Walla Walla, Washington, a name synonymous with world-class wines, is rapidly emerging as a dynamic culinary destination. Beyond its renowned vineyards, this charming Eastern Washington town offers a vibrant food scene that promises to delight every palate. From cozy breakfast nooks to sophisticated fine dining experiences, Walla Walla is a treasure trove for food lovers. Join me on a gastronomic tour through some of the best places to eat, and for even more delicious recommendations, be sure to explore Part 2 of my comprehensive Walla Walla dining guide. Get ready to discover why this wine country gem is also a must-visit for its exquisite cuisine.
There’s an undeniable magic in shared experiences, especially when good company is involved. Strong friendships are truly the cornerstone of a joyful life, don’t you agree? As we navigate adulthood and watch our children grow, finding those precious moments to escape for a rejuvenating girls’ weekend can become increasingly challenging. Yet, these dedicated times for connection and laughter are more vital than ever, offering a much-needed respite and an opportunity to strengthen those invaluable bonds.
While an extravagant all-out Vegas girls’ getaway certainly promises its own brand of fun and excitement, there’s a unique charm to a more relaxed, spontaneous adventure. Sometimes, the most memorable trips involve simply piling into the car with your closest friends and heading to a destination closer to home for a delightful weekend escape – no flights, no elaborate planning, just pure, unadulterated road trip bliss.
Such was the spirit of our recent road trip, a journey brimming with anticipation and the promise of discovery!
Just a comfortable 3.5-hour drive from Portland, Oregon, my two dearest college girlfriends and I embarked on an unforgettable wine weekend getaway to Walla Walla, Washington. The scenic drive itself was filled with lively conversation, shared stories, and increasing excitement, perfectly setting the tone for what would become a truly cherished experience. I am immensely grateful for that precious time spent reconnecting, laughing, and creating new, lasting memories with my girls amidst the beautiful backdrop of Walla Walla’s thriving landscape.
Walla Walla, Washington: A Culinary Landscape Rooted in History and Wine
Steeped in rich history, Walla Walla, Washington, began its journey as a bustling fur trading post and swiftly evolved into one of the country’s most active agricultural areas. As you drive into the picturesque Walla Walla valley, you’re greeted by endless vistas of golden wheat fields stretching to the horizon, interspersed with lush crops of the famously sweet Walla Walla onions. This fertile Eastern Washington region now boasts another powerful claim to fame: a world-class wine industry, with over 100 wineries producing an impressive array of varietals that consistently earn international accolades. The town’s deep connection to the land and its agricultural heritage provides a unique foundation for its blossoming culinary scene, where farm-to-table isn’t just a trend, but an inherent way of life, celebrated in every dish.
During our delightful visit, we indulged in several exceptional wine tasting experiences, exploring the offerings at acclaimed establishments such as the vibrant Charles Smith Wines, the elegant Va Piano Vineyards, the prestigious Pepper Bridge Winery, and the inviting Waterbrook Winery. Each stop offered a distinct journey into the region’s diverse viticulture, showcasing the unique terroir and winemaking expertise that define Walla Walla’s reputation. While I eagerly anticipate sharing more in-depth insights about these remarkable wineries in upcoming posts, today, my focus is firmly on the incredible gastronomic delights we discovered. I am thrilled to introduce you to some of the standout restaurants that not only captivated our taste buds but are sure to become beloved favorites for your next Walla Walla adventure, firmly establishing it as a premier culinary destination.
Bacon & Eggs: A Quintessential Walla Walla Brunch Experience
Recently settled into a prime, easily accessible location right in the bustling middle of Main Street, Bacon and Eggs stands as Walla Walla’s charming and highly-regarded answer to the quintessential all-American cafe experience. This inviting eatery, with its perfect blend of casual comfort and subtly modern design, offers both cozy indoor seating and vibrant outdoor tables, making it an ideal spot to soak in the lively downtown atmosphere. Exclusively open for breakfast and lunch, Bacon and Eggs masterfully serves up delectable classics infused with a fresh Pacific Northwest twist, complemented by an extensive list of expertly crafted cocktails and celebratory bubbles, ensuring every meal feels like a special occasion.
Particularly on bustling Saturdays and Sundays, a wait is almost a guarantee, ranging anywhere from a pleasant 20 minutes to a more substantial 45 minutes, depending on the ebb and flow of morning diners. We strategically arrived on a Sunday morning around 9:15 AM and were fortunate to only wait about 20 minutes – a testament to their efficient operations and the steady demand for their delicious fare. The staff here are truly fantastic; their genuine warmth, attentiveness, and friendly demeanor make even the shortest wait for a table feel entirely palatable and set a cheerful, welcoming tone for the meal ahead. It’s clear they understand the art of hospitality.
The menu at Bacon and Eggs is a thoughtful celebration of classic cafe fare, elevated with that distinctive Pacific Northwest culinary flair that emphasizes fresh, local ingredients. Beyond the namesake bacon & eggs, you’ll discover an enticing array of perfectly executed Benedicts, fluffy omelettes bursting with flavor, freshly baked pastries, and satisfying sandwiches. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared, emphasizing quality ingredients and delightful presentation. Prices are wonderfully reasonable, making it an accessible option for all; items typically range from $6 to $15, with the majority of lunch options hovering around the $10-$12 mark. Considering both the generous portions and the exceptional quality of the food, this offers remarkable value. Every single dish sampled by my friends and me was not only utterly delicious, bursting with fresh flavors, but also beautifully plated, turning each meal into a visual and gastronomic treat.
For those planning a visit to Bacon & Eggs, here are some helpful pointers to enhance your experience and ensure a delightful meal:
Go here for: A delightful breakfast or brunch with a close friend, a family of four, or a small group of friends. Do note that the space is cozy and popular, so for parties larger than four, you might experience a longer wait time, especially during peak weekend hours. Consider arriving early or during off-peak times.
Dress code: Casual. Super casual. Think relaxed weekend attire – anything from comfortable jeans and a t-shirt to a sundress will fit right in with the laid-back, welcoming atmosphere.
Kid-friendly? Absolutely! The welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, and approachable menu make it a perfect spot for families with children of all ages. There’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Fun fact: Bacon and Eggs proudly serves Stumptown Coffee. This is fantastic news for my fellow Portlanders and coffee aficionados across the country who have come to cherish PDX’s beloved coffee shop, which seamlessly transitioned from an indie darling to a national favorite, all while maintaining its unwavering commitment to quality and exceptional flavor.
Bacon and Eggs
(509) 876-4553
57 East Main Street
Walla Walla, WA 99362
HOURS: Thursday-Tuesday 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM (Closed Wednesdays)
http://www.baconandeggswallawalla.com/
Whitehouse-Crawford: An Unforgettable Twist of Fate Dinner Experience
Sometimes, the best and most memorable discoveries are born out of unexpected detours. After an unsuccessful attempt to secure a table at another highly-touted Walla Walla restaurant, my friends and I found ourselves serendipitously stumbling upon Whitehouse-Crawford as an alternate dining option. Little did we know at the time, fate had a truly remarkable and unforgettable experience in store for us, transforming a minor setback into a profound culinary highlight.
Indeed, destiny must have been smiling brightly upon us that evening, because our spontaneous visit to Whitehouse-Crawford unfolded into an absolutely incredible dining experience. We found ourselves collectively thanking our lucky stars that our initial plans fell through, as this fortuitous discovery became one of the most cherished highlights of our trip. From the very first moment we made our initial phone call inquiring about dinner availability, to the genuinely friendly and warm host who greeted us upon arrival, and the engaging, knowledgeable bartender who not only served but also entertained us throughout the night, every single interaction felt deeply personal and incredibly inviting. The convivial atmosphere was further enhanced by the presence of happy, fellow diners who eagerly engaged us in lively conversation, creating an overall experience that was remarkably warm, welcoming, and truly unforgettable. It was a testament to the power of authentic hospitality.
The interior of Whitehouse-Crawford is a captivating blend of expansive industrial design softened with rustic farmhouse elements, creating an ambiance that is both grand and approachable. Housed within a beautifully restored early 20th-century woodworking mill, the space features high ceilings, exposed brick, and rich wooden accents, giving it a unique character. This large, open space, while beautiful, can get quite boisterous, especially when bustling with large parties or during private events held in the adjacent event space. This energetic atmosphere, while vibrant and celebratory – which I personally loved for our girls’ night out – means the acoustics contribute to a lively, party-like feeling. If you’re seeking a more intimate or quiet dining experience, a thoughtful request for a smaller table closer to the bar area might be your best bet, offering a slightly more secluded setting amidst the lively hum.
We opted for seats at the bar, which turned out to be an inspired choice, providing us with the best vantage point for people-watching, absorbing the restaurant’s energy, and engaging with the wonderful staff. Our bartender was not only adept at mixing exquisite drinks but also a fountain of local knowledge, offering excellent Walla Walla suggestions for wineries and other attractions. The gentleman seated next to us, a friendly regular, proved to be an invaluable source of recommendations that expertly guided our culinary choices. We savored expertly executed pan-seared scallops, perfectly complemented by creamy corn and crisp green beans – a dish that showcased both freshness and refined technique. The rich and comforting beef stroganoff was a testament to classic flavors done right, delivering a hearty and satisfying experience. The evening concluded on a truly sweet note with a decadent chocolate cake accompanied by exquisite house-made gelato, providing a perfect crescendo to our unforgettable meal.
Whitehouse-Crawford dedicates itself exclusively to the dinner service, ensuring a focused and refined evening experience for its patrons. Their menu is a dynamic reflection of the seasons, meticulously crafted to change weekly, thereby highlighting the absolute freshest ingredients sourced directly from local farmers and esteemed purveyors. Typically, you can anticipate an exciting array of creative salads, artisanal pizzas, exquisite house-made pasta options, and thoughtfully prepared main courses featuring a rotating selection of fish, chicken, steak, or lamb. The meal is always capped off with an enticing choice of four to five delightful house-made dessert options, each a perfect finale to their captivating culinary journey, leaving a lasting impression of Walla Walla’s vibrant food scene.
Here’s a concise guide for making the most of your Whitehouse-Crawford visit:
Go here for: An exceptional dinner experience with friends and family, perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying fine dining in a vibrant and sophisticated setting.
Dress code: While business casual or dressy attire perfectly fits the sophisticated ambiance of Whitehouse-Crawford, the restaurant maintains a welcoming flexibility, meaning well-styled jeans are also perfectly acceptable. The key is to feel comfortable and confident as you enjoy your evening.
Kid-friendly? Yes, children are welcome at Whitehouse-Crawford. However, it’s important to note there isn’t a separate kids’ menu, so we highly recommend reviewing their current menu online before your visit to ensure there are suitable options for your younger diners. When all else fails, their house-made pizza, crafted with the freshest local ingredients, is often a reliable and delicious choice that appeals to many children.
Travel tip: If you’re traveling here for work, enjoying a solo trip, or happen to arrive without a reservation during a busy period, consider heading straight to the bar. Though seats are limited, securing a spot there often provides one of the best views of the entire restaurant, immediate access to the full main menu, and the added bonus of engaging conversation with the bartender, who is usually an excellent source of insider Walla Walla suggestions and local insights.
Whitehouse Crawford
55 West Cherry Street
Walla Walla, WA 99362
509-525-2222
Hours: Weekdays 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Closed Tuesdays); Saturday & Sunday 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
http://www.whitehousecrawford.com
The Marc Restaurant: A Symphony of Elegance and Unrivaled Flavors
Among the most lavish and utterly memorable dining experiences my girlfriends and I were privileged to savor was at The Marc Restaurant, an exquisite culinary jewel nestled within the historic and elegant Marcus Whitman Hotel. Stepping into The Marc is like entering a realm of sophisticated comfort and refined luxury: high-backed, plush leather booths invite intimate conversations, while dark wood walls, subtle lighting, and thoughtfully curated art pieces create an atmosphere of classic grandeur and understated elegance. This isn’t just a hotel restaurant; it’s a true destination, offering impeccably attentive customer service where every detail is considered, and a menu boasting innovative dinner dishes that redefine modern American cuisine with a distinct Pacific Northwest influence, celebrating the bounty of the region.
Now, let’s talk about a dish that transcended mere deliciousness and achieved legendary, almost mythical status during our entire Walla Walla culinary journey. Brace yourselves, because this is not hyperbole; it is an absolute truth: The Marc Restaurant serves what is, without a shadow of a doubt, the absolute best #1 chowder in the entire country. Yes, I said it, and I stand by it!
I am not exaggerating in the slightest, not even a little. Every single one of us at the table, my discerning girlfriends and I, unanimously agreed: we would willingly drive the 3.5 hours back to Walla Walla *solely* for the exquisite pleasure of another bowl of The Marc’s Pacific Northwest Seafood Chowder ($10). This photograph, as appetizing and beautiful as it is, simply cannot convey the truly mind-blowing, utterly incredible depth of flavor, luxurious texture, and perfect balance of this dish. It is a masterpiece in a bowl, a sensory experience that lingers deliciously on the palate and in the memory long after the last spoonful has been savored.
What makes The Marc’s Pacific Northwest Seafood Chowder so extraordinarily divine? It’s a symphony of fresh, premium ingredients, perfectly harmonized: succulent razor clams, flaky Pacific salmon, crispy, savory bacon, and creamy Yukon potatoes, all swimming in a broth that is incredibly rich, velvety, and impeccably seasoned. As someone with a dairy intolerance, I typically exercise extreme caution with dairy-heavy dishes, allowing myself only the smallest, most hesitant taste. However, for this chowder, all caution was joyfully thrown to the wind. I would have happily devoured an entire bowl – and gleefully suffered any dairy-related consequences a thousand times over, without a single regret. Each spoonful delivered a harmonious blend of perfectly balanced salty and smoky notes, generously overflowing with tender clams and rich, flaky salmon. I vividly recall one of my girlfriends, in a moment of pure culinary bliss, exclaiming with utter sincerity, “Oh my God, I just want to bathe in this chowder.”
It truly is THAT delicious; an absolute, non-negotiable must-try for any visitor to Walla Walla and a definitive highlight of the Walla Walla dining scene.
But the chowder is merely the spectacular beginning. The Marc Restaurant continued to impress us throughout the evening, serving up some of the most inventive, beautifully plated, and exquisitely flavorful dishes we encountered during our entire stay in Walla Walla. The chefs at The Marc are not only masters of culinary technique but also true artists when it comes to presentation and crafting innovative flavor combinations, always prioritizing the freshest, locally-sourced ingredients that reflect the bounty of the Pacific Northwest. While their menu, reflective of the seasons, changes regularly – meaning many of the specific fall dishes we enjoyed might not be on the current winter menu – these accompanying visuals offer a powerful glimpse into the kind of gastronomic magic, elevated dining experience, and consistent culinary excellence you can always expect at The Marc.
Hungry yet? The Marc Restaurant truly delivers a feast for all senses, promising an unforgettable fine dining journey that embodies the best of Walla Walla’s culinary offerings.
To help you plan your visit to The Marc Restaurant, here are some practical tips and insights:
Go here for: An elegant date night, a special family dinner, a memorable double date, or a sophisticated girls’ night out. Its versatile and refined ambiance effortlessly accommodates a wide range of celebratory and intimate occasions.
Dress code: The attire at The Marc spans from smart casual to special occasion wear. Like many upscale hotel restaurants, you’ll observe a delightful mix of styles among diners, and all are welcome. Whether you prefer to dress up for a grand evening or opt for a polished casual look, simply ensure you’re comfortably dressed to fully enjoy the exceptional experience!
Kid-friendly? Yes, The Marc is surprisingly welcoming to families! They thoughtfully offer a dedicated kids’ menu, and the privacy afforded by their high, plush booths makes it an ideal setting for families to enjoy a fine dining experience together without feeling overly exposed or disruptive.
Fun fact: Did I mention, for emphasis and absolute clarity, that they serve the BEST CHOWDER in the United States? This isn’t just a claim; it’s a culinary truth that genuinely warrants repeating and, more importantly, experiencing firsthand. Don’t leave Walla Walla without trying it!
The Marc Restaurant
Inside the Marcus Whitman Hotel & Conference Center
(509) 525-2200
6 W Rose St
Walla Walla, WA 99362
http://marcuswhitmanhotel.com/wine-dine/the-marc-restaurant/
Our time in this exquisite agriculture-turned-wine country town was regrettably brief, making it impossible to explore every single restaurant on our wishlist. However, we were utterly delighted and thrilled with the incredible culinary experiences we were fortunate enough to enjoy at these distinguished establishments. Walla Walla’s vibrant food scene is undeniably rising to the occasion, perfectly matching and complementing its burgeoning world-class wine industry. I am confident that you – and especially your discerning taste buds! – will be profoundly impressed with the exceptional caliber of cuisine and the diverse dining options you discover here. Walla Walla truly offers a holistic sensory journey, where every meal is as memorable and enriching as every sip of its renowned wines.
Have you had the pleasure of visiting Walla Walla and exploring its culinary landscape? I’d love to hear your thoughts and recommendations! What are your favorite places to eat and drink in this charming town (beyond the wineries, of course, as we’ll be diving into those in upcoming blog posts!)? Share your insights and experiences in the comments below – your tips help fellow foodies discover new gems!
A special thank you extends to The Marc Restaurant for graciously hosting our complementary dining experience. It’s important to note that, as always, all opinions expressed and photographs shared here are entirely my own and reflect my genuine appreciation. My commitment is to foster a positive online space, so I exclusively feature and write about places I genuinely love – establishments I believe you, too, will adore and thoroughly enjoy exploring!
For more exceptional dining destinations and a deeper dive into the gastronomic delights of this captivating region, make sure to check out Part 2 of my comprehensive Walla Walla dining guide.