Hang a right off busy 1st Ave in Pioneer Square to find your way to Cafe Paloma, an oasis of friendly service and simple but satisfying Middle Eastern dining. The walls are hung with a mix of funky sculptures and paintings from local elementary school students. Paninis are among the popular items here, but the soup of the day is often your best bet, with offerings like homemade lamb stew. The meze plates of dips are perfect for sharing over a bittersweet Turkish coffee pick-me-up in the late afternoon. Lunch dishes may set you back $10, which keeps Paloma from being an everyday thing, but it's still one of the most reliable sit-down lunch options in the neighborhood.
Pros: Friendly service, light and fresh tasting food
Cons: On the expensive side for lunch
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