By now, you’ve likely figured out that American Mary is the closest recreational weed shop to University of Washington campus. And if you haven’t already? You’re welcome. But between the Quad’s famous cherry trees and America Mary’s potent pot varieties, lay some of the Emerald City’s best dining bargains. We’ve listed some of our favorites below.
Dick’s Drive In (111 N.E. 45th St.) Never-frozen beef. Fresh fries. Hand-dipped shakes. Nothing has changed here since 1954, and nothing should. Ever. The menu is too simple to go wrong at Dick’s, but make sure to try the Deluxe. It’s two patties, cheese, mayo and pickle relish, and after you’ve had one, it will call to you like a siren. Bring cash, and remember to order ketchup or tartar sauce.
Pagliacci Pizza (4529 University Way NE) Everyone likes pizza, and this Seattle institution’s interpretation shames any chain. The standards are there, but creations like the Agog Primo—with roasted garlic, Kalamata olives, and goat cheese—and the Salumi’s Spicy Pepperoni pie make tempting diversions from the toppings you habitually order. Pagliacci is the kind of place you’ll pine for if you move.
Thai Tom (4543 University Way NE) What if you don’t have time to wait, or have more than two people in your party? Get it to go. But you have to eat at this legendary hole-in-the-wall at least once. The open kitchen provides a Benihana-grade show, entrees are $7.50, and everything from the fiery cashew chicken to the creamy tom kah to the student staple phad thai is fantastic and flavorful.
Aladdin Gyro-Cery (4139 University Way NE) Yes, you could get the falafel or the gyro sandwich. Don’t. Go big and get the dinner plato with gyro meat. It’s a mountain more food than a standard sandwich, and it also won’t get soggy, so the leftovers will make for a tasty second dinner or a burly hangover-killing breakfast. Also, the zatar pita makes a perfect vegetarian snack.
Shultzy’s Sausage (4114 University Way NE) This longstanding spot arguably has the best french fries on the Ave. The crispy shoestring potatoes pair perfectly with any of the joint’s signature sandwiches, and the chili cheese fries will take you to another planet. Along with the sausage—bratwurst, andouille, chorizo—there are loads of other offerings, like the wicked pulled pork sandwich.
