. $$$
3 Pigs Bar-B-Q 1044 116^th AVE., NE, Bellevue, 453-0888. Tucked away in the Applegreen Center, this is another Bar-B-Q restaurant that is very popular with the Bellevue lunch crowd. The two brothers that run the place proudly display their many ribbons they have won in Bar-B-Q Cook-Offs. You can even buy a bottle of their sauce to take home. $
Roanoke Inn 1825 72^nd SE, Mercer Island, 232-0800. This Mercer Island Tavern is hidden on the north tip of the Island on a quiet street amongst well groomed homes. The Roanoke Inn is a Mercer Island landmark going back over 40 years. A nice place to have a beer and burger and play some darts or pinball. They now serve week-end breakfast featuring great pancakes and nice Eggs Benedict. If you are nostalgic for an old-time tavern, give the Roanoke Inn a try. $

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Last Updated July 31, 2002