Best Hot Spot Restaurants in International District

Look, I judge restaurants by the food primarily. So the small things I prefer or don't like about noise, value, or service timing matter, but not that much. Because the food at Terra Plata was really really good. We had one course from each quadrant of the menu (starter, earth, land, sea), and they were all good. We had the albracore crudo (really really good despite finding one pinbone), shishito peppers (normally an afterthought at restaurants - not here, the spices added a lot of depth), and the truffle and mushroom risotto (perfect texture). The land course (portuguese roast pig) was probably the only disappointment because it just wasn't as much of a flavor bomb as we expected from the ingredient's listed and just lacked something special. But it was still quite good, just overshadowed by the other dishes. And finally, the dessert (Basque Cheesecake) was amazing. No store bought pre-made dessert here. Unbelievable texture and the blood orange caramel was perfectly balanced. Tiny notes: the food comes out as it's done, which sometimes leads to awkward timing unless you plan what makes sense to have in what order. The service is good, but the restaurant was busy and you won't have them checking on you often. Not inherently an issue - I would rather have someone bothering me less than more. And we did find a pin bone in the crudo. But overall, it's a place I would recommend to foodies.

Luis and the food were amazing! Spinasse continues to be our favorite!

The food and bar at Single Shot are second to none. Great appies and mains. Always some new and fun cocktails to try. One of our favorite restaurants!!!

Was lucky enough to have chef Shiro himself. Every bite was exquisite! It's an experience and excellent meal.

First time to Pink Door and it did not disappoint! Everything we had was fabulous, the service was great as was the atmosphere! I felt at times I was in the 50’s with the decor and music which was fun! They even had real candles! We will definitely be returning!