Eater Seattle, one of the city's leading voices on all things food and dining, has announced its 2023 Eater Awards winners in a variety of food and beverage categories including Best Restaurant, Best New Takeout, and more. From rising stars to established veterans, the awards celebrate the individuals and establishments who have pushed the boundaries and elevated the local dining experience in Seattle.
Restaurant of the Year: Layers Green Lake
Among the distinguished award winners, Layers Green Lake stands out as the coveted Restaurant of the Year. This North Seattle restaurant has captivated palates with its interpretation of sandwiches and a menu that is equally approachable and impressive.
"What you get from a sandwich here in terms of flavors and textures is what you get from a sit-down meal at one of Seattle’s best restaurants," says Eater. "A single bite is a revelation."
Layers Green Lake is a darling of Seattle's restaurant industry, from its roots in originally starting as a food truck before expanding to today's permanent space in the North Green Lake area.

Best Comeback: Ludi’s Restaurant
After a four-year hiatus, Ludi's reopened its doors in June 2023, much to the delight of its loyal fans. Now located at 120 Stewart Street, just a short walk from its former Pike Place Market location, the restaurant continues to offer its signature breakfast and lunch dishes that have become synonymous with the Ludi's name.
Step inside Ludi's, and you're transported back to a simpler time. The vintage diner aesthetic, complete with red leather booths and chrome accents, evokes a sense of nostalgia and comfort. The friendly staff, many of whom have been with the restaurant for years, add to the warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Best New Bar: Dark Room
Enter the dimly lit world of Dark Room, Seattle's newest haven for craft cocktail connoisseurs. Opened in November 2022, this intimate bar in the heart of Greenwood has quickly become a favorite among those seeking creative and innovative drinks.
Housed in the former Teachers Lounge space, Dark Room has transformed the interior into a sleek and modern haven with a vintage edge. Exposed brick walls, warm lighting, and a custom-built bar create an atmosphere that is both sophisticated and inviting.
Best Takeout: Bapshim
WeRo founder and owner Wes Yoo expanded beyond his WeRo Ballard Korean restaurant to launch takeout offerings out of the restaurant's back door, named Bapshim. Eater Seattle's recommendation specifically highlights Bapshim's purple rice or green bowls, loaded with pickled and fresh vegetables and topped with marinated meat or tofu.
Bapshim is still growing and its menu updates regularly. Prior to its place on Eater's ranking it was relatively unknown but is likely to be busy now that the secret is out.
Most Delightful Surprise: Rojo’s Mexican Food
Rojo’s Mexican Food was truly a surprise, opening without the fanfare typically seen with new restaurants. Opened in the space previously occupied by Il Corbo, Rojo's Mexican Food is the creation of 26-year-old Daniel Rojo from the Skagit Valley.
Rojo began cooking vegan Mexican cuisine during the pandemic and personally delivered it to customers, and grew his business from there to reach the space he now occupies in Pioneer Square. Eater Seattle recommends the soy al pastor, a "flag-planting type dish from a newcomer: through the major of an achiote paste and vinegar marinade plus grilling it with pineapples, the 'fake meat' is imbued with quinine char, crispiness, and a welcome punch of sweetness." And a great deal at $10 for three tacos with rice and beans on the side.
By recognizing these outstanding individuals and establishments, Eater Seattle not only celebrates their contributions but also underscores the incredible creativity that exists in our city's food scene. From sandwiches to Korean comfort food, the awards paint a picture of a city where culinary innovation and adventure is growing and awaiting local and visiting diners at every turn.
For more information on the awards and Eater's full coverage, visit the Eater awards web page with the full detailed list of winners and reviews.