Actually, I just found this thread that's not too old on TripAdvisor.

http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g60878-i74-k5742907-Suggest_restaurant_near_Paramount_Theater_on_Pine_St-Seattle_Washington.html

Terra Plata might be a good choice. Sitka and Spruce is a little more than what I was wanting to spend. Didn't realize Dragon Fish was so close either - that might also be a good choice.

Dragonfish is right across the street from the theater.

Andaluca's at Mayflower Park Hotel? Long's Provincial or Wild Ginger?

But really once you say "a short cab ride" you could be anywhere downtown, all the places in the Market, all the Tom Douglas joints, etc. I love Assagio's on 4th Ave for Italian food. Anything special you're looking for?

http://machiavellis.com/

Not sure if this one's fancy enough but the food's very good. This is a cute italian restaurant just up across the freeway bridge from the theater. Uphill but just a few blocks.

Oooh...Is Long's walking distance? I love Long's, but my parents have never been (and love Vietnamese food). Thanks! Will check out Machiavelli's too - Italian is probably their favorite style (but not mine). I appreciate the recs!

let's see... Longs is on 2nd, Paramount on 9th, so 7 blocks west, then 1 block north.

i don't eat out that much honestly so mostly am just brainstorming locations for you.

Machiavellis is a cool place to know about though, even if not for this occasion, and has a fun/separate bar besides their low-key, family-style dining room.

There are loads of options.

Tom Douglas restaurants, such as Dahlia Lounge or Palace Kitchen are favorites: http://tomdouglas.com

Other options within a short walk of The Paramount include Il Fornia for Italian and Blueacre for seafood.

HTtY