The Loft is one of those places you'd easily overlook. It's right on Main St. but occupies a very small space that has been home to many different coffee shops in the past. The space is small and cozy with seating for only about 36 people inside and an additional 25 seats outdoors in the summer. They have a small bar that seats 7 and half the tables are up in a loft area.
The atmosphere reminds me of some chic European bistro and each time I've been there it has been busy. They don't take reservations unless you have a party of six or more, however, we've never had to wait more than 10-15 minutes for a table. The have a small selection of wines and beer and serve generous cocktails. They are also one of the few nice places to stay open late.
What really set this place apart from everything else in Edmonds is the food. Excellent NW and Pan-Asian food done to perfection. The chef is formerly of the Canlis. There are usually 6 or 7 "large plate" entries on the menu along with an equal number of "small plate" appetizers. Of the three things that I've tried, all have been excellent, but the Sea Bass is the best. And unlike most restaurants in Edmonds, The Loft is also reasonably priced. Now here's a place we can actually afford to visit quite often.
The service is great and the owner, Niko (who claims to be Greek but sounds and looks Russian) is friendly and accommodating. The only down side is the shortage of seating and the rather loud ambience of the place. But I'll suffer through all that to have a nice, affordable and hip place to eat in Edmonds.
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