Best Authentic Restaurants in Columbia City

The food was absolutely delicious and worth the price, the atmosphere was great and service was very friendly! They even wrote us a personalized note for our anniversary which was very sweet.

Tulio has been around forever, since 1992 to be exact, and was the love child of founder and Chef Walter Pisano who pioneered West Coast Cuisine with a focus on sourcing local ingredients while being true to his family and heritage. Tulio, with Walter at the helm, changed the course of culinary expectations in Seattle, just as Alice Walters and Chez Panisse set the stage for California Cuisine (a.k.a. Nouvelle Cuisine) that forever changed the landscape of American Cuisine. Although Walter recently retired in November, his legacy continues to be reflected in the mission and spirit of Tulio. Having said that, I had an amazing dinner at Tulio. The restaurant is an unassuming neighborhood destination, centrally located on 5th Ave., caddy corner to the Seattle Public Library (which is worth a trip to the neighborhood itself), beautiful location on the corner street level of the Kimpton Hotel Vintage. The space has old school charm, and is comfortable and welcoming. The service is informed, professionally, and helpful. Shasta was my waiter on my recent visit (and in the past), his suggestions, particularly with the wine pairings, made for an excellent experience. The food is, and has been consistently amazing. The focus is on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients and after 32+ years the kitchen continues to meet and exceed expectations. Disclaimer, I live out of town and dine at Trulio 1 to 3 times a year; however, I've been a patron since 2001. I always come back for the gnocchi which imho has been the star of the menu since God created Adam and Eve, then I realize the unassuming menu has so much to offer. In addition, the wine list is educated and well curated even though it may seem limited. Who needs pages of vintages when you're only going to chose a bottle or two to pair with your meal? Here's the deal, centrally located and comfortable atmosphere, excellent and educated service, AND great consistent food that is localy sourced.

Assaggio continues to provide a wonderful dining experience -- a delightful physical space with a family feeling that shows up in the 2nd generation ownership and staffing as well as the cliental, with many regulars who have been coming with their family for years. Food is fantastic, and the dining space provides all the 'feels' of a classic Italian restaurant experience.

We loved the sushi selection from chef’s omakase menu, and delicate delicious cooked food from the kitchen. Overall, we had a great experience at Sushi Kashib, even though chef Shiro Kashiba wasn’t represent.

First time going to Tutta Bella. We were at the Wallingford location. The parking lot is small, so be prepared to park on the street. We had a reservation for 5 people and arrived 10 minutes early. They had our table set and ready for us. When first walking in we first noticed amazing smells. The staff were courteous and sat us immediately. The decor and ambiance is urban casual. Noise level is moderate. We had drinks and appetizers which we all liked. The menu is limited to some salads, pizza and pasta dishes. My wife and I each had a pasta dish which was very good. My son and daughter each had pizza which had a good crust and the flavors were quite good. We will go there again when in the area. Wish they would open up a location where we live in Bellingham.