Coho Cafe, Issaquah

A crisp Pacific breeze floats about Coho Cafe, where inside, guests sip signature cocktails and deconstruct towers of dungeness crab and avocado. It's as if the ocean wants to give each coastal location a big old pat on the back—and why wouldn't it? The chefs have surely earned it through their tireless commitment to quality Northwestern seafood, expressed in creative combinations such as beer-battered true cod tacos and fettuccine topped with prawns, scallops, and more.

On cooler days, large rock fireplaces send their warmth through casual dining rooms defined by tropical colors, curved walls that undulate like mountain streams, and fish statues. A glance at the tables on any given night reveals everything from kalbi short rib and egg stack to a classic New York steak in addition to the seafood—which still isn't enough variety for the chefs. The specials menu sports new dishes every two weeks to make use of seasonal ingredients and flavors. To pair with these flavors, friendly servers can offer guidance in selecting among the wine list's variety of Northwestern and imported bottles.