The only Puerto Rican restaurant in Seattle, and fortunately a damn fine one at that. Sometimes we fear that people forget about La Isla, as it has been around for years on that main drag in Ballard, quietly turning out tasty pernil that’s been marinating for days, and addictive empanadillas, deep-fried Puerto Rican turnovers stuffed with ground beef, queso, and other fillings. Hit up the twice-a-day happy hour when prices are a steal, and wash your tostones and salt-cod fritters down with a piña colada or mojito. Amid La Isla’s cheerily painted walls, you’ll (almost) forget you’re still a few thousand miles north of Old San Juan. CORINA ZAPPIA

Note: Temporarily closed due to damage from fire.