Third Avenue Cafe

Securities Building, 1908 3rd Ave, Seattle, WA 98101, United States
+1 206-622-7778
$$$ Cafe
(59 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

If you’re wandering through downtown Seattle and in need of a delightful spot to refuel, look no further than the charming Third Avenue Cafe. Nestled within the Securities Building at 1908 3rd Ave, this local gem is not just a cafe; it’s an experience steeped in warmth, flavor, and community spirit. With a prime location and a reputation that has blossomed over 18 years, it serves as a perfect refuge for busy professionals and curious foodies alike.

Upon entering, you’ll be greeted by a spacious and spotless environment that exudes a cozy charm. The warm smiles of the couple who own and operate the cafe instantly make you feel at home. This inviting ambiance sets the stage for a truly memorable culinary escape.

The star of the menu is undoubtedly the chicken teriyaki. Customers rave about the distinctly Seattle-style offerings here, with the spicy chicken teriyaki emerging as a must-try. Imagine succulent, tender chicken pieces, marinated to perfection and grilled until they have that satisfying char. Complemented by perfectly cooked rice and a fresh salad—each bite dances with flavor and umami, leaving you yearning for more. With a price point that is surprisingly reasonable, it’s no wonder that fans acclaim it as the best teriyaki in Seattle. As one reviewer aptly put it, “the chicken was charred to perfection, and the salad was balanced with a delightful dressing.”

But don’t limit your visit to just teriyaki; Third Avenue Cafe also excels in hearty deli sandwiches. Options like the Nam's Roast Beef and Honey Mustard Pastrami beckon with layers of premium meats and cheeses, served on freshly baked bread that takes the sandwich game up a notch. Vegetarian choices, including the delightful Vegetarian Sandwich with cream cheese and avocado, ensure there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

With glowing reviews from satisfied patrons who describe it as a “hidden gem” and “one of the best spicy Seattle-style teriyaki places,” it’s clear that Third Avenue Cafe has carved out a loyal following. Customers appreciate not only the food but also the fantastic service provided by the owners, who treat each guest like family. One happy diner stated, “The place is clean, spacious, and the food is incredibly delicious!” The homey atmosphere and personal touch make every meal feel special, whether you’re dining in with colleagues or grabbing a quick bite to go.

In a bustling area often dominated by larger chains, Third Avenue Cafe stands as a testament to the power of local business. It’s not just about satisfying hunger; it’s about supporting a vision and a couple who has dedicated nearly two decades to perfecting their craft. Make it a point to visit and experience the flavors and warmth of Third Avenue Cafe on your next trip to downtown Seattle—you won’t be disappointed!

Service options
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Great coffee
Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Offerings
Coffee
Comfort food
Quick bite
Dining options
Breakfast
Lunch
Dessert
Table service
Atmosphere
Casual
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

08:00 AM - 02:30 PM

Tuesday

08:00 AM - 02:30 PM

Wednesday

08:00 AM - 02:30 PM

Thursday

08:00 AM - 02:30 PM

Friday

08:00 AM - 02:30 PM

Saturday

Closed

Sunday

Closed

59 Reviews
Sakila Shine

18 Aug 2025

Walked in during lunch time in a random work day. Plenty of seats. The space was spacious and spotless. The owner couple was very sweet and friendly. I ordered the spicy teriyaki chicken rice, yum! They put thoughts in simple food, the rice was well cooked, the salad was balanced with the dressing, the chicken was very tender and flavorful. Please support this awesome local cafe!

DinoMarc

17 Aug 2025

Best teriyaki in Seattle! I can’t believe I’ve worked down the street for 3 years and just discovered it. The owners are super nice and attentive. Place in quiet, clean, and spacious. Food is incredibly delicious.

Dinesh Sivapragsam

31 Jul 2025

The teriyaki chicken special is the star. Probably the best I’ve ever had in the world. Add to that, a historic looking building, squeaky clean interior, happy go lucky owners… cannot give a stronger recommendation to check out this hidden gem if you are in downtown Seattle. Open for 18 years they say so you know they perfected their craft. ATTN Asians, this hits the spot for that umami taste you miss from home.

Stephanie Chan

16 Jul 2025

I grew up eating Seattle style teriyaki and only recently discovered Third Ave Cafe. It’s an unassuming cafe serving mostly sandwiches that happens to have the best chicken teriyaki that no one knows about. They only have 2 items on their teriyaki menu - regular chicken teriyaki and spicy chicken teriyaki. Get the spicy chicken teriyaki. It’s perfectly juicy, charred to perfection, and accompanied by a sweet mayo glaze on top that they also use for the salad. The portions are generous. This place has been around for more than a decade and reminds me of the old school Korean run teriyaki joints from my childhood. IYKYK I come here almost every week. The owners are always friendly and welcoming.

Nick Graczyk

09 Jul 2025

Great deli spot with great teriyaki (the spicy is great) and sandwiches!

Cody Duncan

10 Jun 2025

One of the Best Spicy Seattle-Style Teriyaki places in the city. Cannot recommend enough. Virtually a hole-in-the-wall cafe that most never see unless they have a reason to visit the offices upstairs.

Kevin

10 Jun 2025

If you want better food in downtown Seattle, support places like this! The rice was cooked perfectly, the sauce had a nice consistency, and the chicken had a pleasant char to it while being surprisingly tender. Even the side salad was fresh and crunchy! The photo doesn’t do it justice.. and all this for $20? Don’t sleep on this place. The owner / couple are also very sweet, and the interior is a simple sit-down eatery with not too many bells and whistles, which I can appreciate with all the other places that are overly decorated and end up lacking substance where it really matters. - Would have dined-in if I wasn’t running late! Will definitely be coming back!

Catherine

31 May 2025

I found this place through TikTok. Their spicy teriyaki is amazing!!! It was $16.57 before tip. The couple who run the store were so friendly:) definitely coming again!!

Checking
Listing Image

Elise's Niece's Cafe

441 Main Street located in rear, 441 Main St, Farmingdale, NY 11735, United States
Cafe
(96 Reviews)
Checking
Listing Image

Cafeteria Milenio

C. Juan de la Cosa, 15, 39004 Santander, Cantabria, Spain
Cafe
(134 Reviews)
Checking
Listing Image

Kyoko Coffee

6401 Airport Blvd, Austin, TX 78752, United States
Cafe
(81 Reviews)
Checking
Listing Image

Coffee Shop 36 Sulmona

Viale Togliatti, 67039 Sulmona AQ, Italy
Cafe
(37 Reviews)
Checking
Listing Image

Cafetería de la Facultad de Psicología

Campus de Somosaguas, 28223 Madrid, Spain
Cafe
(43 Reviews)

Join the Third Avenue Cafe Newsletter

Get the latest updates on seasonal pastries, special events, and local highlights directly in your inbox.