Jessie Boyd

When it comes to fine dining, Olympia, Washington is home to a vibrant culinary scene that caters to those seeking an unforgettable gastronomic experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to indulge in exquisite flavors, Olympia’s top fine dining establishments offer an array of culinary delights that will leave you wanting more. Here’s a closer look at some of Olympia’s best fine dining restaurants for a truly special night out.

Waterstreet Cafe + Bar

Located in downtown Olympia, Waterstreet Cafe + Bar is a culinary gem known for its elegant ambiance and delectable cuisine. With a focus on Pacific Northwest ingredients, their menu showcases seasonal dishes crafted with precision and creativity. From perfectly seared local salmon to tender grilled steaks, each plate is a work of art. The restaurant’s knowledgeable staff is also adept at suggesting wine pairings to enhance your dining experience.

Mercato Ristorante

If you’re in the mood for authentic Italian cuisine, Mercato Ristorante is the place to be. This upscale restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, reminiscent of a traditional Italian trattoria. From handmade pasta to expertly crafted seafood dishes, the menu features a variety of Italian classics prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Be sure to save room for dessert, as their tiramisu and panna cotta are simply divine.

Gardner’s Restaurant

Housed in a beautifully restored historic building, Gardner’s Restaurant is a culinary haven that blends contemporary American flavors with artistic presentation. The menu highlights locally sourced ingredients, with an emphasis on seasonal and sustainable fare. From their mouthwatering seafood selections to their creative vegetarian options, each dish is a testament to the chef’s dedication to culinary excellence.

Anthony’s Hearthfire Grill

With stunning waterfront views, Anthony’s Hearthfire Grill offers a unique fine dining experience in Olympia. Known for their commitment to fresh, local seafood, their menu features an array of expertly prepared dishes such as Dungeness crab cakes, Alaskan halibut, and Northwest salmon. The restaurant’s elegant setting and impeccable service make it an ideal choice for a romantic evening or special celebration.

Basilico Ristorante

For a taste of Mediterranean flavors, Basilico Ristorante is a must-visit in Olympia. This family-owned restaurant embraces the culinary traditions of Italy and Greece, creating a menu that highlights the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean region. From classic pasta dishes to succulent grilled meats, each dish is crafted with care and attention to detail. The warm and inviting atmosphere, coupled with the exceptional service, creates a dining experience that is both memorable and satisfying.

These top fine dining establishments in Olympia are dedicated to providing exceptional culinary experiences that blend creativity, quality ingredients, and impeccable service. Whether you’re a local looking to celebrate a special occasion or a visitor seeking a memorable meal, these restaurants will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. So, prepare to embark on a culinary journey and savor the finest flavors Olympia has to offer.

Pizza lovers rejoice! Olympia, Washington is home to some of the best pizza places around. Whether you prefer classic toppings or unique combinations, there’s a pizzeria in Olympia that will satisfy your cravings. Here’s a look at the top pizza places you need to try in Olympia.

Old School Pizzeria

For a truly old school pizza experience, head to Old School Pizzeria. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up delicious pizza for over 20 years, and it shows in the quality of their pies. The dough is made fresh daily and the sauce is made from San Marzano tomatoes, giving their pizzas an authentic Italian flavor. Their toppings are also top-notch, with everything from classic pepperoni to prosciutto and arugula. Be sure to try their popular “Mac & Cheese” pizza, which is topped with homemade macaroni and cheese.

Iron Rabbit Restaurant & Bar

Located in downtown Olympia, Iron Rabbit Restaurant & Bar is a popular spot for both pizza and other dishes. Their pizzas are made with organic flour and feature unique toppings such as smoked salmon, goat cheese, and figs. Their crust is also a standout feature, with a perfect balance of chewiness and crunch. If you’re in the mood for something other than pizza, their menu features a range of other delicious options as well.

Pizzeria La Gitana

This cozy little pizzeria is a hidden gem in Olympia. Their pizzas are made with organic flour and fresh ingredients, resulting in a mouthwatering pie that’s sure to impress. Their menu features a range of classic and creative pizzas, with toppings such as feta cheese, roasted red peppers, and homemade pesto. Their crust is thin and crispy, making it the perfect vessel for their flavorful toppings.

Vic’s Pizzeria

Vic’s Pizzeria has been a staple in Olympia since 1960, and it’s easy to see why. Their pizzas are made with homemade dough and sauce, and their toppings are always fresh and flavorful. They offer a range of classic toppings as well as more unique options such as artichoke hearts and prosciutto. Their crust is also a standout feature, with the perfect balance of chewiness and crispiness.

Pizzeria Casa Mia

If you’re looking for authentic Italian pizza in Olympia, look no further than Pizzeria Casa Mia. This family-owned restaurant uses traditional recipes and ingredients to create delicious pizzas that are true to their Italian roots. Their toppings include classics such as pepperoni and mushrooms, as well as more unique options such as goat cheese and prosciutto. Their crust is thin and crispy, just like a true Neapolitan pizza.

No matter which pizza place you choose to visit in Olympia, you’re sure to be in for a treat. These top pizzerias all have their own unique styles and flavors, but they all have one thing in common: delicious pizza. So why not grab a slice (or a whole pie) and see for yourself why Olympia’s pizza scene is one of the best around?

If you’re looking for something sweet in Olympia, Washington, you’re in luck. From artisanal ice cream to decadent cakes and pastries, there are plenty of delicious dessert options to satisfy your cravings. Here’s a guide to the best desserts in Olympia, WA.

Sofie’s Scoops

If you’re in the mood for ice cream, head to Sofie’s Scoops. This artisanal ice cream shop offers a rotating selection of flavors made with fresh, local ingredients. Try the lavender honey or blackberry cheesecake for a taste of the Pacific Northwest. They also offer vegan and dairy-free options, so everyone can indulge in their sweet treats.

Wagner’s European Bakery & Cafe

If you’re looking for a taste of Europe in Olympia, look no further than Wagner’s European Bakery and Cafe. This family-owned bakery has been a local favorite for over 30 years and offers a wide variety of delicious pastries, cakes, and other baked goods. Don’t miss their famous Sacher Torte, a chocolate cake with apricot filling.

Left Bank Pastry

Left Bank Pastry is a small, family-owned bakery that specializes in French-style pastries and desserts. They use only the finest ingredients, and their pastries are made fresh every day. Some of their most popular desserts include the macarons, the fruit tarts, and the croissants. They also offer a variety of vegan and gluten-free options, so everyone can enjoy their delicious treats.

The Bread Peddler

The Bread Peddler is a bakery and cafe located in a historic building in downtown Olympia. They offer a range of baked goods, including bread, pastries, and cakes. Their seasonal fruit galettes are a must-try, featuring a buttery crust and a filling made with fresh, local fruit.

Hawley’s Gelato & Sorbet

Hawley’s Gelato & Sorbet is a locally owned and operated dessert shop that offers a variety of handmade gelato and sorbet flavors. All of their gelato is made fresh in-house using natural ingredients, and they offer unique flavors like maple bacon, lavender honey, and chai tea. They also offer vegan and dairy-free options, so everyone can enjoy their delicious treats. Hawley’s is the perfect spot to cool off on a hot day and indulge in something sweet.

Bittersweet Chocolates

For the chocolate lovers out there, Bittersweet Chocolates is a must-visit. This artisanal chocolate shop offers a variety of chocolates, truffles, and caramels made with high-quality ingredients. Try the sea salt caramel or the lavender truffle for a unique flavor experience.

Blue Heron Bakery

Blue Heron Bakery is a local favorite for their delicious pastries, bread, and cakes. Their apple pie is a must-try, as is their chocolate ganache cake. They also offer gluten-free and vegan options.

8 Arms Bakery

If you’re in the mood for something savory and sweet, 8 Arms Bakery is the place to go. This bakery offers a range of croissants, including savory options like ham and cheese and sweet options like almond and chocolate. They also have a rotating selection of cakes, tarts, and other desserts.

Pizzeria La Gitana

While known for their delicious pizza, Pizzeria La Gitana also offers a selection of Italian desserts. Try the tiramisu or cannoli for a sweet finish to your meal.

San Francisco Street Bakery

San Francisco Street Bakery is a family-owned and operated bakery that has been serving Olympia for over 20 years. They offer a variety of fresh-baked bread, pastries, and desserts. Some of their most popular desserts include the lemon bars, the chocolate croissants, and the sticky buns. They also offer a selection of breakfast and lunch items, so you can enjoy a sweet treat and a savory meal all in one place.

Jazzy’s Sweets

Jazzy’s Sweets is a dessert shop specializing in custom cakes and cupcakes. They offer a variety of flavors, including classic vanilla and chocolate, as well as unique options like lemon lavender and chai spice. They also have vegan and gluten-free options available.

If you’re looking for something sweet in Olympia, WA, you won’t be disappointed. From artisanal ice cream to decadent cakes and pastries, there are plenty of options to satisfy your sweet tooth. Just make sure to save room for dessert!

Olympia, Washington is not only the state capital, but it’s also home to a diverse and exciting food truck scene. From classic comfort foods to exotic international flavors, the food trucks in Olympia have something for every taste bud. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the city’s best food trucks.

Gobble

First on the list is the Gobble food truck, which serves up classic American comfort foods with a twist. Their menu includes a range of delicious sandwiches, from the classic BLT to the spicy Sriracha chicken sandwich. But what really sets Gobble apart is their unique mac and cheese creations. Try the BBQ pulled pork mac and cheese, or the classic mac and cheese with a twist of truffle oil. This food truck is perfect for satisfying those comfort food cravings.

The Chopstix Food Truck

The Chopstix Food Truck is one of the most popular in Olympia, serving up Asian-inspired dishes that are both delicious and affordable. The menu includes everything from traditional rice bowls to fusion-style tacos, with plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options to choose from. One of the most popular items is the Korean BBQ pork sandwich, which is slow-cooked and topped with a spicy, tangy sauce.

Pig Out Food Truck

The Pig Out Food Truck specializes in all things pork, from bacon-wrapped hot dogs to pulled pork sandwiches. They also serve up creative dishes like pork belly sliders and pork nachos. One of the standout items on the menu is the “Pig Mac,” which is a play on the classic Big Mac burger, but with pulled pork instead of beef. The Pig Out Food Truck is a must-visit for any meat lovers in Olympia.

The Green Elephant

Next up is The Green Elephant, which offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes. This food truck is dedicated to promoting sustainable, locally-sourced ingredients. Their menu includes a range of vegan burgers and sandwiches, as well as fresh salads and wraps. Be sure to try their signature dish, the vegan Philly cheesesteak, made with seitan, peppers, onions, and melted vegan cheese.

Tacos La Flaca

If you’re looking for some authentic Mexican cuisine, look no further than Tacos La Flaca. This food truck offers some of the best tacos in Olympia, with a range of fillings to choose from. Try the classic carne asada or go for something more adventurous like the lengua (beef tongue) or cabeza (beef head) tacos. And don’t forget to add some fresh salsa and guacamole to complete your meal.

Falafel Salam

For a taste of the Mediterranean, head to the Falafel Salam food truck. This truck serves up fresh and flavorful Middle Eastern cuisine, with a focus on vegetarian and vegan options. Their menu includes falafel wraps, hummus bowls, and shawarma sandwiches. Don’t miss the opportunity to try their delicious house-made baklava for dessert.

The Grilled Cheese Experience

The Grilled Cheese Experience is another food truck that specializes in grilled cheese sandwiches, but with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients. The menu includes classics like the “Original” – a simple sandwich made with cheddar cheese on sourdough bread – as well as more inventive options like the “Fiesta” – a sandwich with pepper jack cheese, jalapenos, and chipotle aioli.

Budd Bay Cafe

For something truly unique, check out the Budd Bay Cafe food truck. This truck is actually a converted school bus that has been turned into a full-service restaurant on wheels. Their menu includes a range of fresh seafood dishes, such as fish and chips, clam chowder, and Dungeness crab cakes. But what really sets this food truck apart is their focus on sustainability and environmentalism. They use compostable and recyclable materials for all of their packaging and strive to reduce their carbon footprint as much as possible.

The food truck scene in Olympia, WA is diverse and exciting, with options for all tastes and dietary needs. From Asian-inspired dishes to authentic Mexican cuisine, gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches to pork-centric menus, the food trucks in Olympia are serving up some of the city’s best eats. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, be sure to explore the city’s food truck scene and taste all that Olympia has to offe

From farm to fork, Olympia, Washington offers a variety of fresh, locally grown produce and delicious farm-to-table dining experiences. With a strong focus on sustainability and supporting local agriculture, the city is home to several farmers markets and restaurants that showcase the best of the Pacific Northwest’s bounty.

If you’re looking for a taste of the region’s fresh produce, here’s a guide to Olympia’s best farmers markets and farm-to-table restaurants:

Farmers Markets:

1. Olympia Farmers Market – Established in 1975, the Olympia Farmers Market is a hub for fresh, locally grown produce and handmade crafts. The market is open from April through October, and features over 100 vendors selling everything from fresh berries and vegetables to artisanal cheeses and baked goods.
2. West Olympia Farmers Market – The West Olympia Farmers Market is open from June through September, and offers a wide selection of fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. The market also features live music and other entertainment.
3. Tumwater Farmers Market – The Tumwater Farmers Market is open from May through September, and offers a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal crafts. The market also features cooking demonstrations and other educational programs.

Farm-to-Table Restaurants:

1. The Bread Peddler – The Bread Peddler is a cozy cafe and bakery that sources many of its ingredients from local farmers and producers. The menu features a variety of sandwiches, salads, and baked goods, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
2. Hart’s Mesa – Hart’s Mesa is a farm-to-table restaurant that specializes in Latin-inspired cuisine made with seasonal, locally grown produce. The restaurant features a rotating menu that showcases the best of the Pacific Northwest’s bounty.
3. Iron Rabbit Restaurant & Bar – The Iron Rabbit Restaurant & Bar sources many of its ingredients from local farms and purveyors, and features a seasonal menu that highlights the freshest ingredients available. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of craft beers and regional wines.
4. Chelsea Farms Oyster Bar – Chelsea Farms Oyster Bar is a seafood restaurant that sources its oysters and other seafood from its own farm and other local producers. The menu features a variety of fresh seafood dishes, along with a selection of craft beers and cocktails.
5. Dillingers Cocktails & Kitchen – Dillingers Cocktails & Kitchen is a farm-to-table restaurant that sources many of its ingredients from local farmers and purveyors. The menu features a variety of seasonal dishes, along with a selection of craft cocktails and local beers.

In addition to these farmers markets and restaurants, Olympia also hosts several food-focused events throughout the year, including the Olympia Food Co-op’s Harvest Fair, the Olympia Oysterfest, and the Olympia Brew Fest. These events offer a great opportunity to sample the best of Olympia’s local food and drink scene, while also supporting the city’s vibrant agricultural community.

Overall, Olympia’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and farm-to-table dining has helped make it a food lover’s paradise. Whether you’re looking for fresh produce at a local farmers market, or a delicious meal made with locally sourced ingredients, there’s no shortage of options in this Pacific Northwest city.