White Center

This compact neighborhood feels at once old-school and new-school, with its mix of long-running international restaurants and cool up-and-comers. Start the day with a cinnamon-sugar twist from Good Day Donuts (9823 15th Ave SW) and a cardamom latte from art-filled Dubsea Coffee (9910 8th Ave SW). Tomo (9811 16th Ave SW), the unassuming Japanese-Venezuelan restaurant helmed by James Beard award–winning chef Brady Williams, is one great reason for a pilgrimage to White Center. Next door, Beer Star (9801 16th Ave SW) is an airy, smartly designed space offering a mind-blowing selection of beers. You can bring your own eats from the many restaurants nearby, including—just across the corridor—Zeeks Pizza and Lil Woody’s. At the latter, the crispy fries with a small vanilla milkshake to dip them in pair deliciously with any of the saisons or farmhouse ales on tap. The quirky Lariat Bar (9829 16th Ave) is the spirited tribute to pro wrestling you never knew you were missing from your life, while LGBTQ+-popular Lumber Yard Bar (9630 16th Ave SW)—“where wood is king”—recently moved across the street into a swish new space and is planning to reopen in the very near future (check their website for updates). The stick-to-your ribs barbecue fare (like pork belly mac n cheese) is on point. Neighboring Búho (9640 16th Ave SW) specializes in smoky mezcals and smokin’-good Mexican food—try the shrimp ceviche. Work off your snacking with a stroll around Dick Thurnau Memorial Park (11050 10th Ave SW), which is known for its kid-approved White Center Bicycle Playground. Or glide to your heart’s content around Southgate Roller Rink (9646 17th Ave SW)—there’s plenty of colorful people-watching, and bands and DJs play everything from classic rock to R&B to hip-hop, depending on the night.