Strolling down 45th, looking for a place to grab a bite, it would be easy to mistake the Asteroid Cafe for just another hole in the wall Italian joint. Don't make this mistake. It is a solidly good restaurant with an exceptional selection of wines. The owner is regularly there and is the one to talk to if you want a bit of help choosing wine for your meal. Get him to tell you about his latest wine-seeking trip to Italy. The tables are small and close together, but the staff is attentive and will not rush you, even when the tables are all full. Probably not a good choice if you are bringing kids, but a great place to get away, just the two of you.

I was delighted when i found this place. We were lucky enough to walk in and find seats awaiting for us. <p>This has become one of my favorite restaurants. The food is great -- fresh pasta, original sauces, good selection of wine.. coupled with a very seattle-esque atmosphere, and great service, it couldn't be better.

This is my favorite restaurant in Seattle - far and away. (true it is in Wallingford, but close enough). Not a lot of folks find this gem, which is OK because you usually get a table, but they do keep busy.<p>Talk to the waitstaff about the specials - they truly are special here, and you can't go wrong with their price fix menu as well. They've also introduced me to some truly fantastic Italian wines. <p>The place is small, friendly, and a real treat for the tastebuds!

Asteroid prepares wonderful and unpretentious food in a casual and comfortable environment. Their mainstay pasta dishes are certainly adequate but your best choices will almost always come from the daily specials.<p>Asteroid also has a surprising selection of wines for such a small establishment and the wait staff can always be trusted to recommend something that pairs well with your meal.<p>Be sure to save room for their tiramisu. It is not to be missed!

Many, many of our friends often tell us the asteroid is their favorite italian place in town. We have, however, never had a stellar meal there. In fact, the best thing about the meal every time has been the accuracy (and excellence) of the wine recommendations, which have never been wrong, and the ambiance. Its the kind of place that you can't help feeling is a great date place.