SeaTac eats are mostly dominated by fast-food chains, but there are a few charmingly quirky independent establishments scattered along Highway 99.

Anxuyen Bakery (2823 S 200th St., 206/878-4087) is a convenient hole-in-the-wall donut and pastry shop to stop at before dumping a rental car at one of the off-site car lots along this stretch and catching the shuttle for a morning flight. Everything is made fresh in the morning, including great French bread, and there’s even an espresso machine—though it was broken the last time I visited. That’s OK, though, because the drip coffee is decent and cheap. If you stop by at lunch, try one of the Vietnamese-style sandwiches for $1.75.

Kitty-corner from it is Herfy’s Burgers and Teriyaki (19840 Pacific Hwy. S, 206/870-1500, 10:30–9 p.m. Mon.–Fri., 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Sat., 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Sun.), a super clean little mom-and-pop eatery. Don't be scared off by the weathered sign outside. Inside has white tablecloths, immaculate hardwood floors, and a sort of shorthand Asian decor. Burgers are big and come with stadium crinkle-cut fries ($3.99). Pair one up with one of numerous flavors of thick, hand-dipped shakes, such as peanut butter and blueberry. The menu is huge, with a sizable teriyaki and noodle section.

You can also get the real deal in diner food at Dave’s Diner & Brews (2825 S 188th St., 206/277-7196, 6 a.m.–10 p.m. daily), just about a block away from the airport. Get a big plate of chicken-fried steak swimming in flavorful gravy, with a side of real mashed potatoes, veggies, and a roll for under $10. Air travelers take note: Dave’s also does lunch boxes to go for $8.59.

The SeaTac Farmers Market (4424 S. 188th, 206/248-9346) takes place 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Saturday June–August.