Name: TanakaSan
Location: Seattle, WA
Designer: Graham Baba Architects.
Warm, urban, and inviting TanakaSan, located in Assembly Hall, has it all going for it. As one of a handful of dining spaces among the Assembly Hall collection, TanakaSan faced some interesting special challenges.
With the kitchen separated from the dining space, a small bar was added which allows breakfast to be served in the morning and adds extra seating for casual drinks or overflow diners.
The space is open, light, and industrial but remains comfortable and warm. The constant movement of the space and doors that open onto the patio add energy to the space and allow it to keep a constant connection to everyone coming and going through the building.
All of the tables are clean lined and light with airy black slat seating. Proving the restaurant is anything but traditional, each table is outfitted with a plastic animal (typically a dinasour of some sort) adorned with a metal chain and/or plant situated in its back.
With today's highly competitive restaurant scene, restaurant owners know that the need to offer more than just a great plate of food in order to attract and keep guests. Duende, located in Oakland, California was crated with this in mind and offers a bit for everyone.
Name: Sitka & Spruce
Location: Seattle, WA
Design: Unkown
Located in Melrose Market, a vintage auto garage dating back to 1919 and 1928 respectively, Sitka & Spruce has quickly climbed to the top of my Seattle restaurant list. With an over the top open concept and location amongst exceptional vendors, it's easy to see why.
Clive Burger is a wonderful example of a fast casual space with a modern and fun interior. Utilizing cartoon-esq graphics paired with a restrained material and color palate, allows the space to feel whimsy while establishing a clean and modern space.