Some things we take for granted. Other things blind side us when we least expect them. Take teriyaki, for example. It's common sense that when roaming the streets of Seattle every business district will have at least one teriyaki shop, usually more. It is likewise to be expected that when ordering the classic #1 chicken teriyaki that you will receive a decent meal that will usually not quite fill you up. Therefore, it comes as a pleasant surprise when one stumbles upon a hidden teriyaki oasis that is both very good and very filling. Happy Teriyaki is just that type of joyous, belly-filling experience.

Tucked away on 5th Avenue down a winding staircase just past a hookah shop, Happy Teriyaki is a hidden downtown teriyaki gem. Bustling, friendly, utlra-quick, and sporting a free water dispenser in the spacious seating area, H.T. is the perfect spot for a working man or woman's lunch break.The food is likewise spot on.

The teriyaki chicken is amply portioned, nicely grilled, and features an interesting barbecue teriyaki sauce. The accompanying "salad" isn't really a salad at all, but rather tasty steamed cabbage. The white rice is decent, appropriately proportioned for the chicken, though it is a bit watery. While I generally prefer lighter and fluffier rice, that slight glitch in H. T.'s teriyaki matrix is hardly something to be concerned about. No doubt, the entire meal is delicious, satisfying, and a wonderful treat amidst the daily grind.

Ryan Hanley told me I would like Happy Teriyaki and indeed I do. For $6.50 plus tax Happy Teriyaki's #1 is a great deal I'll always enjoy. Indeed, in the grand scheme of teriyaki, H.T. is the white collar lunch break sit-down teriyaki of choice.