Waterfront Dining and Upscale Experiences
Kirkland, Washington, a gem nestled on the shores of Lake Washington, is more than just a picturesque waterfront town. It’s a thriving hub of culture, community, and, most importantly for our purposes, incredible food. Are you searching for the very best food in Kirkland? Look no further! This vibrant city offers a culinary landscape as diverse and stunning as its lakeside views. From elegant waterfront dining experiences to cozy, family-friendly eateries and hidden ethnic food havens, Kirkland truly has something to satisfy every palate. Prepare to embark on a delicious journey as we explore the ultimate guide to the best food in Kirkland, showcasing restaurants and dishes that will leave you craving more. This article delves into the best restaurants in Kirkland, WA, offering various dining options.
With its prime location on the eastern shore of Lake Washington, Kirkland boasts a selection of restaurants that capitalize on the stunning views. These establishments offer not only exceptional cuisine but also an unforgettable ambiance, making them perfect for special occasions or a memorable night out.
One such gem is Anthony’s at Kirkland, renowned for its fresh seafood and breathtaking waterfront setting. Imagine savoring succulent grilled salmon while gazing at the shimmering lake – a truly quintessential Kirkland experience. Be sure to try their signature Dungeness crab cakes, bursting with flavor and perfectly complemented by a delicate remoulade sauce. For a main course, the cedar plank salmon is a consistently excellent choice, offering a smoky and savory taste of the Pacific Northwest. This dining experience is offered at a premium price point, reflective of the quality and location.
Another exceptional choice is bin on the lake, a modern American restaurant that elevates waterfront dining to a new level. Here, the focus is on seasonal ingredients and innovative culinary creations. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet inviting, making it ideal for a romantic dinner or a celebration with friends. Their menu is constantly evolving, but some standout dishes include the pan-seared scallops with cauliflower puree and the grilled ribeye steak with truffle potatoes. The carefully curated wine list is also a highlight, offering the perfect pairings for each dish. This offers a high-end dining choice at a higher cost.
For a slightly more relaxed yet equally impressive waterfront experience, consider The BeachHouse Bar & Grill. This lively spot offers a more casual atmosphere while still delivering exceptional food and stunning lake views. Their menu features a variety of American classics with a Pacific Northwest twist. The fish tacos are a local favorite, bursting with fresh flavors and served with a zesty slaw. The clam chowder is also a must-try, a creamy and comforting classic that is perfect on a chilly evening. Enjoying the waterfront here is moderately priced.
Each of these restaurants offers a unique interpretation of waterfront dining, but they all share a commitment to quality, service, and breathtaking views. Deciding on the “best food in Kirkland” for a waterfront restaurant is truly a matter of preference.
Casual Dining and Family-Friendly Options
Kirkland isn’t just about upscale dining; it also offers a fantastic array of casual and family-friendly restaurants that cater to a wide range of tastes and budgets. These establishments provide a relaxed atmosphere and delicious, approachable cuisine, making them perfect for a quick lunch, a family dinner, or a casual get-together with friends.
One standout is Deru Market, a local favorite known for its delicious sandwiches, salads, and wood-fired pizzas. This bustling spot has a lively atmosphere and a menu that features fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their roasted chicken sandwich is a perennial favorite, piled high with tender chicken, flavorful pesto, and crisp vegetables. The wood-fired pizzas are also a must-try, with a variety of creative toppings to choose from. Deru’s outdoor seating area is perfect for enjoying a meal on a sunny day, making this a popular choice. Food here is moderately priced.
For a taste of authentic Italian cuisine in a casual setting, head to Cafe Veloce. This charming restaurant offers a wide selection of pasta dishes, pizzas, and sandwiches, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The lasagna is a classic choice, rich and flavorful and served with a generous helping of garlic bread. The pizza is also excellent, with a crispy crust and a variety of toppings to choose from. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a great spot for a family dinner. This is a good choice with moderate prices.
If you’re in the mood for classic American comfort food, look no further than Shake Shack. This popular chain offers juicy burgers, crispy fries, and creamy milkshakes, all made with high-quality ingredients. The ShackBurger is a must-try, a perfectly grilled patty topped with cheese, lettuce, tomato, and ShackSauce. The crinkle-cut fries are also a classic, crispy and perfectly salted. And don’t forget to try one of their delicious milkshakes, available in a variety of flavors. Shake Shack is an affordable choice.
These are just a few of the many casual and family-friendly restaurants that Kirkland has to offer. No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings. These restaurants offer a unique experience of what many consider to be the best food in Kirkland due to their appeal to a diverse customer base.
International Flavors and Unique Cuisine
Kirkland’s culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors, with restaurants offering a wide range of international cuisines. From authentic Italian to flavorful Thai and spicy Indian, there’s something to satisfy every craving for global tastes.
For a taste of authentic Japanese cuisine, I Love Sushi is a must-visit. This popular restaurant offers a wide selection of sushi, sashimi, and Japanese entrees, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The dragon roll is a local favorite, featuring shrimp tempura, avocado, and eel sauce. The chirashi bowl is also an excellent choice, a colorful assortment of fresh seafood served over rice. The atmosphere is modern and inviting, making it a great spot for a casual lunch or a special dinner. Prices vary from moderate to slightly higher.
If you’re craving the bold and vibrant flavors of Thailand, head to Bai Tong Thai Street Cafe. This lively restaurant offers a wide selection of classic Thai dishes, all made with fresh, authentic ingredients. The Pad Thai is a must-try, a classic noodle dish stir-fried with shrimp, tofu, peanuts, and bean sprouts. The green curry is also excellent, creamy and flavorful and served with a generous helping of rice. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner. Prices here are affordable.
For a taste of authentic Indian cuisine, consider India House. They offer a wide selection of classic Indian dishes, all made with fresh, aromatic spices. The butter chicken is a popular choice, creamy and flavorful and served with a generous helping of naan bread. The lamb vindaloo is also excellent, spicy and tangy and served with rice. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a great spot for a family dinner. India House is moderately priced.
These restaurants each offer a unique experience of international cuisine, offering a wide array of food to its customers. The appeal of international food choices gives the community an eclectic take on what is the best food in Kirkland.
Coffee Shops, Bakeries, and Sweet Treats
No culinary exploration of Kirkland would be complete without a visit to its delightful coffee shops, bakeries, and dessert spots. These establishments offer a tempting array of treats, from freshly brewed coffee and artisanal pastries to decadent cakes and creamy ice cream.
Cafe Ladro is a local favorite known for its expertly crafted coffee and delicious pastries. This cozy coffee shop has a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee. Their lattes are a must-try, made with rich espresso and creamy milk. The pastries are also excellent, with a variety of croissants, muffins, and scones to choose from. Prices are standard for coffee shops.
For a taste of artisanal baked goods, head to Hoffman’s Fine Pastries & Bakery. This charming bakery offers a wide selection of cakes, pastries, and breads, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The almond croissant is a local favorite, flaky and buttery and filled with sweet almond paste. The cakes are also excellent, with a variety of flavors and designs to choose from. Prices range depending on your choice of pastry or cake.
If you’re craving a sweet treat, Sirens Cafe and Dessert Bar is a must-visit. This delightful spot offers a wide selection of ice cream, cakes, and other desserts, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The ice cream is a local favorite, creamy and flavorful and available in a variety of flavors. The cakes are also excellent, with a variety of flavors and designs to choose from. Prices are standard for ice cream and dessert parlors.
These are just a few of the many coffee shops, bakeries, and dessert spots that Kirkland has to offer. A sweet spot is always considered to be the best food in Kirkland by those who seek it.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Beyond the well-known establishments, Kirkland also boasts a collection of hidden gems and local favorites that offer unique and authentic culinary experiences. These restaurants may be slightly off the beaten path, but they are well worth seeking out.
Juanita Cafe is a longtime local favorite known for its hearty breakfasts and classic American cuisine. The cafe has a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The huevos rancheros is a must-try, flavorful and satisfying, and is well priced.
George and Dragon Pub offers an experience of British fare. Enjoy a pint of beer with your Fish and Chips or Bangers and Mash. This local favorite is moderately priced.
Mediterranean Kitchen offers cuisine from Turkey, Greece and Lebanon. Enjoy authentic falafel, gyros, hummus, and other options. This family run business is a local favorite that won’t break the bank.
These hidden gems truly deliver, and bring a diverse offering of the best food in Kirkland!
Conclusion
Kirkland’s food scene is a vibrant and diverse tapestry of flavors, experiences, and culinary delights. From elegant waterfront dining to casual family-friendly eateries and hidden ethnic food havens, this charming lakeside city offers something to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood with stunning views, authentic international cuisine, or a comforting cup of coffee and a delicious pastry, Kirkland has it all. The best food in Kirkland is truly a journey to discover the flavors that appeal to you most!
So, the next time you’re in Kirkland, be sure to explore these incredible restaurants and discover your own favorite culinary gems. Share your experiences and recommendations in the comments below – we’d love to hear about your Kirkland food adventures! This culinary scene of the best restaurants in Kirkland, WA, offers something to the variety of different residents and tourists.
