Welcome to the quaint seaside town of Port Townsend, Washington, a gastronomic haven tucked away in the corner of the Pacific Northwest. As an ardent food blogger, I’ve had the privilege of tasting my way through fascinating culinary landscapes, and I must say, Port Townsend has proven to be an absolute delight. From hearty local seafood to the innovative vegan options, the charm of this town redefining itself as a foodie paradise has left an indelible mark on my taste buds.
If there’s one thing that stands out about Port Townsend, it’s the sheer variety of cuisine sprawling across its picturesque streets. This town manages to combine the culinary sophistication of a big city with the warm, intimate feel of a small town, making it a unique and exciting place for food enthusiasts like ourselves to explore. Whether you’re a fan of romantic French bistros, down-to-earth American cuisine, or spicy Mexican delights, Port Townsend has got you covered.
Imagine tasting the freshest seafood plucked right out of pristine waters, or the juiciest farm-to-table beef burgers prepared with locally-sourced ingredients. Perhaps, you’re a vegetarian or vegan looking for a new favorite restaurant? Port Townsend boasts an impressive array of plant-based menus too. Intrigued? Stick around as we embark on a gastronomic tour of this remarkable maritime gem.
Ready or not, it’s time to loosen those belt buckles and dive mouth-first into the myriad of flavors that the exceptional eateries in Port Townsend have to offer. Tantalize your taste buds, whet your appetite, and join me on this culinary adventure as we roam the delightful streets of this unsuspecting foodie paradise.
Most Popular Restaurants in Port Townsend
Port Townsend, a charming city in Washington State, houses a plethora of unique eateries relishing your palate with scrumptious food. In this article, we’re highlighting the most popular ones you absolutely shouldn’t miss.
First on the list is Alchemy Bistro and Wine Bar, located at 842 Washington St, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Alchemy offers a romantic and cozy setting ideal for a night out, with its vintage decor and warm ambient lighting. The menu presents a fantastic blend of American and Mediterranean cuisine. Their signature dishes like Duck Confit Crostini and fresh Northwest seafood options are a must-try.
Next, we have the famous Sirens Pub, located at 823 Water St, Port Townsend, WA 98368. This two-story pub offers an incredible view of the water along with a diverse food and drink menu. The standout options include local oysters, fish and chips, and their amazing selection of local beers and ciders. Plus, Sirens often hosts live bands, making it a perfect spot for music lovers.
Moving on, we have Silverwater Cafe at 237 Taylor St, Port Townsend, WA 98368. This cafe has been a staple of Port Townsend’s dining scene for over 30 years. They offer both traditional and contemporary dishes using local ingredients. Among their extensive menu, you must try the famous Dungeness Crab Cakes and the Port Townsend Salad.
Another noteworthy place is the vibrant Elevated Ice Cream Co. & Candy Shop located at 627 Water St, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Not only do they offer a wide array of delicious house-made ice cream flavors but also an assortment of confectioneries that take you back to your childhood days. The ambrosial Huckleberry Ice Cream and the irresistible Italian Pistachio are must-try flavors in this confectionery paradise.
Last but not least, Finistère situated at 1025 Lawrence St, Port Townsend, WA 98368, is a shining star in the culinary scene of Port Townsend. With a lovely European-style ambiance, Finistère is all about innovative, locally sourced Northwest cuisine with a French twist. From oysters to duck breast, each plate is a symphony of flavors. The menu changes with the seasons, to keep things exciting and fresh.
So, if you happen to find yourself in Port Townsend, and you’re a food enthusiast, these places are worth exploring to succumb to the gastronomic delight presented by this charming city. Bon Appétit!
Most Unique Restaurants in Port Townsend
Let’s embark on an exciting foodie journey through some of the most unique restaurants in Port Townsend, Washington.
First on our list is Mt. Townsend Creamery. Located at 338 Sherman St, Port Townsend, WA 98368, this is more than just a restaurant. It’s a culinary adventure and a true treat for all the cheese lovers out there. The creamery offers an array of handcrafted artisan cheeses made from locally sourced and organically fed cow’s milk. The creamery is designed with an open layout, so visitors can watch the cheesemaking process from the comfort of their dining tables. You can enjoy a wide range of mouth-watering cheese boards accompanied by local wines and beers in a rustic, yet elegant atmosphere.
Next, we head to Sirens Pub, a colorful, quirky, and historic pub in the heart of Port Townsend. Located at 823 Water St, Port Townsend, WA 98368, Sirens offers a stunning vista of the Port Townsend Bay from its outdoor deck. The menu boasts an eclectic mix of traditional and unique dishes, featuring local seafood, mouth-watering burgers, and scrumptious salads. Known for its extensive beer and cocktail selection, Sirens is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the sunset views.
Our next stop is Doc’s Marina Grill, at 141 Hudson St, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Nestled on the harbor, Doc’s offers diners an exceptional waterfront dining experience. The restaurant serves a wide variety of dishes, from fresh-caught seafood to delectable burgers and house-made desserts. The clam chowder and the fish and chips are local favorites. The restaurant’s laid-back, nautically themed interior and warm service only add to the unique dining experience.
Moving on, let’s check out The Fountain Cafe located at 920 Washington St, Port Townsend, WA 98368. This charming, quaint eatery tucked away in beautiful surroundings, offers an intimate dining experience. Serving a delightful array of New American dishes alongside some local classics, The Fountain Cafe prides itself on its use of fresh, local, organic ingredients. The changing menu keeps you coming back for more unique culinary experiences.
Finally, we have the Silverwater Cafe. Located at 237 Taylor St, Port Townsend, WA 98368, this cafe offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Known for its delicious and diverse menu, the Silverwater Cafe serves everything from fresh seafood to hearty pastas to unique vegan options. Guests are invited to dine in the original 1920’s art deco theater or the romantic brick-walled dining room. This is a fantastic spot for a casual lunch, a romantic dinner, or even just a sweet treat from their in-house bakery.
Each of these restaurants offer distinctive culinary experiences, providing an intersection of delicious food, ambiance, and the local charm of Port Townsend. Don’t miss the opportunity to delight your taste buds at these unique eateries!
Best Casual Restaurants in Port Townsend
One of the culinary gems in the heart of the city is Silverwater Cafe. Located at 237 Taylor Street, Port Townsend, the restaurant is an excellent place to find the freshest Northwest cuisine in a casual and comfortable setting. With a menu that changes according to the season and the influx of locally sourced food, you will always be in for a unique dining experience.
The main draw at Silverwater Cafe is the vibrant variety of seafood. From Dungeness crab cakes to wild salmon and clam linguini, if you’re a seafood lover, you’re in for a treat. But that’s not all, they also offer a variety of dishes to cater to meat lovers and vegetarians alike.
Moving on to another wonderful eatery, Alchemy Bistro and Wine Bar located at 842 Washington Street, Port Townsend. This charming establishment combines the magic of fine dining and casual comfort. The restaurant prides itself on crafting globally inspired dishes with local ingredients, offering an exciting fusion of flavors.
The dinner menu at Alchemy Bistro features everything from lamb ragu and smoked pork loin to mussels and frites. If you’re just stopping by for lunch, don’t miss out on their amazing grilled cheese and tomato soup or their fresh catch fish and chips. Their cocktail and wine list is impressive and offers the perfect liquid accompaniment to your meal.
Craving for a more international flavor? Khu Larb Thai located at 225 Adams Street, Port Townsend, delivers in its promise of providing authentic Thai cuisine. Khu Larb Thai is the place to go if you’re looking for food packed with flavor. Enjoy classics like Pad Thai, Green Curry, and Pineapple Fried Rice, all made from scratch using traditional recipes.
Don’t let the unassuming exterior fool you, the dishes served here are rich and aromatic, raving with reviews saying they are some of the best Thai food they’ve ever had. What makes Khu Larb Thai special is that they accommodate all types of diets, offering a variety of vegan and gluten-free options.
Whether you’re a local foodie or just passing by, these Port Townsend gems are bound to give you a dining experience that you’ll remember.
Best Family Restaurants in Port Townsend
Experience the magic of dining in Port Townsend, a delightful town known for its restaurants that offer a blend of local ingredients, exquisite taste, and friendly service. Here are a few of the top family restaurants in Port Townsend that you must consider.
First on the list is Point Hudson Marina Cafe. Located at 130 Hudson St, this café takes the charm of Port Townsend’s seaside community and brings it to life on your plate. They offer a wide variety of dishes that kids and adults alike will love. From their seafood favorites like salmon burgers to their array of breakfast options, you can be sure to leave with a satisfied appetite. Their seaside ambiance also adds a calming and relaxed feel to your dining experience.
Next stop, Silverwater Cafe. Conveniently based at 237 Taylor St, Silverwater Cafe has been a local favorite for over 30 years. Known for their fresh, local, and organic foods, they have a diverse menu catering to different dietary preferences. Their dishes range from luscious seafood to mouth-watering steaks, delightful pastas, and vegetarian options. Whether you’re out for a casual lunch or a dinner celebration, Silverwater Cafe is an excellent choice for families.
For those who love pizzas, the Hillbottom Pie is a must-visit. This fantastic place located at 215 Tyler St, is famed for its perfect pies that are made fresh daily. Their hand-tossed pizzas, which come with a range of toppings, are a massive hit among the kids and parents alike. They also offer sandwiches, salads, and homemade desserts. With their friendly staff and cozy settings, Hillbottom Pie leaves a lasting impression on its visitors.
If you are in the mood for some Greek cuisine, consider dropping by The Old Whiskey Mill. Located at 1038 Water St, this restaurant offers a menu full of Greek-styles dishes, typical American fare, and of course, an impressive selection of whiskey. Their gyros, lamb burgers, and greek salad are among the most ordered dishes. Their warm and welcoming atmosphere makes it an ideal choice for family outings.
Lastly, don’t miss Lanza’s Ristorante. Positioned at 1020 Lawrence St, Lanza’s provides a truly Italian dining experience. They take pride in preparing homemade pasta and sauces from scratch and using fresh, local ingredients. Their menu includes a variety of Italian classics like lasagna, linguini, and of course, their famous wood-fired pizzas. The family-friendly atmosphere and genuine Italian cuisine make Lanza’s a favorite among the locals and tourists alike.
These are just some of the family-friendly restaurants in Port Townsend, Washington. Each offering unique flavors and a relaxing dining experience. Go ahead and give these places a try, and you’re sure to discover a new favorite dining spot.
Best Takeout Food in Port Townsend
When you’re in a mood for delectable food and you want to satiate your taste buds but you also want to stay in your comfort zone, takeout is the way to go. One of my personal favorites in the beautiful seascape town of Port Townsend, Washington is Banh Thai. Located at 2219 E Sims Way, Port Townsend, the restaurant offers an exquisite take on Thai gastronomy. Their menu offers an array of choices; Pad Thai, Phad Se Ew, and Green Curry are just a few highlights, and don’t forget their amazing appetizers like the enticing Spring Rolls and Chicken Satay.
If Thai food isn’t your preference, you will absolutely love Waterfront Pizza. Nestled at 951 Water St, Port Townsend, this pizza place is no run-of-the-mill joint. Each pizza has a unique blend of flavors, incorporating fresh and locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Their standout creations include the Gorgonzola Special, which is topped with a delightful combination of chicken, spinach, and artichoke, and the Bay Shrimp Pizza, which perfectly marries the taste of the sea with the earthiness of mixed vegetables.
For those with a hankering for sushi, Scampi and Halibuts is the place to go. It’s located at 1050 Water St, Port Townsend. They offer the freshest seafood in town and a fine selection of Japanese delicacies. Their sushi menu is extensive, from traditional rolls like the California Roll and the Spicy Tuna Roll to unique offerings like the Washington Roll, which incorporates smoked salmon, cream cheese, cucumber, and is topped with masago.
If you’re looking for a truly comforting meal, you cannot miss Hillbottom Pie. This amazing restaurant is perched at 215 Tyler St, Port Townsend and is hailed as one of the best spots for homely, comfort food. The star of their menu is – no surprises here – pies. However, they offer a wide variety including pot pies, dessert pies, and, of course, pizza pies. One particular crowd-pleaser is their Chicken Pot Pie, which is flavorful, hearty, and sure to remind you of home.
No foodie tour is complete without dessert and if that’s what you’re after, look no further than Elevated Ice Cream. Based at 632 Water St, Port Townsend, this ice cream parlor offers a range of innovative and traditional flavors. Their Swiss Orange Chocolate, Mocha Almond, and Cardamom are simply divine. They also offer a selection of vegan and gluten-free options, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.
These are but a handful of the delightful culinary experiences that Port Townsend offers for takeaway. Enjoy these gastronomical wonders in the comfort of your home and let your taste buds travel through the food haven that is Port Townsend, Washington.
What Foods is Port Townsend Known For?
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Olympic Peninsula, Port Townsend, Washington, offers a culinary journey that truly pays homage to the Pacific Northwest. Known for its farm-to-table ethos, fresh seafood, and commitment to local produce, this charming coastal town offers an incredible array of gastronomic marvels.
One such gem is the famous Finistère. Located at 1025 Lawrence St, Port Townsend, Finistère serves up an interesting meld of Pacific Northwest and French cuisine, with a focus on sustainable, locally sourced ingredients. Their menu is refreshed with seasonal produce, bringing the best of the Northwest to the table. Diners rave about their oysters, salmon dishes, and the perfectly-charred Brussel sprouts, each plate is a testament to the flavor profile unique to Port Townsend.
For those with a sweet tooth, a visit to Elevated Ice Cream Co. and Candy Shop is a must. Nestled at 631 Water St, Port Townsend, this institution has been delighting locals and visitors alike since 1977. You can choose from a wide array of homemade, innovative flavors like Lavender, Cardamom, and Swiss Orange Chip, as well as the classics. The candy shop carries an assortment of locally made chocolates, truffles, and nostalgic candies, enough to make any sweet lover’s dream come true.
If you’re looking to indulge in the local beer scene, head over to Propolis Brewing, located at 2457 Jefferson St, Port Townsend. Specializing in herbal ales, this innovative microbrewery is known for using locally sourced, organic herbs and fruits in their brews. The result is a unique lineup of beers that are as complex and rich as the local ecology.
Moving on to one of the town’s best-kept secrets, Mount Townsend Creamery at 338 Sherman St, Port Townsend, is a small-batch, artisan cheese maker that aims to capture the ‘taste of the Olympics’ in their products. They offer a range of soft-ripened, aged, and fresh cheeses made from locally sourced milk. Among their award-winning selection, the Cirrus, a creamy, soft-ripened cheese, and the New Moon, a mild, semi-hard cheese, stand out.
With its commitment to local produce, sustainable sourcing, and a genuine love for the culinary craft, Port Townsend offers visitors a taste of the Pacific Northwest that is as unique as it is delightful.
Eating Your Way Around Port Townsend: A Detailed Food Trip Itinerary
Day 1:Kickstart your food journey in Port Townsend at the Waterfront Pizza. This place has a stunning view of the waterfront and serves delicious pizza. A must-try is their garlic and pesto pizza. They are located at 951 Water St, Port Townsend, WA 98368.
Day 2:Start your second day with a visit to Cup and Saucer. It’s a charming little place with a fantastic breakfast menu. Their homemade granola and fresh brewed coffees are a divine way to kick start your day. Their address is 600 W Sims Way, Port Townsend, WA 98368.
Day 3:Today, drop by at Elevated Ice Cream & Candy Shop for a delightful treat. From classic vanilla to exotic lavender honey, their wide variety of ice cream flavors never fail to impress. They are located at 631 Water St, Port Townsend, WA 98368.
Day 4:Pay a visit to Alchemy Bistro and Wine Bar for a fancy dinner. They offer a stellar menu that includes local seafood and seasonal favorites. Don’t miss out on their duck prosciutto, which is a house favorite. The Bistro and Wine Bar is located at 842 Washington St, Port Townsend, WA 98368.
Day 5:Finally, end your food journey in Port Townsend with a hearty meal at Silverwater Cafe. This place is known for its cozy ambiance and delicious cuisine. The crab cakes and clam chowder are an absolute must-try. Find them at 237 Taylor St, Port Townsend, WA 98368.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What are some top-rated restaurants in Port Townsend, Washington?
A1: Port Townsend is home to many fantastic eateries. Some favorites among locals and tourists alike include Lanza’s Ristorante, Owl Sprit Cafe, Silverwater Cafe, and Alchemy Bistro and Wine Bar for a more upscale dining experience. For fantastic seafood, head over to the Dockside Grill at the Port Townsend Marina. If you’re in the mood for authentic Thai food, Khu Larb Thai is the best choice.
Q2: Are there any vegetarian or vegan-friendly restaurants in Port Townsend?
A2: Yes, Port Townsend is quite accommodating when it comes to dietary preferences. Vegetarian and vegan visitors will enjoy the offerings at Spruce, a farm-to-table eatery with numerous plant-based options. The vegetarian pho at PhoFilling is also a must-try. Meanwhile, Better Living Through Coffee is a great spot to enjoy vegan-friendly pastries and a cup of organic fair-trade coffee.
Q3: Can I find international cuisines in Port Townsend?
A3: Indeed you can! Port Townsend’s culinary scene is quite diverse. For Italian cuisine, there’s Lanza’s Ristorante. If you crave Mexican food, check out La Isla Family Mexican Restaurant. Khu Larb Thai is ideal for a Thai food feast, and Golden Ocean offers Chinese cuisine. Plus, don’t miss the unique fusion offerings at Ichikawa Japanese Cuisine.
Q4: I’m gluten-intolerant. Do restaurants in Port Townsend cater to my dietary needs?
A4: Yes, several restaurants in Port Townsend offer a variety of gluten-free options. Alchemy Bistro and Wine Bar, for instance, has a selection of gluten-free dishes. Owl Sprit Cafe also offers a number of gluten-free choices on their menu, and even gluten-free bread for their sandwiches. The gluten-free crust option at Hillbottom Pie should satisfy your pizza cravings.
Q5: Are there good places for breakfast or brunch in Port Townsend?
A5: Absolutely! For an amazing breakfast or brunch, you should definitely visit Hudson Point Café, serving up traditional and unique breakfast creations in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. For bakery-style breakfast with fresh pastries, head over to Pane d’Amore. The Blue Moose Café in the Boat Haven area is another local favorite, known for their large serving sizes and homey feel.
Q6: What are some great seafood restaurants in Port Townsend?
A6: In a town surrounded by water, you can expect top-notch seafood. The best of the bunch include the Dockside Grill, offering seafood with a view of the marina, and Finistère, a high-end eatery with a seasonally rotating seafood menu. If you’re in the mood for fish and chips, head over to Sea J’s Cafe.
Q7: Is there a place where I can enjoy dinner with a view in Port Townsend?
A7: Certainly! One of the best spots to dine with a view is The Belmont Restaurant & Saloon, where you get a waterfront dining experience overlooking the Port Townsend Bay. Also, the Silverwater Café offers meals with a view of the water. The views at the Dockside Grill at the Boat Haven should also not be missed.
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