Dick's Seattle
Seattle's iconic burger
I may have been born in the 80s, but Dick's Drive-In is how I like to imagine the 1950's were. Opened in 1954, Dick's is a local institution, and everyone has at least one special memory here (there are 5 Seattle locations). I still remember coming here after my high school graduation, to get a free cheeseburger and congratulatory remarks from employees. (Every year, Dick's gives free cheeseburgers to new graduates who come in their cap and gown.) On a more recent occasion, I remember walking to my neighborhood Dick's and eating my dinner standing up, in front of an annual summer parade.
After being cash-only for years, they have updated and now accept credit cards. The menu isn't too big or complicated- take my advice and order a Dick's Deluxe and yummy fries. (Even my cat had been known to steal a fry from me- talk about a seal of approval.) Dick's burgers aren't fancy or ground-breakingly gourmet, but they're made with love and hit the spot. They also have shakes and root beer floats for dessert. I love that they stay open until 02:00 every night, since Seattle doesn't have too many late-night dining options.
As it's called Dick's Drive-In, most locations don't have interior seating so we often eat our burgers in the parking lot (inside the car if it's winter, or outside on the hood of the trunk in the summer). There's something about this style of eating that makes me feel like I've gone back in time.
About this spot
Explore cities like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Seattle guide.
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Seattle
The Octopus Bar – Yo, ho, ho & a bottle of rum
"The Octopus Bar" is by far the best watering hole in Seattle's Wallingford neighborhood. The decor should be tacky (in theory), but it's effortlessly cool
By
Aarin
Wright
JarrBarr – Cocktails and Spanish tapas
"JarrBarr" has been dubbed 'the best little bar in Seattle'. It's the kind of place that a friend of a friend of a friend will recommend to you...
By
Diya
Khanna
La Marzocco – Coffee from all over the world
"La Marzocco" in Seattle is the perfect place to sip coffee, flip open your MacBook and lose yourself in your work. It's in the same space as KEXP...
By
Diya
Khanna
Lifelong Thrift – Shop donate educate
"Lifelong Thrift" in Seattle's Capitol Hill is one of the most well managed and organised thrift shops I have ever been to, while still being a nonprofit.
By
Diya
Khanna
Robert Ramsay Cellars – A small craft winery
"Robert Ramsay Cellars" in Seattle is a little hidden from the outside but absolutely worth it. You can try wine flight or pours - the Mouvedre is my fav.
By
Diya
Khanna
Magnolia Park – Views over Puget Sound
"Magnolia Park" in Seattle is a small, casual, intimate green space with sweeping views. It's never too busy, well spread out and peaceful enough for a nap
By
Diya
Khanna
FlintCreek Cattle Co – Sustainable meat
"FlintCreek Cattle Co" in Seattle is a new American steakhouse with a sustainable and ethical approach and killer cocktails. Perfect for a rainy evening...
By
Diya
Khanna
Alki Beach Park – Fish n' chips on the Boardwalk
"Alki Beach Park" offers spectacular views of the Seattle skyline. I love going there for a walk and some fish and chips or kayaking...
By
Diya
Khanna
Rocco's – Gourmet pizza by the slice
"Rocco's" in Seattle is one of my go-to places for a slice of pizza or a drink. I also like their garlic bread and Caesar's salad...
By
Vidhi
Bhagdev
Tutta Bella – Comfort food in a casual atmosphere
"Tutta Bella" Seattle is one of the first places that crosses my mind when I can't decide where to eat. One of my regular choices is the pizza bianca...
By