10 Best Restaurants to Try in Kirkland, WA
- Mark Mondejar
- Jul 3
- 9 min read
What Makes Kirkland a Foodie Destination?
Kirkland, WA, is a hidden gem for food enthusiasts, a prime location that celebrates the abundance of the Pacific Northwest with the freshest seafood and farm-to-table dishes.
This city’s breathtaking views of Lake Washington make it an ideal destination for a culinary adventure as you experience the flavors of Kirkland.
Dining options are as diverse as they are delicious, so prepare to indulge your appetites. Explore innovative fusion cuisine, indulge in classic American comfort food, or savor international flavors at the best Kirkland restaurants.
Top 10 Must-Try Restaurants in Kirkland
1. Cactus Kirkland
What sets Cactus apart from other Kirkland restaurants is its innovative Southwestern, Mexican, and Spanish cuisine. It is home to Seattle's first tapas bar and features seasonal menus, as well as a range of craft cocktails.
⭐️ Must-Try:
1. Carne Asada - St. Helens skirt steak, spicy ancho chile salsa, chile lime corn, refried black beans, queso blanco, grilled knob onion, house made corn tortillas.
2. Burrita Brisket Lenera - Applewood smoked brisket, jack cheese, guacamole, pico de gallo, Spanish rice, cumin black beans, New Mexico green chile sauce, buttermilk crema.
3. Smoked Chicken Flautas - Crispy flour tortilla with smoked chicken, corn, peppers, cilantro, jack cheese, topped with an arugula radish salad. Served with chipotle cream sauce and Spanish rice.
Reviews:
“We had a fantastic dinner at Cactus in Kirkland last night. Three of us shared the carne asada plate and the shrimp & grits. The carne asada was so flavorful and tender, cooked to perfection, medium/medium rare. The shrimp and grits had bold flavors of the south and the roasted corn on both dishes were out of this world! Cocktails were refreshing and delicious! As first-timers dining there, we were surprised at the end of our meal with a complementary flan that was a perfect caramel top and silky custard. Our server, Marissa, was very personable and energetic. She gave well balanced recommendations of the food, and made sure to ask if we liked spice, or wanted something on the side. We had a great experience overall!”
Restaurant Information:
Price Range: $20–$30
Address: 121 Park Ln, Kirkland, WA 98033
Click here to check out their menu!
2. Le Grand Bistro Americain
This casual French bistro offers a scenic dining experience with a patio overlooking Lake Washington. Indulge in Gallic fare, charcuterie, steaks, a raw seafood bar, wines by the glass and pitcher, bread, and desserts made in-house while enjoying the breathtaking view.
⭐️ Must-Try:
1. Steak Frites - Double flat iron, sauce au poivre, Kennebec potatoes, aioli, ketchup.
2. Risotto - English peas, spring onion, green garlic, mint, grana Padano.
3. Duck Confit Pasta - Sunchoke cream, duck confit, Swiss chard, grana Padano.
Reviews:
“This place is so charming, great for a date night or go out with friends. It is calm and not too loud. The food is amazing, we tried some of their dishes, and a dessert. Everything was so tasty and balanced. Their wine selection is great. The chicken... oh my oh my, amazing!! I have zero complaints. We will come back soon.”
Restaurant Information:
Price Range: $50–$100
Address: 2220 Carillon Point, Kirkland, WA 98033
Click here to check out their menu!
3. Volterra
Inspired by the warm, traditional hilltop town where owners Chef Don Curtiss and Michelle Quisenberry were married, Volterra offers a unique Italian experience with an open kitchen setting and a bold-flavored, Tuscan-inspired menu that showcases the Chef’s innovative style and the bountiful harvest of the Pacific Northwest.
⭐️ Must-Try:
1. Sautéed Jumbo Prawns - Jumbo Gulf prawns sautéed with garlic, fresh tomatoes, basil, Calabrian chilies, white wine, lemon juice, and butter. Served with mashed potatoes and sautéed spinach.
2. Braised Lamb Shank - Braised lamb shank with onion, celery, Sangiovese wine, demi glaze and chicken broth. Served with creamy polenta and seasonal vegetables.
3. Roasted Eggplant Pouches - House-made organic egg pasta filled with roasted eggplant, ricotta salata, roasted garlic, and basil in a spicy tomato ragu. Topped with baby arugula and Pecorino Romano.
Reviews:
“I went there with a friend to celebrate my birthday, and the server was so attentive and friendly. My favorite was the pork jowl pasta with mushrooms and Dungeness crab ravioli. This place would be a cute date night place. The place wasn’t crowded as I went during a weekday (Wednesday) evening. It doesn’t have parking, and you will have to find street parking.”
Restaurant Information:
Price Range: $50–$100
Address: 121 Kirkland Ave, Kirkland, WA 98033
Click here to check out their menu!
4. DERU
This neighborhood artisan market and eatery serving gourmet wood fire oven pizza, seasonally inspired salads, artisan baked breads and pastries, and more. Everything is cooked daily from scratch with local and organic ingredients.
⭐️ Must-Try:
1. Farm Vegetable Risotto - Arborio rice, lemon basil risotto, roasted organic broccoli, seasonal organic vegetables, garlic confit, chili, parmesan.
2. Seared King Salmon - Wood oven roasted King Salmon (6 ounces), romesco cauliflower, carrot and sesame vinaigrette, pistachio gremolata, pickled watermelon radish, cilantro.
3. Roasted Half Chicken - Pasture-raised roasted half chicken served in three pieces, roasted gold potatoes, roasted organic asparagus & baby carrots, house chimichurri.
Reviews:
“Delicious food and excellent service! We got the smoked turkey sandwich, pulled pork sandwich, and tomato soup. I would highly recommend visiting this cute restaurant. We were able to sit outside with our dog and they were so accommodating. They brought our dog a bowl of water and were very attentive. I appreciate restaurants that allow dogs outside. There is also a nice indoor area. We will definitely be coming back!”
Restaurant Information:
Price Range: $20–$30
Address: 723 9th Ave, Kirkland, WA 98033
Click here to check out their menu!
5. Rimini Restaurant
Located in downtown Kirkland's historic waterfront, Rimini Restaurant offers a unique Italian dining experience with a menu featuring classic Italian dishes, as well as some modern twists on traditional favorites.
⭐️ Must-Try:
1. Steak and Lobster Ravioli - Fillet mignon with Maine lobster ravioli, butter, rose sauce.
2. Filetto Mignon Gorgonzola - Aged prime cooked to perfection in a gorgonzola sauce with house-made pasta.
3. Wild Boar Bucatini Bolognese - House-made pasta in a northern Italian tradition tomato meat sauce.
Reviews:
“In my humble opinion, Rimini is the best Italian restaurant in the surrounding Seattle area. Expertise cooking with top-notch ingredients makes this Kirkland restaurant our favorite go-to when we’re in the area. How often do you ask yourself why are the dishes so huge and why there are more expensive ingredients such as clams, short ribs, etc. versus pasta in every dish? When you think about it, the high prices don’t seem that high compared with what you get. It’s quality AND quantity. Simply the best!”
Restaurant Information:
Price Range: $50–$100
Address: 3 Lake St, Kirkland, WA 98033
Click here to check out their menu!
6. Sparrow
Nestled in the heart of the city, Sparrow’s brilliant chefs create delectable dishes using the freshest local ingredients. Enjoy succulent seafood, tender steaks, and more in a cozy and elegant setting perfect for romantic dinners and family gatherings.
⭐️ Must-Try:
1. Carlton Lechon Loin Chop - One-in pork chop from Oregon ‘Carlton Farms’ served with mashed potatoes and apples mustard sauce.
2. Braised Duck - Slow roasted breast, leg, and thigh, cherry port wine sauce, crispy baby potatoes.
3. Guajillo Chicken - All organic half chicken from ‘draper valley,’ guajillo marinade, and house-made mashed potatoes.
Reviews:
“Our visit to Sparrow was nothing short of exceptional. The ambiance captures the Pacific Northwest's essence perfectly, offering a warm and inviting setting. We asked for a martini, and Peter, our bartender, went above and beyond. He inquired if we preferred vodka or gin and then asked if we wanted earthy, floral, or dry gin flavors. His deep knowledge of mixology was impressive. We opted for dirty gin martinis with three olives, and Peter's expertise ensured they were perfectly crafted. His attentive and friendly demeanor made our evening truly memorable. Sparrow is a gem in Kirkland, and we can't wait to return. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a top-tier dining and cocktail experience.”
Restaurant Information:
Price Range: $50–$100
Address: 9736 NE 120th Pl, Kirkland, WA 98034
Click here to check out their menu!
7. BeachHouse bar + grill
BeachHouse bar + grill is known for serving delicious seafood dishes, gourmet burgers, oversized sandwiches, fresh salads, and house-made soups and desserts, along with hand-crafted cocktails, refreshing draft beers, and an extensive wine list.
⭐️ Must-Try:
1. The Beach House Burger - All natural 1/2 lb. burger, garlic herb cheese, secret burger sauce, caramelized onions, crisp bacon, lettuce, tomatoes, and brioche bun.
2. Seafood Fettuccine Plate - Cajun cream sauce, prawns, salmon, cod, bell peppers, roasted broccoli, and Parmesan.
3. Steak Salad – Romaine lettuce, balsamic, tomato relish, bacon, blue cheese crumbles, and balsamic dressing.
Reviews:
“The Beach House Bar & Grill is one of our Go-To spots in Kirkland! I’ve been coming here for years. The Seafood Cobb Salad is absolutely delicious – fresh, flavorful, and a perfect balance of ingredients. (Note: the salad shown in the picture is the Sesame Chicken Salad, not the Seafood Cobb). The atmosphere is laid-back yet inviting, with beautiful views and friendly, attentive service. If you’re in the area, this is a must-visit spot for a great meal.”
Restaurant Information:
Price Range: $20–$30
Address: 6023 Lake Washington Blvd NE, Kirkland, WA 98033
Click here to check out their menu!
8. Anthony's HomePort Kirkland
Located on the eastern shores of Lake Washington, Anthony's offers stunning views of Hunts Point, Sand Point, and the Seattle skyline. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy the freshest seafood complemented by the season’s best produce, Northwest wines, and microbrews.
⭐️ Must-Try:
1. Snake River Farms Wagyu Top Sirloin - 7-ounce Wagyu steak grilled to your liking.
2. Signature New York Steak – 12-ounce traditional Northwest strip loin, grilled to your liking.
3. Alaska Weathervane Scallops - Wild Gulf of Alaska scallops pan-seared and sprinkled with gremolata.
Reviews:
“The food is very good, and our server was great, but the people helping her were young and not all that great for this high end of a restaurant. They forgot things and got confused, for instance my daughter ordered the crab, and so someone came and gave us a bowl, bib, cracker, etc. and then a few minutes later another bus boy came and took it thinking it was dirty dishes. We had to ask the bus boys four times for butter. It was small things, but dinner for three of us was $300, so I expect good service. The atmosphere is okay but could use updating for sure. My wife and daughter said the crab was very good. I had a$70 steak and it was just so so, but this is a seafood restaurant. Still, it should have been better.”
Restaurant Information:
Price Range: $50–$100
Address: 135 Lake St S, Kirkland, WA 98033
Click here to check out their menu!
9. Cafe Juanita
Cafe Juanita is popular for its prix-fixe multi-course tasting menus prepared by Executive Chef and Owner Holly Smith with optional wine pairings. Choose from omnivore, pescatarian, vegetarian, and vegan.
⭐️ Must-Try:
1. Iberico de Bellota Presa - Grilled asparagus, ramp agrodolce, Ennis hazelnut aigrelette.
2. Parmigiano Reggiano - Fonduta caramelle, morels, thyme butter.
3. A5 Miyazaki Wagyu - Croccante, rye, egg yolk crema, fermented butter.
Reviews:
“Love this place. Been here since they had menu where you can order your own dishes. Now they have set menu which I really appreciate, as you get to eat variety and everything is delicious. Would highly recommended. Valet parking $10 pay with your dinner, make sure save some cash to tip for the valet parking guy.”
Restaurant Information:
Price Range: $100+
Address: 9702 NE 120th Pl, Kirkland, WA 98034
Click here to check out their menu!
10. Cafe Veloce
Cafe Veloce is a casual, family-friendly eatery that serves a delightful menu of Italian staples while providing a unique dining experience with vintage Italian racing motorcycles on display.
⭐️ Must-Try:
1. La Buona Donna - Penne pasta sautéed in olive oil with garlic, Roma tomatoes, artichokes, and black olives, with provolone, feta, basil, and herbs.
2. Minestrone - Traditional Italian Minestrone soup with chicken, beef and pork broth, vegetables, herbs. Garnished with Romano cheese and fresh basil.
3. Lamb Lasagna - Layers of lasagna noodles and homemade lamb Bolognese sauce with ricotta and provolone cheeses. Baked and topped with mozzarella cheese.
Reviews:
“Always a worthwhile drive, all the dishes were made properly, very nice staff, prices are reasonable, my mom’s favorite place, happy moms day! We will be back soon, I traveled 100 miles from Yelm to Redmond to Kirkland for our feast here. I love the MC, Cafe racing, vintage theme, nice work!”
Restaurant Information:
Price Range: $20–$30
Address: 12514 120th Ave NE, Kirkland, WA 98034
Click here to check out their menu!
Conclusion
Whether you’re a local foodie looking for your next culinary adventure or a visitor wanting to explore the gastronomic offerings in Kirkland, WA, this list of the best restaurants in the area is your ultimate guide to an amazing experience.
If you’d like to know more about Kirkland, WA, particularly the real estate options available in this amazing location, please contact me today at (206)-501-8484 or matthewbchapman@windermere.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there good vegetarian/vegan options in Kirkland?
Yes, one of which is Cafe Juanita, popular for its prix-fixe multi-course tasting menus that features omnivore, pescatarian, vegetarian, and vegan options.
What’s the best restaurant for a romantic dinner?
Nestled in the heart of the city, Sparrow’s cozy and elegant ambiance is perfect for a romantic dinner.
Is there waterfront dining in Kirkland?
Yes, there is. Rimini Restaurant is located in downtown Kirkland's historic waterfront and offers a unique menu featuring classic Italian dishes, as well as some modern twists on traditional favorites.
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