You could say Capitol Hill is the beating heart of Seattle’s culinary body of work, and it’s had an infusion of vigor with the latest batch of restaurant openings. It’s also a great place to taste the trends of the fall season—we can always use more walk-up window spots. Anyway, let’s dive into this bustling ‘hood and beyond.

Bar Cantinetta is back

The destination for vino and fine Italian dining has taken over the corner spot in the Capitol Hilltop mixed-use development, following its 2023 closure in Madison Valley. Tuscan handmade pastas prepared with fresh, Pacific Northwest ingredients are on the menu, as are a trio of pizzas and the mouthwatering tagliata di manzo (ribeye, rosemary, and Roman sea salt). Online reservations are now live.

Do you believe in Matcha Magic?

Well, your faith will soon pay off, as the local beverage chain is set to make its Seattle debut with a new location in Capitol Hill on Oct. 11. On the day, attendees will enjoy special offers, complimentary samples, and a chance at spinning the prize wheel for leaving a Google review. The menu goes beyond matcha, with smoothies and “potions” with extras like collagen, as well as acai bowls and toasts.

Two more tasty options in Cap Hill

The Summit and E. Pine building’s upgrade is nearly complete. Next month, Pike Street Hospitality Group will welcome Uncle Dom’s Italian Kitchen, an eatery intent on slinging red sauce dishes like chicken parm, lasagna, and pasta and meatballs, and bar tango, a revival of sorts of Tango Restaurant & Lounge, known for its tapas and Latin cocktails in the neighborhood from 2000 to 2019. Both businesses “are designed to honor the past, celebrate chosen family, and add new vibrancy to one of the city’s most storied intersections.” They join walk-up window Double O’ Burgers and Cantina del Sol, the rooftop hangout serving Baja bites from a pink trailer.

Get up, it’s gameday!

Missed out on tickets to UW’s big football game against Ohio State this weekend? Don’t worry, things are looking up at Graduate Seattle’s rooftop bar The Mountaineering Club, which is set to debut Husky Game Day specials. Options include a Bavarian-inspired platter with sausage, soft pretzel bites, and beer cheese, a wagyu hot dog, and the Husky Fella sandwich loaded with turkey, pastrami, and bacon jam. Don’t forget the seasonal drinks, like the Autumn Audible (vodka, spiced pear, lemon, cinnamon, vanilla, and apple cider) and rivalry Jell-O shots.

More cheese, please

If it’s been a while since you ventured out to West Seattle, there are two reasons—and one word—for a return trip. Pizza. The neighborhood recently welcomed In Pizza We Crust; the wood-fired pizza food truck that’s bounced around King County for six years has finally landed a brick-and-mortar in the former The Swinery space. You can now also pick up deep dish at Distinguished Foods Kitchen thanks to the addition of Cheese Riot Pizza.