Tamarind Tree

Tamarind Tree is a sit-down Vietnamese restaurant at 1036 S Jackson St on the edge of Seattle's Little Saigon district, in the Chinatown-International District area south of downtown. The restaurant is a long-standing presence in the neighborhood and serves a broad menu of Vietnamese dishes in a dining room that is more polished than the casual noodle shops common nearby. Cuisine is Vietnamese, with an emphasis on fresh herbs, rice paper, grilled meats and slow-cooked dishes. Rice paper rolls are among the best-known starters, and clay pot dishes, with caramelized sauces cooked in a traditional pot, appear alongside grilled lemongrass specialties that have become emblematic of the menu. Noodle and rice plates give lighter alternatives, and vegetarian options are generally available. The dining room is larger and more formal than a typical pho shop, with seating suited to groups and family meals, a calm to moderately lively noise level, and a presentation that makes it a reasonable choice for a sit-down dinner rather than a quick bite. Dress is casual to smart casual. The beverage list includes Vietnamese coffee, tea, beer and wine, and the cocktail side is modest. Prices are moderate, roughly $20-35 per person. Reservations are accepted and are useful for groups and weekend evenings, although the restaurant is rarely as hard to book as downtown destinations; booking a day or two ahead is usually enough. Visitors can combine a meal here with a walk through Little Saigon's markets and bakeries, and the nearby Link light rail and bus routes make the neighborhood easy to reach without a car. Lunch tends to be lighter on crowds, and dinner offers the fuller menu atmosphere. Shared plates suit groups, with rolls and clay pot dishes ordered family-style. The restaurant suits visitors who want a fuller Vietnamese meal than a quick noodle bowl, and staff can advise on spice levels and dishes suited to those with dietary preferences.