Portage Bay Cafe - South Lake Union

This was my third visit to Portage Bay Cafe and my first time sitting at the bar. As on previous visits, the food itself was excellent. I had a grapefruit mimosa and the Apple Cobbler French Toast with gluten-free challah. It arrived hot, beautifully plated, and absolutely delicious. However, sitting at the bar also means you have a full view of the kitchen, and sometimes that transparency works against the experience. Watching the BOH staff made it clear that glove-changing practices are not great. I realize this is a widespread issue in many restaurants, but it’s still not something diners want to see while eating. The food and drinks remain great, which is why I’ve come back multiple times. But seeing what happens when the curtain is pulled back changed the experience this time. Had I been seated somewhere without such a clear view behind the scenes, this easily could have been a five-star visit.

This was one of the recommendations of walking distance restaurants for breakfast that my hotel offered. I was one of the first ones to be seated when they opened and the restaurant filled up pretty quickly. I had the crab Benedict and lemon ricotta pancakes along with a lavender London fog. The meal was scrumptious. I barely left anything and the portions were hefty. They offer a fruit and nut bar to accompany your meal as well. I had to walk it off for about an hour after but it was so worth it. The service is also good and the server was very nice. The pricing is reasonable. I ate for two people so my bill was a bit high but expected. When I’m back in Seattle, I will visit this restaurant again and try something different.

Went on a weekend morning and, as expected, it was busy. This location is huge with plenty of tables inside and a few outside with heaters. It definitely helps to have a reservation. For food, we got the French toast, which gives you access to their famous berry bar. I got the eggs Benedict and it was great. Service was pretty quick and attentive considering how packed it was. Parking is limited since you’re in downtown, so keep that in mind.

Good location, and atmosphere. Make sure to reserve table in advance for weekends. This place has decent options for vegetarian/vegan food. I ordered Vegan banana pancakes. I liked the fruit bar with all options for toppings like fruits, cream, and nuts, but pancakes were little undercooked and doughy. I had been to this location before and have tried their dish The Farmers Daughter and remember it being good. Might give this cafe another try.

Service was prompt and friendly. Waiter recommended a seasonal Benedict. Interesting flavors with a little spice. The English muffin was a little tough but the taste made up for it. The cheddar biscuit was delicious! A side of sausage gravy went with and I could have eaten it like soup. Yummy! One of us is gluten free so the lemon ricotta pans were a perfect choice. The restaurant is a little loud that’s why 4 stars on ambiance.