Honey Court Seafood Restaurant: Is Seattle’s Late-Night Legend Still Open After The Shock 2025 Health Closure?

The iconic Honey Court Seafood Restaurant, a long-standing institution in Seattle’s vibrant Chinatown-International District (Chinatown-ID), has recently been the subject of intense speculation following a very public and concerning health closure in mid-2025. As of today, December 12, 2025, the status of this beloved late-night dining spot is the number one question for local foodies and visitors alike, with conflicting reports circulating between official records and online ordering availability.

The restaurant, located at 516 Maynard Ave S, Seattle, WA, has always been a go-to for authentic Cantonese cuisine and its famously extensive menu. However, a highly recent closure due to an "imminent health hazard" has put a spotlight on the establishment's operational practices, leaving many to wonder if the doors are truly open for their famous Crispy Prawns with Honey Walnut or if the King County Health Department's action was permanent.

The Shocking 2025 Closure and Current Operating Status

The biggest news surrounding Honey Court Seafood Restaurant in 2025 was the temporary closure order issued by Public Health – Seattle & King County. The closure, which was recorded on June 12, 2025, was attributed to an "imminent health hazard".

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The core reasons for the shutdown were specifically cited as "Insufficient refrigeration to keep food safe" and an "Excessive number of critical violations" discovered during the inspection. This type of action is rare and typically requires immediate and significant corrective measures before a business can resume operations.

Is Honey Court Open Right Now? The Conflicting Evidence

Despite the official King County closure record from June 2025, the restaurant appears to have demonstrated remarkable resilience, or perhaps a very swift correction of the violations, as recent online activity suggests it is operating. As of late 2025, the restaurant’s official website and popular delivery platforms like Grubhub and Uber Eats continue to list the restaurant and offer online ordering for pickup and delivery.

Furthermore, a recent customer review from September 2025 noted, "We are glad they are still open," indicating that the closure was either very brief or that the restaurant has successfully navigated the reopening process. This contradictory information is common for local institutions that address health violations quickly to minimize business interruption. For the most current status, customers should check the online ordering platforms or call the restaurant directly at +1 206-292-8828 before visiting.

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The restaurant has a history with health inspections, having been rated "Okay" for food safety in a previous April 2017 inspection. However, the 2025 closure indicates a significant lapse that the establishment had to quickly rectify to continue serving the Seattle community.

A Deep Dive Into the Legendary Honey Court Menu

Regardless of the temporary operational hurdles, Honey Court’s reputation is built on its extensive and authentic Cantonese menu. The restaurant is celebrated for its commitment to traditional Chinese cuisine, focusing heavily on fresh seafood and classic preparations. The menu is vast, but several dishes stand out as must-try items for first-time visitors and longtime regulars.

The Must-Try Dishes That Define Honey Court:

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• Crispy Prawns with Honey Walnut: This is arguably the restaurant's most famous dish, featuring succulent prawns that are lightly battered and fried, then tossed in a creamy, sweet sauce and topped with candied walnuts for a perfect blend of texture and flavor.
• Steamed Spareribs with Black Bean Sauce: A classic Cantonese preparation, these tender spareribs are steamed to perfection with a rich, savory black bean sauce that is deeply aromatic.
• Chicken Chow Mein: Often cited as a highly liked item, the Chicken Chow Mein is a staple of the menu, known for its flavorful noodles and generous portions of chicken and vegetables.
• Salt and Pepper Scallops: A popular seafood choice, this dish features perfectly cooked scallops seasoned with a classic salt and pepper spice blend, offering a crispy exterior and tender interior.
• Shumai with Chinese Mushroom: For fans of Dim Sum, the Shumai, often prepared with flavorful Chinese mushroom, is a highly recommended appetizer.

The menu also features other popular items like Pan Fried Prawn, Cashew Nut with Prawn, Assorted Vegetable with Seafood, and Beef Steak W/honey Sauce, ensuring there is a dish for every palate, from dedicated seafood enthusiasts to those craving classic Chinese comfort food.

Honey Court’s Place in the Seattle Chinatown-ID Dining Scene

Honey Court is more than just a restaurant; it is a fixture of the Seattle Chinatown-International District (Chinatown-ID). The neighborhood itself is a historical and cultural hub, home to a diverse array of Asian cuisines, from Vietnamese to Japanese, but it is particularly famous for its Chinese and seafood establishments.

The restaurant’s enduring appeal is largely due to its commitment to authenticity and its role as a late-night dining destination. For years, Honey Court was one of the few places where you could get a full, high-quality Cantonese meal well into the late hours, making it a favorite for service industry workers, night owls, and post-game crowds after a Mariners game.

A Hub for Authentic Cantonese Cuisine:

In a district known for its culinary excellence, Honey Court stands alongside other notable establishments. While competitors like Joyale Seafood Restaurant, Purple Dot, A+ Hong Kong Kitchen, and Tai Tung also draw large crowds, Honey Court carved out its niche with its specific focus on traditional Cantonese seafood preparations and its late-night hours. Its menu, which features live seafood options, reflects a dedication to freshness and traditional Chinese culinary techniques.

The restaurant’s location at the heart of the International District makes it easily accessible and a key part of the area’s food ecosystem. Its continued operation, despite the recent challenges, is a testament to its status as a beloved Seattle landmark. The community's response to the temporary closure highlights how deeply ingrained Honey Court is in the fabric of the city’s dining culture, with many hoping for its swift and permanent return to full service.

For those exploring the Seattle food scene, understanding the history and menu of Honey Court Seafood Restaurant is essential. Whether you’re ordering the famous Honey Walnut Prawns for delivery or visiting the Chinatown-ID in person, the restaurant offers a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine that has satisfied generations of Seattle diners.