Ginger and Scallion Seattle: Authentic Chinese Restaurant Guide

Ginger and Scallion Seattle: Authentic Chinese Restaurant Guide
Ginger and Scallion is a highly regarded Chinese restaurant located in Seattle's International District, specializing in authentic Shanghainese cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. The restaurant has earned a loyal following for its signature ginger and scallion preparations, particularly its famous ginger scallion chicken that showcases the perfect balance of these two essential Chinese cooking ingredients.

For food enthusiasts searching for authentic Shanghainese restaurant Seattle experiences, Ginger and Scallion offers a culinary destination that consistently delivers on flavor and tradition. Established in 2010, this family-owned establishment has become a staple in Seattle's diverse food scene, particularly known for its mastery of ginger and scallion preparations that form the foundation of many classic Chinese dishes.

The Culinary Philosophy Behind Ginger and Scallion

What sets Ginger and Scallion apart from other Chinese restaurant with ginger scallion specialties Seattle options is their commitment to traditional Shanghainese cooking methods. The restaurant's name directly references two fundamental ingredients in Chinese cuisine that, when properly prepared, can transform simple dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences.

Their kitchen team follows time-honored techniques where ginger isn't merely an ingredient but a carefully measured component that provides warmth and depth without overwhelming other flavors. Similarly, their scallion preparations maintain the vegetable's crisp texture and fresh aroma, essential for authentic Shanghainese cuisine.

Signature Dishes Worth Trying

While the entire menu showcases Shanghainese culinary artistry, certain dishes have become particularly renowned among regular patrons searching for the best ginger scallion dish Seattle has to offer:

Dish Name Key Ingredients Why It Stands Out
Ginger Scallion Chicken Fresh chicken, young ginger, scallions, Shaoxing wine Perfectly balanced flavors with tender chicken and aromatic sauce
Scallion Oil Noodles Hand-pulled noodles, scallion oil, soy sauce Simplicity executed flawlessly with house-made scallion oil
Ginger Seafood Stir-fry Local seafood, ginger, garlic, vegetables Highlights Seattle's fresh seafood with traditional preparation

Location and Accessibility

Conveniently situated in the heart of Seattle's International District at 611 S King Street, Ginger and Scallion offers easy access for both locals and visitors. The restaurant is just a 10-minute drive from downtown Seattle and provides several transportation options:

  • Light rail: International District/Chinatown Station (2 blocks away)
  • Bus routes: Multiple options stopping within one block
  • Parking: Street parking available with several nearby lots

For those specifically searching for ginger and scallion restaurant location Seattle, the restaurant's central position makes it an accessible destination regardless of where you're staying in the city.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Ginger and Scallion maintains traditional Chinese restaurant hours:

  • Lunch: 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM (Tuesday-Sunday)
  • Dinner: 5:00 PM - 9:30 PM (Tuesday-Thursday), 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM (Friday-Saturday)
  • Closed: Mondays

The dining space accommodates approximately 60 guests across both main dining room and private banquet areas. While reservations are recommended for dinner service, especially on weekends, the restaurant also accommodates walk-ins at the bar area. Many patrons searching for where to find ginger scallion chicken Seattle appreciate that the restaurant maintains reasonable wait times even during peak hours.

Ginger and Scallion signature ginger scallion chicken dish served in traditional Chinese porcelain

Ginger and Scallion's Place in Seattle's Food Scene

Within Seattle's diverse culinary landscape, Ginger and Scallion has carved out a distinctive niche by focusing on authentic regional Chinese cuisine rather than Americanized versions. Food critics and local media have consistently recognized the restaurant for preserving traditional Shanghainese cooking methods while incorporating Pacific Northwest ingredients when appropriate.

The restaurant's commitment to quality has made it a go-to destination for those seeking International District Chinese food Seattle experiences that honor culinary tradition. Unlike many establishments that cater primarily to tourist expectations, Ginger and Scallion maintains authenticity that appeals to both Chinese community members and adventurous food explorers.

Planning Your Visit

For the best experience at Ginger and Scallion:

  • Arrive early for lunch to avoid queues
  • Ask about daily specials featuring seasonal ingredients
  • Try their house-made plum wine as a perfect complement to spicy dishes
  • Consider visiting during off-peak hours (2:30-5:00 PM) for a more relaxed experience

While Seattle offers numerous Chinese dining options, Ginger and Scallion stands out for its dedication to perfecting the art of ginger and scallion preparations that form the backbone of authentic Shanghainese cuisine. The restaurant continues to attract both regular patrons and newcomers seeking genuine regional Chinese flavors in the Pacific Northwest.

Is Ginger and Scallion restaurant in Seattle authentic Chinese cuisine?

Yes, Ginger and Scallion specializes in authentic Shanghainese cuisine, prepared by chefs with extensive experience in traditional Chinese cooking techniques. The restaurant focuses on regional specialties rather than Americanized Chinese dishes.

What are the must-try dishes at Ginger and Scallion Seattle?

The signature ginger scallion chicken is consistently rated as the must-try dish. Other popular items include the scallion oil noodles, ginger seafood stir-fry, and their traditional Shanghainese braised pork belly.

Does Ginger and Scallion offer vegetarian options?

Yes, while traditionally Shanghainese cuisine features meat and seafood, Ginger and Scallion offers several vegetarian options including stir-fried seasonal vegetables, tofu dishes, and vegetarian versions of their signature scallion oil noodles.

How far in advance should I make reservations for Ginger and Scallion?

For dinner service, especially on weekends, it's recommended to make reservations 2-3 days in advance. During weekdays, same-day reservations are often possible, particularly for lunch service.

Chef Liu Wei

Chef Liu Wei

A master of Chinese cuisine with special expertise in the regional spice traditions of Sichuan, Hunan, Yunnan, and Cantonese cooking. Chef Liu's culinary journey began in his family's restaurant in Chengdu, where he learned the complex art of balancing the 23 distinct flavors recognized in traditional Chinese gastronomy. His expertise in heat management techniques - from numbing Sichuan peppercorns to the slow-building heat of dried chilies - transforms how home cooks approach spicy cuisines. Chef Liu excels at explaining the philosophy behind Chinese five-spice and other traditional blends, highlighting their connection to traditional Chinese medicine and seasonal eating practices. His demonstrations of proper wok cooking techniques show how heat, timing, and spice application work together to create authentic flavors. Chef Liu's approachable teaching style makes the sophisticated spice traditions of China accessible to cooks of all backgrounds.