From Farm to Fork: A Guide to Olympia’s Best Farmers Markets and Farm-to-Table Restaurants

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.