There’s a Reason This Japanese Comfort Food Joint is Always Packed for Lunch
Home-style Japanese food has proved popular in a neighborhood full of lunch options.
By Chelsea Lin January 4, 2018
This article originally appeared in the December 2017 issue of Seattle magazine.
There’s no shortage of lunch spots in Belltown. Still, the tables at this new Japanese restaurant, which opened last spring, are full at midday. And it’s not because of flashy décor or trendy dishes (though there is a very photo-worthy sundae served in a flower pot).
Instead, Moon’s Kitchen provides a cozy, casual respite while serving large portions of homespun Japanese dishes. The menu marries Seattle-ized standards such as chicken or salmon teriyaki ($9.50–$12.50) and requisite poke bowls ($13.50) with more traditional Japanese dishes like takoyaki (a fried, savory doughnut hole of sorts with bits of octopus, $4.50) and rich tonkotsu (pork broth) ramen ($10.95). Dressings and sauces are all made from scratch; skip the cloying signature salad dressing flecked with kiwi seeds in favor of the honey miso or sesame varieties.
If you can’t find a seat, opt for takeout, which is quick—just order at the back counter. And, as with all Belltown restaurants, there’s much less competition for a table at dinner.
Moon’s Kitchen
Belltown, 2211 Fourth Ave.; 206.420.1302
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