Fodor's Expert Review Green Leaf Vietnamese Restaurant

Locals pack this friendly café for the expansive menu of fresh, well-prepared Vietnamese staples. The quality of the food—the spring rolls, báhn xèo (the Vietnamese version of an omelet), and lemongrass chicken are just a few standouts—and reasonable prices would be enough to make it an instant I.D. favorite. With mood lighting and stylish bamboo touches, Green Leaf also proves you don't have to sacrifice ambience to get cheap, authentic Asian food in Seattle. The staff greets everyone as though they're regulars—and there are plenty of regulars, enough to fill the small space.

If it's packed, try the Belltown branch, a large space with a full bar and late-night hours, at 2800 1st Avenue.