Seemor
ISSIANB+Worth Trying
1618 N 45th St, Seattle, WA 98103
· Japanese restaurant, Restaurant, Sushi restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (1075 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Bustling Japanese izakaya with standout happy hour, excellent skewers and sashimi value, but expect waits, tight quarters, and occasionally brusque service.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
ISSIAN delivers competitive neighborhood izakaya dining through strong yakitori and sashimi quality and exceptional happy hour value, but inconsistent execution on certain plates and operational strain during peak hours prevent a higher grade. The lively, bustling atmosphere and loyal following make it worth visiting, though expect tight quarters and occasional service friction when slammed.
Restaurant Summary
A bustling Wallingford izakaya where the room feels warm and bustling and small plates land fast once you sit. Expect a bit of organized chaos at the door, lively chatter, and the aroma of grills. One diner summed it up: "Once we were seated, dishes flew out and service turned friendly." If you arrive at peak, prepare for tight quarters and a wait. The cooking leans classic izakaya with a few modern nudges. Skewers are the star, sashimi quality over-delivers for the price, and broiled fish like saba draws repeat orders. Not every plate is a knockout—kalbi and some rolls earn mixed notes—but happy hour breadth and pricing make it fun to explore. Ideal if you enjoy ordering rounds of small plates and discovering favorites. Families can do well here if kids like familiar bites: crispy wings, chicken or pork skewers, rice bowls, and simple sides. Space is snug and a stroller can be awkward, so plan for bar-free times and ask for an end table. There is no kids menu, but several items are kid-friendly; veg options exist, though truly vegan choices are limited and toppings like bonito should be confirmed.
At a Glance
- Excellent happy hour value with many choices
- Yakitori and sashimi quality praised repeatedly
- Long, sometimes underestimated waits at peak
- Tight, noisy space with occasional ventilation heat
- Service tone can be brusque or rushed when slammed
What Sets It Apart
- deep happy hour menu
- authentic yakitori focus
- excellent sashimi value
What People Love
- Happy hour feels like a steal
- Skewers cooked just right
- Sashimi quality beyond price point
- Lively izakaya atmosphere
- Broiled fish like saba that surprises
Points of Concern
- Wait estimates can stretch significantly on busy nights; reservations help
- Space is cramped and can feel hot or smoky during rush
- Host interactions sometimes feel curt; service can seem rushed
- One report of foodborne illness and one concern about dish handling near the pass
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$32-48 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Build a skewer flight (3-5 picks) plus one broiled fish and a shared donburi
- Use happy hour to sample tartare, wings, and takoyaki before committing to mains
Perfect For
- Casual night of small plates and drinks
- Early happy hour feast without breaking the bank
- Solo bar seat with skewers and a beer
- Friends looking to sample lots of dishes
Location Insights
Area: Lively neighborhood near UW with young professionals and students; casual bars and eateries cluster along 45th.
Safety: Generally safe, active foot traffic evenings; typical urban vigilance advised on late nights.
Nearby: Near bars, cafes, small shops; convenient to Green Lake and University District.
Phinney RidgePhinney Ridge is characterized by its relaxed, neighborhood feel with a strong sense of community. The dining scene includes casual cafes, family-friendly restaurants, and some trendy spots catering to locals who value quality and a laid-back atmosphere. The area is safe, walkable, and popular for those seeking a balance between city life and suburban calm.
Greenwood-PhinneyThis micro-neighborhood blends the commercial corridors of Greenwood with the residential charm of Phinney Ridge, offering eclectic dining options from casual eateries to artisanal coffee shops. It is known for its community events and a friendly, approachable dining environment.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday16:30–21:00
Wednesday16:30–21:00
Thursday16:30–21:00
Friday16:30–22:00
Saturday16:30–22:00
Sunday16:30–21:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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