Seattle's most glamorous vegetarian restaurant boasts inventive fare that draws even dedicated carnivores.

The Scene
Since 1992, upscale, earthy crowds have been escaping Seattle's gray days in the cheerful atrium dining room, lush with plantings and a natural-stone water fountain. Boisterous families are as likely to visit as romantic couples, with multigenerational celebrations a regular occurrence.

The Food
Reliable standards include spicy Oaxaca tacos and a meatless-but-meaty-tasting portobello Wellington. Because the menu changes weekly and some of the cuisine is quite creative, follow the servers' recommendations. For dessert, even the vegan selections are rich and moist. The popular brunches are served with a complementary shot of fresh orange juice. Don't miss the beignets with berries and ginger creme anglaise or breakfast quesadilla. Service, though often rushed during brunch, tends to settle down for lunch and dinner.