When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
Cora Pizza & Plates
Why Cora Pizza & Plates is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Cora Pizza & Plates is an inviting neighborhood Italian restaurant nestled in Seattle's vibrant Capitol Hill district. Known for its warm, rustic, and cozy atmosphere, it offers an elegant yet approachable dining experience that makes it an ideal spot to meet up with friends, enjoy a family dinner, or have a romantic night out. The restaurant specializes in wood-fired pizzas crafted from a distinctive crust made with custom wheat milled by Smalls Family Farms and grains from Bluebird Grain Farms, lending a unique flavor and texture. Beyond pizzas, Cora serves heartening pastas, seasonal vegetables, and vibrant salads, all thoughtfully prepared to highlight fresh, local ingredients. The culinary expertise of James Beard Award-winning Chef John Sundstrom, along with partners Kelly Ronan and J.M. Enos, ensures that every dish is crafted with care and sophistication. Guests can complement their meal with a curated selection of wines by the glass and bottle, two local draft beers, pre-batched classic cocktails like Negronis and Manhattans, boozy slushes, and simple scratch cocktails. The setting is perfect for those seeking an intimate yet lively environment in Capitol Hill, conveniently located across from Seattle University. Its consistent quality and warm ambiance make it a favorite gathering place for both locals and visitors alike.
Here's what people think of Cora Pizza & Plates
As of recent, Cora Pizza & Plates holds a 4.6-star rating based on 256 reviews.
Customer reviews of Cora Pizza & Plates consistently highlight the high quality of the food, especially the wood-fired pizzas that stand out for their unique crust and flavorful toppings. Many reviewers praise the cozy and inviting atmosphere that suits various occasions—from casual meetups to romantic dinners. The attentive service is frequently noted as delivering an excellent dining experience. Positives mentioned often include the thoughtfully curated wine and cocktail selection, the freshness of the ingredients, and the overall balance of rustic charm with refined flavors. Reviewers also appreciate the extended hours on weekends and the lunch offerings from their sister sandwich pop-up, Slab, enhancing Cora's versatility as a dining destination. On the other hand, some negative feedback centers around limited seating and occasional wait times, especially during peak hours, which can affect the spontaneity of visits. A few customers have noted that reservations are only accepted for larger parties, which might inconvenience smaller groups seeking guaranteed seating. Additionally, some found the dessert selection limited or wished for a broader beer selection. In conclusion, while minor issues with seating and menu breadth appear, the overwhelming consensus is that Cora Pizza & Plates provides a consistently delightful culinary experience with exceptional wood-fired pizzas, excellent service, and a charming ambiance fitting for special gatherings or casual nights out.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Cameron
Amazing pizza and apps. Great wine list. The staff is so friendly! I can't wait to come back. Such a good spot for big groups.
Jason Thompson
It’s nice to have a joint nearby with some Italian bite options since Italian is not as common here compared to elsewhere. Had the rigatoni with some wine and the other half had a type of spaghetti-puttanesca. I wish the wine was cheaper but it’s a quaint place with a nice atmosphere for a date near the Hill on 12th.
Nick Isles
Cora is a gem of a restaurant in every way. It has a welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, and incredible food (one of those menu's where you just want to order everything). Thank you for a great evening, I look forward to coming back!
Chris M
A little gem of a place. A nice wine selection and delicious pizzas. Seevice was friendly and helpful.
Valeria Garcia
We loved it here. Everyone was super kind and food was top. The artichoke dip was tasteful and delicious, the arugula salad was creative with well balanced ingredients that brought in the mouth the Gorgonzola taste and the nuts texture. The pizza? Great, not too much, not too much, with ingredients that could be noticed and combined well. We will be back.
How to reach Cora Pizza & Plates
None
Website: None
Why rally at Cora Pizza & Plates with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a memorable outing is all about finding the right spot—one that combines atmosphere, delicious food, and an accommodating vibe. Cora Pizza & Plates in Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood offers all of this and more, making it an ideal place to rally with your group. The warm and inviting ambiance, created by its rustic yet refined décor, sets the tone for a relaxed and enjoyable experience. At the heart of Cora’s appeal is its focus on wood-fired pizzas with a unique twist—the dough is crafted using custom milled wheat from local farms, providing exceptional flavor and texture. Beyond pizza, the menu features comforting Italian pastas and fresh seasonal vegetables that cater to diverse tastes. Friends can indulge in thoughtfully curated wines, craft cocktails, and boozy slushies, adding to the celebratory feel. The restaurant’s convivial setting, along with its reputation stemming from James Beard Award-winning Chef John Sundstrom’s culinary expertise, makes Cora a place where friendships deepen over shared plates and laughter. Whether it’s a casual meetup or a special occasion, Cora’s welcoming environment and standout food make it a top choice to gather your crew for delicious moments together.
What activities can you enjoy at Cora Pizza & Plates with your group?
Cora Pizza & Plates isn’t just about fantastic food; it’s a space that fosters engaging social experiences which are perfect for groups. While the primary activity centers on sharing wood-fired pizzas—each made with attention to detail and fresh, locally sourced ingredients—the restaurant also offers opportunities for lively conversation and celebration. The cozy, rustic interior encourages relaxed dining where groups can comfortably linger over multiple courses. The bar serves pre-batched Negronis and Manhattans plus rotating craft beers and seasonal cocktails, which bring a curated beverage game to your meetup. For a unique twist, the boozy slushies provide a fun and refreshing drink option that’s great for summer gatherings or just to add a playful touch to your evening. Happy hour runs from 3:00 to 5:00 pm with a limited food menu and drinks, ideal for groups looking to kick off their meetup with casual bites and cocktails. The vibe is lively yet intimate, making it suitable for a laid-back dinner, a birthday celebration, or just a spontaneous get-together. Additionally, Cora accepts reservations for parties of six or more, easing logistics for larger groups and ensuring your gathering goes smoothly from start to finish.
Why is Cora Pizza & Plates perfect for a group meetup?
Cora Pizza & Plates stands out as a group-friendly venue due to its thoughtful design and approach to dining. The restaurant’s seating layout and cozy atmosphere create the perfect balance between intimacy and social energy, allowing groups to converse easily without feeling lost in a noisy crowd. Its location in the vibrant Capitol Hill neighborhood adds to its appeal—surrounded by other entertainment and cultural hotspots, it’s easy to combine dinner with an evening stroll or further socializing nearby. The menu’s variety caters to different tastes and dietary preferences, ensuring everyone at your table finds something appealing—whether it’s a classic wood-fired Margherita pizza, flavorful pasta dishes, or fresh seasonal salads. The skilled staff is accustomed to handling groups, providing attentive service without rushing the meal. This is important for allowing extended meals full of laughter, catching up, and even planning future meetups. Moreover, their commitment to quality—such as using locally sourced wheat for unique pizza crusts—resonates with groups that value both taste and sustainability in dining. The ability to reserve tables for larger parties removes the usual stress of finding seating—a major plus for any group outing.
What makes the food and drink experience at Cora so special for friends dining together?
Cora Pizza & Plates offers a culinary experience that brings friends closer through sharing well-crafted, comforting food and drinks. The star of the menu—the wood-fired pizzas—are made with a distinctive crust derived from a blend of specially milled wheat from Smalls Family Farms and grains from Bluebird Grain Farms. This unique ingredient approach translates into pizzas with exceptional flavor and a light, crispy texture that can be enjoyed across various toppings, from traditional Italian choices to creative seasonal specials. Beyond pizza, Cora’s pastas are hearty and thoughtfully prepared, perfect for sharing in classic Italian fashion. Seasonal veggie plates and fresh salads add balance and variety, accommodating those seeking lighter or plant-forward options. The drink menu complements the food beautifully, featuring selected wines by the glass or bottle, two local beers on draft, and carefully mixed pre-batched cocktails like Negronis and Manhattans—perfect for raising a toast among friends. Their boozy slushies add a playful, refreshing element to the evening, often sparking fun conversation and shared delight. This combination of quality ingredients, chef-driven recipes, and a focus on conviviality makes dining at Cora a vibrant group experience centered on connection and great taste.
How accessible and convenient is Cora Pizza & Plates for hosting meetups?
Convenience and accessibility are key factors when choosing a meetup spot, and Cora Pizza & Plates delivers on both fronts. Located at 926 12th Avenue in the heart of Seattle’s Capitol Hill, it’s strategically positioned close to Seattle University and many lively neighborhood attractions, which means your group can plan a full outing around dinner plans. The restaurant’s hours—Tuesday through Saturday from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm (10:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays)—offer flexibility for evening meets without feeling rushed. For groups of six or more, reservations are accepted, so organizers don’t have to worry about long waits or crowding, which is a significant advantage during busy nights. Its sister restaurant, Slab Sandwich, also runs a lunch pop-up during weekdays, and Cora offers happy hour specials from 3:00 to 5:00 pm, meaning there are several ideal windows to meet depending on your group’s schedule. The staff is welcoming and experienced in accommodating groups, smoothing the way from arrival through to departure. Parking and transit options in Capitol Hill additionally make reaching Cora hassle-free, helping ensure your meetup starts and ends on a positive note.
Can Cora Pizza & Plates accommodate different group sizes and preferences?
Yes, Cora Pizza & Plates is well-equipped to accommodate a range of group sizes and diverse preferences, a must-have for successful meetups. Whether you’re organizing an intimate gathering of close friends or a larger celebration of six or more people, Cora’s reservation policy allows you to secure a comfortable space suited to your party’s needs. The menu’s design encourages sharing, allowing everyone to sample different dishes, which is excellent for groups with varying tastes and dietary requirements. From wood-fired pizzas catering to meat lovers and vegetarians alike to pastas and seasonal salads that can suit lighter appetites, the offerings are crafted to ensure no one feels left out. Beverage selections are broad enough to include wine enthusiasts, craft beer drinkers, and cocktail fans, with options for a refreshing boozy slushy or a classic Manhattan. The friendly, knowledgeable service team is attentive to such nuances, providing recommendations and ensuring that every diner’s needs are met. This responsiveness fosters an inclusive dining experience that groups appreciate when coming together to celebrate or simply enjoy each other’s company.
What is the overall atmosphere and vibe when meeting at Cora Pizza & Plates?
The atmosphere at Cora Pizza & Plates strikes a perfect balance between comfortable and lively, creating an ideal environment for groups to gather and enjoy themselves. The space is described as rustic and cozy, which gives off a welcoming, neighborhood-restaurant vibe rather than a stiff or overly formal dining experience. This ambiance encourages relaxed and extended visits, where friends can share plates, savor drinks, and connect without feeling rushed. The wood-fired oven, visible in the open kitchen, adds warmth and a sense of culinary theater, often sparking conversation around the authentic cooking techniques and quality ingredients. Music and lighting levels are tuned to maintain an intimate feel while keeping the energy up enough for convivial chatter. The intentional simplicity and refinement of the décor make the surroundings inviting without distraction, allowing the focus to stay on the company and food. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a celebratory weekend outing, Cora’s welcoming yet polished environment resonates with groups looking for a refined but accessible dining experience.
What unique features make Cora Pizza & Plates stand out among Seattle Italian restaurants?
Cora Pizza & Plates distinguishes itself from other Italian eateries in Seattle through its dedication to quality, local sourcing, and a modern yet authentic approach to wood-fired cooking. Led by the James Beard Award-winning Chef John Sundstrom and his partners, the restaurant benefits from a culinary pedigree that infuses the menu with expertise and creativity. Its focus on a custom-milled wheat crust sourced from local farms such as Smalls Family Farms and Bluebird Grain Farms is a rare commitment to ingredient provenance that elevates the humble pizza to something exceptional. Cora also stands out with its careful drink program featuring pre-batched classic cocktails and boozy slushies that add a contemporary twist to traditional pairing options. Positioned in a vibrant Capitol Hill neighborhood, it blends local flair with the culinary sophistication you would expect from award-winning chefs, all while keeping the dining experience accessible and friendly. This combination of local roots, artisanal quality, and community atmosphere makes Cora a standout choice for those who want more than just dinner—they want a genuine, shared experience grounded in the best of Seattle’s food scene.