Things appear to be looking up, folks—-if the sudden flourishing of new restaurants can be taken as any indication.

A new Thai joint, Naam, is busy plying its trade in the old Coupage space in Madrona. In Pike/Pine, Meza just began serving tapas to a pretty happy crowd. South of Rainier Beach, Lakeside Bistro is doing upscale Vietnamese food.

Next month Bellevue gets its deluge, with John Howie Steak opening September 12 in the new Bravern development. Wild Ginger and Artisanal Brasserie and Wine Bar will be there too.

Then look in October for a downtown Seattle outpost of Sip Wine Bar, which has livened up the Issaquah Highlands in recent years with its Purple -ish concept of noshes + wines by the glass.

Methinks the recession is receding…


Read about other bars and restaurants that recently opened.