Yakima offers a rich and flavorful culinary journey that’s waiting to be discovered. The city of Yakima is renowned for its great settings and warm, welcoming locals.
Whether you’re craving a sophisticated sit-down meal, a relaxing experience at a wine bar budget-friendly eats, or anything in between, Yakima’s diverse restaurant scene has something to offer.
From budget eateries to grand dining establishments radiating elegance, there’s a place in Yakima that caters to every food lover’s desires.
So, without further ado, here are the top 20 restaurants in Yakima:
1. WaterFire Restaurant & Bar
Address: 4000 Creekside Loop, Yakima, WA 98908
WaterFire Restaurant & Bar is an American restaurant and bar offers great affordability and quality. It caters to families, traveling parties, and friend groups. Its doors are open from 11 AM to 9 PM.
The atmosphere at WaterFire is relaxed, perfect for those seeking a break from a busy day. Service-wise, there may be instances of delay, but the staff compensates with the quality of service offered to each person, making for an enjoyable dining experience.
The cuisine at WaterFire offers surprising delights. The French Dip is a standout, and even their French Fries, often a side thought, garner attention. You don’t want to miss the cauliflower appetizer.
2. Cowiche Canyon – Kitchen & Icehouse
Address: 202 E Yakima Ave, Yakima, WA 98901
Cowiche Canyon – Kitchen & Icehouse is an American restaurant that has great food and hospitality. It open from 11 AM to 11 PM.
The space at Cowiche Canyon is an interesting mix of areas, offering a variety of ambiances. While it may get a tad noisy at peak hours, there are other areas of this restaurant that balances this out. It has friendly service that is swift and attentive, and the drinks come fast.
The menu might seem limited, however. The steak frites and the burger comes highly recommended, while the grilled artichoke might be worth swapping for another starter. The dishes here are flavorful and savory, with their prime ribs being my personal favorite.
3. Miner’s Drive-in Restaurant
Address: 2415 S 1st St, Yakima, WA 98903
Miner’s Drive-in Restaurant offers a taste of American tradition at an affordable price & serves from 8:30 AM to 3:00 AM.
The atmosphere at Miner’s takes you back to the golden era of drive-ins, combining timeless charm with modern expectations. However, you have to be very patient, especially around lunchtime when the place buzzes with customers.
While the wait can go long, the taste of their classic dishes and the soda fountain’s offerings make the wait worthwhile.
4. Bob’s Burgers & Brew
Address: 121 N Fair Ave, Yakima, WA 98901
Bob’s Burgers & Brew is an affordable place for burger lovers and casual diners. It is open from 11 AM to 10 PM.
The atmosphere at Bob’s is warm and welcoming. Service at Bob’s is very positivite and their attention to detail is also very good. The staff’s exceptional service adds to the overall dining experience.
The burgers are the stars of the show at Bob’s. Each one is packed with a new flavor, making the burgers truly delicious. And don’t overlook the chicken – it is super delicious too.
5. Crafted
Address: 22 N 1st St, Yakima, WA 98901
Crafted, a foodcart in downtown offers a vast selection of food and drinks for everyone from 5 AM to 9 PM. Its affordability, combined with the quality it delivers, makes an irresistible proposition.
The atmosphere of the place is warm and welcoming, with a friendly staff that takes care of your every need, making you feel right at home.
What sets Crafted apart is its excellent tasting menu paired with perfectly matched wines. Each course is presented beautifully, with generous portions. The best part is the dessert, where a sublime campfire s’mores & macaroons combination takes the experience to another level.
6. Zesta Cucina
Address: 5110 W Tieton Dr # 210, Yakima, WA 98908
The Zesta Cucina is a decently priced Italian restaurant open from 11 AM to 7 PM.
The hostess at Zesta Cucina doesn’t seem friendly, so the ambiance starts on a sour note for some. However, there were some servers who were commended for their attentiveness, notably those who ensured the water was never empty.
When it comes to food, it’s a mixed bag. The halibut is praised, and the steak medallions and crab pasta are considered satisfactory. However, the salmon risotto leaves room for improvement.
7. Los Hernandez
Address: 6411 W Nob Hill Blvd, Yakima, WA 98908
Los Hernandez, a humble and affordable spot specializing in Mexican food, opens its doors from 11 AM to 6 PM.
The moment you walk into Los Hernandez, you are greeted by a straightforward and neat atmosphere. Their operation follows a quick-service format, ensuring that customers don’t have to wait long for their meals. Some may perceive the decor as unpretentious, but it is the warmth and amicability of the staff that really sets the tone.
Los Hernandez truly shines in the food section. Special mention goes to their seasonal asparagus queso, nopales, and roasted jalapeño tamales that are worth every penny. The masa, a must-try, is celebrated for its softness and richness in flavor.
8. Second Street Grill
Address: 28 N 2nd St, Yakima, WA 9890
Second Street Grill, an American restaurant open from 11 AM until the midnight, provides a comfortable and inviting setting for locals.
In terms of service, you’re looking at a standard level of assistance. While it isn’t particularly impressive, it does the job.
The food, however, presents a mixed bag. The Ruben sandwich, which should have been a highlight considering its house-made, has unfortunately received negetive feedback due to its dry and lackluster nature. Conversely, the offerings for gluten-free diners are an unexpected delight, proving to be a saving grace for this restaurant’s menu.
9. El Mirador 2
Address: 1601 E Yakima Ave #2179, Yakima, WA 98901
El Mirador 2, a budget-friendly Mexican delight, welcomes locals from 11 AM to 11 PM. The moment you step into El Mirador 2, you’re welcomes by a lively atmosphere. Despite a busy crowd, the service never misses a beat, ensuring a smooth dining experience without unnecessary waits.
Additionally, they offer an attractive outdoor patio, a lovely option for those who enjoy their meals in the open air.
Notable foods are the Carne Asada plate and enchiladas, which impress with generous servings and a delightful home-cooked vibe. For those following a plant-based diet, the menu provides plenty of options, making it a versatile spot for diverse tastes.
10. Mel’s Diner
Address: 314 N 1st St, Yakima, WA 98901
Mel’s Diner, a spot known for hearty, affordable meals, is ready to welcome you from the early hours of 5 AM until late at 11 PM.
The moment you walk into Mel’s Diner, you are welcomed to a busy yet charming vintage environment. While its popularity can lead to occasional wait times, the cozy atmosphere and quirky decor ensure the waiting period is not a bore.
Mel’s service varies, but frequent diners seem to receive more attention. Despite this, the large menu guarantees that every visitor, even those with specific tastes, will discover something delightful. In particular, the one-egg breakfast, complete with hash browns, toast, and sausage, is liked for its ample portion.
11. Taj Palace
Address: 2710 W Nob Hill Blvd, Yakima, WA 98902
Taj Palace stands as a bastion of authentic Indian flavors, offering a rich dining experience from 11 AM to 10 PM.
Upon setting foot in Taj Palace, you’re greeted by a beautiful interior reflecting Indian culture. The delectable lunch buffet at the restaurant is renowned for its perfect balance of spices and fresh ingredients.
The service at Taj Palace is efficient and personable, ensuring that you have an exceptional dining experience. The staff’s quick response time adds to the overall appeal of the restaurant.
When it comes to food recommendations, the lunch buffet is a standout and authentic. Taj Palace is a perfect Indian cuisine place. The Chicken Tikka Masala and Butter Chicken Masala are popular options that many people seem to like here, specifically.
12. Antojitos Mexicanos
Address: 3512 Summitview Ave, Yakima, WA 98902
Antojitos Mexicanos, a vibrant restaurant open from 9 AM to 8 PM offers authentic Mexican taste at an affordable price.
A high level of authenticity makes this restaurant a favorite among diners who enjoy authentic Mexican tastes. Service at Antojitos Mexicanos is praiseworthy, maintaining a high standard that matches the quality of its food.
The Milanese torta comes highly recommended, and the range of full-sized tortilla chips accompanied by eight distinct sauces and salsas sets this place apart. However, tastes are subjective. While many find the food delightful, I was not satisfied with the post-meal.
13. Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
Address: 222 E Yakima Ave, Yakima, WA 98901
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant is an Italian dining option open from 11 AM to 11 PM. While the service at Olive Garden remains consistently top-notch, there have been changes over the years.
As for the food, the restaurant continues to satisfy its customers with the quality of its dishes, maintaining the familiar flavors.
However, I have noticed a reduction in the menu variety, particularly the healthier, low-calorie options, post-pandemic. So, while Olive Garden continues to serve traditional Italian favorites, it may not be the best choice for those mindful of calorie intake.
14. Famous Burger & Teriyaki Sandwich
Address: 401 W Lincoln Ave, Yakima, WA 98902
Famous Burger & Teriyaki Sandwich is a small affordable food eatery. Open from 10 AM to 8 PM. It offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The service is quick, ensuring that your food arrives hot and fresh, ready to be enjoyed.
The food is the main draw at Famous Burger & Teriyaki Sandwich. From the chicken teriyaki with pineapple and mushrooms to the Bonzai burger, Pho, yakisoba, and fried rice, each dish is prepared with care and served in generous portions.
15. Thai House Yakima
Address: 14 N 2nd St, Yakima, WA 98901
Thai House Yakima serves affordable and welcoming meals from 11 AM to 2 PM. It’s a must-visit for Thai cuisine lovers.
You’re instantly greeted by elegant aromas and a soothing ambiance, setting the tone for the dining experience ahead.
The menu is a comprehensive spread of Thai delicacies that caters to diverse dietary preferences, including vegetarian options. Their use of fermented bean sauce over fish sauce is a testament to their commitment to quality and authenticity.
16. Xochimilco Mexican Restaurant
Address: 5110 Tieton Dr #270, Yakima, WA 98908
Xochimilco Mexican Restaurant, a popular Mexican restaurant, welcomes diners from 11 AM to 11 PM.
A clean, modern setting sets the scene for the food at Xochimilco. The service is prompt and courteous, contributing positively to the overall dining experience.
Their Chili Verde is noteworthy, generously filled with lean pork filled with flavor, complemented perfectly by light and fluffy rice. However, as much as the food can be a delight, it can go wrong too. The dishes, particularly those abundant in onions, might not resonate with everyone’s preferences.
17. Provisions Restaurant and Market
Address: 2710 Terrace Heights Dr, Yakima, WA 98901
Provisions Restaurant and Market is an versatile restaurant, open from 3 PM to 8 PM. There are many gluten-free and dairy-free options available here, making it a haven for those with food restrictions.
Provisions’ attention to these details makes dining out a pleasure for those with food sensitivities, and they don’t compromise on taste either.
The restaurant ensures that every guest, regardless of their dietary needs, can indulge in their flavorite dishes.
18. Zullee Mediterranean Grill
Address: 2706 W Nob Hill Blvd Suite 103, Yakima, WA 98902
Zullee Mediterranean Grill, open from 11 AM to 9 PM, is a must-visit stop for all food enthusiasts. The restaurant, with its affordable pricing, offers unique, flavorful, and fresh.
The premises, is a cute little place, wins over guests with its cleanliness. Food at Zulle has quality and authenticity. Those well-acquainted with Mediterranean cuisine have highly commended the eatery’s offerings, indicating their authenticity.
19. E.Z Tiger
Address: 222 E Chestnut Ave, Yakima, WA 98901
E.Z Tiger, an Asian-inspired restaurant, is open from 12 PM to 7 PM and offers food at an affordable price range. However, the experience might not meet expectations, and improvement is needed in several areas.
The restaurant’s food has mixed reactions, I found the dishes lacking in flavor and not well proportioned.
Their Pad Thai, Kung Pao Chicken, and Beijing Dumplings were mentioned specifically, with issues such as the Pad Thai being overly soupy, and the Kung Pao Chicken being overcooked with very few peanuts. Although, it may be worth a try since it’s cheaper and the foods are continuously changing.
20. Yakima Steak Company
Address: 221 W Yakima Ave, Yakima, WA 98902
Yakima Steak Company offers dishes at a reasonable price range, especially for what you get. The restaurant operates between 9 PM and 11 PM.
The steaks are cooked to perfection, and the ribs were especially delicious! People also enjoyed the special sauces that they put on the steaks, which added an extra layer of flavor.
The atmosphere is inviting and welcoming, with a great staff who make you feel right at home. Prices are reasonable for such fine quality food, and service makes sure everyone has a great experience dining there! Highly recommended if you’re looking for a great meal.
