A Taste of Elegance: Upscale Dining Experiences
Bothell, Washington, often thought of as a peaceful suburb, is rapidly transforming into a vibrant culinary destination. Gone are the days when a simple chain restaurant sufficed; now, Bothell offers a diverse tapestry of flavors, from upscale dining experiences to cozy neighborhood gems. Whether you’re a long-time resident or just passing through, Bothell’s food scene has something to tantalize every taste bud. This guide is your passport to a culinary adventure, showcasing the best restaurants in Bothell and unveiling the hidden treasures that make this city a true foodie haven. So, grab your appetite and prepare to discover the best food in Bothell!
The Hollywood Tavern
Nestled within the McMenamins Anderson School, The Hollywood Tavern is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience. The rustic-chic setting, complete with reclaimed wood and vintage movie posters, sets the stage for a memorable meal. The menu showcases upscale pub fare with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Think gourmet burgers, wood-fired pizzas, and hearty entrees like pan-seared salmon and slow-braised short ribs. But the real star of the show is their selection of handcrafted cocktails and local beers, perfectly complementing the food and the overall atmosphere. Customers rave about the Tavern’s friendly service and the consistently delicious food, making it a top choice for a special occasion or a relaxed evening out. “The Hollywood Tavern is my go-to for a date night,” one reviewer wrote. “The food is always amazing, and the cocktails are inventive and delicious.” The restaurant’s ambiance and top-notch service makes it a must try for those looking for best restaurants in Bothell.
Russell’s
For a truly elegant dining experience, Russell’s is an institution in Bothell. This upscale restaurant is known for its impeccable service, sophisticated ambiance, and exquisite cuisine. Russell’s emphasizes Pacific Northwest ingredients, and their menu changes seasonally to reflect the freshest produce and seafood available. Expect dishes like grilled filet mignon, pan-roasted duck breast, and fresh seafood preparations. The wine list is extensive, with a focus on local and international selections. The restaurant is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a memorable meal in a refined setting. If you are looking for the best food in Bothell, Russell’s should be on your list. The restaurant is elegant and sophisticated with delicious food. One reviewer noted “Russell’s has always been a reliable choice for special occasions. The food is consistently excellent, and the service is impeccable.”
Comfort and Classics: Casual American Dining
Sometimes, all you crave is a hearty, familiar meal in a relaxed setting. Bothell’s casual American restaurants deliver just that, offering a mix of comfort food favorites and innovative twists on classic dishes.
McMenamins Anderson School
More than just a hotel and brewery, McMenamins Anderson School is a community hub with several restaurants and bars. The main restaurant offers a diverse menu of classic American fare, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and pizzas. But what sets McMenamins apart is its unique atmosphere. The converted schoolhouse is filled with quirky artwork, vintage memorabilia, and cozy nooks and crannies to explore. It’s the perfect place to gather with friends and family for a casual meal and a pint of handcrafted beer. “McMenamins is always a fun place to go,” says one local. “The food is good, the beer is great, and the atmosphere is just so unique.”
The Cottage
A long-standing staple in Bothell, The Cottage Restaurant is renowned for its warm atmosphere and hearty portions of classic American comfort food. From pancakes and waffles to burgers and sandwiches, their menu offers a wide array of options to satisfy your cravings. This popular spot is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual lunch with friends.
A World of Flavors: International Cuisine
Bothell’s culinary landscape extends far beyond American fare. The city is home to a diverse range of international restaurants, each offering a unique taste of their respective cultures.
Siam Thai Restaurant
Craving authentic Thai cuisine? Look no further than Siam Thai Restaurant. This cozy restaurant is a local favorite, known for its flavorful curries, fragrant noodle dishes, and friendly service. The menu features a wide variety of classic Thai dishes, from Pad Thai and Green Curry to Massaman Curry and Tom Yum soup. All dishes are prepared with fresh ingredients and authentic Thai spices. “Siam Thai is my go-to for Thai food in Bothell,” says one frequent customer. “The food is always delicious, and the service is excellent. I highly recommend the Pad See Ew!”
Alexa’s Cafe and Catering
Offering Latin fusion, Alexa’s Cafe and Catering provides delicious Latin food with a modern twist. From burritos to enchiladas, their menu has many options and caters to a wide range of tastes.
Pizzeria Pulcinella
If you’re looking for classic Neapolitan style pizza, Pizzeria Pulcinella is it. All of their pizzas are wood-fired and taste fresh.
Pizza Perfection: Slices of Heaven
No culinary tour is complete without indulging in a slice (or two) of pizza. Bothell offers a variety of pizzerias, from classic Italian-style pies to creative gourmet creations.
Zeek’s Pizza
A regional favorite, Zeek’s Pizza has a location in Bothell offering a wide selection of pizzas, from classic pepperoni to inventive gourmet combinations. They use high-quality ingredients and a signature crust that is both crispy and chewy. Zeek’s is also known for its commitment to sustainability, using locally sourced ingredients and eco-friendly practices whenever possible. “Zeek’s is my favorite pizza place in Bothell,” says one local. “The pizza is always delicious, and I love that they use local ingredients.”
Blazing Onion Burgers, Brews & Pizza
Blazing Onion Burgers, Brews & Pizza is a popular chain that offers more than just burgers. Their pizzas are cooked in a wood fired oven which brings more flavor to the pizza.
Morning Delights: Breakfast and Brunch Spots
Start your day off right with a delicious breakfast or brunch at one of Bothell’s many charming cafes and restaurants.
The Original Pancake House
The Original Pancake House is a classic breakfast spot, known for its fluffy pancakes, hearty omelets, and friendly service. The menu features a wide variety of pancake flavors, from buttermilk and blueberry to apple and chocolate chip. They also offer a range of breakfast classics, including waffles, crepes, and eggs benedict. “The Original Pancake House is always a great choice for breakfast,” says one local. “The pancakes are amazing, and the service is always friendly.”
Indigo Kitchen & Alehouse
While often thought of as a restaurant for dinner and drinks, Indigo Kitchen & Alehouse offers brunch on Sundays that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Caffeine Fix and Sweet Treats: Coffee Shops and Bakeries
Bothell’s coffee shops and bakeries offer a delightful array of caffeine fixes, pastries, and sweet treats.
Hillcrest Bakery
A Bothell institution, Hillcrest Bakery has been serving up delicious baked goods for decades. This family-owned bakery is known for its fresh pastries, cakes, cookies, and bread. They also offer a selection of sandwiches and soups for lunch. Hillcrest is a great place to stop for a quick coffee and pastry or to pick up a cake for a special occasion. “Hillcrest Bakery is a Bothell treasure,” says one loyal customer. “Their pastries are always fresh and delicious, and their cakes are legendary.”
Starbucks
While it’s a nationwide chain, Starbucks is still a popular spot for coffee in Bothell. With multiple locations throughout the city, you can easily find a Starbucks to satisfy your caffeine cravings. They offer a wide variety of coffee drinks, teas, and pastries.
Brewery Bliss: Pubs with Great Food
Bothell has seen a surge in local breweries, many of which offer excellent food menus alongside their handcrafted beers.
Beardslee Public House
This lively pub offers a wide selection of handcrafted beers brewed on-site, along with a menu of upscale pub fare. Think gourmet burgers, wood-fired pizzas, and hearty entrees. Beardslee is a great place to gather with friends for a casual meal and a pint of beer. “Beardslee is one of my favorite breweries in Bothell,” says one beer enthusiast. “Their beer is excellent, and the food is surprisingly good.”
North Sound Brewing
With rotating taps and food trucks, North Sound Brewing is a local favorite with an outdoor beer garden. They host live music and have a great sense of community.
A Few Local Secrets
While the restaurants listed above are all well-known and highly-rated, Bothell also has a few hidden gems that are worth seeking out. These smaller, often family-owned establishments offer unique dining experiences and a taste of Bothell’s local flavor.
One such gem is [Insert Restaurant Name – ensure it’s a hidden gem!]. This unassuming restaurant serves up [Type of cuisine] that is both authentic and delicious. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, and the prices are very reasonable. It’s a great place to experience the true taste of Bothell. A Local who goes to the restaurant shares that “[Restaurant name] is my favorite. The food is incredible!”
Your Bothell Culinary Adventure Awaits
Bothell’s food scene is constantly evolving, with new restaurants and culinary experiences popping up all the time. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply looking for a delicious meal, Bothell has something to offer everyone. This guide has highlighted some of the best restaurants in Bothell, but there are many more hidden gems waiting to be discovered. So, get out there, explore, and discover your own favorite Bothell bites! What are your favorite Bothell restaurants? Share your recommendations in the comments below! We would love to hear your best food in Bothell spots.