With a population nearing 300,000, sweeping vistas of Puget Sound and big mountain views, there’s no shortage of people or picturesque landscapes in Thurston County, Washington.
This serene setting also has a burgeoning food scene that’s often able to pair delicious menus with stunning atmospheres to create a one-of-a-kind dining experience.
Though the county’s largest city, Olympia, is the most well-known foodie spot, other locales like Tumwater and Tenino have restaurants that are sure to surprise. In no particular order, here’s a quick look at six of the best restaurants with a view in Thurston County.
Dockside Bistro & Wine Bar (Olympia)
This waterfront restaurant has a warm and comfortable setting that’s perfect for a special occasion. Diners adore the unique fare created by the restaurant’s chef that blends her native Vietnamese culture with the customs of the Pacific Northwest. Pick a window seat and admire the boats and boardwalk as you nosh on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients like Misty Isle all-natural beef and Taylor Shellfish.
Falls Terrace Restaurant (Tumwater)
This family-owned fine dining restaurant is just outside Olympia in the sleepy town of Tumwater. As its name implies, Falls Terrace provides diners with spectacular views of the Tumwater Falls. You’ll also enjoy incredible service, fresh local food, and paired wines. After your meal, don’t miss your chance to take a quarter-mile stroll on either side of the river to the lower falls.
Budd Bay Café (Olympia)
Not far from Dockside Bistro, you’ll find Budd Bay Café, another iconic Percival Landing restaurant. This self-proclaimed “favorite waterfront restaurant” in Olympia offers a 180-degree bay view and an unobstructed look at the state capitol and the Olympic Mountains. Budd Bay also has a delectable Sunday brunch that’s the perfect way to spend time with friends or family.
Swing Wine Bar & Café (Olympia)
With beautiful views of Capitol Lake, Budd Inlet and the Olympics, this warm and inviting spot has more than just good vino. From bites like oysters on-the-half and bacon-wrapped dates to freshly baked Wild King salmon and smoked boar belly puttanesca, this eatery has a menu that’s vast and varied. Swing’s staff will suggest wine pairings, choosing from the more than 30 wines they pour by the glass or the 200 bottle selections.
Lady of the Lake (Tenino)
The Public House Restaurant at Offut Lake Resort is open year-round in Tenino. Originally built in 1939, this historic restaurant closed for many years until a massive renovation restored the Lady to her former glory. The bistro provides waterfront views, magnificent sunsets and a peaceful atmosphere that is hard to match. The menu includes an assortment of dishes, ranging from the Lady’s Lemon Twist Prawns starter to the Alaskan halibut with daily risotto and seasonal sautéed veggies.
Tugboat Annie’s (Olympia)
The quirky Tugboat Annie’s is more than just a restaurant—it’s an opportunity to have an adventure. In addition to cooking up incredible sandwiches, seafood and pub food, Annie’s rents kayaks for guests to paddle around Budd Inlet. One of the most fun additions to its extensive menu is the breakfast special that includes two single kayaks for two hours, two breakfasts and two beverages for one low price. If you’re more of a land lover, that’s OK, too. Sit back and watch the boats as you munch on a po’boy with fried oysters or a crab melt.
Anthony’s Hearthfire Grill (Olympia)
Anthony’s is a chain of family-owned restaurants all over the Pacific Northwest. They first opened in Belleview in 1969, and as they grew, providing spectacular waterfront views of the Pacific Northwest became their focus. The Olympia location offers arguably the best view in the city. This hidden gem is nestled just over Budd Inlet. Its large windows and open floor layout offer a gorgeous, unobstructed view of the sound…from any seat in the house. Once you’re done marveling at the scenery, you can get down to the real business of food. You know you’ll be getting some of the best seafood around, as Anthony’s opened their own wholesale seafood company in 1984 to ensure the finest quality food.
Like we said, these were just a few spots that you might be interested in trying for yourself. With the number of restaurants in Thurston County that tout delicious dishes and dazzling views, there’s no doubt that you’re bound to find your favorite.
