Capitol Hill, Seattle’s vibrant and diverse neighborhood, is often defined by its well-trodden routes, like the lively Pike/Pine Corridor. However, this expansive area, composed of over 11,000 city blocks, is far from a monolith—its unique micro-districts tell stories all their own.
Among them lies a hidden treasure on Summit Avenue at Mercer Street, where an inviting enclave of businesses flourishes beneath the sprawling branches of three towering bigleaf maples. This serene spot features Top Pot, Sol Liquor Lounge, and Single Shot in one building, with Summit Public House and Cornelly in another. The atmosphere, enriched by the dappled light filtering through the leaves, transports visitors to a different place, reminiscent of cities like Berlin or Melbourne.
Ruadhri McCormick, known as Rory, the owner of Single Shot, has cultivated a unique environment at the restaurant since it opened in 2014. “It’s so special to be on this little tree-lined side street,” he reflects, appreciating the balance between the chaos of Broadway and the tranquility his location offers. McCormick also co-owns Re:Public and El Grito Taqueria but finds comfort retreating to this quieter part of the Hill, where the clientele consists largely of regulars and familiar faces.
This blend of locals and visitors fuels the restaurant’s success as it approaches its eleventh anniversary. Even though Single Shot once had its moment in the spotlight, it now enjoys a semblance of obscurity compared to the rest of the bustling city. McCormick humorously explains the playful origins of the restaurant’s name, referencing an antique folk art carving of a 12-foot wooden rifle that hangs prominently above the bar.
Antonio Palma, the executive chef at Single Shot, joined the team four years ago but was a loyal patron right from the beginning. Having spent nearly two decades in various kitchens, Palma’s journey began under the guidance of Luigi de Nunzio at Al Boccalino in Pioneer Square. “Single Shot was one of my favorite restaurants to come into on the weekends,” he recalls fondly. The restaurant’s Margherita flatbread pizza quickly became his go-to dish, leading him to express a desire to one day work in its kitchen.
His dream came true when he joined the team, first contributing to brunch and then transitioning to dinner service. After a brief departure to help open Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi in downtown Bellevue, Palma returned to Single Shot, ready to take the culinary reins.
Since stepping up as head chef, Palma has infused the menu with a blend of global flavors, reflecting the diverse culinary experiences he’s gathered throughout his career. His signature dishes shine with creativity and cultural fusions, such as hamachi crudo which layers delicate yellowtail with blood orange, tender garlic, pickled red Fresno chile, and micro-herbs, all drizzled in a vibrant yuzu and cilantro-jalapeno oil.
Perhaps the pièce de résistance is the roasted cauliflower entrée, showcasing a whole head of the vegetable treated with spices and olive oil, paired with tahini, hummus, romesco sauce, pickled golden raisins, and blistered cherry tomatoes. This imaginative vegan dish marries flavors across Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, illustrating Palma’s skill in crafting meals that satisfy even the most devoted carnivores.
Among the highlight offerings, the sumptuous pork chop reigns supreme. Sourced from Duroc/white-line crossbred pigs at Salmon Creek Farms in Idaho, the colossal 16-ounce chop is complemented by a Green Goddess dressing, charred rapini, watercress, and sautéed Granny Smith apples. Its presentation is nothing short of stunning, featuring two additional baby back ribs perched above the chop, creating an impressive visual display that mirrors the natural surroundings.
Palma acknowledges that when he took over, the menu’s direction shifted significantly from the Southern-style offerings of his predecessor. His approach includes infusing Mediterranean inspirations with Japanese touches, Mexican elements, and Spanish influences on classic Italian dishes alongside traditional French techniques. This diverse culinary landscape positions Single Shot as a destination for varied and exciting flavors.
Bar manager Jason Mc-Grady enhances the experience with a carefully curated cocktail list. Standout libations include the Alpine Run, which combines gin, Amaro Braulio, rosemary, lemon, and red Zirbenz liqueur, delivering a harmonious blend of earthy and citrus notes. Another favorite, the 611 Sling, puts a twist on the classic Singapore Sling with a mix of rums, hibiscus, and bitters, while the zero-proof Trellis cocktail offers a refreshing, not overly sweet option for summertime sipping.
At Single Shot, diners are assured of a satisfying meal, a remarkable feat considering the compact size of the kitchen. Palma’s emphasis on live-fire cooking adds a captivating dimension to the dining experience, allowing guests to relish the quality and intricacy of each dish. The restaurant radiates a sense of warmth and intimacy, enhanced by thoughtful seasonal menus and a relaxed ambiance that often contrasts with the lively dining scene elsewhere in Capitol Hill.
Visually, Single Shot is a standout, too. The dining area combines a sophisticated gray-and-white scheme with vintage tile and glowing lights, creating an inviting, classy atmosphere. Additional details, such as the marble bar and elegant white roses on display, reflect a commitment to providing a comprehensive dining experience that transcends mere dining.
Those towering maples outside play a vital role in cementing the restaurant’s charm, creating a sense of seclusion from the urban hustle surrounding it. This peaceful setting gives patrons a feeling of possessing a hidden secret from the city, something truly special.
As Single Shot steps into its second decade, it exemplifies a seamless integration of McCormick’s moody design and Palma’s globally inspired cuisine, nestled in a quiet yet vibrant corner of Seattle. In a rapidly evolving urban landscape, the restaurant remains a cherished find, promising an enjoyable and memorable dining experience that highlights the richness and diversity of Capitol Hill.
image source from：seattlemag
