BluWater Bistro, Seattle

The chefs at BluWater Bistro elevate classic comfort food by working mainly with premium, largely local ingredients. Take, for instance, a BLT—reinterpreted with additions of Pacific Northwest king-salmon fillet and pesto mayo—or a burger ascending to gourmet status with layers of Tillamook cheddar spread over wagyu beef raised on pastures near the Snake River. BluWater Bistro's owners strive to match their chefs' quality and creativity by giving each waterfront location a refined yet cozy aesthetic, surrounding diners in large windows, fireplaces flanked by leather furniture, and flat-screen televisions that play more interesting shows when they sense lulls in conversation. The Green Lake establishment also extends to an outdoor patio. The kitchen staff continues sending out dishes from the full menu as late as 1 a.m. every night of the week and shows up early on the weekends to prepare brunch.