As a food expert, I have had the pleasure of exploring the diverse and fresh cuisine of the Pacific Northwest. And in Western Washington, there is no shortage of amazing eateries to satisfy any craving. From seafood to farm-to-table dishes, this region has something for everyone. After years of exploring the culinary scene in Western Washington, I have compiled a list of must-try dishes at eateries in this region.
The Iconic Seattle Dog
No trip to Western Washington is complete without trying the iconic Seattle Dog.This delicious hot dog is a staple street food in Seattle and can be found at various food trucks and stands throughout the city. The Seattle Dog is a grilled hot dog topped with cream cheese, grilled onions, and sautéed cabbage. It may sound like an unusual combination, but trust me, it's a flavor explosion in your mouth. The Seattle Dog originated in the 1980s when a street vendor named Hadley Longe started selling hot dogs with cream cheese to attract customers during the rainy weather. Today, it has become a beloved dish among locals and tourists alike.
So, if you find yourself in Seattle, make sure to grab a Seattle Dog from one of the many street vendors.
Fresh Seafood at Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market is not just a popular tourist destination; it's also a foodie's paradise. This bustling market is home to some of the freshest seafood in Western Washington. From salmon to oysters, you can find a variety of seafood dishes at the various eateries within the market. One must-try dish at Pike Place Market is the famous clam chowder from Pike Place Chowder. This award-winning chowder is made with fresh clams, potatoes, and cream, and is served in a sourdough bread bowl.It's the perfect comfort food on a chilly day in Seattle. Another must-try dish at Pike Place Market is the Dungeness crab cakes from Etta's Seafood. These crab cakes are made with locally caught Dungeness crab and are served with a tangy remoulade sauce. They are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a crowd favorite.
Farm-to-Table Delights in Olympia
Olympia, the capital of Washington, is known for its farm-to-table dining scene. The city is surrounded by fertile farmlands, and many restaurants in Olympia source their ingredients directly from local farms.One such restaurant is The Bread Peddler, which serves up delicious sandwiches and pastries made with locally sourced ingredients. One must-try dish at The Bread Peddler is their grilled cheese sandwich made with Beecher's Flagship cheese, which is produced in Seattle. The cheese is melted to perfection between two slices of homemade bread, making it a gooey and satisfying treat. Another must-try dish in Olympia is the wood-fired pizza from Pizzeria La Gitana. This cozy restaurant uses locally sourced ingredients to create their delicious pizzas. One of their most popular pizzas is the "Olympia" topped with roasted garlic, mushrooms, spinach, and feta cheese.
Asian Fusion Cuisine in Tacoma
Tacoma may not be as well-known as Seattle or Olympia when it comes to food, but this city has its fair share of amazing eateries.One must-try dish in Tacoma is the Korean fried chicken from Bok a Bok Chicken. This Korean-style fried chicken is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, and is served with a variety of delicious sauces. Another must-try dish in Tacoma is the ramen from Fujiya Japanese Restaurant. This cozy restaurant serves up authentic Japanese ramen made with homemade noodles and a flavorful broth. Their spicy miso ramen is a favorite among locals and is a must-try for any ramen lover.
Indulge in Desserts in Bellingham
Bellingham, located in the northern part of Western Washington, is a charming college town with a thriving food scene.And when it comes to desserts, Bellingham does not disappoint. One must-try dessert in Bellingham is the ice cream from Mallard Ice Cream. This small-batch ice cream shop offers unique flavors like lavender honey and black sesame, along with classic flavors like chocolate and vanilla. Another must-try dessert in Bellingham is the doughnuts from Rocket Donuts. These handcrafted doughnuts come in a variety of flavors, including maple bacon and raspberry lemonade.
They also have vegan and gluten-free options, making it a perfect spot for everyone.
