Seattle International Film Festival's Shining Culinary Stars For 2025
The much-anticipated celebration of movies from around the globe – an event known as SIFF – has just kicked off its annual festival, which runs May 15-25. Among the long list of intriguing films are a few with food and drink themes. Here's what should be on your must-view list and where to drink/dine after the show.
Director Don Hardy follows mixologists through a rigorous competition in the documentary, Bar. It's ... More one of the culinary-themed movies at the 2025 Seattle International Film Festival.
This documentary from director Don Hardy follows a group of dedicated mixologists during a heated competition organized by the Culinary Institute of America. It serves up an insider's look at that side of the hospitality industry.
The official description touches on the special bonds forged during the event: 'BAR is a humanistic glimpse into the hospitality workers who care to connect beyond the drinks, showing us that excellent hospitality is about more than just pouring drinks. This documentary demonstrates the gathering for a collective goal and the community that emerges from shared passions under challenge and camaraderie.'
It's showing May 17 and 18 in Downtown Seattle at Pacific Place – though the later show is at 11 a.m., so a post-screening drink might run more towards the mimosa vibe.
The Doctor's Office is a short walk from the theater and well worth the trip. Recognized as one of the best bars in the world, this welcoming spot created by Dr. Michael Powell showcases a carefully chosen collection of spirits. And, of course, there's an exhaustive lineup of cocktails, both classic and cutting edge, including intriguing NA beverages. Be sure and try the Northwest-centric charcuterie board created to complement those cocktails.
Sushi legend Hidekazu Tojo is the subject of a documentary film showing at the Seattle International ... More Film Festival, May 15-25, 2025. Tojo-san is credited with making the edible art form a must-try dish in North America in this Canadian film from director Mads Baekkevold.
A sushi lover? Then you definitely owe an Arigatō to legendary chef Hidekazu Tojo, the subject of a documentary from director Mads Baekkevold and producer Matthew Dix. They convincingly make the case that Tojo introduced the edible art form to North America at his Vancouver, B.C., restaurant nearly 40 years ago.
This portrait of a chef who moved from Japan in the 1970s delivers a generous helping of warm and fuzzy feels, as its subject faces challenges with determination and celebrates the daily joy of creating beautiful bites. Chef Tojo will be attending the May 24 and 25 screenings, along with the director and producer.
It's nearly impossible to pick a favorite in a city crammed with so many incredible options, but Sushi Kappo Tamura is a strong contender. Chef-owner Taichi Kitamura has been sourcing local and sustainable ingredients long before farm-to-table was a thing. The ever-changing, seasonally driven menu features some rocking rolls including the OG, the California roll, which Tojo is credited with inventing.
This 2024 feature film based in Iceland was inspired by director Snævar Sölvason's childhood experiences in a small fishing village. The film's official description offers this insight into this sort-of buddy movie: Björn and Hjalti, run a popular seafood restaurant in a fishing village in the Westfjords of Iceland. Hjalti is a confident family man; Björn, a reserved, single guy who has always lived in his parents' house. They usually close their restaurant during the winter, but a good opportunity arises and they decide to grab it. At the same time, Bjorn comes out as a trans woman. Prejudice is around the corner and the friendship sways under this unexpected turn of events."
For an inspired Scandinavian feast, head to the Freya Cafe in the National Nordic Museum, where an open-faced Smørrebrød might be topped with chicken salad and you can take home a jar of pickled herring. The Aquavit flight features several producers from Iceland.
Bonus: Streaming options for most films are offered for those not able to attend SIFF in person. Check the official website for the full lineup.
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