Seattle's Best Italian Restaurants

The Pacific Northwest, far removed from Mediterranean climates, is nevertheless not short on places where one can bring out the inner Italian! Seattle can boast about some of the best Italian Restaurants in the New World and here are some favorite suggestions:

Ristorante Machiavelli

A small restaurant in the Capitol Hill area of Seattle that has kept the 'family feeling'. The restaurant does not take reservations, however, has a small inviting cocktail area where you can sip an aperitif while waiting for your table. For a starter a great recommendation is the Tuna Carpaccio, Sashimi grade tuna with balsamic-dijon dressing. The Chicken Liver Lasagna, with a golden cheesy crust and spinach lasagna pasta is in a league of it's own. The portions are generous and the wait staff is friendly. Machiavelli accepts credit cards and also offers take out for those of us who don't want to wait. Opening Times 5pm - 11pm,1215 Pine Street, Tel. 206 621 7941

Il Terrazzo Carmine

Located in the Pioneer Square area of Seattle, this is a place for special occasions. The romantic setting and attentive service will make it a night to remember. Portions are generous and the wine list is well thought out. The Antipasto Assortito makes a perfect starter and serves as a nice introductions for yet better things to come. The Ossobuco Milanese is so tender the meat falls off the bone and is complimented by the saffron risotto. If you still have room ask for the desert specials, though I have to admit I've never made it that far. Credit cards are accepted and the restaurant is open for lunch from Mon - Fri 11.30am - 2.30pm and for Dinner Mon - Sat 5.30 - 10.30 pm, 411 1st Ave, Tel. 206 467 7797

Serafina

Away from the town center close to Lake Union in the Eastlake Area of Seattle, Serafina is a gem and has been a local favorite for years. The busy dining room still manages to remain cosy and it's one of those perfect first date places. Service is prompt and friendly and the wine list will not disappoint. The Pancia Arrostita, a slow roasted pork belly with sweet corn comes with an arugula mint and blueberry salad with blueberry vinaigrette and just typing this makes me salivate. Their signature dish, the Melanzane Alla Serafina is out of this world. Thinly sliced eggplant is rolled up with ricotta cheese, fresh basil and Parmesan and baked in a tomato sauce is arranged over garlic and olive oil capellini. Share, if you must, though you might not want to once you tasted it, but the the desert menu is worth a visit in itself. All credit cards are accepted. The restaurant is open for lunch Mon - Fri. from 11.30am - 2.30pm, Dinner is 7 days per week from 5pm - 10pm, on Fri and Sat until 11pm. An extra treat is the Sunday Jazz Brunch from 10am - 2.30pm, 2043 Eastlake Ave E, Tel 206 323 0807

Hopefully your dining experience will be as pleasant as ours when trying Seattle's Best Italian Restaurants.

Buon Appetito and remember L'appetito vien mangiando (The appetite comes whilst eating)