If it's one thing Washingtonians know, it's a good brunch. From eastside gems to big-city favorites in Seattle, our state's been in the grip of a breakfast renaissance for years. Chief among these brunch-time favorites is the waffle, a deceptively simple confection that's nonetheless difficult to perfect. To me, the perfect waffle is leavened, creating a crunchy exterior that belies its fluffy texture inside. And, for the best waffle in Seattle — the one that best meets my platonic waffle ideal — I recommend visiting California Avenue's Bebop Waffle Shop.
Since 2014, Bebop has had West Seattle's final word on artfully crafted waffles. The restaurant, co-created by friends Corina Luckenbach and Heidi Herr, debuted as Admiral Bird Café. It quickly won over locals with its quirky neighborhood spirit and dedication to crave-worthy brunch fare. After taking the helm following Herr's departure from the business, Luckenbach renamed the restaurant after her beloved wiener dog.
Living in Seattle for several years has made me cynical. Too many places adopt a hyper-local pastiche to attract a neighborhood's patronage, an attempt at ingratiation that usually oozes performativity. But not here. Bebop's interiors evoke an earnest idiosyncrasy that reflects Luckenbach's desire to create a space where all feel welcome.
Bebop is proud to be an LGBTQ+-run business, and Luckenbach's lived experience as a queer woman informs her restaurant's philosophy. In a recent interview with Seattle's Front Porch, she said, "I want people to have a respite here, be fulfilled, feel good, and feel safe."
This thoughtfulness isn't limited to the environment. You can also taste it in the food. Bebop is renowned for its divine creations; the breakfast sandwiches have rave reviews, and the espresso drinks have earned the prestigious Seattleite stamp of approval.
But the true star, of course, is the waffle. Bebop serves ten iterations of this brunch-time staple, ranging from sweet to savory, Coco Pebble to gluten-free. Each preparation feels carefully considered, artfully balancing the poles that can throw other restaurants' versions off-kilter: moisture, sweetness, crispness, etc.
Armed with a latte as your digestif, you'll find it's hard to go wrong with the Bebop menu.
And it's easy to see why this unassuming brunch spot has become a local hub for breakfast lovers from all walks of life. It may become your new favorite, too.
If you're looking for the best waffle in Seattle, I highly recommend Bebop Waffle House, which built its following on the merit of its take on this breakfast classic.
If you're visiting from out of town, consider adding this to your Emerald City dining itinerary. You won't regret it!
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