Restaurant Reviews

3 Squares

Beth's Cafe, 7317 Aurora Ave N, is one of the few all-night diners on the near north side. You can always get a well-prepared breakfast of eggs, hash browns, bacon and toast, plus omelettes, lunch and dinner fare. But don't go if you don't like atmosphere. It's a classic old-time diner replete with truckers, bikers, pierced-and-dyed kids, and a noisy, smoky ambience that reminds you of all those places your mother didn't want you to hang out in. Reasonable prices. Parking in back.

Lunch in the U-District

Shultzy's, which used to have a six-stool counter and a long window sill, has moved into spacious, attractive quarters at 4114 University Way NE. You would have to go to Sheboygan for better bratwurst. They make all their own sausages in many different varieties--andouille, Cajun, Italian--plus well-made sides of chili, beans and potato salad. And they have beer. There is no better sausage in Seattle.

Dinner in Ballard

Lombardi's Cucina is holding its annual Garlic Festival through October 17 at its Ballard location, 2200 NW Market, and at their Everett and Issaquah restaurants.

"We use eight tons of garlic a year," said Diane Syms, Lombardi's owner and founder, "more than 100 pounds per restaurant per week."

In addition to a garlic-oriented menu and wine specials, the Garlic Festival features a Count the Cloves guessing game with gift certificates, wine, cookbooks and garlic braids as prizes. Try the Pesce con Patate, a fanciful baked seafood dish from the Tuscan seacoast featuring fish fillets layered with circles of white potatoes and tomatoes, seasoned with garlic, herbs and white wine.

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