Lakeside (901 Fairview Ave. N.), a new modern Pacific Northwest fine dining spot on the shores of South Lake Union, comes from unexpected origins—Waterways Cruises and Events. The local tour company, which is also based out of SLU, offers up specialty boat tours that are mostly culinary leaning.
Waterways Cruises founder Hilton Smith had always felt that food was secondary when you go on a boat cruise, and that’s why his tour company prioritizes good eats. Sara Trivelpiece, marketing director for Waterways, said that the opening of Lakeside was the natural next step in the company’s growth.
“We like to call the restaurant ‘the boat that doesn’t float,’” she said.
Located in the former home of Duke’s Seafood, Lakeside focuses on prix fixe menus featuring Pacific Northwest cuisine. Waterways culinary director, Trinity Mack, put together a diverse team of chefs with a breadth of experience in global cuisine. “She prefers to let them cook to their strengths, take control, and drive each individual menu with different flavors,” Trivelpiece explained.
Lakeside’s location at the former Duke’s spot is temporary as it awaits its new custom space in the upcoming Lake Union Piers development. The concept will carry over to the new space, which is set to open in early 2023.
The menus change regularly at Lakeside. Dinner is a five-course experience for $79. Here is an example of the June / July menu:
Bijou Bite: Boursin-Stuffed Asiago Crisps, Truffle Shaved Asparagus, Ebony Seaweed Caviar
Greens: Beet Carpaccio, Praline Bacon, Baby Arugula / Gorgonzola Crumbles
From the Sea: Pecan Crusted Wild Alaskan Salmon, Parsnip Puree, Cider Reduction, Miniature Purple Carrots, Confit Apple
From the Land: Roasted Garlic Seared Petite Filet Mignon, Grilled Walla Walla Onion, Horseradish Root Smash, Chocolate Beurre Rouge
Sweet Dreams Bite: Lemon Tart, Strawberry Macaroon, Fresh Berries, Candied Orange
