About
The Walrus and the Carpenter is a small, unassuming oyster bar in Ballard that offers a delightful selection of seafood, American dishes, and specialty cocktails. The restaurant's nautical theme creates a relaxed and breezy atmosphere with turquoise subway tiles, weathered pendant lights, and a spacious patio perfect for enjoying summertime drinks. Despite its unpretentious decor, the long lines of customers attest to the superb food served here.Reviews
The Walrus and the Carpenter is a highly acclaimed oyster bar in Seattle, known for its fresh oysters and unique dishes. Reviewers praise the freshness of the oysters, quality of food, friendly service, and interesting wine selection. The ambiance is described as vibrant and hip, with beautiful presentations of dishes. While some mention long waits without reservations, they all agree that it's worth it for the exceptional dining experience.
This was an amazing place to get oysters! They were so fresh. They clamoured from the sea and straight into my open gob. Our server was so friendly and cool, she felt like a bestie. 10/10 would visit again. Oh and expect a long wait, but totally worth it. Walk around Ballard while you wait!!
The food is phenomenal. I don't even like oysters and I love this place. Staff and service are like Trader Joe's employees x1000. I wish I had taken a photo of the dish ordered with fish; it was my favorite. Request the bread comes out with entrees so you can use the bread to sop up the sauce. Or order more bread. Also whatever they make for dessert, just get it. They. Know. Whats. Good. My only comment (and kind of warning) is there is absolutely no reason in the world why the scallop dish as an entree was so darn tiny. Don't get me wrong it tasted amazing but imagine taking a scallop and slicing it into 5 slivers and that is about the size of the dish. List it as an appetizer for better reference. I really can't complain though because each sliver tasted like what I imagine the fruit of the gods tastes like.
I really liked the bar you are allowed to sit and drink at while waiting for your table.
The drinks were really good and worth the price.
However at the restaurant I found the food to be subpar. The service was good, but the food itself was overly filled with different flavours which dulled the taste of the seafood.
Furthermore the restaurant was slightly noisy and it was difficult to have a conversation across the table.
Apart from the raw oysters I found all the way dishes not worth the money.
It was a nice experience, but I would not be visiting this restaurant again.
Great spot to go. Love the vibe. High ceilings and plenty of light.
Food was really good. Oysters were great as well as the other options they have.
Went on a Sunday evening with friends and had to wait a bit but not bad. Their bar next door had amazing drinks too where you can wait.
Always a crowd pleaser. No reservations, and it's super hard to get into if you are not there for the opening bell. Opens at 4pm, and you have to be ready to go!!!! The wine selection is really interesting, and this time they paired our cheeses with a French bottle of cider that was out of this world. We also had the halibut crudo, grilled sardines, oysters and the fries halibut collar. Everything has great sauces and herbs. The presentations were beautiful, and they even let our little dog sit with us outside. The oysters here always just taste better than everywhere else. It's like magic. If you happen to get stuck in line and have an hour or more to wait, Staple and Fancy is a great spot right next door to wait. Don't miss this place!!!!