Kraken Menu: Exploring the Best Dishes at Seattle’s Famous Seafood Eatery

Imagine sitting at the waterfront, the salty breeze from the Pacific Ocean drifting through the air, and in front of you, a plate of freshly caught seafood, prepared to perfection. This is the experience at Kraken, Seattle’s premier seafood restaurant. Known for its inventive take on local flavors and fresh ingredients, Kraken has redefined what seafood can be. Its menu is a true reflection of the Pacific Northwest's vibrant culinary scene, blending tradition with creativity. This article dives into some of the standout items on Kraken's menu, highlighting what makes this dining experience unforgettable.

1. Starters: A Bold Introduction to Seattle's Flavors

The Kraken menu opens with a series of starters that set the tone for what’s to come—bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and impeccable presentation. A standout is the Dungeness Crab Cakes, made with freshly caught crab and paired with a zesty lemon aioli. The cakes are soft, buttery, and packed with sweet crab meat, offering a perfect balance of texture and taste. Another must-try is the Pacific Clam Chowder, which elevates the traditional recipe with the addition of smoked bacon and locally sourced clams. The smoky undertone of the bacon combined with the briny flavor of the clams creates a depth of flavor that is hard to beat.

2. Main Course: Signature Dishes That Showcase Freshness

When it comes to the main courses, Kraken’s menu truly shines. The Grilled Pacific Salmon is the restaurant’s signature dish, prepared simply with a light char and served with a side of herb butter and roasted vegetables. The salmon is sourced locally and grilled to perfection, with a crispy skin and tender, moist flesh. This dish embodies the restaurant’s philosophy of letting the natural flavors of the seafood speak for themselves.

For those who prefer something more decadent, the Lobster Risotto is a must. This creamy dish combines rich, buttery lobster with Arborio rice cooked to perfection. Topped with freshly shaved Parmesan and a touch of truffle oil, it’s a dish that exemplifies luxury without being overly heavy.

Another popular item is the Grilled Octopus, which is tenderized over several hours and then seared for a slight crisp. Served with a tangy chimichurri sauce and roasted fingerling potatoes, it’s a dish that surprises and delights with its complexity of flavors and textures.

3. Sides: The Perfect Complement

Every great main course deserves an equally impressive side, and Kraken doesn’t disappoint. The Charred Broccoli with Lemon and Garlic is a crowd favorite, providing a bright, zesty contrast to the richer dishes. The broccoli is grilled until slightly charred, giving it a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the fresh lemon zest and garlic.

Another side worth mentioning is the Roasted Fingerling Potatoes, cooked in duck fat for an extra layer of richness. These crispy, golden-brown potatoes have a melt-in-your-mouth texture that complements any of the seafood dishes on the menu.

4. Drinks: A Perfect Pairing for Every Dish

What’s a seafood meal without the perfect drink to accompany it? Kraken boasts an impressive drink menu, with a focus on local craft beers and wines that pair beautifully with the food. The Washington Chardonnay is a perfect match for the Grilled Pacific Salmon, its crisp, slightly oaky notes complementing the richness of the fish.

For those who prefer beer, the IPA from Seattle’s Fremont Brewing offers a hoppy bite that cuts through the richness of dishes like the Lobster Risotto. Kraken also offers a selection of craft cocktails, with the Sea Breeze Spritz being a popular choice. This refreshing drink combines vodka, cranberry, and grapefruit juice for a light, fruity complement to any seafood dish.

5. Dessert: A Sweet End to the Feast

No meal at Kraken is complete without dessert. The Salted Caramel Tart is a decadent end to any meal, with a buttery crust, rich caramel filling, and a sprinkle of sea salt to balance the sweetness. Paired with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, it’s a dessert that lingers long after the meal is over.

For something lighter, the Citrus Sorbet Trio is a refreshing option. Featuring sorbets made from blood orange, lemon, and grapefruit, it’s the perfect palate cleanser after a rich seafood meal.

6. Sustainability: A Commitment to Freshness and the Environment

Kraken isn’t just about serving delicious seafood; it’s also about serving sustainable seafood. The restaurant is committed to sourcing fish from local fisheries that follow sustainable practices. This means that every dish you enjoy at Kraken is not only fresh but also environmentally friendly. The restaurant works closely with suppliers to ensure that all seafood is responsibly sourced, helping to protect the Pacific Northwest’s rich marine ecosystem.

Table 1: Example of Kraken's Sustainable Sourcing Practices

7. A Dining Experience to Remember

Dining at Kraken is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. From the moment you step into the restaurant, with its nautical-themed décor and stunning views of Puget Sound, to the moment you take your last bite of dessert, every detail is designed to make your visit special. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and eager to provide recommendations based on your preferences, ensuring that you get the most out of your dining experience.

Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, Kraken is the place to be. Its combination of fresh, sustainable ingredients, expertly prepared dishes, and impeccable service makes it one of Seattle’s top dining destinations. So next time you’re in the city, make sure to stop by and experience it for yourself.