WHERE: Steelhead Diner | 95 Pine St., Seattle | (206) 625-0129

THE BUZZ:Steelhead Diner is standing out in the Post Alley scene, even among its many market competitors. Its blue neon signs will draw the eye, but once within appropriate distance, the smell of fresh seafood being seared and baked from the open kitchen will provide the final pull.

It’s difficult to say the ambience isn’t classic Seattle with a serious view of the sound and no-nonsense tables that allow the food to be the feature — so let’s get to it. Some of the menu is downright southern with gumbo, chili, collared greens, red beans and rice, and coleslaw. Not to forget our northern friends, Steelhead features a Canadian favorite, poutine, with the market’s beloved Beecher’s cheese curds topping gravy soaked French fries. Keeping with flavors sourced a few blocks away, Steelhead uses Pike Place Brewery’s Scottish ale to batter its fish and chips, this time minus the gravy. Branching back out, Idaho’s streams get raising catfish for tacos, sturgeon to be crusted with lemons, and trout to be served grilled whole.

Although the menu might seem scattered, the flavors are focused and specifically good. Drop in, absorb the view and enjoy.