There are many places on the “to visit” list, and given the limited opportunities to dine out, it’s always a toss-up between exploring new places and returning to old favorites. Pisco has known about Seven Stars Pepper for quite some time, but never had the chance to experience it. What a mistake to wait so long!
Four of us made our way to the second floor of the commercial center on 12th and Jackson – a nondescript building save for the ramp that descends sharply to an underground parking garage. The restaurant was busy, but service was swift – a scallion pancake was on the table almost instantly, as were three bottles of Tsingtao. Overcome by the delicious smells in the air, we promptly overordered: hand-shaven noodles, Szechuan crab, deep-fried chicken, pea sprouts, and yes, even a whole deep-fried tilapia. For those keeping score, that’s five entrees and one appetizer for four peckish friends.
The noodles were delicious, though Pisco is not an expert on this dish. They were markedly better than the hand-shaven noodles at Shanghai Cafe in Factoria, which are supposedly quite good.
The Szechuan crab is said to be their best dish, and it’s a winner. Hot, covered in spice, and extremely large, we could not help ripping off the legs and sucking off every last bit of meat. It was messy, and copious amounts of beer were consumed as we reveled in the spice. This is a must-order dish.
The fried chicken was competent; slightly reminiscent of karaage chicken but spicier. The pea sprouts were crisp and brightly colored; they tasted much as they looked.
The whole fried fish was nearly perfect; had it not been just barely overcooked it would have been heavenly. But with fried fish, those last 10 seconds make all the difference.
Total bill was around $120 including tip and tax for 4.
Pisco can’t wait to go back again soon.
Service: A (friendly and fast)
Food: A
Value: B
Seven Stars Pepper
1207 S Jackson St
Seattle, WA 98144
(206) 568-6446
[map]
