Kirkland is a vibrant city located in the state of Washington that is known for its beautiful waterfront, stunning parks, and excellent dining scene. The city is home to a variety of restaurants that offer a diverse range of cuisines, from classic American fare to international dishes. In this article, we will explore some of the must-try dishes of Kirkland that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.

One of the most popular dishes in Kirkland is the Wagyu steak at Cafe Juanita. This dish is made from high-quality beef that is known for its marbling and tenderness. The steak is cooked to perfection and served with a side of seasonal vegetables, making it a delicious and satisfying meal.

Another dish that you must try in Kirkland is the Caribbean soul food at Arleana’s. This restaurant is known for its flavorful dishes that are made using traditional Caribbean spices and ingredients. Some of the must-try dishes at Arleana’s include the jerk chicken, oxtail stew, and plantains. If you are looking for a unique dining experience, Arleana’s is definitely worth a visit.

Signature Seafood Delights

Kirkland is a city that offers a wide range of seafood options, from fresh catches of the day to classic seafood dishes. Here are some of the must-try signature seafood delights that Kirkland has to offer.

Kirkland’s Famous Clam Chowder

Kirkland’s famous clam chowder is a must-try for seafood lovers. This creamy and savory soup is made with fresh clams, potatoes, and other secret ingredients that make it a local favorite. It is usually served with a side of bread or crackers, making it a hearty meal on its own.

Fresh Pacific Salmon Grill

Kirkland is known for its fresh Pacific salmon, which is caught daily from the nearby waters. The salmon is grilled to perfection, giving it a smoky flavor that perfectly complements its natural sweetness. It is usually served with a side of vegetables or rice, making it a healthy and delicious meal.

Dungeness Crab Feast

The Dungeness crab feast is a classic seafood dish that is a must-try in Kirkland. This dish features fresh Dungeness crabs that are steamed to perfection and served with a side of butter and lemon. It is perfect for sharing with friends and family, making it a great choice for special occasions.

In conclusion, Kirkland offers a variety of signature seafood delights that are sure to satisfy any seafood lover’s cravings. From the famous clam chowder to the fresh Pacific salmon grill and the Dungeness crab feast, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Local Organic Fare

Kirkland is a city that values locally-sourced, organic ingredients, and this is reflected in its restaurants. Here are a few must-try dishes for those who appreciate farm-to-table cuisine.

Farm-to-Table Vegetable Platter

For those looking for a healthy and delicious option, the farm-to-table vegetable platter is a great choice. Made with locally-sourced, organic vegetables, this dish is both fresh and flavorful. The platter typically includes a variety of vegetables such as carrots, beets, broccoli, and cauliflower, and is served with a dipping sauce or hummus.

Organic Berry Medley Dessert

For those with a sweet tooth, the organic berry medley dessert is a must-try. Made with a variety of locally-sourced, organic berries, this dessert is both delicious and healthy. The berries are typically served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream, making for a refreshing and satisfying end to any meal.

Artisanal Cheese Sampling

For cheese lovers, the artisanal cheese sampling is a must-try. Made with locally-sourced, organic cheeses, this dish is a great way to sample some of the best cheeses from the Pacific Northwest. The cheese is typically served with crackers, bread, and a selection of condiments such as honey, fruit, and nuts.

In conclusion, Kirkland’s farm-to-table cuisine is a must-try for anyone who values locally-sourced, organic ingredients. With dishes like the vegetable platter, berry medley dessert, and artisanal cheese sampling, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Global Cuisine Influences

Kirkland is a city that celebrates diversity, and this is evident in its culinary scene. The city has a wide range of restaurants that offer global cuisine, and this is a testament to the influence of different cultures on the city’s food scene. In this section, we will explore some of the must-try dishes from around the world that you can find in Kirkland.

Authentic Italian Pizza

Italian cuisine has a strong influence on the culinary scene in Kirkland, and authentic Italian pizza is a must-try dish. The pizza in Kirkland is made with fresh ingredients and cooked in a wood-fired oven, just like in Italy. The crust is thin and crispy, and the toppings are flavorful and varied. Some of the popular pizza toppings in Kirkland include margherita, pepperoni, and mushroom.

Vietnamese Pho Noodle Soup

Vietnamese cuisine is another popular global influence in Kirkland, and pho noodle soup is a must-try dish. Pho is a flavorful and aromatic soup that is made with rice noodles, herbs, and meat. The broth is simmered for hours with a variety of spices and herbs, giving it a rich and complex flavor. Some of the popular pho noodle soup restaurants in Kirkland include Pho All Day and Pho Tai.

French Croissants and Pastries

French cuisine has a strong influence on the culinary scene in Kirkland, and croissants and pastries are a must-try. The croissants in Kirkland are light and flaky, with a buttery and crispy exterior. They are perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Some of the popular croissant and pastry shops in Kirkland include Le Grand Bistro Américain and Lady Yum.

In conclusion, Kirkland’s global cuisine influences are evident in the variety of must-try dishes available in the city. From authentic Italian pizza to Vietnamese pho noodle soup and French croissants and pastries, there is something for everyone.

Street Food and Snacks

Kirkland has a diverse and lively street food scene that offers a wide range of delicious snacks and treats. Here are a few must-try dishes:

Handcrafted Gelato Selections

Gelato is a popular Italian dessert that is enjoyed by people all over the world. In Kirkland, there are several places where you can get handcrafted gelato that is made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Some of the most popular flavors include pistachio, chocolate hazelnut, and strawberry.

Gourmet Food Truck Tacos

Food trucks are a popular way to enjoy street food in Kirkland. One of the most popular food truck dishes is gourmet tacos. These tacos are made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and are often served with a variety of different toppings. Some of the most popular toppings include avocado, cilantro, and lime.

Savory Pretzel Bites

Pretzel bites are a popular snack that is often served at sporting events and festivals. In Kirkland, there are several places where you can get delicious, savory pretzel bites that are made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Some of the most popular toppings include cheese, garlic, and butter.

Overall, Kirkland’s street food scene offers a wide range of delicious snacks and treats that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you are looking for a sweet treat or a savory snack, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Beverages and Brews

Locally Roasted Coffee Blends

Kirkland is home to a diverse range of coffee shops that offer locally roasted coffee blends. The city has no shortage of good coffee, whether you want a sleek modern espresso bar, a cozy hole in the wall, or an easy drive-through. One of the best places to grab a cup of coffee in Kirkland is Kitanda Espresso & Açaí. They offer a wide variety of Brazilian coffee blends that are roasted locally. Their Brazilian bread (pão de queijo) and açaí bowls are also worth trying.

Washington State Wines

Washington State is known for producing some of the best wines in the United States, and Kirkland is no exception. The city has several wineries that offer a wide variety of wines, from crisp whites to bold reds. One of the best places to try Washington State wines in Kirkland is The Grape Choice. They offer an extensive selection of wines from local wineries, as well as from around the world. Their knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect wine to pair with your meal.

Craft Beer on Tap

Kirkland has a thriving craft beer scene, with several breweries that offer a wide variety of beers on tap. One of the best places to try craft beer in Kirkland is Chainline Brewing Company. They offer a rotating selection of beers that are brewed on-site, as well as a few guest taps. Their knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect beer to suit your taste. If you’re looking for a place to grab a bite to eat, they also offer a small menu of pub-style food that pairs well with their beers.

Sweet Endings

When it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth, Sweet Endings is the place to be in Kirkland. This bakery is known for its delectable desserts made from real ingredients. Here are a few must-try dishes that you won’t want to miss.

Decadent Chocolate Truffles

If you’re a chocolate lover, you’ll want to try Sweet Endings’ decadent chocolate truffles. These bite-sized treats are made with high-quality chocolate and come in a variety of flavors, including dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and white chocolate. They are the perfect indulgence after a meal or as a gift for a special someone.

Seasonal Fruit Tarts

For a lighter dessert option, Sweet Endings offers seasonal fruit tarts made with fresh, locally sourced fruits. These tarts are perfect for those who prefer a balance of sweet and tart flavors. The crust is flaky and buttery, and the filling is bursting with juicy fruit flavors. Be sure to try the strawberry or raspberry tarts when they are in season.

Homemade Ice Cream Sundaes

Sweet Endings also offers homemade ice cream sundaes that are perfect for a hot summer day. You can choose from a variety of ice cream flavors, including vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry. Then, top it off with your favorite toppings, such as hot fudge, caramel, whipped cream, and sprinkles. It’s a classic dessert that never goes out of style.

Overall, Sweet Endings is a must-visit bakery in Kirkland for anyone with a sweet tooth. Their desserts are made with real ingredients and are sure to satisfy any craving. Be sure to try the chocolate truffles, fruit tarts, and ice cream sundaes on your next visit.