Young, Broke and Hungry: Teriyaki Madness

by Nicole Lisson
- The Capitol Hill Times -

Let’s be honest, money is tight. With bills to pay and everyday household necessities, there isn’t a whole lot left over for food. On the days when ramen feel’s like a chore, there are a handful of restaurants on the hill that won’t break the bank. First up is Teriyaki Madness.

Teriyaki Madness is a small restaurant along 15th Avenue, squished between Gyro Café and a credit union. The big block letters on the awning are easy to miss but its close proximity to Group Health makes it a popular lunch spot with medical personnel. When you walk in, the smell of sizzling meat permeates the air. Banter spoken in Chinese is traded among the employees, creating a symphony of sound. There are three tables and a bar along the window, which is prime for people watching.

At the noon and 1 p.m. rush, it’s better to get your food to go than to wait for a table. Your lunch hour could be over by the time a seat opens up.

Prices range from insanely cheap to moderately cheap. Chicken and General Taos and Gyoza (10.99) is the most expensive item on the menu and it’s basically four meals in one. With a name like Teriyaki Madness, it shouldn’t be a surprise that the Chicken Teriyaki ($6.29) and the Chicken Bowl ($4.99) are my first picks. Charbroiled chicken comes slathered in a rich tangy sauce on top a bed of white rice. For a dollar more, you can swap it out for brown rice. A generous helping of cucumber salad comes on the side.

If meat isn’t your jam, there is also a vegetarian section on the menu with a couple of different options. Teriyaki Madness has quick service and cheap food, ideal for a broke writer like me or every other young person out there. It’s not to be missed.

For more cheap eats in the Seattle area, visit youngbrokeandhungry.com 

Teriyaki Madness
111 15th Ave E.
Seattle, WA 98112

Nicole Lisson / The Capitol Hill TImes