Nestled in the heart of downtown Burien, just south of Seattle, is a culinary gem that has captured the hearts and palates of locals and visitors alike. Classic Eats, owned by the passionate Chef Tony Hayes, has not only become a beloved dining spot for Burien residents but also a destination for food enthusiasts across the Seattle metro area. With its carefully curated comfort food menu, steeped in the flavors of Louisiana, Classic Eats offers a dining experience crafted with love and rooted in tradition.

Last week, Besa Gordon had the pleasure of revisiting Classic Eats after at least three years. During her visit, she sat down with owner Tony Hayes to delve into the restaurant's beginnings, the inspiration behind the menu, and, of course, to indulge in the delicious foods.

Tony's journey in the culinary world traces back to his roots in Louisiana, where a passion for cooking was instilled in him from an early age. Drawing from this rich culinary heritage, he has infused Classic Eats with a menu that offers something for everyone, from hearty classics to innovative twists on Southern favorites.

Beyond its role as a restaurant, Classic Eats serves as a hub for community gatherings and connections. It's a place where people from all walks of life, spanning from across the street to across King County, converge to enjoy not only delicious food but also the warm and welcoming atmosphere that Tony and his team have cultivated.

According to Besa, her recent visit to Classic Eats left her and her crew in awe. Tony's hospitality was unparalleled, as he graciously laid out a spread of dishes for them to sample, even going the extra mile to prepare to-go meals for their editors back at the studio.

Among the standout dishes sampled by Besa and her team were the tantalizing jambalaya grits, mouthwatering meatloaf sliders, refreshing salmon salad, and irresistible beignets. She highly recommends trying the beignets with the accompanying marshmallow dipping sauce for an extra indulgent treat.

Classic Eats isn't just a restaurant; it's a culinary destination where food, community, and hospitality intersect. With its roots firmly planted in Southern comfort and a commitment to creating memorable dining experiences, it's no wonder that Classic Eats continues to draw diners from near and far.

Whether you're a local looking for your new favorite spot or a visitor seeking a taste of Southern hospitality, Classic Eats invites you to pull up a chair, savor the flavors, and become a part of its vibrant culinary community.

This segment was first aired on Back2Besa on FOX 13 Seattle. See past episodes and segments at whereweconverge.com/back2besa and on the FOX Local app.

See more photos from Besa’s visit to Classic Eats here taken by Jordan Somers on behalf of Converge Media.