Indulge in Flavorful Diversity: Discover the Top Ethnic Restaurants in Washington State
Washington state is a melting pot of cultures, and its dining scene reflects this diversity. From Asian to African, European to Middle Eastern, the state offers a wide range of ethnic cuisine that will satisfy any foodie’s cravings. In this article, we’ll explore the best ethnic restaurants in Washington state, where you can experience international flavors and diverse cuisine.
Asian Cuisine
Asian cuisine is one of the most popular ethnic foods in Washington state. Here are some must-try restaurants:
1. Din Tai Fung
Din Tai Fung is a Taiwanese restaurant chain that has gained worldwide recognition for its steamed dumplings. The Bellevue location is the only one in Washington state, and it’s always packed with diners eager to try their famous xiao long bao. The restaurant also offers other Taiwanese dishes, such as beef noodle soup and fried rice.
2. Kau Kau BBQ
Kau Kau BBQ is a Chinese restaurant in Seattle’s Chinatown-International District that specializes in roasted meats. Their barbecue pork and crispy roast duck are the stars of the menu, but they also serve other Cantonese dishes like chow mein and fried rice.
3. Thai Tom
Thai Tom is a small, no-frills restaurant in Seattle’s University District that serves authentic Thai food. Their pad thai and tom yum soup are some of the best in the city, but be prepared to wait in line as the restaurant doesn’t take reservations.
Middle Eastern Cuisine
Middle Eastern cuisine is known for its bold flavors and spices. Here are some of the best restaurants in Washington state:
1. Mamnoon
Mamnoon is a Lebanese-Syrian restaurant in Seattle that offers a modern take on Middle Eastern cuisine. Their lamb shawarma and falafel are popular dishes, but they also serve lesser-known dishes like muhammara and kibbeh nayyeh.
2. Mediterranean Kitchen
Mediterranean Kitchen is a family-owned restaurant chain with locations in Bellevue, Kirkland, and Seattle. They serve a variety of Middle Eastern dishes, such as hummus, tabbouleh, and shish kebab. Their lunch buffet is a great way to sample different dishes.
3. Jerusalem Cafe
Jerusalem Cafe is a Palestinian restaurant in Vancouver that serves traditional Middle Eastern dishes. Their chicken shawarma and lamb kebab are popular choices, but they also offer vegetarian options like falafel and baba ghanoush.
African Cuisine
African cuisine is often overlooked in the United States, but Washington state has some great options. Here are some of the best restaurants:
1. Jebena Cafe
Jebena Cafe is an Ethiopian restaurant in Seattle that serves authentic injera and wot dishes. Their vegetarian platter is a great way to try different dishes, and their coffee ceremony is a must-try for coffee lovers.
2. Safari Njema Restaurant
Safari Njema Restaurant is a Kenyan restaurant in Kent that serves traditional African dishes. Their goat stew and samosas are popular choices, but they also offer American-style breakfast dishes like pancakes and omelets.
3. Afrikando Afrikando
Afrikando Afrikando is a Senegalese restaurant in Seattle that offers a fusion of African and French cuisine. Their yassa chicken and mafe beef stew are some of the best dishes on the menu, and they also serve crepes and pastries for dessert.
European Cuisine
European cuisine is diverse and varies by region. Here are some of the best European restaurants in Washington state:
1. Le Pichet
Le Pichet is a French bistro in Seattle that serves classic French dishes like steak frites and croque-monsieur. Their cheese and charcuterie plates are also popular, and they have an extensive wine list.
2. Kastoori Grill
Kastoori Grill is an Indian restaurant in Redmond that serves North Indian cuisine. Their butter chicken and lamb vindaloo are some of the best dishes on the menu, and they also offer vegetarian options like chana masala and baingan bharta.
3. The Black Forest Bakery
The Black Forest Bakery is a German bakery in Seattle that serves traditional German pastries like strudel and stollen. They also offer savory dishes like schnitzel and bratwurst, and their pretzels are a must-try.
Conclusion
Washington state offers a diverse range of ethnic dining experiences, from Asian to African, European to Middle Eastern. These must-try restaurants are just a small sample of the many cultural restaurants that the state has to offer. Whether you’re a foodie looking for new foodie destinations or simply looking to expand your palate, these top ethnic cuisine restaurants are sure to satisfy your cravings for international flavors.