This week in Seattle’s food scene brings bittersweet farewells to local favorites alongside exciting openings, as we bid adieu to beloved institutions and welcome fresh culinary concepts.
One of the most notable closures is Shanghai Garden, renowned for its hand-shaved barley green noodles. After a remarkable 35 years, the family-owned restaurant in the Chinatown-International District is set to close its doors on May 31. The Su family, who operates the establishment, made the decision partly due to the retirement of Chef Hua Te Su, the restaurant’s founder. He is returning for the final weeks to prepare his famous noodles, ensuring a delicious farewell for loyal patrons.
A few more local establishments are also preparing to shut down. Virginia Inn, a historic bar and restaurant, will be closing its doors soon as announced by owner Craig Perez. Following a spirited post on Facebook, many community members are left with questions about the future of this neighborhood staple. Additionally, Rey Amargo, a Mexican chocolate shop, is heading back to its roots, closing its U.S. location after five years but will still be accessible through distributors.
Sadly, Coindexter’s, a barcade in Greenwood, has announced May 3 as its last day due to high rent costs, echoing Top Pot Doughnuts’ sentiments regarding the closure of its Queen Anne location, which also shuttered its doors on April 27.
Amidst the closures, new openings are bringing excitement to the area. Gao Lhao Noodle Shop is set to open in the former Eight Row space at Green Lake, courtesy of the team behind Kin Len Thai Night Bites and Isarn Thai Soul Kitchen. Inspired by Bangkok’s Chinatown, this new eatery will offer an exciting menu featuring hot pots, curries, and seafood, all complemented by a lively atmosphere. Expect to see this vibrant addition welcoming guests within the next month.
International Lobster Rolls will also begin serving its seafood sandwiches on May 3 in the former Dim Sum Square location in Chinatown. Diners can look forward to a variety of lobster rolls that nod to diverse culinary traditions, including flavors like masala and Cajun mango, all priced under $20.
Pizza Ritual is preparing for a new chapter by transitioning to a brick-and-mortar model, serving Neapolitan pizzas out of a window in Delridge one or two days a week. Pizzaiolo Matt Gorman, known for his collaboration on the Pizzakayas project, will officially open this window in May, marking a promising new venture.
In addition to exciting restaurant openings, the hotel scene is buzzing with new developments. The upscale 1 Hotel Seattle will open its doors next week in South Lake Union, showcasing Chef Oscar Amador’s restaurant, La Loba. With a menu that merges Spanish cuisine with Northwest ingredients, this new culinary destination is poised to impress diners with offerings like pan-roasted ling cod and spring green kimchi.
Another noteworthy hotel, Populus (formerly known as Hotel Westland), plans to launch in Pioneer Square by late spring. This “carbon positive” establishment will house Salt Harvest, a zero-waste restaurant focused on Pacific Northwest-inspired cuisine, featuring an all-day café and a nine-seat chef’s counter.
On the grocery front, North Seattle residents can look forward to new shopping options. WinCo, the Boise-based affordable grocer, is making strides towards opening in the former Sam’s Club space on Aurora. The long-anticipated entry marks an exciting expansion for bulk-food enthusiasts. Additionally, PCC is returning to the downtown market scene with its first small-format PCC Corner Store, expected to open in July. This new location will focus on prepared foods and snacks while providing a select range of grocery staples.
As Seattle’s culinary landscape evolves, the contrast of old vs. new continues to shape the city’s reputation as a vibrant food destination. From heartfelt farewells to thrilling new beginnings, locals have plenty to savor and discover this week.
Stay tuned for more updates on Seattle’s ever-changing food scene as we navigate new openings, closures, and everything in between.
image source from：https://www.seattlemet.com/eat-and-drink/2025/04/shanghai-garden-closing-gao-lhao-opening
