Seattle Travel
The 11 Best Restaurants on Vashon Island From Food Stands to Cozy Cafes

The 11 Best Restaurants on Vashon Island From Food Stands to Cozy Cafes

Post last updated September 4, 2023

With its beautiful landscapes and relaxing atmosphere, Vashon Island, Washington, offers a truly unforgettable dining experience.

Vashon Island, Washington, is an island located in the heart of Puget Sound. The stunning views, relaxing environment, and welcoming locals make it a perfect getaway for those seeking a peaceful retreat from busy city life.

The island’s vibrant restaurant scene provides visitors with a diverse range of delicious options for every dining occasion. From cozy cafes to fancy dining establishments, there’s something to suit every palate on Vashon Island.

Here are the top 11 restaurants that Vashon Island has to offer:

1. The Ruby Brink

Address: 17526 Vashon Hwy SW Vashon, WA 98070

The Ruby Brink is a fun and budget-friendly restaurant, open from 12 PM to 10 PM. With its highly unique menu and relaxed vibe, it’s a great place for anyone to visit, especially food lovers, friends, and couples on casual dates.

It has a simple and welcoming atmosphere that makes dining here enjoyable. Although the courtyard isn’t always open, the inside area is stylish and comfy.

The service at The Ruby Brink can be a bit of a mixed bag. Some people say the staff is very attentive, while others have had to wait longer than expected for their orders. However, the friendly staff do their best to make sure everyone has a nice time.

As for what to eat, the braised beef meat and noodle dish is a tasty choice, full of delicious flavors and just the right amount of seasoning. Another great option is the rillettes on toast, a dish so good it’ll keep you coming back for more. And don’t forget to start your meal with a cool gin martini.

2. Zamorana

Address: 17722 Vashon Hwy SW Vashon, WA 98070

Zamorana is an affordable and tasty Mexican restaurant, open from 10 AM to 7 PM. This eatery is a great choice for friends & families.

As you step inside Zamorana, you’ll find a simple and low-key atmosphere. The comfy and laid-back vibe makes it an ideal spot to enjoy a casual meal with loved ones.

The service at Zamorana is efficient, ensuring that you receive your food promptly and can fully enjoy the delicious Mexican dishes.

When it comes to food recommendations, the wet burrito is a must-try for the family, weighing in at around 4 pounds and packed with meat. It may not be the most authentic Mexican dish you’ve ever had, but it’s certainly satisfying and well worth the price. Another fantastic option is the torta al pastor.

3. May Kitchen & Bar

Address: 17614 Vashon Hwy SW Vashon, WA 98070

May Kitchen & Bar is an affordable Thai restaurant open from 4 PM to 8:30 PM. With its unique atmosphere and large menu, this eatery is a great choice for friends, families, and couples looking for a different dining experience on the island.

Once you step inside May Kitchen & Bar, you’ll find yourself transported into a classic and cozy environment. The 150-year-old imported teak wood and atmospheric lighting create a warm ambiance that takes you away from your worries. The unique décor, featuring fabrics covering windows, adds to the restaurant’s overall design.

The food at May Kitchen & Bar is a mix of delicious and beautifully presented dishes. Some popular options include the whole fried trout with a mango cashew salad, pineapple curry fried rice with chicken, and spicy green beans with beef. The spices are well-balanced, and the dishes are not overpowering in terms of spice.

4. Bramble House

Address: 17123 Vashon Hwy SW Vashon, WA 98070

​​Bramble House is a high-end dining destination on Vashon Island, open from 5 PM to 8 PM. With its exceptional cuisine and remarkable service, this restaurant is perfect for special occasions or a romantic night out.

The atmosphere at Bramble House is elegant and inviting, with tasteful décor and a comfortable setting. Outdoor seating is available for those who prefer to dine out in the open during the warmer months.

The service at Bramble House is exceptional, with attentive staff and a friendly owner who goes the extra mile to make your dining experience memorable. The no-tipping policy adds to the overall value, making the pricier menu more reasonable.

Bramble House’s menu features a variety of exquisite dishes that cater to those with high standards for their food. From the Black Truffle Garlic Focaccia to the Crisp Polenta with Mushroom Ragu, each dish is carefully crafted with the highest quality ingredients.

5. Snapdragon

Address: 7817 Vashon Hwy SW Vashon, WA 98070

Snapdragon, located in the heart of Vashon Island, is a must-visit destination for those seeking a tasty and affordable breakfast or lunch experience. Open from 10 AM to 3 PM, it’s an excellent spot for a delicious lunch or late breakfast.

When you step into Snapdragon, you’ll immediately be charmed by its cozy and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant offers comfortable indoor seating and a lovely outdoor patio, ideal for enjoying your meal while breathing in fresh air.

The service at Snapdragon is exceptional, with friendly staff members who make you feel at home. They are attentive and accommodating, ensuring a pleasant dining experience for every guest.

Snapdragon’s menu features a variety of delicious dishes made with fresh ingredients. The Thai Pizza, topped with massaman curry sauce, basil, chicken, and spicy pineapple, is a unique and flavorful option for those seeking a little spice.

6. The Rock Island Pizza

Address: 17322 Vashon Hwy SW Vashon, WA 98070

The Rock Island Pizza, an budget friendly restaurant open from 11 AM to 9 PM, offers a delicious and authentic pizza experience on Vashon Island. It’s perfect for younger people looking to have a good time.

The Rock Island Pizza’s casual and inviting atmosphere makes it an ideal spot to enjoy a meal with friends or family. The welcoming vibe, complete with a small bar, back patio, and video games, contributes to a pleasant food experience, leaving everyone eager to return.

The service at The Rock Island Pizza is outstanding, ensuring you feel welcome and have a fun time. While you have to wait for certain dishes, such as the hot wings, it’s generally considered reasonable for the quality of the food served.

The Rock Island Pizza’s menu offers a range of delicious pizza and Italian dishes. The pizza, with its unique and crispy crust, stands out as a customer favorite. Other menu highlights include lasagna, spaghetti with meatballs, and salads, which provide a satisfying and diverse dining experience.

7. Gravy

(Image Credit: Gravy)

Address: 17629 Vashon Hwy SW Vashon, WA 98070

Gravy is an affordable, high-energy restaurant, open from 11 AM to 6 PM, offering a variety of mouthwatering dishes in a casual atmosphere. 

The relaxed ambiance of Gravy is enhanced by its indoor and patio seating areas, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely meal. There are warm yellow lights hanging from the ceiling and carefully picked furniture to make this area feel just right. 

The service at Gravy is exceptional, with friendly and attentive staff, especially Chef Dre and Pepa. They are eager to help people make the best menu choices and even offer samples of their delicious creations, like the Banana Fudge Cake.

Gravy’s menu offers a variety of tasty dishes, from sandwiches to appetizers and side dishes. The fried chicken sandwich is a standout, featuring crispy and juicy chicken that will satisfy your cravings. The smoked brisket Reuben sandwich goes beyond traditional deli fare, with a subtle smoke flavor that takes it to another level.

8. The Hardware Store

Address: 17601 Vashon Hwy SW Vashon, WA 98070

The Hardware Store is an affordable American restaurant, open from 11 AM to 8 PM, with a unique history as it used to be an actual hardware store. 

The ambiance of The Hardware Store is one of its strong points, with its hardware store ambiance contributing to a unique experience. The location is convenient, making it an exciting spot for those looking to try something different.

The service at The Hardware Store can be hit or miss, particularly during the busy lunch hours. It’s recommended to avoid the lunchtime rush if you’re seeking faster service. Despite the service issues, the restaurant does offer an amazing whiskey bar.

While the menu at The Hardware Store offers a variety of standard American fare, some people may find the food not to their liking. The fish and chips received mixed reviews, and the soup was described as “meh.” 

9. Iyad’s Syrian Grill

(Image Credit: Shutterstock / Joshua Resnick)

Address: 17205 Vashon Hwy SW Vashon, WA 98070

Iyad’s Syrian Grill is an affordable stand offering delicious and authentic Syrian cuisine on Vashon Island. Open from 11 AM to 3 PM, this hidden gem is the perfect spot for those seeking a unique and delightful dining experience.

This is a stand, so there isn’t really an atmosphere, but Iyad’s Syrian Grill staff is known for being kind and helpful, ensuring your meal is prepared quickly and efficiently. The staff’s friendly behavior makes every visit to the restaurant an enjoyable experience.

The menu at Iyad’s Syrian Grill offers a range of dishes that marry traditional Syrian flavors with fresh ingredients. You’ll find dishes like the lamb plate, shawarma plate, and various wraps that are bursting with unique flavors, such as dried mint, sumac, and pickled red peppers. The stand’s commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients ensures that each dish is as delicious as it is authentic.

10. Mustafa Syrian Kitchen

Address: 19021 Vashon Hwy SW Vashon, WA 98070

Mustafa Syrian Kitchen, an affordable spot open from 11 AM to 6 PM, offers a delightful and authentic Middle Eastern dining experience on Vashon Island. With its delicious menu items and warm service, this hidden gem is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy flavorful dishes in a friendly atmosphere.

Mustafa Syrian Kitchen is a food truck with tables nearby. The people around here are kind and respectful, making this a great overall experience. This is a great place to stop by if it isn’t raining.

The service at Mustafa Syrian Kitchen is warm and friendly, ensuring that you feel welcome and well-attended. While some reviews mention waiting times, it’s generally considered reasonable for the quality of food served, but sometimes it can get around 15 minutes.

The menu offers a variety of delicious Middle Eastern dishes. The falafel is described as crunchy, light, and herbaceous. That is a standout item that leaves people wishing they had ordered more. Other menu highlights include hummus, dolma, and baklava, which provide a satisfying and sweet end to a fantastic meal.

11. Pop Pop Bottle Shop

Address: 17618 Vashon Highway SW Vashon, WA 98070

Pop Pop Bottle Shop, a reasonably priced spot open from 11 AM to 6 PM, offers a delightful selection of local beers, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages, with many options for drinks and a decent food menu.

The inviting atmosphere at Pop Pop Bottle Shop, enhanced by the garage door that opens on nice days, makes it an ideal spot to enjoy a casual drink with friends or family. The welcoming vibe contributes to a pleasant experience, leaving you eager to return.

The beverage selection at Pop Pop Bottle Shop is impressive, featuring a dozen or so taps and a variety of hard-to-find local beers, wines, and ciders. While some people may find the $2 corkage fee for drinking on-site purchases a bit high, it’s generally considered reasonable given the vast selection available.

Though not the main attraction, Pop Pop Bottle Shop’s food menu provides some options for those looking to grab a meal. While the teriyaki and bahn mi dishes are bland and a bit dry, the overall experience is still enjoyable.

Ashleigh on ferry Island hopping.

Hi, I'm Ashleigh! Welcome to Seattle Travel, my little piece of beautiful PNW. This is home and I'm here to share all my experiences so visitors and locals alike can find the best experiences this part of the country has to offer. I started Seattle Travel in 2012 as a way to journal my experiences and over the years have been encouraged by family and friends to open up my adventures to everyone. I actively seek out the best food, activities, and day trips and give you a local perspective.  The Pacific Northwest is one of the most beautiful areas in the world and my goal is to let you explore it to the fullest. 


More About Me

Share article

Copyright © 2023 SeattleTravel.com