The Great Debate: Washington’s Best BBQ / Pizza / Seafood Spots Ranked
Seattle, perched on Puget Sound about 100 miles south of the Canadian border, has long been a fierce battleground for pizza lovers. Within its bustling Ballard neighborhood, Delancey stands out for its wood-fired pies crafted from locally sourced flour and seasonal Washington produce. The intimate setting complements the rustic charm of their Neapolitan-style pizzas, cooked in a custom-built oven that reaches blistering temperatures. The dough’s perfect char and airy crumb make it a must-try, especially on crisp fall evenings when the surrounding streets hum with artisan markets and the scent of the nearby sea. Delancey’s commitment to simplicity and quality elevates it beyond the usual pizza parlors, capturing the essence of the Pacific Northwest in every bite.
Venture about two hours east from Seattle to Ellensburg, where the local barbecue scene takes on a distinctly Central Washington flair. The Smoke Pit Barbecue, nestled in the heart of this college town, is famed for its slow-smoked brisket and ribs that reflect the region’s cattle heritage. The pitmasters employ a dry rub featuring regional spices and slow cook the meat over native applewood, imparting a subtle fruitiness uncommon in traditional BBQ. Ellensburg’s arid climate and proximity to Yakima’s hop fields influence the smoky flavors here, making a late summer visit ideal when the town’s outdoor patios fill with locals savoring the smoke-kissed air alongside their meals. The Smoke Pit’s blend of regional ingredients and smoking techniques delivers a robust, homegrown barbecue experience that stands apart from Seattle’s more eclectic offerings.
For seafood aficionados, a trip to the town of Westport, about two and a half hours southwest of Seattle on the Pacific coast, offers an unforgettable ocean-to-table journey. At the Westport Maritime Museum and its surrounding docks, visitors can witness daily fish hauls of Dungeness crab, Pacific salmon, and oysters harvested from the nearby bays. Local eateries like the Oyster House capitalize on this proximity, serving shellfish so fresh that the briny sweetness and delicate textures leap off the plate. The museum’s exhibits on the commercial fishing history and sustainable aquaculture efforts in Grays Harbor add layers to the meal, tying taste to place and practice. The best time to visit is spring through early fall when the weather is milder, and the fishing fleets are most active, filling the harbor with the lively buzz of maritime tradition.
In Spokane, located on the eastern edge of Washington roughly 280 miles from Seattle, pizza takes on a different character. Frank’s Diner, housed in a vintage railcar just off the downtown district, offers a slice of history along with its pies. Their thin-crust pizzas, baked in the same wood-fired oven that has been a Spokane staple for decades, feature a hearty blend of cheeses and locally cured meats, reflecting the Inland Northwest’s agricultural roots. The diner’s kitschy, nostalgic atmosphere makes it a favorite gathering spot, especially during the colder winter months when the warmth of the oven and the glow of the city lights provide cozy comfort. Frank’s blends urban charm with culinary tradition, making Spokane a worthy detour on any Washington pizza tour.
Southwest of Seattle, near the quaint town of Olympia, the Capitol City Seafood Market offers a dynamic experience for those who want to savor the state’s marine bounty without the usual restaurant setting. Located about an hour’s drive south, this market showcases fresh-caught Dungeness crab, geoduck clams, and wild salmon, much of it sourced from local fishermen who ply the nearby Puget Sound. Visitors can purchase their seafood and enjoy it at nearby picnic spots along the Budd Inlet, where the cool salt air and views of Mt. Rainier on clear days enhance the flavor. Spring and summer are prime times for a visit, when the local shellfish are at their peak and the waterfront blooms with wildflowers. Capitol City Seafood Market embodies an authentic Pacific Northwest seafood experience, connecting diners to the source and scenery in a way few sit-down restaurants can.
In the small town of Pateros, nestled in Okanogan County about four hours northeast of Seattle along the Columbia River, barbecue takes a rugged, frontier-inspired turn. The Ranch at Pateros serves up smoked meats infused with hickory wood and local herbs, capturing the essence of the mountainous landscape and agricultural heritage. The rustic dining room overlooks the river, a perfect complement to the hearty dishes that evoke the spirit of the early settlers. Evening visits in late summer offer a chance to soak in long sunsets reflecting off the water, enhancing the meal’s connection to place. This spot’s blend of bold smoke flavors with sweeping natural views makes it a memorable BBQ destination far from the urban core.
Seattle’s Ballard Locks area also offers an unparalleled seafood experience, combining dining with a chance to witness the engineering marvel that links Lake Washington to Puget Sound. Around this bustling spot, eateries like The Walrus and the Carpenter serve oysters harvested from nearby Totten Inlet, renowned for their clean, briny taste and firm texture. Diners can enjoy their fresh oysters while watching boats navigate the locks or observe migrating salmon through underwater viewing windows at the nearby fish ladder. Visiting in late spring or early summer, when the salmon runs peak and the weather is temperate, adds a natural spectacle to the culinary delight. Here, seafood is not just a meal but a moment intertwined with the vibrant ecosystem of the Pacific Northwest.
Finally, back near Seattle but in the historic Pioneer Square district, Sitka & Spruce brings a unique twist to pizza with its focus on wild, foraged ingredients from the surrounding forests and waters. About a 10-minute drive from downtown, this spot pairs wood-fired crusts with seasonal toppings like chanterelle mushrooms and smoked salmon, sourced directly from Washington’s diverse landscapes. The intimate, rustic ambiance complements the innovative cuisine, which changes with the seasons to reflect the region’s natural abundance. Early fall is prime time to visit when foraged ingredients are at their peak and the crisp air invites cozy, comforting meals. Sitka & Spruce’s approach elevates pizza beyond simple comfort food to a celebration of Washington’s terroir.
Each of these places highlights a distinct facet of Washington’s rich culinary tapestry, from coastal seafood to smoky barbecue and artisanal pizzas. Their locations, flavors, and atmospheres reflect the diverse landscapes and cultures that make the state a rewarding destination for food lovers and travelers alike.