Nestled between the bustling city of Seattle and the serene beauty of Camano Island, Stanwood, Washington, often charms visitors with its picturesque landscapes and small-town appeal. But beyond the sprawling farms and breathtaking views, a culinary adventure awaits. Stanwood’s food scene is a hidden gem, offering a surprisingly diverse range of dining experiences that cater to every palate and budget. This guide will take you on a delectable journey through Stanwood, highlighting some of the best places to eat, from cozy breakfast spots to elegant dinner destinations, and everything in between. Prepare to be surprised by the delicious discoveries that await you in this charming corner of Washington state. Whether you are a long time resident, or just passing through on a pacific northwest roadtrip, Stanwood has your hunger covered.
Morning Delights The Best Breakfast and Brunch Spots
Starting your day right is crucial, and Stanwood offers several excellent options for breakfast and brunch. One local favorite is “The Camano Island Coffee Roasters,” a long name with a huge following. While technically across the bridge on Camano Island, this place is a must visit for many Stanwood residents. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for a relaxed morning meal. The smell of freshly roasted coffee beans fills the air, creating a truly sensory experience. Their signature breakfast item, the “Farmer’s Scramble,” is a hearty and flavorful dish that will keep you energized for hours. Expect to spend around fifteen dollars for a satisfying breakfast here. It’s a great choice for a family-friendly breakfast, or a quick and easy stop before heading out to explore the surrounding area.
Another fantastic breakfast option is found right on the Stanwood side, at the local “Shari’s Cafe and Pies”. Known for their wide variety of pie slices, this spot is very popular with the locals, and is almost always packed on the weekends. They offer all the standard breakfast fare from eggs and bacon, to omelets, french toast, pancakes and much more. Expect to spend around ten to fifteen dollars on a satisfying breakfast here. This is a perfect spot for anyone looking for a fast, and friendly meal.
Lunchtime Adventures: Savoring the Midday Meals
When lunchtime rolls around, Stanwood continues to impress with its variety of options. For a casual and delicious lunch, “The BBQ Joint” is a must-try. This local barbecue restaurant offers a range of smoked meats, including pulled pork, brisket, and ribs, all cooked to perfection. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, with picnic tables both inside and outside. Their pulled pork sandwich is a standout, piled high with tender, smoky meat and tangy barbecue sauce. The prices are reasonable, making it a great spot for a quick bite with friends or family. You can easily enjoy a satisfying lunch here for around fifteen dollars.
If you’re in the mood for something a little different, consider “El Paraiso Mexican Grill.” This hidden gem offers authentic Mexican cuisine at affordable prices. Their tacos are a local favorite, filled with flavorful meats and fresh toppings. El Paraiso also offers fantastic enchiladas and rice and beans. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, making it a great place to enjoy a delicious and authentic Mexican meal. Expect to spend around twelve dollars for a filling lunch.
Dinner Delights: A Culinary Journey in the Evening
As the sun sets, Stanwood’s dinner scene comes alive with diverse culinary offerings. For a fine dining experience, consider “Dusty’s Bar and Grill,” located right on the water with beautiful views. This restaurant offers a sophisticated atmosphere and a menu featuring Pacific Northwest cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood. Their grilled salmon is a standout dish, perfectly cooked and served with seasonal vegetables. Expect to spend around thirty to forty dollars per person for a memorable dinner experience here. This is a great choice for a romantic date night or a special occasion.
For a more casual but equally delicious dinner option, head to “Peking Garden.” This restaurant is a long time favorite for local asian cuisine. Expect to find standard fair here, with dishes like Mongolian Beef, Chow Mein, and much more. This is a family-friendly restaurant and you can expect to spend around fifteen to twenty dollars a person for a fulfilling meal.
Sweet Treats and Specialty Foods Delights
No culinary exploration is complete without indulging in some sweet treats and specialty foods. “The Confectionery” is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. This charming candy store offers a wide selection of handmade chocolates, candies, and other sweet treats. They have a lot of old time classics and the owners are very friendly. The perfect spot to take that special someone, or just to grab a sweet treat to brighten up your day.
For those who enjoy freshly baked goods, “Stanwood Bakery” is a must-stop. This local bakery has been serving the Stanwood area for years, offering a wide variety of breads, pastries, and cakes. Their cinnamon rolls are legendary, and their sourdough bread is perfect for sandwiches or toast. This is a perfect place to swing by and pick up baked goods for your family or a dinner party, and locals have been doing so for years.
For the coffee lovers “Starbucks” is the way to go. While there are many corporate locations throughout the United States, the staff are generally friendly here. You can expect the standard starbucks fare of lattes, frappes, and much more. This is a great location to grab a quick drink and get some work done.
Drinks and Nightlife Local Hotspots
While Stanwood may not be known for its bustling nightlife, there are still a few local hotspots where you can enjoy a drink and unwind after a long day. “The Pub” is a popular gathering spot for locals, offering a wide selection of beers on tap and a casual atmosphere. It is a standard bar offering a number of drink options, and is a great place to unwind after a long day.
Local Favorites and Hidden Gems The Best Kept Secrets
In addition to the well-known restaurants and cafes, Stanwood is also home to a few hidden gems that are beloved by locals. “The Farmhouse Restaurant” is a small, family-owned restaurant that serves delicious comfort food in a cozy atmosphere. Their chicken fried steak is a local favorite, and their homemade pies are not to be missed.
“The Viking Food Pavilion” is a very popular food truck park that contains a wide range of culinary options. From tacos to pizza, there are generally options for everyone here. A great place to swing by for a fun meal with friends and family.
The Future of Food in Stanwood
Stanwood’s food scene is constantly evolving, with new restaurants and cafes opening all the time. As the area continues to grow and attract new residents, expect to see even more exciting culinary options in the future. Keep an eye out for new restaurants, food trucks, and pop-up events that are sure to add even more flavor to Stanwood’s already vibrant food scene. This area is prime for the taking with the growth rate, as people move out of the big city, expect to see even more eateries in the future.
Conclusion: Savoring the Flavors of Stanwood
From cozy breakfast spots to elegant dinner destinations, Stanwood offers a diverse and delicious food scene that is sure to impress. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor passing through, be sure to explore the many culinary gems that this charming town has to offer. So, next time you’re in Stanwood, be sure to explore these culinary gems and discover your own favorite eats! Let us know in the comments what YOUR favorite Stanwood restaurant is! From fresh seafood to authentic Mexican cuisine, Stanwood is a great place to eat and experience the best of Pacific Northwest flavors.
