Washington’s lakes offer more than just breathtaking views – they’re home to some incredible dining spots that locals try to keep secret. These hidden restaurants combine delicious food with waterfront serenity, creating perfect weekend retreats from busy city life. Whether you’re looking for upscale cuisine or casual comfort food, these lakeside gems provide unforgettable meals with a side of spectacular scenery.
1. Cedar + Elm
Tucked away in a serene forest setting, at the The Lodge at St. Edward Park, Cedar + Elm Restaurant overlooks Lake Washington in Kenmore. This restaurant is located within a beautifully restored seminary building, blending history with natural beauty.
The menu, guided by an emphasis on fresh ingredients, offers a refined dining experience with a focus on seasonal and regional cuisine. The lodge’s grand architecture and tranquil surroundings create an atmosphere of peaceful seclusion, making it an ideal destination for a quiet and sophisticated meal away from the city.
The lodge is surrounded by extensive walking trails that offer scenic views of the lake and the forest, perfect for a post-meal stroll. Its historic chapel, now used for events, adds a unique architectural touch to the setting.
The kitchen prioritizes local farmers and sustainable sourcing to ensure the highest quality dishes. Many guests come to enjoy the fireplace lounge area, ideal for relaxing after dining. The venue also hosts occasional live music nights, enhancing the peaceful ambiance. Ample outdoor seating lets diners enjoy the fresh air during warmer months.
2. Anthony’s HomePort
Anthony’s HomePort is a popular waterfront restaurant located on Lake Washington in Kirkland. Part of a well-known regional chain, this location is celebrated for its consistent quality and beautiful views of the marina and the lake.
The menu features a wide selection of Pacific Northwest seafood, including grilled salmon, fish and chips, and fresh shellfish. Guests can dine on a spacious deck that offers a great vantage point for watching boats and enjoying the lakeside atmosphere. It’s a reliable choice for a fresh and satisfying meal with a fantastic view.
The restaurant’s interior design incorporates nautical themes and large windows that maximize lake views from every seat. It offers ample parking and is easily accessible from Seattle and surrounding areas.
Anthony’s HomePort also provides catering services for special events held at nearby waterfront venues. The team is known for friendly and attentive service, creating a welcoming environment for families and couples alike. Seasonal specials highlight ingredients harvested from Puget Sound and local farms. On calm days, diners may spot kayakers and paddleboarders passing by the marina.
3. The Barking Frog
While not directly on a lake, The Barking Frog is located at Willows Lodge in Woodinville, near the Sammamish River, which connects to Lake Washington. This restaurant is celebrated for its award-winning cuisine and focus on using ingredients from local farms and purveyors.
The menu offers a blend of American and regional Pacific Northwest flavors. The setting is intimate and refined, with a beautiful garden terrace. It provides a luxurious and relaxing experience that feels like a peaceful retreat away from the city.
The Barking Frog emphasizes seasonal menus that highlight wild mushrooms, fresh herbs, and locally grown vegetables. Guests often enjoy the adjoining garden walk before or after meals, which features native plants and flowers.
The restaurant works closely with nearby farmers markets to bring the freshest ingredients to each plate. Chef staff frequently host cooking classes and demonstrations to engage the community. Natural wood accents and soft lighting create a warm and inviting dining room. The lodge’s tranquil surroundings make it popular for weekend getaways and special celebrations.
4. Suncadia Lodge
Situated in the Cascade Mountains, the Suncadia Lodge overlooks the tranquil Lake Cle Elum. The lodge’s dining options provide a scenic and rustic experience, with a focus on Pacific Northwest cuisine.
The menu features a variety of hearty dishes that are perfect after a day of outdoor activities. The lodge’s grand, timber-framed architecture and expansive windows offer spectacular views of the lake and the forested mountains, creating a cozy and memorable atmosphere for any meal.
Suncadia offers easy access to hiking, biking, and fishing spots, making it a perfect base for nature lovers. The lodge’s chefs incorporate locally harvested mushrooms and fresh lake fish into their dishes. Guests appreciate the lodge’s commitment to sustainable practices, including composting and energy-efficient operations.
The outdoor patio area provides fire pits for warmth and social gatherings in cooler weather. Seasonal events, like guided nature walks and wildlife talks, are frequently held for guests. The nearby town of Cle Elum offers additional shops and cafes, adding to the area’s charm.
5. The Cove Bar & Restaurant
Located on the shores of Lake Chelan, The Cove Bar & Restaurant provides a more intimate and relaxed dining experience away from the town’s busier areas. The restaurant is part of a small resort and is known for its serene setting right on the water.
The menu includes a variety of American and Northwest-inspired dishes. It is a favorite among locals and repeat visitors who appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful lake views, especially during sunset.
The Cove offers boat dock access for guests arriving by watercraft, enhancing its secluded feel. The kitchen highlights fresh, locally caught fish and seasonal produce from Chelan Valley farms. Outdoor seating is surrounded by native wildflowers and mature trees, creating a natural, tranquil environment.
The resort hosts occasional outdoor movie nights and live acoustic music events during summer. The staff is praised for personalized service and attention to detail. Nearby hiking trails invite diners to explore the lush Chelan landscape before or after meals.
6. The Eatery at Lake Quinault Lodge
Tucked away in the Quinault Rain Forest, The Eatery at Lake Quinault Lodge is a casual and cozy dining spot. This historic lodge, built in 1926, offers a rustic charm with a relaxed menu including burgers and sandwiches.
The location provides stunning views of the misty, tree-lined shores of Lake Quinault. It’s a perfect place for guests to unwind after exploring the ancient rainforest, offering a satisfying and unpretentious meal in a beautiful, natural setting.
The lodge is surrounded by old-growth forest, home to towering spruce and cedar trees, enhancing the peaceful dining experience. Guests often spot wildlife like deer and bald eagles while dining or relaxing nearby.
The kitchen sources ingredients from local farms and wild-harvested foods such as berries and mushrooms. Warm, wood-paneled interiors and stone fireplaces make the place inviting year-round. Guided rainforest hikes and kayak rentals are available nearby for nature enthusiasts. The lodge also supports conservation efforts to protect the Quinault ecosystem and its wildlife.
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