Among great views and the calm ambiance of the Columbia River, Wenatchee is the beginning of a memorable food journey.”
Wenatchee’s beautiful landscapes, peaceful atmosphere, and hospitable locals make it the perfect retreat for those in search of a peaceful break.
The city’s lively restaurants have a diverse range of delicious options for every dining occasion. From intimate cafes that are cozy to grand dining establishments that offer a touch of sophistication, Wenatchee has something for everyone.
Here are the top 11 restaurants that give Wenatchee its foodie acclaim:
1. Visconti’s Italian Restaurant
Address: 1737 N Wenatchee Ave, Wenatchee, WA 98801-1189
Located in the heart of Wenatchee, Visconti’s Italian Restaurant is a delightful restaurant that offers an authentic yet budget-friendly Italian dining experience. Open from 11 AM to 9:30 PM, it’s an ideal destination for lunch or a delicious evening meal.
When you walk into Visconti’s, you’ll be struck by its unique ambiance. The warm glow from the overhead lights and the traditional Italian decor create an inviting atmosphere. The space is perfectly laid out, allowing for intimate conversations while capturing the restaurant’s lively buzz.
The service at Visconti’s is both friendly and efficient. Although it can get busy during peak hours, the attentive and professional staff ensures that your dining experience remains seamless from when you step in until your final sip of wine.
One standout choice in Visconti’s is the NW Charcuterie Board, a collection of house-made salamis and delectable white cheddar cheese. Pair this with their warm, crusty bread for a delicious experience. Another highly recommended dish is the Four Cheese Ravioli, and for those who want to try something new, the Seared Ahi Tuna provides an intriguing twist.
2. McGlinn’s Public House
Address: 111 Orondo Ave, Wenatchee, WA 98801-2208
McGlinn’s Public House offers an affordable yet delicious dining experience. Serving from 11 AM to 11 PM, it’s an excellent spot for a leisure lunch, a hearty dinner, or a late-night supper.
Stepping into McGlinn’s, you feel as if you’ve been sent back to a classic old-world pub where the atmosphere is cozy. The rustic decor and dim lighting create an intimate setting perfect for a relaxed dining experience, no matter the day of the week.
The service at McGlinn’s is friendly and professional. Despite the busy atmosphere, the staff ensures that your dining experience is smooth.
As for the food, McGlinn’s has an array of choices that cater to a variety of taste buds. The Mama Mary Biscuit, a Southern-style dish, comes highly recommended. It’s an excellent biscuit paired with fried chicken and balsamic ketchup. For a healthier choice, the Veggie Scramble is a nutritious yet delicious option.
3. El Porton
Address: 340 Valley Mall Pkwy, East Wenatchee, WA 98802-4832
El Porton is an inviting establishment that serves reasonably priced yet delicious Mexican cuisine. With its doors open from 11 AM to 10 PM, it’s a terrific spot for a flavor-packed lunch, dinner, or anything in between.
Entering El Porton, you’ll be immediately enveloped in its warm and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant’s lively ambiance and traditional decor create an inviting backdrop for enjoying a meal.
The service at El Porton is commendable. Regardless of whether you’re dining in or picking up an order, the friendly and attentive staff ensures a smooth and pleasant experience from start to finish.
El Porton’s menu boasts an impressive variety of dishes. The beef and chicken fajitas come highly recommended – tender and flavorful, served with perfectly caramelized onions. The unique cabbage salsa adds a fresh and exciting twist. And if you’re looking for a refreshing drink to pair with your meal, their delicious margarita is a must-try.
4. La Fuente
Address: 816 S Mission St, Wenatchee, WA 98801-3054
Situated in the heart of Wenatchee, La Fuente is a vibrant and affordable restaurant that offers an authentic Mexican culinary experience. Open from 11 AM to 10 PM, it’s an ideal stop for a midday feast or a lively evening dinner.
Upon stepping into La Fuente, you will be greeted with a lively Mexican atmosphere. The traditional decor and lively hum of conversation add to the charm, making it a fun and welcoming place to dine. I love the paintings of buildings on the walls.
The service at La Fuente is exceptional. The friendly and attentive staff go above and beyond to ensure your dining experience is seamless and enjoyable, from helping you navigate the menu to catering to your specific preferences, like fresh jalapenos.
La Fuente’s menu is a collection of all the best Mexican food. The Tamales, Rellanos, Enchiladas, and Tacos are all top-notch, offering a true taste of Mexican culinary tradition. The cabbage salad accompanying the chips and salsa is a pleasant surprise.
5. Inna’s Cuisine
Address: 26 N Wenatchee Ave, Wenatchee, WA 98801-2237
Inna’s Cuisine offers a delightful and affordable exploration of Eastern European flavors. Open from 11 AM to 9 PM, it’s the perfect spot for a hearty lunch or a comforting dinner that truly hits the spot.
When inside this restaurant, you’ll notice the distinct European decor, a harmonious blend of different European styles. This restaurant scores high on all fronts – a pleasing interior design, exceptional food, and great value for money.
The service at Inna’s Cuisine is swift and attentive. Despite the huge servings, the staff ensures that your dining experience remains smooth, making you feel cared for from the moment you walk in until your final bite.
Inna’s Cuisine offers a myriad of flavorful options. The Pierogi and Golabki are exceptional, while the Turkey Pelmeni offers a delightful taste of traditional Eastern European cuisine. For pasta lovers, the Chicken and Mushroom Fettuccine is a must-try, and the homemade Borsch, both red and green, paired with dinner rolls and garlic butter, are also delicious.
6. Sweetwood BBQ
Address: 905 N Wenatchee Ave, Wenatchee, WA 98801-1572
Sweetwood BBQ has made a name for itself as a delicious BBQ place that has garnered local attention. With limited operating hours from 3 PM to 8 PM, it’s an excellent choice for a late lunch or a dinner.
Sweetwood BBQ has a warm and inviting aura. The restaurant features modern decor, with wood and metal accents throughout. The seating is comfortable and booths are cozy enough for families to enjoy a meal together. The atmosphere is friendly, and the staff members are welcoming.
The menu has plenty of meat by the pound but I find the sandwiches, particularly the pulled pork with slaw, excellent. The rice bowls are also a hit and if you are eating with a crowd, try the brisket poutine.
7. Windmill
Address: 1501 N Wenatchee Ave, Wenatchee, WA 98801-1156
Located in the charming city of Wenatchee, the Windmill is a cozy, high-end dining spot that opens from 3 PM to 8 PM. Although it’s on the pricey side, it’s a fantastic choice for a celebratory dinner or a special evening meal.
As you step into the Windmill, the restaurant’s compact yet cozy ambiance will captivate you. While its small size might occasionally pose a slight inconvenience, it contributes to the intimate atmosphere that makes this restaurant special.
The service at the Windmill is impeccable. The servers go out of their way to ensure that your glasses stay filled and that you have a fantastic time. Their attention to detail and dedication, especially on important occasions like anniversaries, make dining here a memorable experience.
The Windmill’s culinary prowess is where it truly shines. Their prime rib earns high praise for its flavors. However, the wedge salad is so delicious that it alone could suffice for a satisfying meal! Their baked potato should also be mentioned, as it’s delicious as well.
8. Shakti’s
Address: 218 N Mission St, Wenatchee, WA 98801-2004
Shakti’s is an upscale dining spot open from 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM. The overall experience may not quite match expectations despite its high-end price range, based on recent reviews.
Upon entering Shakti’s, you’re greeted by a lovely ambiance, particularly if you opt to sit on their charming patio. This element is certainly a positive aspect of the dining experience here.
Unfortunately, when it comes to the food, Shakti’s may fall short of expectations. Recent diners have reported that dishes such as the linguine and the 218 pasta lack depth of flavor.
Service time and food temperature have also been reported issues. Unexplained ingredient substitutions without customer consultation are another red flag. It may be worth a try, as the foods are continually changing.
9. Rail Station & Ale House
Address: 29 N Columbia St, Wenatchee, WA 98801-2223
The Rail Station & Ale House presents a cozy retreat for locals and travelers, offering budget-friendly comfort foods from 11 AM to 10 PM.
As you step into the Rail Station & Ale House, you’re likely to feel an instant sense of welcome. The friendly staff contributes significantly to this feeling, always ready to offer service with a smile. Whether you’re popping in for a late lunch or looking to unwind with friends after a long day.
Outdoor enthusiasts will also appreciate the spacious patio at Rail Station & Ale House, providing plenty of shaded seating. It’s a great spot to enjoy a pleasant meal while basking in the fresh air.
The food at Rail Station & Ale House is satisfying. They offer a nice alternative to the usual sandwich. You don’t want to miss out on their burgers or fish and chips.
10. Spring Lotus
Address: 1050 Springwater Ave, Wenatchee, WA 98801-1546
Spring Lotus is an eatery with an array of Asian dishes. With operating hours from 11 AM to 8 PM, it’s a fantastic spot for a casual lunch or a comforting evening meal.
Spring Lotus charms with its compact and homely setting. Arrive a bit earlier for lunch, around 11:30 AM, to secure a table in this snug venue. Its ambiance may seem a little worn in places.
The service at Spring Lotus is attentive, contributing to the overall warm atmosphere. The staff’s friendly demeanor is often a positive note in the dining experience here.
In terms of cuisine, the soup and Asian salads have garnered considerable praise from everyone. The Pho is also a standout, served in generous portions that even the smaller size is usually enough.
11. Tropical Salvadorean Restaurant
Address: 119 Palouse St, Wenatchee, WA 98801-2232
The Tropical Salvadorean Restaurant is a charming and affordable restaurant. Opening its doors from 10 AM to 8 PM, this eatery offers a unique experience.
The moment you step into Tropical Salvadorean Restaurant, you will be greeted by friendly staff in an easy-going setting. The casual ambiance ensures a relaxed dining experience.
The menu at the Tropical Salvadorean Restaurant is a satisfying exploration of Salvadoran cuisine. The pupusas are a popular pick here. Though the pupusas might be a touch on the greasy side for some, the flavor is well received, particularly when complemented by their spicy salsa. Their banana leaf tamale is a popular option among locals here as well.
