8 Teriyaki Restaurants In Seattle That Could Make Every Bite Count
Seattle has a special love affair with teriyaki. This Japanese-inspired dish has become a Seattle staple, with countless spots serving up sizzling meat glazed in that sweet-savory sauce we all crave.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, finding the perfect teriyaki spot can turn an ordinary meal into something memorable.
1. Toshi’s Teriyaki – The Original Seattle Teriyaki Pioneer
Back in 1976, Toshi Kasahara introduced Seattle to what would become its unofficial fast food. The marinade here remains legendary a perfect balance of sweet and savory that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
What makes Toshi’s special is their commitment to simplicity. Chicken teriyaki, beef teriyaki, and gyoza dumplings form the backbone of a menu that hasn’t needed to change for decades. Their chicken skin achieves that ideal crispy exterior while maintaining juicy meat underneath.
Locals know to ask for extra sauce on the side it’s perfect for drizzling over the generous portion of rice that comes with each order.
2. Ichiro Teriyaki – Where Spicy Meets Sweet
Hidden in a strip mall near the University District, Ichiro Teriyaki might not look impressive from outside, but the lines at lunchtime tell the real story. Their spicy teriyaki sauce sets them apart a secret recipe that locals have tried (and failed) to replicate for years.
Though the restaurant is small, with just a few tables, most customers don’t mind the wait. The chicken portions are enormous, and each plate comes with their famous cabbage salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette that perfectly complements the sweet heat of the teriyaki.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try their salmon teriyaki a Seattle twist on the classic.
3. Toshi Teriyaki – Flame-Grilled Perfection in Capitol Hill
Don’t confuse this with Toshi’s! Toshi Teriyaki (without the possessive) has carved out its own reputation in Capitol Hill with flame-grilled techniques that give their meat an irresistible smoky flavor.
When you walk in, the open kitchen layout lets you watch as chefs expertly flip marinated meats on the sizzling grill. Their chicken teriyaki bowl comes with perfectly sticky rice and stir-fried vegetables that actually taste fresh, not like an afterthought.
If you’re extra hungry, their “Sumo Size” option doubles the meat portion for just a few dollars more – definitely worth it if you’ve worked up an appetite exploring Capitol Hill’s shops and parks.
4. Pink Door – Not Your Average Teriyaki Experience
Unlike traditional teriyaki joints, Pink Door offers an upscale twist on this Seattle favorite. Tucked away in Pike Place Market with just a pink door marking its entrance, this Italian-influenced restaurant surprises with its teriyaki salmon that rivals any specialist shop.
The chef marinates wild-caught Pacific salmon in a house-made teriyaki blend with hints of balsamic and ginger before grilling it to perfection. While you dine, you might catch an aerial performer swinging from the rafters part of Pink Door’s unique dinner entertainment.
Though pricier than other spots on this list, the romantic atmosphere and spectacular Elliott Bay views make it worth every penny for a special night out.
5. Hapa Sushi Teriyaki – Where Hawaiian Flavors Meet Japanese Tradition
Hapa means “mixed” in Hawaiian, and this fusion spot blends Hawaiian and Japanese flavors into something uniquely Seattle. Their teriyaki sauce has subtle pineapple undertones that brighten the traditional flavor profile without overwhelming it.
What truly stands out is their teriyaki burger a juicy beef patty glazed with teriyaki sauce and topped with grilled pineapple and crispy onions. The restaurant’s laid-back vibe feels like a mini vacation, with surfboards on the walls and Hawaiian music playing softly in the background.
Don’t miss their Spam musubi as a side a Hawaiian favorite that pairs surprisingly well with their teriyaki offerings.
6. Teriyaki Madness – Build-Your-Own Bowl Bonanza
If customization is your thing, Teriyaki Madness will become your new favorite spot. This modern take on the Seattle classic lets you build your own bowl from the ground up choosing your protein, base, vegetables, and sauce intensity.
Their kitchen uses fresh ingredients prepped daily, and you can watch as they stir-fry your creation to order. The spicy chicken with brown rice and extra vegetables makes for a surprisingly healthy yet satisfying meal that won’t leave you feeling sluggish afterward.
Though it’s a growing chain, the Seattle location maintains high quality standards and friendly service that makes you feel like you’re at a neighborhood spot rather than a franchise.
7. Maneki Japanese Restaurant – Century-Old Teriyaki Secrets
As Seattle’s oldest Japanese restaurant (operating since 1904), Maneki has perfected their teriyaki recipe over literal generations. Their teriyaki is more subtle and less sweet than most American versions, staying true to traditional Japanese preparation methods.
The restaurant itself is a piece of history, with tatami rooms and walls covered in photographs of famous visitors spanning decades. Their chicken teriyaki comes with authentic sides like oshinko (pickled vegetables) and miso soup that’s made from scratch each morning.
Reservations are essential this International District institution often has wait times stretching to hours, especially on weekends when families gather for multi-generational dinners.
8. I Love Teriyaki – Late-Night Cravings Satisfied
When midnight hunger strikes, I Love Teriyaki has your back with late hours that have saved many Seattle night owls. This no-frills spot focuses on generous portions at reasonable prices exactly what you want after an evening of bar-hopping or studying.
Their spicy chicken teriyaki reaches the perfect level of heat that builds slowly without overwhelming the other flavors. The sauce has a thicker consistency than most, clinging beautifully to each piece of meat and soaking deliciously into the bed of rice beneath.
Though the interior is basic, the friendly staff remembers regulars by name and order a small touch that keeps Seattleites coming back even when fancier options are available.
