Zesto's Burger & Fish House   

6416 15th Ave NW
Seattle, WA 98107
206-783-3350

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Situated across the street from Ballard High School, Zesto's -- open since 1952 and the last of a small chain -- isn't just a burger joint with a past, it's got a history. From a central vantage point (best from a red Naugahyde booth in somewhat care-worn, retro surroundings), on any given day you can expect to see 30-somethings with toddlers in tow and nattily dressed seniors, eagerly pointing at their own photos in the Class of '53 portrait on the wall. The fish is crispy and moist, enveloped in a not-too-heavy batter, fries are good, and onion rings are things of beauty. Oozing with fillings, made-to-order burgers come in many guises: the Hawaiian includes pineapple, the Puyallup features sauteed onions and the Godfather comes with a protection order against your cardiologist. Go for the hefty double burger incarnation of any on the menu and two can eat for the price of one. Alas, you must be a kid to order from the kid's menu. If you want to avoid the student crowd, go at the weekend or in the evening.