It’s not uncommon for Seattle foodies craving authentic Asian cuisine to turn to the trusty International District – Thai treats, Chinese dim sum dishes and Vietnamese pho bowls are just a few of the offerings you can snag for typically no more than a few bucks. However, cultural cuisine contender Capitol Hill has opened the portal to Asian plates alike just 15 minutes up the hill. For the street-style loving palate-seeking class with a hint of quirk and an equally familiar authenticity to that provided by the International District, Monsoon will draw you into a whirlwind of Vietnamese goodness.
Owned and operated by Seattle restaurant veterans, siblings Eric and Sophie Banh, Monsoon calls beloved Capitol Hill’s Ba Bar and newcomer Seven Beef Steak House family. Monsoon is no novice in the world of pho, rolls and mouthwatering entrees, and certainly is a master in making you feel right at home.
With two cozy dining spaces, a sleek, rustic wooden bar top and a recently established twinkling rooftop bar, the first decision you’ll have to make before you even glance at the menu will be about where to post up. Opt for a booth or table beside the window or hit either bar for a captivating view of cocktail crafting.
Once you’re good and thirsty, you’ll discover the list of house cocktails, draft beer pours and wine bottles. The most popular imbibement? The Sayulita, a mix of hibiscus chili tequila, house grenadine, lime, orange and cilantro. The drink offers a respectable chili-inspired kick cut by floral and citrus elements – and of course, it’s adorned with an edible Nasturtium, because there is possibly nothing classier than edible flowers.
Depending on what time of day your cravings hit, you’ll either enjoy dinner, lunch or dim sum brunch at Monsoon. Staples lemongrass tofu and crispy drunken chicken can be indulged in via chopsticks at any time of day, while steamed dumplings and daikon and taro cakes are exclusive to brunch and happy hour.
Rotating seasonal seafood options such as fresh oysters hit the scene for saltwater devoted Seattleites, but the prime indulgence may just be the grilled peppercorn bavette — a thick, flavorful steak cut just underneath the flank — plated with butter lettuce, pineapple, cucumber and banh hoi. Smaller appetites fear not: a steaming bowl of tamarind soup or a grilled prawn and morning glory (Vietnamese “water spinach”) stem salad awaits.
Whichever you choose, you’re sure to leave with a smile on your face, a satisfaction in your stomach and a vow in your heart never to eat with boring old utensils ever again. If you haven’t had enough just quite yet, hit Monsoon’s second location in Bellevue for round two.
