Delectable dining gems hidden in Port Townsend, Washington
Of course! As your local guide to the culinary heart of the Olympic Peninsula, I'm absolutely thrilled to take you on a gastronomic tour of Port Townsend. This Victorian seaport isn't just about stunning architecture and maritime history; it's a hidden gem for food lovers, bursting with character, creativity, and some of the most memorable flavors you'll find in the Pacific Northwest. So, loosen your belt a notch, and let's explore the top ten spots that make this town a true foodie destination.
### **A Foodie's Pilgrimage: Savoring the Soul of Port Townsend**
Port Townsend is a town that demands to be savored, not just seen. From the salty breeze off Admiralty Inlet to the charming, creaky floorboards of its historic buildings, every sensation here tells a story. And the best stories are often told through food. We’re going to journey from cozy pie shops to waterfront fine dining, from smoky BBQ joints to aromatic Thai kitchens. Here’s your essential guide to eating your way through PT.
---
#### **1. Hillbottom Pie: A Slice of Savory Heaven**
**Location:** 215 Tyler St, Port Townsend, WA 98368
Tucked away on Tyler Street, Hillbottom Pie is the kind of unassuming spot you could easily walk past, but that would be a culinary tragedy of the highest order. This isn't your average pie shop; it's a temple to the art of the savory hand pie. The moment you step inside, you're wrapped in the warm, buttery aroma of golden-brown pastry, a scent that promises pure comfort.
**The Vibe:** Quaint, cozy, and unpretentious. It's a order-at-the-counter kind of place with a few small tables, perfect for a quick, deeply satisfying lunch. The vibe is rustic and honest, much like the food itself.
**What to Order:** You simply cannot go wrong with their classic **Steak & Stout Pie**. The pastry is flaky and robust, giving way to a rich, deeply flavorful filling of tender beef simmered in dark stout gravy. It’s a masterpiece of British-inspired pub food, perfected. For something a little different, the **Curried Vegetable Pie** is a revelation—a fragrant, spiced medley of veggies that is anything than an afterthought. And don't you dare leave without trying a sweet pie! The **Marionberry Pie**,
---
#### **2. The Cup: Caffeination and Sustenance, Perfected**
**Location:** 600 W Sims Way, Port Townsend, WA 98368
Every foodie adventure needs a reliable fuel station, and The Cup is Port Townsend's premier pit stop. Located on the main drag into town, this bustling café is where locals grab their morning rocket fuel and linger over lunch. The coffee is serious business—rich, ethically sourced, and expertly pulled—but the food menu is what will make you stay.
**The Vibe:** Lively, artsy, and community-focused. It's a hive of activity with the hum of espresso machines, the clatter of plates, and the chatter of friends meeting up. It feels like the living room of Port Townsend.
**What to Order:** Start with a **Latte** made with their house-roasted beans. For breakfast, the **Breakfast Burrito** is legendary—scrambled eggs, black beans, cheese, and a killer roasted red pepper sauce wrapped in a soft tortilla. For lunch, the **Turkey Cranberry Sandwich** on hearty sourdough is a sublime combination of savory, sweet, and tangy that will ruin all other turkey sandwiches for you. It’s simple food, executed flawlessly.
---
#### **3. Sea J's Cafe: The Quintessential Waterfront Diner**
**Location:** 2501 Washington St, Port Townsend, WA 98368
If you want to dine with a view, Sea J's is your spot. Perched right on the Point Hudson Marina, this classic café offers panoramic windows looking out onto the water, with boats bobbing in the harbor and seabirds wheeling overhead. It’s the picture-perfect Port Townsend experience.
**The Vibe:** Nautical, bright, and family-friendly. It’s a bustling diner with a maritime heart. Expect checkered tablecloths, friendly, efficient service, and the best seat in the house for watching the world go by on the water.
**What to Order:** This is the place for breakfast. The **Smoked Salmon Benedict** is a must-try Pacific Northwest specialty. Perfectly poached eggs and rich hollandaise sauce over a bed of locally smoked salmon—it’s a taste of the region on a plate. If you're there for lunch, the **Fish & Chips** are a no-brainer. The cod is light, flaky, and encased in a crisp, non-greasy beer batter, served with solid fries and coleslaw.
---
#### **4. Hudson Point Café: A Hidden Gem with Heart**
**Location:** 130 Hudson St, Port Townsend, WA 98368
A short stroll from the marina, Hudson Point Café is a beloved local secret. It’s a tiny, charming spot that feels like you’ve been let in on something special. The focus here is on high-quality, from-scratch food in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
**The Vibe:** Intimate, quirky, and incredibly warm. With only a handful of tables, it feels personal. The staff remembers regulars' orders, and the walls are often adorned with local art.
**What to Order:** Their breakfast sandwiches are the stuff of legend. Order the **Bacon, Egg, and Cheese** on a fresh-baked biscuit or bagel—it’s a simple dish elevated by excellent ingredients. For lunch, the **Turkey Avocado Sandwich** with a generous slather of pesto mayo is fresh, satisfying, and perfectly balanced. Don't skip their homemade soups, which change daily and are always a highlight.
---
#### **5. Fat Smittys: A Roadside Burger Institution**
**Location:** 282624 US Hwy 101, Port Townsend, WA 98368
Ready for a dose of pure, unadulterated Americana? Head just outside of town to Fat Smittys. This iconic roadside burger joint has been a fixture on Highway 101 for decades, and walking in is like stepping back in time. The walls and ceiling are plastered with thousands of signed dollar bills—a tradition that adds to the unforgettable, gritty charm.
**The Vibe:** Legendary, divey, and fun. It’s loud, a little chaotic, and 100% authentic. This isn't fine dining; it's a glorious, greasy-spoon experience.
**What to Order:** You get the **Deluxe Cheeseburger**. It’s a classic, no-frills, perfectly grilled patty with all the standard fixings on a soft bun. The fries are thick-cut and salty. And you have to pair it with a thick, creamy **Shake**—chocolate is the classic move. It’s a messy, satisfying meal you’ll be thinking about for weeks.
---
#### **6. Mo-Chilli BBQ: Smoky, Spicy, and Sublime**
**Location:** 1980 W Sims Way, Port Townsend, WA 98368
The scent of smoldering hardwood is your first clue that you've found something special. Mo-Chilli BBQ is a food truck with a permanent home, and it serves up some of the most authentic, soul-satisfying barbecue in the region. The passion for the craft is palpable in every tender, smoky bite.
**The Vibe:** Casual, no-frills, and focused. You order at the window, find a spot at a picnic table, and get ready for a flavor explosion. It’s all about the food here.
**What to Order:** The **Brisket Plate** is the star of the show. It’s slow-smoked for hours until it’s impossibly tender, with a beautiful smoke ring and a peppery bark. Get it as a plate with two sides—the **Creamy Coleslaw** and **Smoked Baked Beans** are the perfect companions. Their house-made barbecue sauces, from a tangy Carolina-style to a sweet and spicy Kansas City, are fantastic. The **Pulled Pork Sandwich** is another winner, piled high on a simple bun.
---
#### **7. Anchor: Elevated Pub Fare with a Nautical Twist**
**Location:** 628 Water St, Port Townsend, WA 98368
Situated right on the water on bustling Water Street, The Anchor is where you go for a sophisticated yet relaxed meal with a killer view. It’s the perfect blend of a classic Pacific Northwest pub and an upscale bistro, offering a menu that is both approachable and inventive.
**The Vibe:** Upscale-casual, nautical-chic, and vibrant. With its dark wood, brass accents, and large windows overlooking the ferry terminal, it’s the ideal spot for a date night or a celebratory dinner with friends.
**What to Order:** You must start with the **Penn Cove Mussels**. Steamed in a white wine, garlic, and herb broth, they are plump, briny, and perfect for sopping up with their crusty bread. For your main, the **Fish Tacos** are a local favorite, featuring beer-battered cod, crunchy cabbage slaw, and a zesty crema. If you're feeling indulgent, their **Anchor Burger**, often featuring local beef and gourmet toppings, is considered one of the best in town.
---
#### **8. Alchemy Bistro & Bar: The Pinnacle of PT Dining**
**Location:** 842 Washington St, Port Townsend, WA 98368
For that special occasion meal or when you simply want to be wowed, Alchemy Bistro & Bar is your destination. Housed in a beautifully restored historic building, Alchemy focuses on seasonal, Pacific Northwest ingredients transformed into elegant, artfully presented dishes.
**The Vibe:** Intimate, romantic, and sophisticated. The atmosphere is warm and buzzing with a quiet energy. The service is impeccable—knowledgeable and attentive without being stuffy.
**What to Order:** This is a place to savor and explore. The menu changes with the seasons, but you can expect dishes like a perfectly seared **Diver Scallop** appetizer or a rich **Duck Confit**. For a main, any of their pasta dishes are sublime, or opt for a **Grilled Filet Mignon** if it's on the menu. The wine list is carefully curated and the staff are experts at pairing. Don't rush; this is an experience to be lingered over from the first amuse-bouche to the last sip of dessert wine.
---
#### **9. Waterfront Pizza: The Slice with a View**
**Location:** 951 Water St, Port Townsend, WA 98368
Sometimes, you just need a great slice of pizza. And Waterfront Pizza delivers exactly that, with one of the best views in town. Located at the end of Water Street, it’s a casual, order-by-the-slice or whole-pie joint that attracts a steady stream of locals and tourists alike.
**The Vibe:** Bustling, casual, and perfectly positioned. Grab your slice and a soda and head to the window bar or the outside seating to watch the ferries and boats come and go.
**What to Order:** The **Pepperoni** is a classic done right—greasy, salty, and satisfying. But be adventurous and try a slice of the **Thai Pie** if it's available; it’s a unique and delicious combination of peanut sauce, chicken, and veggies. Their **Garden Vegetable** pizza is also a standout, piled high with fresh, local produce. It’s the perfect, quick, and delicious meal when you’re exploring the downtown core.
---
#### **10. 123 Thai Food: A Burst of Flavor in the Northwest**
**Location:** 2219 E Sims Way, Port Townsend, WA 98368
Who would expect to find exceptional Thai food in a Victorian seaport? 123 Thai Food proves that great flavors know no boundaries. This modest restaurant is a beacon for anyone craving the bright, spicy, sweet, and sour notes of authentic Thai cuisine.
**The Vibe:** Simple, clean, and focused on the food. The decor is understated, allowing the incredible aromas from the kitchen to take center stage.
**What to Order:** You cannot go wrong with the **Pad Thai**—it’s the benchmark of any Thai restaurant, and theirs is perfectly balanced, not too sweet, with just the right amount of tamarind tang. The **Panang Curry** is another superstar: creamy, rich, and fragrant with kaffir lime leaves. For those who love heat, the **Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao)** will deliver that thrilling, spicy kick. Be sure to specify your preferred spice level! Start with the fresh **Spring Rolls** with peanut sauce for a perfect beginning.
---
### **The Final Bite**
Port Townsend’s dining scene is as diverse and captivating as its landscape. It’s a town that celebrates the bounty of the sea and the soil, where chefs and cooks pour their passion into every plate, pie, and pint. From the buttery crust of a Hillbottom Pie to the sophisticated swirl of a sauce at Alchemy, each of these ten establishments offers a unique and essential taste of this special place.
So come hungry, explore freely, and let the flavors of Port Townsend create memories as lasting as its historic streets. Happy eating
### **A Foodie's Pilgrimage: Savoring the Soul of Port Townsend**
Port Townsend is a town that demands to be savored, not just seen. From the salty breeze off Admiralty Inlet to the charming, creaky floorboards of its historic buildings, every sensation here tells a story. And the best stories are often told through food. We’re going to journey from cozy pie shops to waterfront fine dining, from smoky BBQ joints to aromatic Thai kitchens. Here’s your essential guide to eating your way through PT.
---
#### **1. Hillbottom Pie: A Slice of Savory Heaven**
**Location:** 215 Tyler St, Port Townsend, WA 98368
Tucked away on Tyler Street, Hillbottom Pie is the kind of unassuming spot you could easily walk past, but that would be a culinary tragedy of the highest order. This isn't your average pie shop; it's a temple to the art of the savory hand pie. The moment you step inside, you're wrapped in the warm, buttery aroma of golden-brown pastry, a scent that promises pure comfort.
**The Vibe:** Quaint, cozy, and unpretentious. It's a order-at-the-counter kind of place with a few small tables, perfect for a quick, deeply satisfying lunch. The vibe is rustic and honest, much like the food itself.
**What to Order:** You simply cannot go wrong with their classic **Steak & Stout Pie**. The pastry is flaky and robust, giving way to a rich, deeply flavorful filling of tender beef simmered in dark stout gravy. It’s a masterpiece of British-inspired pub food, perfected. For something a little different, the **Curried Vegetable Pie** is a revelation—a fragrant, spiced medley of veggies that is anything than an afterthought. And don't you dare leave without trying a sweet pie! The **Marionberry Pie**,
---
#### **2. The Cup: Caffeination and Sustenance, Perfected**
**Location:** 600 W Sims Way, Port Townsend, WA 98368
Every foodie adventure needs a reliable fuel station, and The Cup is Port Townsend's premier pit stop. Located on the main drag into town, this bustling café is where locals grab their morning rocket fuel and linger over lunch. The coffee is serious business—rich, ethically sourced, and expertly pulled—but the food menu is what will make you stay.
**The Vibe:** Lively, artsy, and community-focused. It's a hive of activity with the hum of espresso machines, the clatter of plates, and the chatter of friends meeting up. It feels like the living room of Port Townsend.
**What to Order:** Start with a **Latte** made with their house-roasted beans. For breakfast, the **Breakfast Burrito** is legendary—scrambled eggs, black beans, cheese, and a killer roasted red pepper sauce wrapped in a soft tortilla. For lunch, the **Turkey Cranberry Sandwich** on hearty sourdough is a sublime combination of savory, sweet, and tangy that will ruin all other turkey sandwiches for you. It’s simple food, executed flawlessly.
---
#### **3. Sea J's Cafe: The Quintessential Waterfront Diner**
**Location:** 2501 Washington St, Port Townsend, WA 98368
If you want to dine with a view, Sea J's is your spot. Perched right on the Point Hudson Marina, this classic café offers panoramic windows looking out onto the water, with boats bobbing in the harbor and seabirds wheeling overhead. It’s the picture-perfect Port Townsend experience.
**The Vibe:** Nautical, bright, and family-friendly. It’s a bustling diner with a maritime heart. Expect checkered tablecloths, friendly, efficient service, and the best seat in the house for watching the world go by on the water.
**What to Order:** This is the place for breakfast. The **Smoked Salmon Benedict** is a must-try Pacific Northwest specialty. Perfectly poached eggs and rich hollandaise sauce over a bed of locally smoked salmon—it’s a taste of the region on a plate. If you're there for lunch, the **Fish & Chips** are a no-brainer. The cod is light, flaky, and encased in a crisp, non-greasy beer batter, served with solid fries and coleslaw.
---
#### **4. Hudson Point Café: A Hidden Gem with Heart**
**Location:** 130 Hudson St, Port Townsend, WA 98368
A short stroll from the marina, Hudson Point Café is a beloved local secret. It’s a tiny, charming spot that feels like you’ve been let in on something special. The focus here is on high-quality, from-scratch food in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
**The Vibe:** Intimate, quirky, and incredibly warm. With only a handful of tables, it feels personal. The staff remembers regulars' orders, and the walls are often adorned with local art.
**What to Order:** Their breakfast sandwiches are the stuff of legend. Order the **Bacon, Egg, and Cheese** on a fresh-baked biscuit or bagel—it’s a simple dish elevated by excellent ingredients. For lunch, the **Turkey Avocado Sandwich** with a generous slather of pesto mayo is fresh, satisfying, and perfectly balanced. Don't skip their homemade soups, which change daily and are always a highlight.
---
#### **5. Fat Smittys: A Roadside Burger Institution**
**Location:** 282624 US Hwy 101, Port Townsend, WA 98368
Ready for a dose of pure, unadulterated Americana? Head just outside of town to Fat Smittys. This iconic roadside burger joint has been a fixture on Highway 101 for decades, and walking in is like stepping back in time. The walls and ceiling are plastered with thousands of signed dollar bills—a tradition that adds to the unforgettable, gritty charm.
**The Vibe:** Legendary, divey, and fun. It’s loud, a little chaotic, and 100% authentic. This isn't fine dining; it's a glorious, greasy-spoon experience.
**What to Order:** You get the **Deluxe Cheeseburger**. It’s a classic, no-frills, perfectly grilled patty with all the standard fixings on a soft bun. The fries are thick-cut and salty. And you have to pair it with a thick, creamy **Shake**—chocolate is the classic move. It’s a messy, satisfying meal you’ll be thinking about for weeks.
---
#### **6. Mo-Chilli BBQ: Smoky, Spicy, and Sublime**
**Location:** 1980 W Sims Way, Port Townsend, WA 98368
The scent of smoldering hardwood is your first clue that you've found something special. Mo-Chilli BBQ is a food truck with a permanent home, and it serves up some of the most authentic, soul-satisfying barbecue in the region. The passion for the craft is palpable in every tender, smoky bite.
**The Vibe:** Casual, no-frills, and focused. You order at the window, find a spot at a picnic table, and get ready for a flavor explosion. It’s all about the food here.
**What to Order:** The **Brisket Plate** is the star of the show. It’s slow-smoked for hours until it’s impossibly tender, with a beautiful smoke ring and a peppery bark. Get it as a plate with two sides—the **Creamy Coleslaw** and **Smoked Baked Beans** are the perfect companions. Their house-made barbecue sauces, from a tangy Carolina-style to a sweet and spicy Kansas City, are fantastic. The **Pulled Pork Sandwich** is another winner, piled high on a simple bun.
---
#### **7. Anchor: Elevated Pub Fare with a Nautical Twist**
**Location:** 628 Water St, Port Townsend, WA 98368
Situated right on the water on bustling Water Street, The Anchor is where you go for a sophisticated yet relaxed meal with a killer view. It’s the perfect blend of a classic Pacific Northwest pub and an upscale bistro, offering a menu that is both approachable and inventive.
**The Vibe:** Upscale-casual, nautical-chic, and vibrant. With its dark wood, brass accents, and large windows overlooking the ferry terminal, it’s the ideal spot for a date night or a celebratory dinner with friends.
**What to Order:** You must start with the **Penn Cove Mussels**. Steamed in a white wine, garlic, and herb broth, they are plump, briny, and perfect for sopping up with their crusty bread. For your main, the **Fish Tacos** are a local favorite, featuring beer-battered cod, crunchy cabbage slaw, and a zesty crema. If you're feeling indulgent, their **Anchor Burger**, often featuring local beef and gourmet toppings, is considered one of the best in town.
---
#### **8. Alchemy Bistro & Bar: The Pinnacle of PT Dining**
**Location:** 842 Washington St, Port Townsend, WA 98368
For that special occasion meal or when you simply want to be wowed, Alchemy Bistro & Bar is your destination. Housed in a beautifully restored historic building, Alchemy focuses on seasonal, Pacific Northwest ingredients transformed into elegant, artfully presented dishes.
**The Vibe:** Intimate, romantic, and sophisticated. The atmosphere is warm and buzzing with a quiet energy. The service is impeccable—knowledgeable and attentive without being stuffy.
**What to Order:** This is a place to savor and explore. The menu changes with the seasons, but you can expect dishes like a perfectly seared **Diver Scallop** appetizer or a rich **Duck Confit**. For a main, any of their pasta dishes are sublime, or opt for a **Grilled Filet Mignon** if it's on the menu. The wine list is carefully curated and the staff are experts at pairing. Don't rush; this is an experience to be lingered over from the first amuse-bouche to the last sip of dessert wine.
---
#### **9. Waterfront Pizza: The Slice with a View**
**Location:** 951 Water St, Port Townsend, WA 98368
Sometimes, you just need a great slice of pizza. And Waterfront Pizza delivers exactly that, with one of the best views in town. Located at the end of Water Street, it’s a casual, order-by-the-slice or whole-pie joint that attracts a steady stream of locals and tourists alike.
**The Vibe:** Bustling, casual, and perfectly positioned. Grab your slice and a soda and head to the window bar or the outside seating to watch the ferries and boats come and go.
**What to Order:** The **Pepperoni** is a classic done right—greasy, salty, and satisfying. But be adventurous and try a slice of the **Thai Pie** if it's available; it’s a unique and delicious combination of peanut sauce, chicken, and veggies. Their **Garden Vegetable** pizza is also a standout, piled high with fresh, local produce. It’s the perfect, quick, and delicious meal when you’re exploring the downtown core.
---
#### **10. 123 Thai Food: A Burst of Flavor in the Northwest**
**Location:** 2219 E Sims Way, Port Townsend, WA 98368
Who would expect to find exceptional Thai food in a Victorian seaport? 123 Thai Food proves that great flavors know no boundaries. This modest restaurant is a beacon for anyone craving the bright, spicy, sweet, and sour notes of authentic Thai cuisine.
**The Vibe:** Simple, clean, and focused on the food. The decor is understated, allowing the incredible aromas from the kitchen to take center stage.
**What to Order:** You cannot go wrong with the **Pad Thai**—it’s the benchmark of any Thai restaurant, and theirs is perfectly balanced, not too sweet, with just the right amount of tamarind tang. The **Panang Curry** is another superstar: creamy, rich, and fragrant with kaffir lime leaves. For those who love heat, the **Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao)** will deliver that thrilling, spicy kick. Be sure to specify your preferred spice level! Start with the fresh **Spring Rolls** with peanut sauce for a perfect beginning.
---
### **The Final Bite**
Port Townsend’s dining scene is as diverse and captivating as its landscape. It’s a town that celebrates the bounty of the sea and the soil, where chefs and cooks pour their passion into every plate, pie, and pint. From the buttery crust of a Hillbottom Pie to the sophisticated swirl of a sauce at Alchemy, each of these ten establishments offers a unique and essential taste of this special place.
So come hungry, explore freely, and let the flavors of Port Townsend create memories as lasting as its historic streets. Happy eating
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