What comes to mind when you think of pub food? Traditionally, it often means greasy burgers and fries — and while there's absolutely nothing wrong with that, some of Washington's most unassuming restaurants have taken pub food to a whole new level. Don't pass up the opportunity to eat at one of these places.
1. Waddell's Neighborhood Pub & Grille, 4318 South Regal St., Spokane
You might not think a modern looking strip mall pub in Spokane's South Hill neighborhood would have great food, but this spot is an absolute gem. Waddell's has been featured on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives and the Triple-D Nation, and their beer-battered onion rings, nachos, list of burgers, and BBQ brisket sandwich are exceptional.
2. Red Bluff Tap House, 256 SW 2nd St., Stevenson
There are some real hidden gems in the small towns on the Columbia River Gorge, and this tap house is no exception. In addition to their impressive beer list, they serve classic pub fare along with tasty fish & chips and scrumptious seafood specials.
3. Doyle's Public House, 208 St Helens Ave., Tacoma
Breakfast nachos, anyone? Whether it's a hearty brunch or a classic Shepherd's Pie you're craving, you'll find it at this iconic Tacoma eatery. It was named one of Esquire Magazine's best bars in America, and it's easy to see why.
4. The Corner Pub, 14565 Allen West Rd., Bow
The oldest pub in Skagit County is also the best. For the better part of a century, this neighborhood bar has been serving delicious pub grub with a smile.
5. Bruce's Place, 600 N Main St., Ellensburg
Bruce's Place is an extension of the beloved Ellensburg Pasta Company. And while it might seem odd that a casual Italian eatery would expand to pub food and brews, it works surprisingly well. The happy hour here is fantastic, so come early.
6. Shanahan's Pub & Grill, 209 W McLoughlin Blvd., Vancouver
Nothing about this place — the food, the ambiance, the building — is fancy. That being said, it's one of the most locally loved pubs for a reason. The hangover-friendly brunch fare and the burgers, sandwiches, and salads they serve for dinner are excellent.
7. Brouwer's Cafe, 400 N 35th St., Seattle
Don't be fooled by this building's simple exterior — step inside and you'll feel like you've walked into a Belgian pub. Aside from the European decor, you'll love the menu, which consists of plenty of vegetarian food (like this smoked eggplant sandwich) and lots of meaty entrees.
8. Saranac Public House, 21 West Main Ave., Spokane
Located in downtown Spokane, this pub is the furthest thing from a dive, but it's also delightfully unpretentious. But good luck choosing between a flatbread pizza and the braised short ribs or the savory mac & cheese (which also comes in a vegan version).
9. Galway Bay Irish Restaurant & Pub, 880 Point Brown Ave. NE, Ocean Shores
From traditional Irish fare to hearty grilled entrees, this pub has a little bit of everything. And if you go on a weekend, you can enjoy live music with your meal.
Some of the best food in Washington happens to be served from the most unsuspecting restaurants.
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