The notion that going out for a memorable meal requires a trip into Seattle for folks who live in the suburbs is obsolete. Maybe even comically obsolete.

Chefs with global profiles—like Gastón Acurio—open in Bellevue, coveted ramen chains seek out Kirkland locations, and Seattle chefs who once swore allegiance to the 206 have followed the growth eastward. That’s not to say the best restaurants here are all imports from somewhere else. Holly Smith won a James Beard Award for the Northwest-Italian food at Cafe Juanita; Vivienne's Bistro opened on Mercer Island before expanding to Seattle.

There might be some debate about where, precisely, the Eastside ends. But its status as a dining destination? Undisputed.