Vera’s Restaurant
5417 22nd Ave NW, Seattle, WA, 98107
Vera’s Restaurant Menu
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Address :
5417 22nd Ave NW
Seattle, WA, 98107 - Phone (206) 782-9966
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :7:00 am - 2:3
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : No
Good For : Breakfast
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : No
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : No
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steve c.
This is what a cafe should be, namely family owned, not a chain, with good food and good prices. I had the greek omelette, which was very tasty-my service was good (i.e. the waitress was quick, friendly but not too friendly)....highly recommended. Next time I'm in Ballard and am looking for some good breakfast grub, I'm going to come back. Cons: (only reason they don't get 5 stars).............don't accept credit/debit..........need to take more care of cleaning the place up
(4)Tracy M.
Enjoyed a yummy breakfast here Sunday morning. Rolled in shortly after 9 AM & was surprised to see only half the tables taken. My Smoked Salmon Benedict ($10.95) was flavorful, hubby's Italian sausage omelet ($9.95) was tasty. Coffee was something like $2.40, is that a lot these days for a cup 'o joe? Service was prompt & efficient, the food came out a teensy bit too fast (can you believe someone is 'complaining'?) our hash-browns, my muffins & the cheese topping his omelet could'a spent another few seconds on the grill. Yet heck, if it can't be Perfect, it was still scrumptious & lickity-split is better than glacier-slow :-) We'll be back & next time I won't be such a dork & pull out of my excellent parking space to realize too late - doh - Ballard Sunday Market was underway & I should'a stuck around & bought some flowers :-)
(5)Lauren D.
I'm glad to have a diner in Ballard - don't get me wrong. Being from Jersey, I know that having a diner close at hand is super, super important. But there's just nothing that special about Vera's....it's comfortable and it's consistent but it's just...there. The florescent lighting is a little undesirable. The food is basic - tastes a little store-bought, really. Big omelettes and other typical brunch options, but a bit pricey for the quality involved. Always friendly service though.
(3)James F.
Going out for breakfast after a night of a little too much to drink is the best. usually the food is good because of my lowered expectations. Upon walking into Vera's it reminds me of the Salmon Bay Cafe just around the corner, very similar food, and atmosphere. I order up some drip, and some breakfast, hash browns and an omelet with a side of fruit, which takes an unusually long time? When I get my order the breakfast just doesn't seem to do it for me, kinda bland yet distinctly edible and filling. The best thing I had was the side of fruit, which was fresh and delicious. I think you can find a much better breakfast most joints in Ballard, nothing to special about Vera's.
(3)Doni W.
Oh Vera, how I crave thee. When I'm lucky enough to have a weekday morning off from work, Vera's is where I like to go for a real breakfast. No need to scan the entire menu. Just flip it over to the back side and simply pick either the A, B, or C breakfasts-- if memory serves, they're about $6 each. Not a gluttonous amount of food but just right, and no gut bomb hangover that you'd otherwise get at Denny's for your all-American breakfast. Top it off with a bottomless cup of coffee, and I am ready to rock my day. Or take a nap, which ever comes first. Okay, it's probably the nap. **P.S.-- The only con: They only take cash or check, so come prepared one way or the other!
(4)Jon D.
Good wholesome diner food. We've only been here for breakfast, but we've gone quite a few times and have always been happy. The decor seems dated but appropriate and clean. I always get an omelet and I always eat too much. They are very accommodating to satisfy your request. Just remember to bring cash.
(4)Emily C.
I HATE it when my favorite places get bad reviews! I love Vera's and wtf cares if they don't take credit cards? People can't use cash or checks? Is it really that inconvenient? I don't think so and it hasn't stopped me from going to Vera's often. I do agree that they are a little pricey but I can't finish a meal there so my boyfriend and I always split a breakfast, maybe order extra hashbrowns or toast and leave satisfied. I've been going to Vera's for 5 years now and I will continue to go there until they go out of business like every other business in Ballard or I move away.
(4)Peter T.
We went in for a late breakfast on a Sunday just after noon, and we were seated right away. I like diners in general and I really wanted to like Vera's but unfortunately there was a little bad to balance out the good. The good was the service - we had a very friendly, attentive, and all-around-excellent waitress. The bad was the food, unfortunately. Oh, it was good enough but I found a human hair in my huevos rancheros and that was that for me. My wife had the portabello eggs benedict and they were pretty good as well. Can't say I'd ever go back myself due to the hygeine issue, but, I can't disrecommend this to others because it probably was an isolated incident. And, before the inevitable question is asked, no, I did not raise the issue to anyone there because I had already finished 95% of it and I just wanted to get going with a minimum of muss and fuss.
(3)Claire D.
I wanted to like Vera's but I was really underwhelmed. I don't really understand how this place is rated with only one $ sign cause my strawberry waffle was $8 by itself. Then add on another $3 for the not-included bacon and any drink and you're well over $11. So only expect one $ if you stick with the specials. The waffle was tasty and the strawberries were sweet. Bacon was tasty like only bacon can be...but I just can't say $11 good. Service was somehow awkward, and I can't quite peg why. I know it may be an unpopular thing to say...but it didn't knock my socks off.
(2)Zanne R.
Vera's is a great place for a hearty, reasonable breakfast. The service is quick. Servers are friendly and always keeps your water glass full and your coffee piping hot. The atmosphere is open and has classic diner touches with booths and a wide variety of clientel. Despite the tray ceiling the place feels homey; it is bright and cheery. A great place to meet friends for breakfast any time of day.
(4)Lindsey S.
You should at least try it once, even though it's all the way in Ballard. It's amazing and delicious at the same time! It's a diner and prices are pretty darn good for breakfast. Their eggs benedict is one of my favorites. Basic toast, nothing fancy, just yummy. Hit the ATM, it's cash only (like most good places)
(4)Ian S.
The girlfriend and I were just walking out the door to head for Vera's for breakfast--and stopped short, turned back around and are now trying to come up with plan B. Vera's has been one of our FAVORITE local restaurants for well over a decade. Unfortunately, the truth is that the service on WEEKDAY MORNINGS has been terrible. It's become an ongoing theme. The last time we were at Vera's in the morning the restaurant was empty but the waitress was too busy talking to her friend at a booth to notice that our order had come up, so we just sat waiting. And when we did get our order it was wrong. The waitress just said that she was new. I'm not buying it. You just didn't care about your customers.
(2)demian j.
I have traveled all over the US many time in the last fifteen years. Almost always in a van full of other dudes trying to find something besides taco bell to eat at anytime of the day or night. It wasn't always easy but we would almost always find a wonderful (often greek) diner in every city that had and extensive menu full of breakfast, lunch and dinner options 24 hours a day. Usually a little dirty and always packed. i loved it. Vera's is really similar to these places in a lot of ways. It's got the look, the feel and most of the food (where is the stuffed cabbage and gravy though?) but i gotta say the hours are the pits. I understand that when ballard was a sleepy little drinking and fishing village that those early hours where you close at three made sense, but now with the Denny's gone in Ballard and it being overrun with ugly tasteless condos (yeah, i wanna pay 3/4 of a million dollars to live six feet from four different sets of strangers forever. posh.) i think the old-timey hours are pointless. Hell, close from three until six and stay open all night. god knows there is enough homeless people and teenagers (with nothing to do at night now except do drugs and have unprotected sex thanks to the bowling alley and the denny's going away for dumb condos)to keep the hot cups of coffee and oreders of fries coming until the early birds show up. maybe, these are bad reasons to stay open late but travelling around the country and eating at dozens of these places that have been operating a lot longer in a lot smaller settings i just don't see what would be the problem. p.s. take credit cards. i get it. it's costs you like twenty cents every time someone pays with one. it also means that more people will go there, more people will decide to order more and people will tip more. The days of being proud of not taking cards are coming to an end now that everyone in the world is wired up and driving around in robots. p.s.s. the monte cristo sandwich is totally awesome!
(3)Krystina B.
Hands down, the best omelette in town! My fave is the Beach (spinach, asparagus, sausage, cheddar), which is usually on the Specials board around summertime but you can order it year-round. The hashbrowns are always perfectly cooked & crispy on the outside. Major bonus is that their servings are usually big enough for two meals. The staff has been super-friendly since I started coming here a few years ago...I always feel welcome here!!
(4)Molly R.
I have been eating here for as long as I can remember, and I never get tired of it. The wait staff (with a couple of occasions) is friendly and knows me and my family every time we come in (I really love that neighborhood feeling, especially with so many chains out there). Also the food is always fresh and they use good quality ingredients.
(5)J B.
The service was SUPER FAST and the food was decent, probably about what you'd expect from a turn'n burn style breakfast joint. I expect that they were the major beneficiaries from Denny's closing a while back and they're food is similar but at Vera's you get that authentic mom'n pop feel. I do have one MAJOR gripe though. Mom'n Pop or not this is almost 2010 and for a place that does as much business as they do cash only is simply inexcusable. No credit or debit or checks JUST cash and after walking down to bank of america only to discover they were out of cash then having to walk to chase and pay $3 to pay my bill I won't be back.
(2)Taylor B.
I am happy to report that I've returned for two more visits, and the place is still as good as it was when I was a regular in 2007 and early 2008. I think my "return" meal described below was just part of a terrible "off day" and I'm glad to be able to rate this place higher now...still think it's foolish to refuse credit cards, but that's no reflection on the hearty breakfasts or the attentive service. And they have juicy chicken sausage for breakfast...a nice alternative for those of us who don't eat red meat. but like the occasional sizzling fatty taste treat!
(3)Sarah S.
i love breakfast, and it usually doesn't take much to do breakfast well. i had high hopes for vera's after reading reviews. the food was ok, nothing better than i could cook myself however. the hash browns seriously lacked any flavor and the eggs were done in the most mediocre way i've tasted in awhile.. the atmosphere is lame, can't really think of a better way to describe it, uncomfortable chairs, slightly dingy walls and floors and free standing fans blowing right in your face... the prices aren't cheap and for the same amount of dough you can go many other places and be impressed. i feel like i wasted a perfectly good breakfast out on an average diner.
(2)Brian P.
Vera's is old school: a refreshing slice of pre-Microsoft Seattle, when breakfast was both delicious AND (relatively) affordable. From the grizzled fishermanly folk sitting at the counter to the $5.25 weekday breakfast specials, to the ludicrous plates of food which you can only eat three quarters of, Vera's feels like its from a long past happier time. What is definitely not from the past is the weekend specials menu - a few of my favorite selections were the artichoke omelet with hollandaise sauce and the house smoked salmon Benedict. If I lived in Ballard, I would probably eat here once a week. As things are, I plan to make a monthly(ish) habit of shuttling myself out to Ballard for some fresh blueberry waffles and a touch of nostalgia.
(4)Karen A.
Vera's is a Ballard institution, and for good reason. It has something for everyone (well, except food snobs) and the service is quick and professional. I love it that they have spacious booths and you aren't crammed on top of other people. Vera's is particularly wonderful if you have a weekday morning off and go there for the slightly smaller, inexpensive weekday breakfast specials. A totally comfortable place.
(4)Iris M.
For the price, I've had much better quality and atmosphere elsewhere. The hashbrowns were tasty.
(2)Heather W.
I've been frequenting Vera's for lunch for....shoot...3 or 4 years. There is one thing about this restaurant that makes it far superior to anything around. IT TAKES CHECKS. I have it calculated that if my bank account is overdrawn, I can go to Vera's on a Wednesday, write a bad check, and it definitely will not go through until the begining of the next week. AWESOME! I've never had a check bounce from them, and trust me...I've written some bad ones over the years. Oh yeah, the food. It's better than Dennys, healthier than Beths, less greasy than Dicks, and portions comperable to Shari's on steroids. Don't expect special seasoning on your fries or a gourmet basil aioli sauce on your cheeseburger. You want eggs and hash browns, you get eggs and hash browns. A little bit better than you can make at home, but with none of the effort. All food is exactly as it is written on the menu. The "side salad" is a little blah...pretty much just lettuce and dressing (no lie) but you can ask for cheese, carrots, and other stuff on it for no charge. I recommend the Veggie Something sandwhich on 9 grain bread. It has sprouts, avocado, tomato, CREAM CHEESE, cucumber, and some other stuff that makes it taste good. Swiss cheese? Man, I just ate it a few hours ago and I already forgot. And props to whoever makes them put fruit on the plate with every meal. Americans need more fruit.
(4)Rod O.
Ever craved diner food, hit the local greasy spoon, then walked away feeling somehow empty inside? That won't happen at Vera's. All your diner favorites are here, without the extra grease, soggy buns & fries, and gastro-intestinal distress so common at other places. Vera's has the best bacon cheeseburger in town, and the french fries are always crisp and golden brown. Any of the grilled sandwiches are also excellent, as well as the specialty eggs benedict dishes (salmon or spinach) and the Monte Cristo. Portions are more than generous, and most come with a garnish of fresh fruits (kiwi, banana, orange, etc.). The waitstaff is friendly and generally attentive, especially when they get to know you, and even when it gets busy they do their best to keep your cup full of joe. Prices may be slightly higher than some places, but for me the quality of the food is worth an extra buck or two. The best time to go for fast service is between the breakfast and lunch rushes, between 10 and 11:30. I suppose I ought to smear the place so that I can get a table faster, but honor demands giving credit where it's due. I've never posted a review like this before, but the folks at Vera's deserve some recognition for their fine work. I just wish they stayed open later than early afternoon.
(5)J R R.
I thought that the food was pretty good. They had 86'd the chicken fried steak, for which i was deeply saddened. So I kicked off the New Year with a plate of corned beef hash, which was very tasty, quite crispy and crunchy. There was nothing remarkable about the food other than it was served hot, it was filling, and good. I never had to ask, they kept the coffee cup full...which is all that one can ask for. JR
(3)J D.
Let me get this straight, Vera's: you are with the times enough to realize you can get away with charging nine dollars for a taco salad, but you can't be bothered to get a debit card machine? Than Bros I'll get cash for, because I see how the low overhead benefits us all. But for you? I think not.
(2)Sara N.
I'm gonna go ahead and give Vera's 5 stars. I always feel good when I eat breakfast there. I can never decide which variety of benedict to get. Go with a large group and sit at a round table for 7. Make sure to appreciate the eclectic staff. Drink lots of coffee and don't forget the orange juice is FRESH SQUEEZED. Bring cash! Hurrah for Vera's. Here's hoping it's not shut down and knocked over for some more unnecessary condos.
(5)Alexi M.
I usually love the diner experience and I am fine with "dives" but I have had a few bad experiences here. The wait staff has been rude and the food was certainly nothing special. Yes, the portions were the usual F.A.S. (Fat American Size) so you will be full at least. Both times I went were during the busy breakfast rush, so maybe it's better to go for lunch. Oh yeah, when I was there last NO CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED, not sure about checks (?). The best thing about Vera's is the awesome neon sign out front (a listing of Seattle's Best Signs is coming soon)
(2)Silvershine X.
Good if you live in Ballard. Not really worth the drive down there, but used to go there all the time. Strawberry waffle is great! It sucks that it's expensive to add a side of meat to the waffle, but otherwise good.
(3)SweetP G.
think they take debit/credit now. yippee!
(4)Whitney C.
Best smoked salmon benedict I have ever had. I don't eat beef but my boyfriend was thoroughly satisfied with his chicken fried steak, and he is an ex-chef. The salmon on my benedict was like a whole filet of salmon, and it tasted home-smoked. Not sure if it was, but it was tender and not too salty. Amazing. Great prompt service too. Convenient location. The only downer is that they don't take credit cards, but they do take local checks with ID and witnessing the ancient cash register they have makes it almost worth the hassle.
(4)Laural B.
Like most things, this is a favorite because I can walk to it. Perfect hangover breakfasts.
(4)erik b.
i like this place. good food, good service. i only wish they were open later in the day. thanks vera's!
(4)Maria C.
I know people who won't go near this place - not "gentrified" enough I guess. I laugh and call them snobs and go park myself at the counter and order some good old fashioned Americana food. If Vera's ever shuts down, Ballard can officially be called pretentious.
(4)Chloe H.
Okay, so as I've mentioned before I'm a cheap Yankee, and I just can't understand why anyone would pay more than a dollar for a coffee, or Vera's prices for a greasy spoon breakfast. Other than that, it's a pretty good place, although there is usually a long line on weekends.
(3)Whitney L.
Went here yesterday morning for a quick breakfast. The decor looks a bit like grandma's house. The veggie omelette was decent, the hash browns exactly what you'd expect. I guess the food was just nothing I'd write home about... Also, either our server forgot about us towards the end, or they don't accept payments at your table. Next time, I'd probably try somewhere else in Ballard.
(3)Cassie B.
This is why it can be a little risk to go in a place without checking the reviews. Whatever former glory and deliciousness Vera's used to have, I assure you it no longer has. My relaxed Monday morning breakfast consisted of: 1. Brown water aka coffee. Tasteless, thin. 2. Rubber chew toys for a dog...er...I mean the pancakes. Thick, dry, chewy, yuck. 3. Cardboard cut outs of bacon aka bacon. Nothing more to say here. I just moved to Ballard a few weeks ago, and this is the first terrible restaurant I've tried here. No idea how they are still in business considering the competition. Hopefully something new and improved that can griddle a pancake, fry bacon, and brew up some strong coffee will replace it. Until then: GO ELSEWHERE!! I assure you, Vera's is a waste of time, money, and opportunity to eat truly good things in Ballard.
(1)Vince T.
Service has gone downhill here. No food for 1 hour. So much for a Happy First Father's Day meal with my family. I understand one of the waitresses quit, but the restaurant was not packed full of people. There were 3 waitresses helping people, but only the blond hair woman was hustling to get customers their orders. The older lady in the red blouse may have been the manager and she looked really stressed, but made little to no effort to help customers. I am sad to say this was and is the last time I will ever visit Vera's Restaurant. My family and I will not be back.
(1)Mark L.
This was a great breakfast! The hash browns were home made, all ingredients were fresh. A true "diner" right in the heart of Ballard.
(5)HB K.
We didn't have much expectation when my husband and I entered this place. It is close to our place, so we just stopped by for a quick breakfast. It was better than we expected (maybe partly because of our low expectation). We ordered traditional two eggs breakfast, which was nothing special, nothing wrong, but decent. One small surprise was they served fresh fruit with the breakfast. If you want relatively cheap, non experimental, and traditional American style breakfast, this is the place for you.
(3)Rose B.
Compared to other places in Ballard this isn't somewhere that would catch the eye. It's a diner that looks rather no-frills. The menu has a broad selection of breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Prices here are lower than most brunch places in ballard but you're not paying for the trendy ambiance either. The food was much better than I expected. The OJ was fresh squeezed and the bacon came out perfect. They have a limited bar but I didn't get a drink while here. The waitstaff was meh but I thought they were at least attentive. If you're doing Ballard on a budget, definitely come here first.
(4)Lisa R.
We used to go to Vera's back in the day, I'm talking over 20 or 25 years ago. It was a great, classic diner with classic pancakes and just good basic food. It was filled with salty, Scandinavian Ballard types and the wait staff was awesome. Friendly gals who remembered you, great service. Fast forward to 2014. Not so much. It still looks the same, sans the Old Ballard types. Sure they've passed on to the great diner in the sky by now. Decent omelette, decent hash browns. I requested crispy hb, and also requested my English muffin crisp, otherwise they are under done. We have been there several weekends in a row because there's no line. (First clue). Hideously poor service. Really bad. The wait staff aren't rude per se, they absolutely don't care. My sister dared me to go get the coffee and refill our own, which I did - three times. Still no waitress in sight. She then brought our bill... "Can I get you anything else?" I asked if we can have some more water (all empty glasses - I couldn't find the water pitcher!) She said, "We're closed at 2:30" was her response. I looked at my watch and well, my goodness, it was 2:35! My bad. There were still two other tables there I might add. Unbefrickingbelievable. We won't be back. No wonder it's so empty. One star for the ok omelette.
(1)Debra R.
Workers breakfast is a deal at this old time diner filled with regulars. Gottalove a place that plays Foreigner's 'Hot Blooded' and CCR at breakfast time. Great hash browns-perfectly browned but not overcooked, large oatmeal bowl, good service, classic diner decor but well spaced tables. We ate here two mornings in a row. The service was good both times, and the pancakes the second day were delicious. I, of course, had the hash browns both mornings, and they were consistently well prepared.
(4)Marti G.
I come to Ballard nearly every Sunday for the market. Usually, my friend joins me and we grab brunch somewhere during our jaunt. Although we've been to some really great places, after finding Vera's, we haven't been anywhere else. The first time we came, we both ordered the crab cake benedict. (It should say crab CAKES because you get two.) Though I've had better crab cakes, they were still really good, and with the generous order of hash browns, it was more than either of us could finish. We have tried many other menu offerings since and never been disappointed. It is always easy to find something that sounds appetizing, which has been an effort for me at other places. And the reasonable prices make it even easier. My friend's favorite is the California omelet and mine is probably the Oscar omelet. The atmosphere is diner-plain, but clean. The coffee is good, we are always seated promptly, and receive friendly service from waitstaff.
(4)Emily C.
Finally checked out Vera's this morning (afternoon?) after walking by countless times. I heard it was a delicious version of the traditional diner food, and it did not disappoint. I ordered a decaf coffee and it was poured for me instantly, along with a tall glass of ice water without having to ask. I as never able to drink more than half of it without a warm up coming along. Excellent and quick service. Our server was super friendly and patient while we tried to decide between the many amazing sounding benedicts on the breakfast specials menu. I went with the crabcakes benedict, and it was delicious. Homemade hashbrowns that were a thicker shred than your typical shoestring hash browns, not at all greasy, and just crispy enough on the outside. The hollandaise was creamy and amazing and they did not skimp. Eggs were poached to perfection with runny yet thick yolks, the crabcakes were rich and thick, and it was garnished with fresh fruit that was actually cut fresh. The only inconvenience I can think of is the cash only variable, but luckily I looked on here first and was prepared. Big recommendation here... great place for a quick brunch with friends/family, or a great hot cup of coffee to enjoy at the bar with a Sunday paper.
(5)Linda C.
The food was terrible and the service was worse. I had a grilled tuna with a salad--the salad was a plateful of week-old romaine lettuce (limp and brown around the edges) with runny blue cheese flavored dressing making the salad totally inedible. The sandwich was dry and served with a limp dill pickle. My friend had an omelette that was smothered in processed melted cheese. The server was not friendly and never once came and asked how our meal was or if we needed anything. I had to flag down another server to get more water. I asked for separate checks and she gave us one check with the amounts separated out--too lazy to write two checks! It's one thing to have bad service and great food, but this time it was bad service and bad food....definitely won't be going there again!
(1)Mallory M.
I like vera's and the staff is nice. The menu items are good but I feel like they're somewhat overpriced. I love diners so I'll always stop in but it hurts to drop $15 on a meal that is just average.
(3)Yekta A.
We stopped in for breakfast on our day in Ballard and were greeted by a smiling hostess who turned out to be our waitress. The food is diner-ish, so I wasn't expecting a lot of surprises, however I did enjoy watching the locals who seem to come in everyday for their breakfast and newspaper. Cool dive spot for tourists but I wasn't wowed by the food, mainly because I'm not a fan of diners.
(3)Jackie T.
I'd heard some good things about this place, but it didn't really live up to the hype. This spot feels like a dive and the food is just OK. My waffle was a little on the sad side because it wasn't hot. Good not great, won't be back.
(2)Aimee K.
I'm tacking on an extra star (however much you want to rock and roll about the unfairness of it) for sentimentality. My aunt and uncle live in Ballard and have been patronizing this place for years. They know the people in it by name and everyone is so very friendly. The decor says breakfast joint. Nothing gaudy. Nothing to scare innocent travelers seeking a meal. The food is solid. True, I'm a die hard 2 egg breakfast broad, but that's just how I roll. And I say, a solid A for Vera's. Everything's clean. Nothing fancy. Just tastes good and prices are as reasonable as diners get. My aunt enjoys the benedict but me and my waistline are trying to get along. As Ballard turns more into the urban village it's trying to become, parking may slowly evolve into more and more of an issue... especially on Seattle's sacred Sunday brunch hour, but I didn't figure that should factor in the quality of any restaurant in this area. We all suffer together.
(4)Jason T.
Pretty standard breakfast. Prices are great and atmosphere is old time breakfast diner. Full bar for those who prefer a whiskey breakfast!
(3)Deanna D.
Well if you write checks, they will take them here without checking ID. Someone stole my checkbook ( and my car), they said they would not hold me for it and then they sent it to collections. I now have to pay a fortune in fees because they did not check ID or keep their word. Unethical place. I have never been here and never will as they are shady.
(1)Cynthia M.
Full disclosure. I posted a review in '13. It wasn't favorable. Basically, I just pleaded with the people in charge to make the food taste better. Less than a year later, all that I am asking is for Vera's to serve a good cup of coffee. I don't know about costs and such, but how expensive could it be to brew a strong, tasty pot of coffee? I'm even pretty sure that a lot of the food complaints you receive would be completely forgiven if you could serve up a strong, flavorful cup of coffee.
(1)E M.
There Eggs Benedict is pretty darn good. Cool laid back spot, friendly down to earth peeps here.
(5)S R.
Terrible. Looked like my breakfast came out of a box. Rectangle shaped hash browns (yuck). English muffins with margarine (gross). Dried and brown strawberry and orange slices. Not my idea of a good start to the day, I left.
(1)Andy F.
Vera feels like a time capsule that harkens back to simpler times. The seating is simple, the menu is simple, there isn't too much to worry about. Bon Jovi was playing while I ordered the Ballard scramble, which was a tasty mess of eggs, cheese, some vegetables and sour cream. Pair that with an English muffin (they take the time to butter it for you in the kitchen) and you are set. The orange juice was fresh; I could tell because it had orange seeds floating in it. I like that. The big mechanical devices bolted to the ceiling used to filter cigarette smoke out of the air, which I imagine rose above tables of wrinkled men in plaid wool shirts who leafed through newspapers, grumbled or chortled (hard to imagine a difference) and argued about local politics.
(3)Chris B.
It's always nice to have a go to place for breakfast in walking distance, well at least from my girlfriend's place. Vera's is just that, just your run of the mill coffee shop that does the classics right. Fresh squeezed OJ, nice size portions and just all around good food. This last time is was there I ordered a special off the board, a Chorizo and egg scramble topped with sour cream and salsa, served with hash browns and floor tortillas. It had great flavor and the tortillas were really fresh. A must order special!
(4)Elston H.
Everthing about this restaurant was just average. We were waiting on a repair, and a local business suggested we come here. We were goting to go to Hattie's Hat. But he said he and his wife like this place. I wound up wishing we had tried to other restaurant. I would up wishing I had gone with my original choice. Food and service were just ok. Nothing special. And food was fully priced, so I would not come back again.
(3)Johnny W.
One of the few diners in Seattle (or anywhere, really) that I enjoyed frequenting, as Vera's offered up solid food that was much better than your average run-of-the-mill diner food - that's not to say it was healthier or less greasy than most diner food, but it was certainly much tastier. My go to was usually their corned beef hash, but they served up a tasty eggs benedict as well. In addition to good breakfast food, their friendly service and reasonable prices made Vera's a default for my sporadic breakfast meetups with another Ballard friend. Cash or check only though, so plan accordingly - my first first, a friend and I (a Jew and a Chinese person) were seen counting up a massive pile of change in order to pay our bill.
(3)Bjorn F.
What a charmingly authentic old fashioned American diner! I agree with a previous reviewer who said Vera's was like stepping into a time capsule - in an endearing way. Everything here screams simple no fuss Americana, the kind of place you'd expect to find in a small town in the Midwest, except it's square in the middle of hip neighborhood Ballard. In fact, Vera's is so unhip that it's actually more hip than the surrounding trendspots. Sure, you won't expect to find an innovative menu, modern decor or music younger than the Reagan administration, but that's the whole point of a place like Vera's. The food is solid and my Ecuadorian server could not have been more accomodating, filling up my cup of coffee at always the right time. I'm happy places like Vera's are still around to connect modern urban neighborhoods with their more traditional laidback past.
(5)Zombie C.
I am a big fan of diner food, but Vera's has been going down hill for the last three years. I ordered the 'Wonder Bird' and I'm not sure what the problem was but the turkey tasted off. Also, how do you take the flavor out of bacon? I take bad food experiences personally because I find it unconscionable to put even iffy food on a plate and serve it, so expecting someone to pay for it is absolutely wrong. I shouldn't have to talk to someone or send it back because if it isn't exceptional, great, or at least good it should not be served to a customer. I paid for my lunch, but I will not return.
(1)Rick A.
I have had breakfast at Veras, many many times!!! I am picky when it comes to breakfast, and thiers is top notch. I like thier hash browns, a lot. Crispy on the outside, and soft and not greasy on the inside. The bacon is very good, and thier corned beef hash, is just right!! They make great eggs benedict, and pretty much everything else is great!! They also do a great job of waffles and pancakes!!! Thier staff has always been warm and friendly. Now that they take credit cards, I can't see anything to complain about!! Most of all, I like thier unpretentious, feel, and down home small city cafe, feel. I always run into friends and neighbors there. One such neighbor is a fairly famous foodie, himself. He told me he eats breakfast there all the time. Trust me, that is one heck of a kudo for Veras!!! Ballard continues to get cooler and cooler, Veras has always been cool, in it's own way.
(5)Minda w.
A good solid diner. Clean and friendly. Ballard Scramble - bacon mushroom green onion sour cream & cheese scramble. comes with hash browns and toast. delicious. big portions. *This place is cash only.
(3)Adriana K.
A second trip to Vera's I brought my brother. He laughed when he walked through the door, expecting some trendy brunch spot in Ballard, '''It looks just like a Dennys". Truly it does. Lots of tables and good for groups. Both times I have gone, service has been slow, but friendly and efficient once orders were placed. I tried an omelette last time, which was fine. This time I tried the crab benedict which was good, but paled in comparison to an amazing crab benedict in Portland several weeks prior (VQ; a-mazing!). Eggs were poached well, and the crabcake had a decent amount of crab (like Tom Douglas, I am under the belief that crabcakes should consist primarily of..crab). Veras is in a good location and a typical greasy spoon with some urban flair to the menu.
(3)Lisa B.
It's nice that there are still some some old-school diners in Seattle, where they don't hit you over the head with how organically local everything is. I had the french toast, and while I wish it was a little thicker and crispy, it satisfied. The hash browns were okay but could have used a little seasoning. Service was fine and I didn't have to wait for a table.
(3)Michael C.
Great diner type place. Only been for breakfast, but it was excellent both times.
(3)Bailey C.
I stopped in while waiting for my car at Carter Subaru and ate breakfast. I tried the Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict and they were absolutely delicious. I had a tall glass of fresh squeezed orange juice, as well. I would absolutely go back.
(4)Lana M.
YES! Vera's now accepts credit cards! Mmmm....breakfast. I could eat breakfast at any point during the day. Fortunately, working in the area makes Vera's convenient for "morning staff meetings" or a quick take out lunch when nothing but something that my stomach equates to "breakfast lovingly made by grandma" will do. Our entire staff likes the basic 3 eggs, hash browns and toast. Throw in that adding bacon means 4 giant and perfectly cooked slabs - who doesn't LOVE bacon? - and you're in business! As another reviewer commented, few restaurants know what Over-Medium means, and Vera's does it right. Scrambled with cheese?...yep, pure perfection. The service is friendly, attentive and for the most part quick. It's not often that we wait for the waitress to take our order (generally she swoops by with coffee and asks if it's the usual, all around). Ten minutes or less and the aroma of grandmotherly goodness is placed in front of us! Whether you're in a business suit or a pair of yoga pants, crocs and a sweatshirt, you're treated the same...with a warm smile, quick service and wonderful yummy food.
(4)Kris W.
I was surprised and impressed by my first trip to Vera's. Based on other reviewers' comments, I expected it to be a typical greasy spoon. Judging by other commenters' term "greasy spoon," I'd say that few if any of them have ever lived in Georgia and breathed the grease-thick air of a Waffle House. Our food came out incredibly fast, and was very fresh. My wife's hash browns were crispy outside, soft inside and not at all oily. My son's strawberries were fresh cut for his french toast (not the typical canned strawberries with syrup). And my waffle was cooked perfectly and came with two links, two crispy strips of bacon, and two perfectly cooked scrambled eggs. All this and no waiting in Ballard at 11am on a beautiful Sunday morning in July? I'll be back :) P.S. They serve Cafe Umbria drip. Not quite the acrid black liquid of your average greasy spoon.
(4)Sean M.
This is what Ballard was... Before the condos and Belltowners. Old school before old school was cool. Formica counters and wall papered interiors. The crowd is a mix of old and new because the menu is classic and fairly priced. It's like Beth's without all the eggs and attitude.
(4)Joshua J.
Solid breakfast joint. I'm a little tough on breakfast places having worked in sucha place eons ago. Eggs are... ART! I had spinach benedict, a little soggy, but tasty enough. Hash browns not hashish enough, I mean hashy? Lananas was great, sweet, not acidic. But that's beside the point. Great coffee, plus one star! Caffe Umbria I think... Problem here, Kiss Cafe's Monte Cristo would blow this outta the water, I"m pretty sure, and only a few blocks. Still a solid breakfast.
(3)Haley B.
I love this place. The Ballard scramble rocks and the blueberry waffle is fresh. It's a classic diner all the way, nothing too fancy. Skip the Mexican breakfast items, they are better at Senor Moose. I just wish they would stay open late night on the weekends - then Ballard would be complete!
(4)Doug C.
People often wonder if a name is destiny. For example, if you name your kid "Brutus", is it possible for him not to end up a tough guy? If you name him "Rufus", he's bound to be likable? If you name him "Cletus", isn't he likely to drop out of high school and commit a felony? The same thing holds true for restaurants. Diners and breakfast places named "Vera's" or "Flo's" or even "Minerva's" are destined to be old-school places. And that's what you get here. The decor is basic and looks like it comes from the 70's. Not the neon orange shag carpet 70's, but more the faded furniture kind. The cash register looks like a 1930's throwback and like the 1800's they don't accept credit cards here. (Note: I understand the small business credit card fees argument, I'm just pointing out that you need to bring cash to this establishment.) Prices are probably average to slightly higher for the Ballard breakfast; a recent breakfast for two was just under $30. Fortunately, the fare here is also standards from the good old days: omelets, scrambles, french toast and coffee fill the menu. At the most recent visit, I had a ham and cheese omelet with toast and coffee. I'd call the food here average for the breakfast category and the service pleasant. I've never had a bad meal here, but I've never been wowed either. It's not exciting, but just basic food.....like you'd expect from the name.
(3)Carol H.
Vera's has really great food, it is really too bad they open SO LATE on weekends. They would get a whole lot more business if they were to open much earlier on the WEEKENDS. Great food, great staff.
(5)Alli D.
Stop #7,463 on the Quest for The World's Best Breakfast. (Note: approximation. Have lost count.) Loved the atmosphere. Very home-grown and wall-papery. Liked the speed with which coffee was poured and order was taken. Almost liked the idea of eggs benedict, but couldn't pass up the prospect of french toast. Which, by the way, came with not only bacon, and not only sausage. But bacon *and* sausage. And eggs. So, needless to say, I was one caffeinated and satisfied young lady by the time Vera was done with me. I'm not so sure it was the best breakfast ever, but maybe once I reach #10,000 I'll have a better basis of comparison.
(4)Nina W.
My daddy has been really sick lately, and I just happened to be coming from dropping off my sisters downtown at the convention center, when I thought I would go to Vera's for some pancakes. After all, it had been 20 years or so since I had stopped in. My parents took me to Vera's a lot when I was a little kid. The interior has not changed, but the ownership has, and so has the menu. I ordered a stack of 3 blueberry pancakes and a coffee. The pancakes were good, not great. They had the perfect amount of blueberry to batter ratio for my preference. Blueberry lovers would maybe feel schist-ed by the amount, but I'm not a blueberry lover so it was really perfect for me. I found weekday service on a Friday to be fast and friendly.
(4)Brad A.
EXCELLENT BREAKFASTS! That's what I'm talkin' about! I like the food there. It's really and truly good. HOTTIES?: None that I could see. QUALITY: The food is very good. No surprises. SERVICE: It's pretty good. Very courteous. PARKING: In Ballard, depending on the time of day, you can find street parking. RETURN?: Absolutely. That's what I'm talkin' about!
(5)Stephanie P.
Some friends of mine recently came to visit from out of town, and as eager as they were to sample Seattle's exotic cuisines, by day three our stomachs were pleading for some normal, ordinary food. We happened to be in Ballard for the obligatory Archie McPhee/Cupcake Royale run, and decided that a lunchtime trip to Vera's was the best thing for our traumatized bellies. Vera's is an unfussy, no-frills diner that serves your basic American cuisine: hamburgers, sandwiches, and hearty meat breakfasts. From the fake-wood paneling to the hand-lettered signs taped up behind the cash register, there's nothing fancy or pretentious about this joint, and therein lies its charm. The servers are friendly and attentive without being sugary. When I pointed out that I was missing a side dish, our waitress frowned, agreed, and dashed off to the kitchen to get a replacement. I'm fond of the Bird in a Bush, which is embarrassing to order but also delicious. It's nothing fancy --- a turkey sandwich with cranberry sauce, cream cheese, and sprouts --- but it's so good, it's worth the humiliation of speaking its name. The gyro isn't the best I've ever had, but it comes generously stuffed with tender, well-seasoned meat, and the tzaziki sauce is very tasty. Their fries are always crispy and golden, never flaccid or overcooked. My dining companions were pleased with their grilled chicken pita sandwiches, waffles (the small-hole kind, not Belgian), and milkshakes. I've never had a problem getting seated here, so it's easy to get in and out relatively quickly. Yes, it is kind of lame that they only take cash, but as long as you're aware of that going in, you can plan accordingly. Come on, you can handle it. It's worth hitting the ATM beforehand in order to enjoy their meatful, reasonably priced sandwiches and perfectly golden fries. Just because it's not exotic doesn't mean it's not special.
(4)Megan J.
I've been here a handful of times, usually when I feel like Midwest diner kind of food. I'm a big fan of potatoes and mostly judge a place based on its sides. The fries are a disappointment, but the hash browns are tasty. The fruit plate is huge. Super nice waitresses the last time I was in. It's not one of my favorite restaurants, but when I'm in the right mood, it really fits the bill.
(4)Phil S.
I got hungry for one of Vera's Smoked Salmon Benedicts and was delighted to see that they now take credit/debit cards. Thank you Vera's and by that I mean Yay!!!!
(5)Stephanie T.
Vera's is where Capitol Hill hipster-bar meets small town diner. I know it's hard to imagine, but I don't know how else to describe it -- you go and it makes sense. Everything tastes homemade--you're not going to find that many other places. The egg-hashbrown combo is great (huevos rancheros are definitely among the best in Seattle) and sweet breakfasts (at least the waffles) are excellent; I can see why you would come here for an all-around great neighborhood experience if you lived anywhere near Ballard. FYI, I don't know if I've been to another place like this, but Vera's takes only cash and personal local checks.
(4)Liz R.
Amazing coffee! Wonderful atmosphere! Vera's has a large selection of tasty, filling breakfast dishes. I've sampled the california and salmon benedict- both yummy. The california invloves bacon, avocado and tomato and spinach, a combo you won't find many other places. I'm forever searching for eggy breakfasts that also offer a little something green and veggie-like, but without skipping the meat. Vera's had a lot to offer me. The salmon benny came with an impressive pile of slamon- so much that my man couldn't finish it- and that's a rare thing. My only quibble is the hollandaise sauce- good, but it ain't no Glo's. Also, Vera's only takes cash, so make sure you show up with some!
(4)Natalie W.
How it all adds up at Vera's in Ballard- CONVENIENT FROM EVERYWHERE... according to me* Salmon Benedict= Delicious and filling... check Chicken Fried Steak= Perfect according to the Bro... check Artichoke Omelet with Hollandaise sauce= Couldn't be better according to the Father... check Good portions that fill you up but don't make you feel llike you are rolling out of the dive after you eat... check The toast and potatoes aren't main attactions or try and overshadowthe main event but sides to round it all out... check Constant good coffee refills offered with a smile... check Country diner feel with great service and a sign that is NEON... check Water always topped off... check Cash not taken with sign clearly posted as you walk in and a couple ATM's within a couple minute walk... check Basic menu with a few fun surprises and weekday breakfast specials... check Hollandaise sauce that is thick and perfect... check Has a counter with chair bolted in place and a large table seating area... check FINDING A PLACE FOR A BREAKFAST OR LUNCH ANYTIME- SINGLE OR WITH A GROUP- THAT IS AMAZING... check- done done and done!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
(5)Jane R.
This place has everything I want except super parking. They cook my eggs perfectly. Most places don't know what "over medium" means. Service is excellent. I love the un-pretentious atmosphere. They are family and toddler friendly with high chairs.
(4)Lenny L.
True true.. No credit cards taken here.. But come on! This place has been around forever and it is part of the culture that makes this place rad. Its just a old school diner.. which are rare in Seattle.. Decent food, decent price and good service.. If you are into diners.. this is perfect.. Nothing too fancy..
(4)alina m.
Vera's always serves me overwhelmingly filling breakfasts and perfect sandwiches. Huge portions, cheerful diner atmosphere and kind wait-staff. I also appreciate the prompt takeout service. Everything vegetarian on the menu is delicious; I've tried it all! I only wish they were open past 3pm!
(5)Betsey S.
Vera's has so many redeeming qualities! It's old school, the servings are huge but not disgusting, the menu has all the breakfast staples plus some delish and creative specials, fresh squeezed juice, fast and efficient staff, a counter, a central location, reasonable prices, and their toast rules. I think it's homemade bread and really thickly sliced. Vera puts lots of vegetarian things on the menu, and despite being a diner, it's very possible to get a couple servings of vegetables into your breakfast via an omelette or scramble. Even if you have to wait to be seated at Vera's, it's never very long. I think it's because there's a good mix of seating options here, from counter seats for one to two tops to large round tables for groups. They only take cash, but like I said, they're old school. It would really hurt if Ballard lost Vera's.
(5)Margaret B.
I love Vera's. The food is always good and the service has been awesome. The woman who regularly works the weekday breakfasts is great compared to a lot of other breakfast places around town. She's the main reason I go there because she always takes care of me -- never an empty coffee cup or water glass and the food always arrives quickly, correct and hot. Having been a waitress in my college days, I am attuned to good and bad wait staff especially when I am dining alone.
(4)Quinn R.
Solid american breakfast food. I don't know how many times I walked past this place before finally walking on in to sample there breakfast fare. Hearty large pancakes, crisp delicious bacon..pretty much everything I want out of a breakfast place. This is how I'd make breakfast if I could cook bacon at home and knew how to not burn pancakes. If you like simple fare this is a place for you.
(4)Sharon F.
I'm sitting here, at my new job which starts at an ungodly hour of the morning. And I am starving. I, smart girl that I am, left my ID and bank card in the pants I wore last night when I went out. Due to "the nature of the business" (concierge) being away from my desk from more than 10 minutes is frowned upon, so I cannot go home to get said ATM card. But wait...my wallet still contains my check book, and Vera's actually takes checks! I wonder if they will whip me up some Eggs Benedict that I can just pick up and run back to my desk with? OMFG They do to-go orders! YAY!!! I'm saved! I like to actually eat in the restaurant, too. I savor their big ass bowl of perfectly cooked oatmeal served with a diminuitive pitcher of milk, raisins, brown sugar and butter. Yummmmm. I didn't think it would hold up very well for to-go, though.
(4)Mike M.
Always great food and wonderful service. Love the small town feel this place offers. Don't come in expecting a grande dame of restaurants, its basic diner that serves diner food. The Ballard Scramble is great, as well as the basic pancakes, bacon or sausage, eggs, and hashbrowns breakfast. Love this place!
(4)Paul R.
Vera's is a great breakfast place and fits Ballard's personality to a "T". The exterior masks how large the place is and the menu is that of a really good Diner. I think what truly stands out is that there is zero pretension. If anything, someone going in there with false airs would feel unwelcome by both customers and staff alike.
(3)