Seemor
Ivar's Seafood BarB-Worth Trying
1505 156th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98007
· Seafood restaurant, Fast food restaurant, Fish & chips restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (1288 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Reliable Pacific Northwest seafood classics and chowder in a fast-casual setting; tasty but inconsistent portions and occasional service lapses—great deals during promos.
Why it gets a B- for overall quality
Ivar's Seafood Bar delivers dependable Pacific Northwest comfort food with solid chowder and flavorful cod that keeps locals returning, supported by quick service and convenient suburban access. However, portion variability and occasional missing sides prevent higher marks, and the fast-casual format lacks the polish or destination appeal of premier seafood establishments. Best visited when craving classic fish and chips with a promotional deal.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling in a fast-casual way, with staff that often run trays to tables and keep the chowder flowing. One diner summed it up: "Chowder hit the spot and the cod was flavorful", though a few wished the condiment area were tidier. The cooking sticks to classic Pacific Northwest seafood: fish and chips, chowders, grilled salmon, and simple preparations. It is comfort-first rather than showy, delivering dependable flavors with the occasional wobble on portion sizes or over-frying. If you time it with a promo, the value lands just right for a casual seafood fix. Families do well here thanks to a robust kids menu with salmon, fish and chips, pasta, grilled cheese, chicken strips, and more. Portions suit younger eaters, and there are straightforward sides; note the white clam chowder has bacon, but alternatives like salmon chowder or non-chowder items fit different needs.
At a Glance
- Chowder and classic cod are consistently tasty
- Easy parking and quick counter service
- Portions for fish can be quite small
- Occasional missing sides in takeout bags
- Expect peak-time crowds during promotions
What Sets It Apart
- iconic_pnw_chowder
- fast_casual_with_table_running
- broad_kids_menu
What People Love
- Comforting chowder warmth
- Crispy, well-seasoned cod
- Friendly counter staff
- Convenient parking and fast service
Points of Concern
- Portion size variability, especially fish pieces, mentioned by multiple diners
- Order completeness issues like missing fries or slaw in to-go orders
- Cleanliness lapses at condiment/sauce station on some visits
- Isolated food safety complaints (hair, upset stomach) contrasted by many no-issue reports
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$42-60 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- For gluten-free leaning diners, choose Simply Prepared fish with mashed potatoes and vegetables
- Families: Kids salmon or fish and chips $8.50-$13 offer reliable options
Perfect For
- Casual seafood cravings
- Weeknight family dinners
- Quick solo lunch stops
- Business travelers wanting local staples
Location Insights
Area: Suburban commercial corridor with tech offices, big-box retail, and family traffic; convenient and car-oriented.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit arterials with steady foot and vehicle traffic.
Nearby: Near Crossroads retail and residential areas; easy access from main roads and ample surface parking.
BellevueBellevue is a thriving city with a strong economy driven by technology and retail. The dining scene is diverse, ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, catering to both families and professionals. The area is safe, accessible, and known for its well-maintained public spaces and shopping centers.
CrossroadsCrossroads is a vibrant, diverse neighborhood within Bellevue known for its multicultural community and family-friendly atmosphere. The dining options here include a variety of ethnic cuisines and casual dining spots, reflecting the area's cultural diversity.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–21:00
Tuesday11:00–21:00
Wednesday11:00–21:00
Thursday11:00–21:00
Friday11:00–21:00
Saturday11:00–21:00
Sunday11:00–21:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
View full analysis on Seemor →