Looking for a restaurant for that special occasion that may have brought you to Washington Wine Country? Or perhaps you’re just in the mood for an elegant date night or dinner when you’re visiting? You’re in luck, because Walla Walla has a fantastic selection of fine dining restaurants. Read on for seven fantastic restaurant options for when you’re feeling fancy.
Brasserie Four: You’ll be transported to Paris when you step inside this charming restaurant that serves upscale French fare. They offer a wonderful selection of French and local wines (and have a small bottle shop if you want to pick up something to take home). The Steak Frites with veal creme sauce is legendary; and it’s the best spot in town to get fresh oysters.
Reservations: Highly recommended and can be made here.
4 E Main St, Walla Walla, WA 99362
Hattaway’s on Alder: If you’re looking for fine southern food, look no further than Hattaway’s on Alder. Owned and run by husband and wife team Lindsay and Richard, they both hail from the south (Alabama and Georgia), and it shows in the plates they put out. The pimento cheese appetizer is a must-order, and they have a drool-worthy fried chicken.
Reservations: Highly recommended and can be made here.
125 W Alder St, Walla Walla, WA 99362
Passatempo Taverna: Simply known as “Passatempo” to locals, this Italian gem will delight you with their handmade pastas and outstanding cocktails. The restaurant itself is stunning, including the very large patio, which we insist you dine on if you’re visiting on a pleasant day. Passatempo has a commitment to local farms by using fresh, local ingredients, and you can taste it in their delicious dishes.
Reservations: Highly recommended and can be made here.
215 W Main St, Walla Walla, WA 99362
Saffron Mediterranean Kitchen: If you’re looking for incredible ambiance and bold flavors, make a reservation at Saffron. Here, dishes celebrate inspiration from the Mediterranean with the fantastic, fresh ingredients of the Pacific Northwest. His creative, craveable dishes have earned Chef Chris Ainsworth multiple James Beard nominations, making this a must-visit for any foodie. They also offer a wonderful cocktail menu and wine list, with an extremely knowledgeable staff to help guide your selections.
Reservation: Highly recommended and can be made here
330 W Main St, Walla Walla, WA 99362
The Marc Café: This restaurant is a Walla Walla classic, and sits at the base of the lovely Marcus Whitman Hotel (which is an excellent lodging option if you want to be near all the action downtown). Dine in the formal dining room (once renovations are complete), or go a bit more casual in their lounge. Fine Pacific Northwest ingredients are incorporated into their upscale American menu, served alongside award-winning wines, and classic as well as signature cocktails. Don’t miss the Dungeness crab dip with crudite and house-made chicharrones.
Reservations: Encouraged and can be made here.
6 W Rose St, Walla Walla, WA 99362
TMACS: Excellent dining, expertly crafted cocktails, and spectacular service await at TMACS in the heart of downtown Walla Walla. This beautiful restaurant offers a menu that celebrates the seasons and fresh, local ingredients. The seared ahi appetizer and crab ravioli are favorites of ours (but it’s really hard to go wrong here). If you’re a food lover, you won’t want to miss TMACS Epicurean Kitchen next door, which offers a wonderfully curated selection of artisan food products from around the world (we highly recommend the gourmet duck fat spray).
Reservations: Encouraged (other than bar seating) and can be made here. Note: TMACS is the only fine dining restaurant open for lunch, and reservations are not usually necessary at that time.
80 N Colville St, Walla Walla, WA 99362
Walla Walla Steak Company: If you’re craving a juicy steak or decadent lobster, the Walla Walla Steak Company has you covered. This classic steak house is beloved by locals and visitors alike and features an extensive local wine list, as well beer brewed on-site by their sister restaurant, Crossbuck Brewing. All of the steaks here are delicious, and they’ll ask you to cut into yours when it’s dropped at your table to show you it’s been perfectly cooked. Their scallop appetizer is one of our favorite things in town and the perfect way to start your experience here.
Reservations: Recommended and can be made here.
416 N 2nd Ave, Walla Walla, WA 99362
We hope we’ve inspired you to take in a fancy dinner (or two!) on your next visit to Walla Walla. Bookmark this for your next trip!
By: Stephanie Forrer
Read more of Stephanie’s Pacific Northwest adventures at www.eatdrinktravelyall.com!