bonus_mop

Typical of Italian food in the puget sound area; good food at a reasonable price but nothing that’s going to blow you away. We’ve eaten dinner here twice, and both times we were seated quickly without reservations. We’ll definitely go back next time we’re looking for decent food in Issaquah.

Lombardi’s has a second location in the Ballard neighborhood of Seattle, and they have the best Italian cuisine I’ve tried in the area. Unfortunately, the Issaquah location doesn’t have the same quality food. It seems to be more family oriented which is a good thing now that I’m a parent, but it definitely wasn’t the quiet, relaxing dining experience I was used to from the other location. if you want decent Italian food in Issaquah I recommend going just down the street to Nicolino Ristorante Italiano in Gilman Village.

This is an excellent restaurant hidden away in a strip mall in downtown Bellevue (I’ve never tried the one in Seattle). The food is delicious and very inexpensive for the quality. They could charge twice as much for these entrées and I’d still consider it money well spent. I make a point of bringing friends and family when they are visiting Puget Sound. The dining area is rather small and intimate, lit by candlelight during dinner.

Two warnings: First, the portions are huge. My wife and I normally share a meal and we still have enough left over for at least one more meal the next day. The $5 split-plate cost is a good investment. Second, you have to really like garlic, and so does everyone you plan to come in contact with for the next 24 hours. The food is tasty enough that it’s worth being shunned by your friends for a day.

My favorite menu item is the schawarma: lamb is best, but chicken and beef are pretty good too. But before you order, ask about the specials. They always have something interesting to try; usually as good or better then what you find on the menu.

Easily the best restaurant in Issaquah. Noodle Boat has a large menu so I’ve only scratched the surface of what they have to offer, but I’ve enjoyed everything I’ve tried so far. Fresh ingredients really make the difference over other Thai restaurants. The decor is a little nontraditional, but I’ll let you figure out what that means.