Seemor
Mint and olivesBWorth Trying
8 W Mercer St, Seattle, WA 98119
· Mediterranean restaurant, Middle Eastern restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (458 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Casual Middle Eastern spot delivering flavorful shawarma, falafel, and generous platters at fair prices, with occasional service hiccups and order accuracy issues; best for hearty, comforting plates rather than fancy dining.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Mint and Olives delivers solid Middle Eastern comfort with strong food quality in shawarma and falafel, supported by genuine repeat customer loyalty and excellent value for generous portions. However, occasional inconsistencies in execution and modest casual ambiance prevent a higher grade—it's a reliable neighborhood favorite rather than a destination restaurant.
Restaurant Summary
On a busy Lower Queen Anne corner, this spot feels cozy and casual, the kind of place where platters arrive quickly and the room hums with takeout traffic. Diners praise the warm staff and portions that border on generous, noting, "We left full and happy with leftovers." Parking can be a pain near the arena, but inside it is warm and welcoming for a relaxed meal. The cooking leans traditional Middle Eastern comfort: tender shawarma, fluffy falafel, and rice that wins devoted fans. Expect straightforward, flavor-first plates rather than cheffy flourishes. Most visits deliver juicy meats and zesty sauces, though a few report undercooked fries or the odd chewy bite. If you crave hearty staples over theatrics, this is an easy favorite for value and portions. Families do well here thanks to simple crowd-pleasers like chicken gyro, yellow rice, fries, and hummus with pita. There is no formal kids menu, but the menu naturally fits younger eaters, and the vibe stays low-key and flexible for quick, kid-friendly meals.
At a Glance
- Generous portions and fair prices for hearty Middle Eastern staples
- Falafel, shawarma, and rice are consistent favorites
- Parking is difficult during events; expect to walk or use transit
- Occasional order mistakes and undercooked fries reported
- Non-cash surcharge and online ordering fees mentioned in reviews
What Sets It Apart
- generous_portion_plates
- strong_falafel_and_rice
- cash_discount_option
What People Love
- Comforting flavors that taste homemade
- Fluffy falafel and well-seasoned shawarma
- Big plates with salad and rice
- Friendly staff who remember regulars
- Cash discount that sweetens value
Points of Concern
- Parking is genuinely tight; event nights amplify the challenge
- Inconsistency: fries sometimes undercooked and occasional chewy beef
- Order accuracy lapses (sauces or items forgotten) frustrate some takeout diners
- Surcharges: 3.5% non-cash fee and higher online order fees noted by reviewers
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$25-36 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Choose platters for best value: salad and rice included.
- Vegetarians have solid options: falafel wrap/salad, dolmas, baba ganoush, lentil soup.
- For a shareable spread: hummus, Greek fries, and a Mixed Kabob platter.
Perfect For
- Pre-event dinner near Climate Pledge Arena
- Casual weeknight takeout with reliable staples
- Group catering for office or family gatherings
- Solo quick bite with counter service
Location Insights
Area: Lively mixed-use district by Seattle Center with theaters, arenas, and apartments; caters to locals and event-goers.
Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic near major venues; standard urban awareness recommended at night.
Nearby: Near Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle Center, hotels, and offices; street parking tight during events.
Lower Queen AnneLower Queen Anne is a lively neighborhood with a diverse dining scene ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. It is popular among young professionals and visitors due to its proximity to Seattle Center and entertainment venues, fostering a social and dynamic atmosphere.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday10:00–22:00
Tuesday10:00–22:00
Wednesday10:00–22:00
Thursday10:00–22:00
Friday10:00–23:00
Saturday10:00–23:00
Sunday10:30–21:30
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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