The Hi Spot Café

Every neighborhood has its favorite local institutions. The folks in Madrona have one of Seattle’s long-time weekend brunch favorites: The Hi Spot Café.

The weekday welcome is just as warm, but with the added bonus of being seated sooner.

Owner Mike Walker believes, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” He keeps a close eye on everything—and everyone—to make sure he can follow this important principle.

For the otherwise broke artist, Mike is also a good employer, with many long-term (and friendly) regulars among the staff as well as the customers. The generous patron encourages regulars to decorate his walls with their art—currently Sarah Banks and Rhoda Donkin are on display with Landscapes of Iberia. Watch the walls for changing exhibits by Banks & Donkin as well as other locals. With changing exhibits come Hi Spot Openings, all generously supported by Mike. This long-lived café is a living room for the neighborhood, and all are welcome.

Along with the comfort-food staples, the Hi-Spot menu offers Hispanic specialties and the unique “Bengal Benedict,” for those willing to consider curry for breakfast. If you’re risk-averse, ask for the curry sauce on the side—one taste and you’ll want to take it home with you, to liven up your home cooking.

Better still, just come back tomorrow for more!

The Hi Spot

1410 34th Avenue, Seattle. Breakfast: daily 8am–2:30pm. Lunch: Mon–Fri, 11:30am–2:30pm.

206-325-7905, hispotcafe.com

~Matthew Harker

Editor’s note: When you come back for more, try one of their delicious scones! Or take some home.