The Walrus and the Carpenter

"Renee Erickson owns a shoal of sea-themed restaurants, but none more iconic than this oyster bar, located in the back of one of Ballard Avenue’s historic brick buildings. The seasonal small plates menu doesn’t miss, and first-timers should order the always-in-season fried oysters, crunchy on the outside and rich and creamy on the inside — a treat even if you’re not an oyster person. If you want to become an oyster person, you’re in the right place, since not only are the oysters high-quality, but the staff is happy to talk you through the varieties and differences. There are no reservations here; to guarantee yourself a seat show up when it opens at 4 p.m. to get on the waiting list, or try arriving late on an off night." - Harry Cheadle

"James Beard Award-winning chef Renee Erickson has had a major hand in the evolution of Seattle’s dining scene, and her Sea Creatures restaurant group owns many of Seattle’s top restaurants, from steakhouse Bateau to Westward on Lake Union. But this is still arguably the flagship of her fleet. The Walrus and the Carpenter serves several varieties of Washington oysters, seafood dishes like raw albacore tuna with Meyer lemon sauce and blood oranges, and snacks like beef tartare, beef shank terrine, and plates of sliced cheese, along with a long wine list and a thoughtful cocktail menu. The dining room is bright and airy, and the heated, covered patio sparkles with string lights. Be warned that you can’t make reservations at this perennial favorite; on the upside, this is one of the few Seattle-area date-night restaurants open on Mondays." - Eater Staff

"You probably know the Walrus for its oysters — this perpetually crowded Ballard bivalve bar is the most famous restaurant from Renee Erickson, one of Seattle’s most famous restaurateurs. And granted, if you come here you should get some oysters on the half shell. But don’t forget about the small plates that pair top-flight fish with seasonal ingredients. The grilled sardines are a great option if you want something slightly meaty, and the fried oysters with cilantro aioli are the secret menu stars." - Eater Staff

"You can’t call yourself a Seattleite unless you’ve chased down some raw oysters with bubbly wine at The Walrus and The Carpenter at 4pm on a Saturday. It’s the perfect power move for a casual date, or impressing out-of-town friends. Grab a seat at the marble bar overlooking the oysters waiting their turn to be shucked and share some of the best small plates in the city. If raw bivalves aren't your thing, we can also vouch for the delicate cornmeal-dredged ones dipped in an excellent cilantro aioli, and an amaro spritz at Barnacle next door is mandatory with every visit." - aimee rizzo, kayla sager riley

"Oyster specialist The Walrus And The Carpenter should be on your list if you’re seeking fresh shellfish in Seattle. Whether you eat them at a table or while seated at the big, majestic marble bar, order them raw or cornmeal-crusted, you shall fulfill your quest for the perfect salty mollusk. The sparkling rosé and seasonal small plates are stellar too, but be prepared for a substantial wait since they don't take reservations. Note that popping by next door to sister bar Barnacle for an amaro spritz beforehand should be part of the plan." - aimee rizzo, kayla sager riley