Hungry for a new date night destination in Seattle? You’re in luck, food lovers. The much-talked about restaurant Atoma just opened in Wallingford, taking over the craftsman home formerly occupied by organic food trailblazer Tilth.
The restaurant at 1411 N. 45th St. comes from the former executive sous chef at Canlis Johnny Courtney and his wife Sarah. It follows a series of pop-ups around the city that had local food critics buzzing for months.
So, what’s all the fuss about?
🍽️ On the menu
Diners will find an eclectic mix of dishes influenced by the Courtneys’ travels around the world from Melbourne to Mexico. You might also taste flavors from the chef’s Southern-raised parents and his own New Mexico upbringing blended in with local ingredients.
Dishes that caught our eye include:
- Radish cake with geoduck and clam belly aioli
- Roasted duck with quince and hokkaido turnip
- Buckwheat cajeta tart
There are substantial veggie options — and on the drinks side, look for creative cocktails like a garlic honey highball and a wine list with plenty of PNW labels.
💡 Vibe check
Those who remember Tilth will be delighted to know the Atoma folks have maintained those cozy aesthetics. Sarah Courtney said the restaurant embraces “a dinner party feel” with a fireplace, dark walnut shelving, a bar, and monochromatic green from floor to ceiling.
Diners can opt for the lounge near the bar or dining room — both will have the same menu. However, it’s 21+ for the lounge (leave the kids at home).
💵 Getting the bill
The Courtneys wanted to open a place in-between the upscale experience at Canlis and the casual restaurants that have popped up recently.
In that vein, Atoma’s a la carte menu offers a range of prices: snacks ($7-$16), mid-courses ($16-$24), and main courses ($28-$39). Soon, there will be a multi-course tasting at $105 per person.
Jump on those reservations now — they’re already filling up quickly.
