Tucked into Pike Place Market, you’ll discover Chez Shea, an old-world charmer featuring the finest ingredients of the Northwest prepared with French technique and regional gusto. The intimate, candlelit dining room boasts picture-perfect views of the sun setting over the Puget Sound and is usually filled with couples well versed in the art of cross-table handholding, lingering stares, and soft whispers. But locals in the know about cuisine dine here as much for the food as for the cozy ambience. The four-course prix fixe menu features hearty, home-style regional fare that makes beautiful use of local produce as the seasons dictate. A simple salad ends the meal; dessert comes at an extra charge. The chocolate torte and the ginger-steeped bread pudding are worth the splurge. An eight-course chef's tasting menu is also available.

Chez Shea Information:

• American, French bistro menu. Dinner. Closed Mon. Bar. Casual attire. Reservations recommended. Credit cards accepted.