Seattle's Paseo Opening New Eastside Location This Month

ISSAQUAH, WA — An award-winning and nationally renowned Seattle sandwich shop is expanding further into the Eastside this month, bringing its famous and messy menu of Caribbean eats to Issaquah.

Known for its large portions and onion-forward menu, Paseo has racked up several major accolades since first opening in Seattle in the 1990s, including twice ranking near the top of Yelp's "Top 100 Places to Eat in America" list and earning a shoutout from Anthony Bourdain.

Now, Paseo is preparing to open the doors on its fourth location after overhauling the former Papa John's space at the Lake Sammamish Shopping Center. Paseo's Issaquah outpost joins the chain's original Fremont shop, SoDo venue and Microsoft Redmond campus location.

“We want Paseo to be accessible around the region,” said Ryan Santwire, who purchased the restaurant from its original owners in 2014. “We love the Eastside, and the community there is already giving us a big warm welcome despite no official announcement until now. Our logo went up on the building a while back, and the buzz began. Our gratitude knows no bounds!”

Santwine said the 1,500 square-foot Issaquah space got a full remodel, adding a new dining room, bathroom and back-of-house area. The design is reminiscent of Paseo's Fremont aesthetic, complete with the teals, yellows, and pinks, along with tropical plants and neon lights.

"It's a small but cozy space," said Ashlee Nolan, Paseo's general manager. "We've pulled out all the stops to create a cheery and welcoming atmosphere with seating for all groups, from families with children to Sunday brunches with close friends."

A grand opening celebration is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 13, beginning at 10 a.m. Guests will be treated to complimentary bites, cocktail specials and raffles, and a lucky customer will win free Paseo for a year, the company said. Early birds will also have a chance to grab some free "swag bags," and the first 50 orders will get a free gift card.

Paseo also offers pickup and delivery options and event catering.

Paseo expands to Issaquah this month:

• Location: 6160 E Lake Sammamish Pkwy SE, Issaquah 98029
• Normal hours: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. (Tuesday - Sunday)
  • All-day breakfast available Sundays.
• Grand opening celebration: Aug. 13, 2022. 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
• More info here.