Seemor
Zouave RestaurantB+Worth Trying
2615 NE 65th St, Seattle, WA 98115
· Italian restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (618 reviews)
Takeout · Outdoor seating
Cozy neighborhood Italian-Mediterranean with generous portions, welcoming chef-driven service, and moderate prices; minor consistency issues on seasoning and speed.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Zouave delivers solid neighborhood dining through exceptional service warmth and strong food quality anchored by fresh soups and standout dishes like lobster ravioli. However, inconsistent execution—recurring saltiness and occasional bland pasta— prevents a higher grade, while slower pacing during peak hours tempers the experience. The charming open-kitchen setting and generous portions at moderate prices make it a worthwhile local favorite rather than a destination standout.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels cozy and homey, with the small open kitchen perfuming the air and the chef popping out to chat. Guests describe generous hospitality—"they treated us like family"—and a steady, neighborly buzz that stays warm and welcoming rather than loud. Cooking leans classic Italian with Mediterranean touches: chicken marsala, cioppino, lobster ravioli, paella, and even couscous. Portions are hearty, soups impress, and prices sit below many peers. A few diners note occasional saltiness in polenta or under-seasoned pasta, so expect comfort-driven plates more than high-concept artistry. Families fit right in. There is a dedicated kids pasta menu and plenty of familiar dishes like penne and gnocchi. Service is kind with flexible substitutions, making it easy to tailor simpler options for younger eaters.
At a Glance
- Welcoming chef-driven hospitality with generous portions
- Good value for Seattle with mains around twenty dollars
- Cozy neighborhood ambiance and open-kitchen charm
- Occasional slow pacing and seasoning inconsistency (salty polenta, bland pasta)
- Street parking can be tricky at peak
What Sets It Apart
- chef_tableside_checks
- open_kitchen_experience
- neighborhood_warmth
What People Love
- Feeling like a guest at a friend’s home
- Chef visiting tables to check in
- Soups and lobster ravioli that deliver comfort
- Leaving with leftovers at fair prices
Points of Concern
- Kitchen can run slow when busy; plan for a leisurely meal
- Polenta and some pasta dishes can be over- or under-seasoned
- Street parking limited; consider transit or walking
- Specials sometimes lack posted prices; ask before ordering
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$34-$48 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- For value: Salad Verte + Chicken Marsala + shared dessert lands near $40 per person
- For pescatarians: Penne Salmon or Cioppino with a glass of wine
Perfect For
- Casual date night with comforting plates
- Family dinner with kid-friendly pasta
- Neighborhood meetups over hearty portions
- Relaxed solo meal at off-peak times
Location Insights
Area: Residential-neighborhood corridor with small businesses; relaxed, local-centric dining rather than downtown bustle.
Safety: Generally safe, walkable residential area with steady foot traffic; typical urban lighting.
Nearby: Near Ravenna/Maple Leaf homes, parks, and bus routes; limited dedicated parking, street parking common.
University DistrictThe University District is a vibrant neighborhood centered around the University of Washington, featuring a mix of casual eateries, coffee shops, and ethnic restaurants. It has a lively, youthful atmosphere during the academic year, with a diverse dining scene catering to students and locals alike, offering both affordable and eclectic options.
University VillageUniversity Village is an upscale shopping and dining area within the University District, known for boutique stores and higher-end restaurants. It attracts a more affluent crowd seeking a refined dining experience in a pedestrian-friendly environment.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday17:00–22:00
Wednesday17:00–22:00
Thursday17:00–22:00
Friday17:00–22:00
Saturday17:00–22:00
Sunday17:00–22:00
Available: Takeout, Outdoor seating
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