World > U.S. > Washington > The Seattle and Tacoma Area

Cafe Juanita

<p>One of the city's top tables is across Lake Washington in the Eastside suburb of Kirkland. Here, chef Holly Smith's northern Italian cuisine has a Pacific Northwest bent; with the exception of a few artisanal products from the old country (like truffles from Piedmonte), most of her ingredients come from nearby organic farms. The roasted saddle of Oregon lamb is a must no matter how it's prepared (it might be offered drizzled with a huckleberry reduction or paired with a chickpea purée, fava beans, and spicy yogurt); so is an appetizer of pears with Parmigiano Reggiano and white truffle oil. The dining room has hardwood floors, dove-colored walls, and banquette seating that ends in a cozy corner nook facing a small fireplace (perfect for couples). The best tables are next to a row of windows overlooking the verdant backyard. As you dine, you can eavesdrop on moneyed Eastside regulars as they discuss the tribulations of running their own restaurants and wine shops. </p> <p><strong>Tip:</strong> Save room for dessert—especially the house-made gelatos in unusual flavors like avocado. </p>