Congrats to Renee Erickson and her crew at the Walrus and the Carpenter—the Ballard oyster bar made GQ ‘s list of best new restos. Still, we’ve got a bone to pick with author Alan Richman.

Ballard burger shop Lunchbox Laboratory is looking to grease up South Lake Union.

Milagro Cantina is now open in Kirkland and, dios mio, it’s big.

On December 17, the restaurateurs behind Wallingford’s Joule will open Revel in Fremont. Nosh Pit got a sneak peek. Check it out.

High 5 Pie has set an opening date —piehards, you may as well ditch the healthy New Years resolutions.

In other Cap Hill news, CHS reports Samurai Noodle is eyeing the former Bailey Coy space on Broadway. And, after dangling the carrot for weeks, 12th Avenue bagel shop Eltana looks to open this weekend, says the blog.

Happy holidays, vegans! Sage Bakery and Cafe, formerly Hillside Quickies, recently introduced a line of vegan cupcakes. Consider it an early Christmas gift.

Ballard’s newest food joint, 5 Corner Market, enjoyed a quiet opening December 13. Watch your back, Cafe Lago, you’re no longer the only Seattle spot slinging from a Josper Oven.

And now for the freebies: Pike Street Fish Fry is doing its Free Fries Friday thing December 17.