Best Open Kitchen Restaurants in Mercer Island

Went to Capital Hill Skillet because our usual anniversary dinner place, Luna Park Cafe, is now closed for dinner. Didn't know they closed at 7, and got there are 6:30. Never felt rushed. Food was great, as always! Burgers and poutine. Then the very sweet waitress brought us a dessert on the house to help us celebrate. Skillet never disappoints!

La Mar is quickly becoming one of our favorite places. It is a cuisine that is new to us so every dish is an adventure. We've loved everything we've tasted! The only thing better than the food is the warm, welcoming service from everyone who works there. Most recently, we had a birthday/Valentine's dinner that was fabulous! The whole restaurant was warmed by candlelight and rose petals. The special menu had terrific options to choose from. I was particularly taken the starters - my Ceviche Apaltado, halibut in leeks with avocado, sweet potatoes and more. My husband had the Crab Causa, a delightful Dungeness crab salad with whipped purple potatoes plus. Both dishes were beautiful to see and delicious to taste. For our main course, I had the fabulous Pulpo Anticuchero -- grilled octopus and my husband enjoyed Lomo Saltado - tenderloin deliciously prepared. For desert, nobody beats the amazing chocolate cake at La Mar! In every way, La Mar is a treasure.

Incredible food, outstanding service, and a fantastic atmosphere! Every dish was so delicious that we couldn’t stop talking about it all night. This place is an absolute must-visit, and we’ll definitely be recommending it to friends and coming back for more.

All five of us enjoyed our cocktails and meals. Our server was excellent on all fronts. She was engaging, knowledgeable and efficient. Although it was good for us as it enabled us to easily visit without background noise, the restaurant was relatively empty. Such a nice space, with quality food and service should be packed. Go. You will enjoy the experience.

When first booking the reservation, I didn’t know there were two different venues. Whiskey by John Howie and John Howie Steak. Whiskey by John Howie is has a more intimate setting and the menu is slightly different than its counterpart. However the steak options are the same. We had the USDA Filet Mignon and I have been ruined by any other steak following that experience! So render and flavorful, just melts in your mouth! The vegetable and potato sides are meant to share (didn’t know that either). It is a high $$$$ but worth it. Next time it’s John Howie Steak to compare!