Salty's is somewhat of a Seattle institution with a restaurant at Alki Beach and one at Redondo Beach, both with an excellent view. The Redondo restaurant, located in Des Moines just north of Federal Way, is somewhat more tranquil being outside the city, and the outside deck gives great views of Puget Sound with good sunset vistas.

Although the view is probably Salty's biggest selling point, the food is pretty good also. The fish is average to slightly above average for seafood restaurants in Seattle (but I think would be considered excellent in most other cities). My favorite fish is usually Salmon, and Salty's serves wild salmon (farmed Atlantic salmon would not be respectable for Seattle, and only the cheaper places serve it).

I have been more happy with simple grilled fish here than the ones with fancy sauces (I think it's better to go to Elliott's or other high-end restaurants for that). The fish is so good in the Pacific Northwest I am not sure why anyone would want sauce on it anyway.

Unfortunately Salty's is priced like a high-end restaurant, but you can get a break by going at "happy hour" for some great specials (check their web site for details).

The bar is very popular and a little on the noisy side.

Salty's biggest selling point is the view of Puget Sound at sunset which can be enjoyed from inside the restaurant or on the outdoor deck weather permitting. The outdoor deck used to be a smoking area but I am not sure whether the new state anti-smoking law still permits it. To me one of the greatest dining experiences in Seattle is eating on the deck on a summer evening when it can be done in a smoke-free environment.