Images: Jay Friedman/The SunBreak)

Hill Tastes is a CHS essay series from a variety of Capitol Hill voices exploring the flavors of Capitol Hill restaurants, bars and more. Have a taste you’d like us to explore? Let us know.

Skillet Nation has extended its reach with its opening of Skillet Counter in the Seattle Center Armory. In doing so, one of Seattle’s saddest food courts has become a good dining destination. And with Chihuly Garden and Glass just across the way (where Collections Cafe is quite a good place to eat as well), Seattle Center is suddenly a spot well worth visiting.

Most of the food is what’s available at Skillet Diner on Capitol Hill, though with a more abbreviated menu. You’ll find the classics like The Burger (with arugula and Bacon Jam) and the fabulous Fried Chicken Sammy, with all the food prepared onsite. Those with tots can take advantage of an expanded kids’ menu. It’s the breakfast menu that showcases new offerings, including a Breakfast Burrito of the Day and a Breakfast Sammy with bacon, egg, and cheese–with a chance to add Bacon Jam or a fried chicken thigh.

Skillet Counter is already drawing Seattle Center workers for breakfast and lunch, as service is fast, and Fonte coffee is a bargain at two dollars. I expect it won’t be long before tourists discover the quality of the cooking at the Counter. And Gates Foundation employees will enjoy meals at all hours. There’s even a bar area for post-work playtime.

It’s hard to believe that it’s been five years since Skillet debuted in Seattle, with an Airstream trailer taking to the streets to sell burgers, poutine, and more. The success has continued with the opening of Skillet Diner, and it won’t be surprising to see more Skillets popping up in Seattle (or beyond) in the years ahead.

Skillet is celebrating its five-year anniversary in style. Chef Josh Henderson has penned Skillet’s first cookbook, appropriately named The Skillet Cookbook: A Street Food Manifesto.

The SunBreak is an online magazine of news & culture. A conversation about the things on Seattle’s mind.