Restaurant Roundup: High-End Halal, PCC Corner Market, and Global Omakase
Here’s what was served up recently in the Emerald City
By Ben McBee July 18, 2025
Who needs to see the world when the world comes to you? That’s certainly the feel of the latest food news in Seattle, with the city attracting attention from international chains in Ukraine and Türkiye, plus a new omakase that’s the definition of globe-trotting. So put your passport away and get ready to eat.
Omakase, OMG
In what might be the best-kept secret in Seattle’s luxury dining scene, Sugo Hand Roll Bar has introduced a 14-course global omakase from acclaimed sushi chef Han Lee. For $95, guests settle into the reimagined space on Thursday evenings to experience not only the master techniques of Japanese cuisine, but also surprising flavor fusions from Korea, Thailand, Greece, and France. Highlights of the menu — which includes a four-pour drink pairing — are the aji, crafted with Thai nam jim sauce and chiffonade Thai basil, and the wagyu with a yogurt chutney, chives, and Maldon sea salt.
Fresh yet familiar
Whether you need a quick grab-and-go lunch or have the afternoon munchies, you now have a new (but familiar) option in the city. PCC Community Markets, which closed its downtown location last year, has returned to the area, albeit with a smaller footprint. PCC Corner Market will emphasize prepared meals in its deli — a boon for the workers, residents, and other visitors contributing to the slow rebound of foot traffic.
Halal yeah
Dinner and a show are on the docket at Meat Moot, the high-end halal chain landing in South Lake Union next month. The Istanbul export expanded across the Middle East, with locations in Miami and Chicago; soon, Seattleites will be able to enjoy the smoked lamb and beef, theatrically prepared with whirling knives and blowtorches in front of guests, at the 3,200-square-foot “West Coast flagship” restaurant. Proteins will be served alongside rice and salads, and there will be an extensive mocktail menu too.
Fine Italian dining on Fifth Avenue
It has been two years of planning and construction, but the finish line for Il Terrazzo Carmine’s new 7,000-square-foot downtown restaurant is in sight. Named Carmine’s 5th Ave, the three-story space in the U.S. Bank Center skyscraper will have indoor and outdoor seating, a bar, and room for private events. In addition to Pioneer Square and Bellevue, this will be the family-owned restaurant’s third location, and it’s set to open this fall.
Lviv Croissants are life
The Ukrainian bakery known for its sandwiches made with buttery, flaky pastries is setting up shop in the Westfield Southcenter mall this November. Not only will it be the first outpost in Washington, but it also marks the national chain’s first foray to the West Coast. Expect both sweet and savory creations, with flavors ranging from raspberry and cream to cheeseburger and the Selianskyi (pickles, salted fish, pickled onion, lettuce, and garlic sauce).
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