Olympia Washington, USA Travel Guide
The region's cuisine draws on its natural abundance and historical development. There is a strong farm-to-table ethos here, with many restaurants sourcing ingredients directly from nearby farms.
Fresh seafood like salmon, oysters, and Dungeness crab is a fundamental element. Seasonal berries, apples, and various vegetables feature prominently. Local meats and craft beverages are also common.
Generally offers more independent, upscale, and diverse international options.
Areas near commercial centers tend to have more chain restaurants and family-style eateries.
The culinary scene across Olympia maintains a consistent focus on local ingredients.
Olympia is known for its oysters, especially the native Olympia oyster. Try them raw on the half shell.
Look for them at Chelsea Farms Oyster Bar.
Enjoy grilled or pan-seared wild Pacific salmon, a true taste of the region.
Local restaurants often highlight the specific type of salmon in season.
This sweet, succulent crab is a local favorite, served steamed or in dishes like crab cakes.
A local delicacy prized for its unique texture and mild flavor.
Artisanal donuts, local ice cream, and freshly baked goods from independent bakeries.
Local craft beers, Eastern Washington wines, craft ciders, high-quality coffee, kombucha, and fresh fruit juices.
Olympia offers high-end dining experiences concentrating on quality ingredients and sophisticated presentation.
Olympia excels in its mid-range dining options, offering diverse cuisines and comfortable atmospheres.
Affordable options and fresh local fare are readily available.
The Olympia Farmers Market is the main traditional market for local produce, meats, baked goods, and artisanal crafts.
Check Olympiafarmersmarket.com for hours.
Operates Thursday through Sunday during peak season (April-October) and with reduced hours in winter.
A bustling hub to find unique local products.
Many offer excellent food menus.
Restaurants along Percival Landing.
Find Thai, Japanese, Mexican, and more.
Common practice across many restaurants.
Plenty of restaurants are accustomed to gluten-free needs.
Look for GF indicators on the menu or ask staff for guidance.
Inform your server about any allergies or sensitivities at the start of your meal.
Kitchen staff often receive training to handle cross-contamination.
Use apps like HappyCow to find vegan/vegetarian restaurants. Yelp and Google Maps reviews often include dietary info.
Local grocery stores (PCC Community Markets, Fred Meyer) stock a range of specialty dietary products.
Some local farms or culinary shops may offer seasonal workshops.
Thurston County possesses many farms offering direct-to-consumer experiences.
Offers a chance to taste local prepared dishes and interact with producers.
A lot of them have food menus pairing with craft beers (e.g., Three Magnets Brewing Co., Matchless Brewing).
Menus range from elevated food served in a pub to full meals.
Restaurants along Percival Landing offer scenic dining experiences.
Enjoy views while savoring local cuisine.
Olympia's culinary scene emphasizes fresh, local, and ingredients in season.
Various berries, apples, and vegetables from Washington farms are highlighted.
Seafood, like salmon, oysters, and Dungeness crab, mirrors the area's history.
Visit the Olympia Farmers Market on a weekend. It offers a chance to taste local prepared foods, interact with producers, and learn about the region's agricultural bounty.
