Uptown China

Convenient to the Seattle Center, this understated little Chinese joint has made quite a name for itself in Queen Anne circles, thanks to its terrific prices and tasty Mandarin fare. At lunchtime, especially, the place stays packed with the hungry clientele enjoying everything from moo shu pork to kung pao chicken (all combinations come with rice and an egg roll). Owner Yu-Mei Wang has been called a "hands-on entrepreneur with a warm, smiling countenance and lots of style," and since she likes to connect with her patrons, she's been known to make the rounds and sit down for a friendly chat with her customers.