Browse by Cuisine
Restaurants in Washington
Showing 12 of 12 restaurantsSignature Dishes
Washington cuisine is characterized by its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a focus on seafood. Expect bold flavors, influenced by Asian and Pacific Rim cuisine, alongside classic American comfort food.
Seattle Dog
A unique hot dog topped with cream cheese, grilled onions, and sometimes jalapeños or sriracha. A Seattle street food staple.
Oysters on the Half Shell
Fresh, briny oysters, often from the Puget Sound, served raw with lemon and mignonette sauce. A testament to Washington's coastal bounty.
Cedar Plank Salmon
Salmon cooked on a cedar plank, imparting a smoky, earthy flavor. A nod to Native American cooking traditions.
Dungeness Crab
Sweet, succulent Dungeness crab, often served steamed or cracked, a prized shellfish from the Pacific Northwest.
Rainier Cherries
Sweet, yellow and red Rainier cherries, grown in Eastern Washington, enjoyed fresh or in desserts.
Apple Fritters
Deep-fried apple fritters, taking advantage of Washington's abundant apple harvests.
Geoduck Clam
A large, unusual-looking clam, often served as sashimi or in stir-fries. A local delicacy.
Pho
Vietnamese noodle soup, readily available and highly popular due to a strong Vietnamese community.
Asian-Inspired Fusion Dishes
Countless restaurants in the Seattle area offer innovative fusion dishes influenced by Asian cuisine, using local ingredients to make new and interesting recipes.
Local Tips
To fully experience Washington's culinary scene, venture beyond Seattle and explore the diverse food regions.
Explore Eastern Washington
Visit Eastern Washington for its wineries, fruit orchards, and farm-fresh produce.
Try a clam bake on the coast
Head to the coast for fresh seafood and clam bakes, a tradition involving cooking clams on the beach.
Visit Pike Place Market
A must-visit for experiencing Seattle's food culture, with vendors selling fresh seafood, produce, and artisanal goods.
Sample Local Craft Beer
Explore the numerous craft breweries in Seattle and throughout Washington.
Embrace Rainy Day Dining
Many of Seattle's best restaurants are cozy and inviting, perfect for enjoying a meal on a rainy day.
About Washington
D.C.
Food History
Washington's cuisine is a melting pot of indigenous traditions, pioneer cooking, and Asian influences, shaped by its coastal location, fertile farmland, and diverse immigrant communities. Native American diets rich in salmon, berries, and roots met the hearty fare of early settlers, evolving alongside the rise of agriculture and industries like fishing and logging. More recently, Asian immigration, particularly from China, Japan, and Southeast Asia, has profoundly impacted the culinary landscape.
Food Culture
Washington's food culture is deeply intertwined with its identity as a hub for innovation, sustainability, and appreciation for natural beauty. Farm-to-table practices are prevalent, and food festivals celebrate the region's bounty.
Local Sourcing
A strong emphasis is placed on sourcing ingredients locally, supporting farmers and reducing environmental impact. Farmers markets are common.
Coffee Culture
Seattle is renowned for its coffee culture, with numerous independent coffee shops and roasters.
Craft Breweries and Wineries
Washington boasts a thriving craft brewery and wine scene, with many local breweries and wineries offering tours and tastings.
Seafood Markets
Pike Place Market in Seattle is a famous destination for fresh seafood, produce, and local crafts.
Food Festivals
Numerous food festivals throughout the year celebrate Washington's regional foods, wines, and beers.