Where To Eat In Olympia Wa

Olympia, the capital city of Washington, is a haven for foodies and travelers alike. With its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty, Olympia offers a unique blend of flavors and cuisines that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, finding the perfect spot to eat can make all the difference in your dining experience. In this guide, we’ll take you on a culinary journey to explore the best places to eat in Olympia, WA, and help you discover the city’s hidden gems and popular eateries.

Overview of Olympia’s Culinary Scene

Olympia’s food scene is a reflection of its cultural diversity, with a mix of traditional American comfort food, fresh seafood, and international flavors. From farm-to-table restaurants to artisanal bakeries and cozy cafes, Olympia has something for everyone. The city’s proximity to the water and its thriving agricultural community ensure that the freshest ingredients are always available, making it a paradise for food enthusiasts.

Neighborhoods to Explore

Olympia’s culinary landscape is spread across its charming neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and flavor profile. Downtown Olympia is a hub for trendy restaurants and bars, while the waterfront area offers stunning views and seafood-centric eateries. The Eastside neighborhood is home to a variety of international cuisines, and the Tumwater Valley is a hotspot for farm-to-table restaurants and craft breweries.

Types of Cuisine

Olympia’s culinary diversity is reflected in its wide range of cuisines, from classic American comfort food to international flavors like Mexican, Italian, and Asian fusion. The city is also known for its thriving food truck scene, offering everything from gourmet grilled cheese to artisanal ice cream. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast, a quick lunch, or a romantic dinner, Olympia has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.

Where to Eat in Olympia, WA: A Foodie’s Guide

Olympia, the capital city of Washington State, is a haven for foodies. With its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural surroundings, Olympia offers a diverse range of culinary experiences that cater to every taste and budget. From farm-to-table restaurants to artisanal bakeries, and from seafood joints to ethnic eateries, Olympia has it all. In this article, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey through the city, highlighting the best places to eat in Olympia, WA.

Breakfast and Brunch Spots

Start your day with a delicious breakfast or brunch at one of these popular spots: (See Also: Where To Eat In Barnstaple)

• Rachael’s Cafe: Known for its creative omelets and generous portions, Rachael’s Cafe is a local favorite. Try their signature “Olympia Omelet” with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and dill.
• The Bread Peddler: This artisanal bakery serves up freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, and quiches. Don’t miss their famous “Peddler’s Puff” pastry.
• The Olympia Oyster House: While not exclusively a breakfast spot, the Olympia Oyster House serves a mean breakfast dish – the “Oyster House Omelet” with oysters, bacon, and cheddar.

Lunch and Casual Eats

For a quick and satisfying lunch or casual meal, head to:

• The Fish Tale Brewpub: This brewery and restaurant combination serves up tasty pub fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. Try their famous “Fish ‘n’ Chips.”
• The Pita Pit: This Mediterranean-inspired eatery offers a variety of pita sandwiches, salads, and soups. Go for the “Gyro Pita” with lamb, beef, and tzatziki sauce.
• Rachael’s Cafe (again!): Yes, Rachael’s Cafe is so good, it deserves a second mention. Their lunch menu features creative sandwiches, salads, and soups.

Dinner and Fine Dining

For a more upscale dining experience, try:

• The Olympia Oyster House (again!): This seafood restaurant offers an extensive menu featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Try their “Pan-Seared Halibut” or “Grilled Salmon.”
• Dillingers Cocktails and Kitchen: This stylish restaurant serves up creative, farm-to-table cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Don’t miss their “Burger of the Month” feature.
• La Gitana: For a taste of Spain in Olympia, head to La Gitana, which offers an extensive menu of tapas, paella, and other Spanish delights.

International Cuisine

Olympia’s cultural diversity is reflected in its international cuisine options:

• La Gitana (again!): In addition to Spanish cuisine, La Gitana also offers a variety of international dishes, including Mexican and Italian options.
• Thai Curry Simple: This family-owned Thai restaurant serves up authentic, flavorful dishes like Pad Thai, Green Curry, and Massaman Curry.
• El Puerto Mexican Restaurant: For a taste of Mexico in Olympia, head to El Puerto, which offers a wide range of traditional dishes, including tacos, burritos, and enchiladas.

Sweet Treats and Coffee

Indulge in Olympia’s sweet treats and coffee culture:

• The Bread Peddler (again!): This artisanal bakery is a must-visit for sweet treats like croissants, muffins, and cakes.
• Olympia Coffee Roasting Co.: This local coffee roaster offers a variety of specialty coffee drinks, as well as a cozy atmosphere for sipping and relaxing.
• Batch No. 3: This artisanal ice cream shop offers unique flavors like honey lavender and strawberry balsamic, made with locally sourced ingredients.

Food Trucks and Markets

Olympia’s food truck scene is thriving, with many options to choose from:

• Olympia Food Truck Festival: This annual festival brings together a variety of food trucks, offering everything from gourmet grilled cheese to Korean BBQ.
• Olympia Farmers Market: Every Saturday from April to October, the Olympia Farmers Market offers fresh produce, artisanal goods, and prepared foods from local vendors.
• The Bread Peddler’s Food Truck: This food truck extension of the popular bakery serves up sandwiches, salads, and sweet treats on the go.

Recap and Key Points

In this article, we’ve explored the best places to eat in Olympia, WA, covering breakfast and brunch spots, lunch and casual eats, dinner and fine dining, international cuisine, sweet treats and coffee, and food trucks and markets. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Olympia’s culinary scene has something for everyone. (See Also: Where To Eat In Manly Beach)

Remember to explore Olympia’s culinary scene and discover your new favorite spot!

Frequently Asked Questions: Where to Eat in Olympia, WA

What are the top-rated restaurants in Olympia?

Olympia is home to a diverse range of top-rated restaurants. Some popular options include The Fish Brewing Company, a waterfront brewery serving up fresh seafood and craft beer; Dillingers Cocktails and Kitchen, a trendy spot for creative cocktails and farm-to-table fare; and Rachael’s Cafe, a beloved breakfast and brunch spot with a cozy atmosphere.

Are there any good vegan or gluten-free options in Olympia?

Yes, Olympia has plenty of options for those with dietary restrictions. For vegan options, try the Olympia Coffee Roasting Co., which offers a variety of plant-based breakfast and lunch options, or the Vegan Glory food truck, which serves up delicious vegan comfort food. For gluten-free options, head to The Bread Peddler, a bakery and cafe with a dedicated gluten-free menu.

What are some good places to grab a quick bite or coffee in Olympia?

If you’re in a hurry, Olympia has plenty of quick and delicious options. For coffee, try the iconic Olympia institution, Batdorf & Bronson Coffee Roasters, or the cozy and modern Olympia Coffee Roasting Co. For a quick bite, head to the iconic Fish Market, which serves up fresh seafood and fish ‘n’ chips, or try the tasty and convenient tacos at Los Tacos. (See Also: Where To Eat In Tofino)

Are there any good waterfront restaurants in Olympia?

Olympia’s waterfront is home to several excellent restaurants with stunning views of the marina and Puget Sound. The Fish Brewing Company, mentioned earlier, is a great option, as is the adjacent Anthony’s Hearthfire Grill, which serves up fresh seafood and steak in a cozy, upscale atmosphere. For a more casual waterfront dining experience, try the Olympia Marina’s own Marina Grill, which offers burgers, sandwiches, and salads with a side of waterfront views.

What are some good restaurants in Olympia for large groups or events?

Olympia has several restaurants that can accommodate large groups and events. The Fish Brewing Company, again, is a great option, with a large outdoor patio and private event space. For a more formal event, try the upscale and elegant Swanton Inn, which offers private dining rooms and a full-service catering menu. For a more casual gathering, head to the Ram Restaurant and Brewery, which has a large outdoor patio and can accommodate groups of up to 50 people.