Washington State, located in the Pacific Northwest corner of the United States, is a land of dramatic contrasts — from the rain-soaked temperate rainforests of the Olympic Peninsula to the volcanic peaks of the Cascades and the arid shrub-steppe of the east. Home to Seattle, one of America's most dynamic cities, the state blends state-of-the-art technology culture with stunning wilderness, world-class food and coffee scenes, and some of the continent's most diverse outdoor adventure.
Washington State's culinary identity is deeply rooted in the Pacific Northwest's extraordinary natural larder: wild Pacific salmon, Dungeness crab, geoduck clams, oysters from Puget Sound and Hood Canal, seasonal mushrooms, Walla Walla sweet onions, and produce from the fertile Skagit Valley. Seattle's food scene reflects the city's diverse immigrant communities — particularly Japanese, Vietnamese, Ethiopian, and Mexican — alongside a celebrated farm-to-table movement and world-class coffee culture. Washington is also one of the world's premier wine regions, with the Yakima Valley, Walla Walla, and Columbia Valley producing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Riesling.
Must-try dishes
Iconic dishes that define Washington.
Dungeness Crab
Washington's signature crustacean, best enjoyed simply steamed or cracked fresh
Where to try: Ivar's, Pike Place Chowder, Elliott's Oyster House
Price: $25-55
Pacific Salmon
Wild-caught Chinook, sockeye, and coho salmon prepared in countless ways
Where to try: Most seafood restaurants; Pike Place Market fresh
Price: $25-45
Clam Chowder in Sourdough Bowl
Pacific Northwest-style creamy chowder served in a hollowed sourdough loaf
Where to try: Pike Place Chowder, Ivar's Fish Bar
Price: $10-14
Geoduck Clam
The world's largest burrowing clam, a Pacific Northwest delicacy prized in Japanese cuisine
Where to try: Taylor Shellfish, Maneki, sushi restaurants
Price: $20-40
Walla Walla Sweet Onion Rings
Crispy rings from Washington's famous sweet onions, available June-August
Where to try: Restaurants statewide in summer
Price: $8-12
Marionberry Pie
A Pacific Northwest native berry baked into exceptional pies
Where to try: Snoqualmie Winery, local bakeries, diners statewide
Price: $5-8 per slice
Washington Wine
World-class Cabernet, Syrah, and Riesling from Yakima Valley and Walla Walla
Where to try: Winery tasting rooms, wine bars statewide
Price: $15-25/glass
Top restaurants
Handpicked picks for the best dining experiences.
Canlis
Seattle's most celebrated fine dining institution since 1950, perched above Lake Union with panoramic views. The menu rotates seasonally around the best Pacific Northwest ingredients, and the cellar holds one of the finest wine collections in the Pacific Northwest.
Known for: Iconic multi-course Pacific Northwest tasting menus with lake views
2576 Aurora Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
Pike Place Chowder
Winner of numerous national chowder competitions, this beloved Pike Place Market institution serves award-winning New England and Pacific clam chowders in sourdough bread bowls along with fresh seafood sandwiches and bisques.
Known for: Award-winning clam chowder in fresh sourdough bread bowls
1530 Post Alley, Seattle, WA 98101
The Walrus and the Carpenter
Seattle's most beloved oyster bar in the Ballard neighborhood, serving a rotating selection of Pacific Northwest oysters alongside an inventive small-plates menu. Expect a queue — no reservations accepted, and it's absolutely worth the wait.
Known for: Outstanding rotating selection of Pacific Northwest oysters
4743 Ballard Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107
Salumi Artisan Cured Meats
A legendary Pioneer Square deli established by the late Armandino Batali (father of celebrity chef Mario Batali), producing remarkable artisan cured meats, salumi, and sandwiches. Tiny space with long lines — a true Seattle institution.
Known for: House-cured salumi and outstanding Italian sandwiches
404 Occidental Ave S, Seattle, WA 98104
Nue
A Capitol Hill restaurant serving globally inspired street food and snacks from around the world — Taiwanese popcorn chicken, Vietnamese bánh mì, Moroccan lamb chops — in a relaxed, communal setting with an exceptional cocktail program.
Known for: Global street food flavors with craft cocktails
1519 14th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122
Serious Pie
Chef Tom Douglas's beloved Belltown pizzeria crafting artisan Neapolitan-style pizzas in wood-burning ovens, topped with local Pacific Northwest ingredients. The clam and pancetta pizza has become a Seattle classic.
Known for: Artisan wood-fired pizzas with Pacific Northwest ingredients
316 Virginia St, Seattle, WA 98101
Ivar's Acres of Clams
A Seattle waterfront institution since 1938, Ivar's serves classic Pacific Northwest seafood on Pier 54 with views of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains. The outdoor fish bar serves famous fish and chips to seagull-dodging locals.
Known for: Classic Pacific Northwest seafood on the historic waterfront
1001 Alaskan Way Pier 54, Seattle, WA 98104
Junebaby
James Beard Award-winning chef Edouardo Jordan's tribute to Southern cooking and Black culinary heritage, featuring dishes rooted in the American South prepared with local Pacific Northwest ingredients in a warm, community-centered setting.
Known for: Celebrated Southern cooking with local Pacific Northwest ingredients
2122 NE 65th St, Seattle, WA 98115
Restaurants by cuisine
Browse picks grouped by cuisine type.
Italian
Altura
A Capitol Hill gem serving elevated Italian cuisine in an intimate 40-seat dining room. Chef Nathan Lockwood's rotating tasting menu celebrates Pacific Northwest ingredients through an Italian lens, with extraordinary pasta and a superb Italian wine list.
Known for: Intimate Italian tasting menus celebrating Pacific Northwest seasons
617 Broadway E, Seattle, WA 98102
Café Juanita
Kirkland's most acclaimed restaurant, showcasing Northern Italian cuisine with Pacific Northwest ingredients. Chef Holly Smith's James Beard Award-winning kitchen produces exceptional hand-rolled pastas, fresh local produce preparations, and impressive Italian wine selections.
Known for: James Beard Award-winning Northern Italian cuisine in Kirkland
9702 NE 120th Pl, Kirkland, WA 98034
The Pink Door
A whimsical Post Alley restaurant near Pike Place Market famous for Italian-American comfort food, cabaret performances, and a romantic terrace overlooking Elliott Bay. Trapeze artists perform above diners on weekend evenings.
Known for: Italian-American cuisine with trapeze performers and cabaret shows
1919 Post Alley, Seattle, WA 98101
Seafood
Goldfinch Tavern
The Four Seasons Hotel's signature waterfront restaurant featuring floor-to-ceiling views of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains, serving exceptional Pacific Northwest seafood and produce in an elegant but approachable setting.
Known for: Breathtaking Elliott Bay views with premium Pacific Northwest seafood
99 Union St, Seattle, WA 98101
Matt's in the Market
Perched above Pike Place Market with views over the market stalls and Elliott Bay, Matt's serves fresh Pacific Northwest seafood and seasonal ingredients sourced directly from the market below. A Seattle treasure for 25+ years.
Known for: Hyper-fresh seafood sourced directly from Pike Place Market
94 Pike St #32, Seattle, WA 98101
Lowell's Restaurant
A Pike Place Market institution since 1957, Lowell's occupies three floors of the market building with stunning Elliott Bay views. The extensive breakfast and lunch menu features local seafood, classic American diner favorites, and fresh market ingredients.
Known for: Classic Seattle breakfasts with Elliott Bay views at Pike Place
1519 Pike Pl, Seattle, WA 98101
American
Beecher's Handmade Cheese
A Pike Place Market cheesemaker and café where visitors can watch artisan cheese being made through large windows. Their 'World's Best Mac and Cheese' has been featured on numerous national food shows and is made with their signature Flagship cheese.
Known for: Watch artisan cheese being made; world-famous mac and cheese
1600 Pike Pl, Seattle, WA 98101
Hood River Distillers at Ellensburg Brewing
A popular brewpub in Ellensburg serving craft beers brewed on-site alongside hearty pub food. Centrally located in Kittitas County, it's an ideal stop for travelers crossing the Cascades between Seattle and Eastern Washington.
Known for: Local craft beers with hearty pub food in central Washington
409 N Main St, Ellensburg, WA 98926
Caribbean
Paseo Caribbean Food
A beloved Seattle institution famous for one of the city's best sandwiches — the marinated roasted pork Cuban — served from a tiny Fremont storefront. Lines stretch down the block daily and the sandwiches are worth every minute of waiting.
Known for: Seattle's most famous sandwich — marinated Cuban pork
4225 Fremont Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103
Un Bien
A Fremont sister spot to the iconic Paseo, Un Bien serves the same celebrated marinated roasted pork sandwiches and Caribbean-inspired dishes. A bit less crowded than the Fremont Paseo location with the same incredible flavors.
Known for: Caribbean-marinated roast pork sandwiches
7302 Aurora Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103
Coffee
Fog Talk Coffee
A beloved Yakima Valley coffee shop and light breakfast spot popular with winery visitors and locals alike, serving excellent Pacific Northwest roasted coffee alongside fresh pastries and simple breakfast plates in a warm, relaxed setting.
Known for: Excellent local coffee with Pacific Northwest ingredients
214 E Yakima Ave, Yakima, WA 98901
Elliott Bay Book Company Café
The café inside Seattle's beloved independent bookstore in Capitol Hill, serving excellent coffee, soups, sandwiches, and pastries in a cozy literary atmosphere. The perfect Seattle afternoon: browse books, drink coffee, eat a good sandwich.
Known for: Cozy literary café inside Seattle's best independent bookstore
1521 10th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122
French
Cafe Campagne
A charming French bistro tucked into Post Alley beneath Pike Place Market, serving classic provincial French cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The weekend brunch with French toast and eggs Benedict is a local institution.
Known for: Classic French bistro food steps from Pike Place Market
1600 Post Alley, Seattle, WA 98101
Rover's
Chef Thierry Rautureau's celebrated Madison Valley fine dining restaurant, known as 'the French Connection' for its blend of classical French technique with Pacific Northwest ingredients. An intimate garden setting makes it one of Seattle's most romantic destinations.
Known for: Classical French technique applied to Pacific Northwest ingredients
2808 E Madison St, Seattle, WA 98112
Mediterranean
Saffron Mediterranean Kitchen
Walla Walla's most acclaimed restaurant, featuring vibrant Mediterranean flavors in a warm farmhouse setting. The menu rotates seasonally and pairs beautifully with Walla Walla's acclaimed wines, making it essential for wine country visitors.
Known for: Mediterranean cuisine designed to complement Walla Walla wines
125 W Alder St, Walla Walla, WA 99362
Palomino Restaurant
A Spokane landmark on the top floor of River Park Square, Palomino offers Mediterranean-inspired American cuisine with panoramic views of downtown Spokane. Popular for its wood-fired rotisserie, extensive wine list, and lively bar scene.
Known for: Wood-fired rotisserie with panoramic downtown Spokane views
221 W Main Ave, Spokane, WA 99201
Pacific Northwest
Cascadia Restaurant
Celebrating the regional bounty of the Pacific Northwest, Cascadia offers seasonal menus highlighting local farms, waters, and forests. The ambiance is relaxed and sophisticated, making it ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions in Spokane.
Known for: Seasonal Pacific Northwest cuisine celebrating local producers
1521 W Mallon Ave, Spokane, WA 99201
Lecosho
A convivial Harbor Steps restaurant celebrating Pacific Northwest ingredients in a comfortable, welcoming setting. Known for its exceptional charcuterie, creative small plates, and impressive list of Washington wines by the glass.
Known for: Pacific Northwest charcuterie and an excellent Washington wine list
Pike St & 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98101
Pan
Wild Ginger
A Seattle institution since 1989, Wild Ginger brings together flavors from across Asia — Malaysian, Thai, Chinese, and Vietnamese — in a warm, sophisticated downtown setting. The fragrant duck is legendary and the cocktail bar is excellent.
Known for: Pan-Asian cuisine with legendary fragrant duck
1401 3rd Ave, Seattle, WA 98101
Noodle Ranch
A beloved Belltown institution serving affordable, soulful pan-Asian noodle dishes in a fun, casual setting since 1995. The panang curry noodles and Vietnamese-inspired soups draw regulars from across Seattle.
Known for: Affordable, soulful pan-Asian noodle dishes
2228 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98121
Greek
Ellenos Real Greek Yogurt
Born at Pike Place Market and now with several Seattle locations, Ellenos is a Greek family-owned business making extraordinarily thick and creamy real Greek yogurt in inventive flavors. The marionberry pie yogurt is a Pacific Northwest classic.
Known for: Pacific Northwest's most celebrated real Greek yogurt
1433 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98101
Indian
Poppy
An innovative Capitol Hill restaurant from James Beard Award-winning chef Jerry Traunfeld, inspired by Indian thali (tasting plates), presenting Pacific Northwest ingredients through Indian spice and technique. Each dinner arrives as a colorful thali of small dishes.
Known for: Indian-inspired thali dinners with Pacific Northwest ingredients
622 Broadway E, Seattle, WA 98102
Japanese
Maneki
Seattle's oldest Japanese restaurant, in continuous operation since 1904 in the International District. Maneki offers traditional Japanese home-style cooking in a historic setting, with private tatami rooms, excellent sushi, and a beloved shabu-shabu.
Known for: Seattle's oldest Japanese restaurant with tatami rooms and shabu-shabu
304 6th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98104
Neapolitan Pizza
Tutta Bella Neapolitan Pizzeria
Seattle's original Neapolitan pizzeria certified by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, with multiple locations across the city. Uses imported Italian flour, San Marzano tomatoes, and a wood-burning dome oven to create authentic pizza napoletana.
Known for: VPN-certified authentic Neapolitan pizza
2200 Westlake Ave, Seattle, WA 98121
New York Style Pizza
Delancey
A Ballard wood-fired pizza restaurant that has won national acclaim for its New York-style thin crust pies topped with local ingredients. Chef Brandon Pettit and his author wife Molly Wizenberg created one of Seattle's most beloved neighborhood restaurants.
Known for: Nationally acclaimed wood-fired New York-style pizza
1415 NW 70th St, Seattle, WA 98117
Oyster Bar
Taylor Shellfish Farms Melrose Market
A casual oyster bar and shellfish market from one of Washington's premier shellfish farms, offering the freshest Totten Inlet oysters, Manila clams, and Dungeness crab in a charming Capitol Hill setting with Seattle's best shellfish knowledge.
Known for: Farm-direct Washington shellfish at peak freshness
1521 Melrose Ave, Seattle, WA 98122
Pizza
Local Myth Pizza
A beloved Bellingham pizzeria using locally sourced ingredients and long-fermented doughs to create exceptional artisan pies. The convivial atmosphere and impressive craft beer selection make it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
Known for: Artisan pizzas with locally sourced Pacific Northwest ingredients
1 Bellwether Way #210, Bellingham, WA 98225
Russian Bakery
Piroshky Piroshky
A Pike Place Market institution for over 30 years, baking traditional Russian piroshky pastries filled with savory and sweet combinations. The line stretches down the alley but moves quickly for these beloved flaky pastries.
Known for: Traditional Russian piroshky pastries baked fresh daily
1908 Pike Pl, Seattle, WA 98101
Southern Fried Chicken
Ezell's Famous Chicken
A Seattle legend since 1984, Ezell's serves what Oprah Winfrey famously called the best fried chicken in the country. The Leschi original and multiple Seattle locations serve extra-crispy fried chicken alongside classic Southern sides.
Known for: Oprah-endorsed legendary crispy fried chicken
501 23rd Ave, Seattle, WA 98122
Taiwanese Dim Sum
Din Tai Fung (Bellevue)
The Bellevue location of this internationally acclaimed Taiwanese restaurant chain, serving perfectly handcrafted xiao long bao (soup dumplings) alongside Taiwanese classics. One of the most popular restaurants in the Seattle area.
Known for: World-famous xiao long bao soup dumplings made to exacting standards
700 Bellevue Way NE, Bellevue, WA 98004
Food tours & tastings in Washington
Eat your way through Washington with a guide.
Browse food experiences in WashingtonWe may earn a commission from bookings made through these links.
Street food
Local flavours at affordable prices.
Seattle-Style Hot Dog
A cream cheese-topped hot dog on a toasted bun, often with grilled onions and jalapeños
Find it at: Hot dog carts outside Capitol Hill bars, SkyCity, and around Seattle
Piroshky
Flaky Russian pastry filled with savory or sweet fillings
Find it at: Piroshky Piroshky at Pike Place Market
Tacos
Excellent Mexican street tacos, particularly al pastor and birria
Find it at: South Seattle, White Center, Yakima Valley taco trucks
BBQ Salmon
Cedar-planked wild salmon grilled over open fire, sold at Pike Place
Find it at: Pike Place Market fish vendors
Kettle Corn
Freshly popped sweet-salty kettle corn at farmers markets
Find it at: Pike Place Market, Fremont Sunday Market, farmers markets statewide
Food markets
Where locals shop and graze.
Pike Place Market
America's oldest continuously operated farmers market with 200+ vendors selling seafood, produce, flowers, and artisan products
Hours: 9AM-6PM daily
Olympia Farmers Market
One of Washington's best regional markets, running Thursday-Sunday April-October
Hours: 10AM-3PM Thu-Sun (Apr-Oct)
Bellingham Farmers Market
Vibrant Saturday market featuring Whatcom County's exceptional produce, cheese, and seafood
Hours: 10AM-2PM Sat (Apr-Dec)
Pike Place Market Flower District
Spectacular cut flowers sold at the lowest prices in Seattle direct from local farmers
Hours: 9AM-6PM daily
Yakima Farmers Market
Celebrating the bounty of Washington's most productive agricultural valley
Hours: 9AM-1PM Sat (May-Oct)
Dining etiquette & tips
Navigate the local food scene confidently.
Reservations are essential at Seattle's top restaurants — book 2-4 weeks in advance
Tipping 18-20% is customary and expected in restaurants
The San Juan Islands have limited dining options — research restaurants before visiting
Happy hour (typically 3-6PM) offers excellent value at upscale Seattle restaurants
Washington has no state income tax but does have sales tax (~10% in Seattle) added to restaurant bills
Seattle's International District (Chinatown) has outstanding affordable Asian food options
- Vegetarian
- Excellent vegetarian options widely available across Washington, especially in Seattle; vegan options increasingly common
- Halal
- Halal restaurants available in Seattle's International District and Rainier Valley; less common in rural areas
- Gluten free
- Many Washington restaurants offer gluten-free options; always confirm with staff as cross-contamination may occur
Food budget guide
What to expect at different price points.
| Level | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $10-20 per meal | Street food, food trucks, International District restaurants, and fast-casual options |
| Mid-range | $25-50 per meal | Sit-down restaurants with table service and a glass of wine |
| Upscale | $80-150+ per meal | Fine dining tasting menus, wine pairings, and special occasion restaurants |