Downtown Orcas Island is one of the quaintest spots to venture to in the region. Eastsound WA is filled with stunning coastal views, welcoming shops, an intriguing museum, and so much more. But, one of the best aspects of Downtown Orcas Island is the Eastsound WA restaurants.
Eastsound Orcas Island – Getting to Eastsound
The easiest way to get to and from Eastsound is with the help of the Orcas Island Shuttle. This service is provided by OrcasCars.com and operates from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The shuttle operates on a flat rate fare and stops at the most popular spots on the island, including the heart of Eastsound. Check out the route and more via the menu at the top of this page!
If renting a car is more your style, the shuttle’s sister company, OrcasCars.com, has a fleet of brand new sedans and SUVs available for rent.
Restaurants Downtown Orcas Island
You’ll discover a plethora of Orcas Island restaurants to visit while in Downtown Orcas Island. They range in their themes and menus – all of which give you plenty of unique dining choices during your visit. Many are also established in the bustling downtown center which gives you easy access to local attractions, like whale-watching tours and farmers markets.
Eastsound WA Restaurants
There are many options in town, some more hidden than others, so check out this comprehensive list below!
Inn at Ship Bay
By far the most exclusive and highly sought-after meal on the island is at The Inn at Ship Bay. Overlooking Ship Bay, the Inn at Ship Bay’s menu focuses on using native and fresh ingredients. Chef Geddes is internationally profiled, and his food, most of which is raised on his farm or taken out of the ocean the morning of, will blow you away. Note: this is a bit outside of town and does require transportation via a car rental or the Orcas Island Shuttle.
New Leaf Cafe
New Leaf Cafe is nestled inside Eastsound’s Outlook Inn. The cafe, which opens for the spring and summer, serves a range of incredinble dishes. You’ll find everything from bruschetta to pan-fried scallops on its menu. And if French Onion Soup is your thing, their’s is not to be missed.
Barnacle
This unique speakeasy operates in the summer and is open late, which sets it apart from nearly all other establishments on the island. The owner’s goal is to be the most sought-after speakeasy in America and he’s well on his way there.
Island Skillet
This breakfast and lunch eatery is perfect for those who want to enjoy fresh, classic dishes while exploring Orcas Island. Their portions are very generous!
The Kitchen
This is super cute, unique spot for Asian cuisine lovers! As their Google listing puts it: Greenhouse-like cafe with a patio for Pan-Asian dishes with locally sourced, organic ingredients.
Brown Bear Baking
Brown Bear has amazing homemade baked goods and the best coffee on the island. It’s owned and operated by two successful architects who left Las Vegas, went to baking school, and now own this internationally-profiled bakery which you must experience at least once.
Mijitas Mexican Kitchen
This family-owned and operated restaurant features a unique setting and delicious authentic family recipes in the heart of Eastsound.
Madrona Bar & Grill
This restaurant has an open-air patio that overlooks the nearby waterways. Its menu features everything from juicy steaks to Orcas Island seafood. The view from their dining room is tough to beat.
Hogstone’s Wood Oven
Pizza lovers will not be disappointed! Great wine options, too. Make sure to call ahead for availability, and to make sure they are open. Like many establishments, they close for the winter.
Wild Island Restaurant + Juice Bar
Fairly new to Eastsound is this health food gem. As they put it, they focus on plant forward, organic, nutrient-dense foods. If you’re into fresh juices and healthy bowls, this is your spot.
Roses Cafe
Roses offers an array of fresh, local foods including fresh-baked bread, sandwiches, soups, and entrees. They also have an impressive variety of specialty foods and gifts!
The Lower Tavern
The Lower Tavern is a sought-after burger joint in Eastsound. You can choose from a delicious array of creative hamburgers, like the French Dip or Sourdough Burger. If you’re in the mood for a casual, sports bar vibe, this is a local favorite.
Other Restaurants Orcas Island
If you’re looking for other prime restaurants around Orcas Island to visit during your stay, consider these. They aren’t in town, so require a drive or ride on OrcaShuttle, but are worth it!
Buck Bay Shellfish Farm
This island staple has an unbelievable choice of live oysters, fish, and more, and an option to bring your own beverage. If you’re a seafood lover, check them out for a meal overlooking the water.
The Mansion Restaurant at Rosario
This elegant fine dining eatery is set inside Rosario Resort – one of the most famous hotels on the island. The Mansion Restaurant is on the hotel’s veranda which provides sweeping views of Cascade Bay. It serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner and a majority of the meals are made with seasonal ingredients. You’ll also find a grand cocktail list, including some concoctions inspired by local culture and folklore.
Moran Lounge at Rosario
The bar located inside the Mansion at Rosario is open to the public and is a great spot for a quick bite and/or a cocktail. The historic environment is paired with solid bar-style bites and, oftentimes, live music.
Catkin Cafe
Catkin Cafe is a comfort-food restaurant that connects to the Orcas Island Artworks Gallery. This is the best organic foodie breakfast and lunch on the island. Everything they serve is from the island, and everything they have in the art shop is made on the island by the island artists. Needless to say, the food and the ambiance are top-notch.
Matthew’s Smokehouse
Matthew’s Smokehouse is the place to go if you love meat. As you enter the restaurant, you’ll smell the sweet, smoky aroma of wood chips as they roast chicken, beef, and salmon. While many visit the smokehouse for dinner, it’s also open for breakfast. You’ll also discover numerous grab-and-go options in its large deli case.
Country Corner Market and Deli
If you’re looking for a hidden favorite, this small shop might be ideal. Although it looks like a standard Chevron gas station, it’s actually a great spot to grab a pizza or even a bottle of wine from their surprisingly large selection. Many islanders enjoy its take-and-bake pizzas which come in a vast selection of flavors.
Eastsound WA Population
This community has over 3,776 residents, which surprisingly to many, makes it one of the most populated areas in the San Juan Islands. During the summer months, though, the island is filled with families and couples enjoying the island life.
Sources
http://www.orcasislandrosario.com/orcas-island-activities.html
https://www.soundlistings.com/orcas_island_wa.html
https://www.orcascars.com/orcas-island-shuttle/
http://orcasisland.org/restaurants/
