Canlis Restaurant
About The Canlis Restaurant
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Overview
Canlis Restaurant, established in 1950 by Peter Canlis, is a renowned fine dining establishment located in Seattle's Queen Anne neighborhood. It is perched above Lake Union, offering panoramic views of the city skyline and the Cascade Mountains.
This picturesque setting provides a stunning backdrop for guests to enjoy a unique dining experience.
Architectural Design
The restaurant is housed in a mid-century modern building designed by architect Roland Terry. It features clean lines and floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light.
This architectural gem was honored with the James Beard Design Icon Award in 2019, underlining its importance in both design and dining sectors.
Leadership and Culinary Philosophy
Under the guidance of Executive Chef Aisha Ibrahim, who joined in 2021, Canlis embraces a culinary philosophy honoring its Pacific Northwest roots while incorporating global influences.
Chef Ibrahim was born in the Philippines and raised in West Virginia. Her approach focuses on simplicity and seasonality.
Signature dishes, such as the miso eggplant omelet known as 'eggplant Rita,' pay homage to her mother's traditional Filipino recipe.
Menu and Wine Program
The menu presents a sophisticated interpretation of New American and Pacific Northwest cuisine, showcasing hyper-local ingredients like fresh seafood, game meats, and wild plants.
Signature dishes include aged sea bream in dashi and a reimagined Walla Walla onion dish, balancing tradition and innovation.
The wine program features an extensive selection, with over 20,000 bottles in the cellar. This commitment has earned Canlis the Wine Spectator Grand Award for several consecutive years.
Awards and Recognition
In 2025, Canlis was ranked as the #2 restaurant in America by Food & Wine magazine, reaffirming its status as a premier dining destination.
The restaurant has received 15 James Beard Award nominations, including wins for Outstanding Wine Program in 2017 and Design Icon in 2019.
Locations
Canlis operates exclusively in Washington State, with the following locations:
- Seattle, WA, USA - Located at 2576 Aurora Avenue North, Seattle, WA 98109
- Washington, DC, USA