Seemor
The Counter at Old Ballard Catering Co.B+Worth Trying
1505 NE 65th St, Seattle, WA 98115
· Takeout Restaurant
· 4.9/5 Google (108 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Excellent takeout spot near Roosevelt Station delivering standout gyros, Friday fried chicken, and solid seafood at moderate prices—best for carryout rather than dine-in.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
The Counter delivers exceptional food quality with standout gyros and Friday fried chicken that earn repeated praise from experienced diners, paired with genuinely friendly counter service and generous portions at fair prices. The takeout-only model and lack of seating prevent the higher grades reserved for full-service establishments, though solid consistency and strong local loyalty position it as a neighborhood favorite worth seeking out for quality comfort food.
Restaurant Summary
This compact spot near Roosevelt Station feels warm and neighborly from the moment you step to the counter. Reviewers rave about the staff being genuinely friendly and orders coming out hot when you pick up, with one noting, "My gyro had juicy chicken, soft pita, and bright seasoning—way above typical takeout." Expect made-to-order care and a true grab-and-go format with no seating. The cooking leans comfort-first with a global wink: gyros and pitas, crisp fish and chips, street tacos, and a cult-favorite Friday fried chicken. The culinary approach is elevated traditional with occasional fusion flourishes: generous portions, fresh prep, and bold but balanced flavors rather than restaurant theatrics. Gyros are the star, though that super-crisp fried chicken basket draws its own fan club. Families are well covered. There is a real kids menu (nuggets, mac and cheese, butter noodles, small fish and chips) plus plain sides for cautious eaters. Since it is takeout-only, it is ideal for quick family pickups or easy weeknights; consider online pre-ordering so timing lines up and food stays hot for the ride home.
At a Glance
- Gyros and Friday fried chicken earn standout praise
- Friendly, helpful counter service with proactive follow-up
- Generous portions at moderate prices
- Takeout-only; no seating available
- Occasional temperature/timing mismatches on multi-item orders
What Sets It Apart
- friday_fried_chicken_special
- proximity_to_light_rail
- broad_menu_with_kids_options
What People Love
- Juicy, well-seasoned gyros with soft pita
- Ultra-crisp fried chicken with huge portions
- Fish and chips that stay crunchy and flaky
- Friendly owner-operated vibe
- Reliable value for money
Points of Concern
- Takeout-only format means limited comfort for those wanting to dine in
- Made-to-order pacing can cause waits; online pre-order recommended
- Occasional cold item on multi-item orders reported by a weekly regular
- One isolated cleanliness complaint contrasted by a large body of positive reviews
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter Only
Average Cost$24-$36 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- For vegans: Impossible Vegan FAUX-rizo tacos or salad; consider fries and side Greek without dairy
- For kids: Nuggets & fries ($6) or butter noodles ($4)
- Value combo: Gyro plus side Greek or fries for a filling mid-$ teens meal
Perfect For
- Weeknight pickup after the light rail
- Family meals with picky and adventurous eaters
- Casual comfort-food cravings with quality ingredients
- Quick solo grab-and-go lunches or dinners
Location Insights
Area: Residential-leaning urban village anchored by Roosevelt High School and light rail; caters to commuters and neighborhood families.
Safety: Generally safe and well-trafficked around the station; typical city vigilance recommended in evenings.
Nearby: Close to Roosevelt light rail, school, small shops, and casual eateries—convenient for grab-and-go.
University DistrictThe University District is a vibrant area centered around the University of Washington, featuring a diverse dining scene ranging from casual eateries to ethnic restaurants. It has a lively social atmosphere driven by students and locals, with a mix of affordable and mid-range dining options.
Ravenna-BryantRavenna-Bryant is a quieter, more residential sub-area within the University District, known for its tree-lined streets and local cafes. Dining here tends to be more neighborhood-focused with casual, family-friendly restaurants and coffee shops.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday16:00–19:00
Wednesday16:00–19:00
Thursday16:00–19:00
Friday11:30–19:00
Saturday11:30–19:00
Sunday
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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