10 Off-The-Beaten-Path Washington Restaurants To Try Right Now

Washington has an incredible dining scene and we're not just talking about all the famous and classic spots we're known for. You'll find some of the best food inside our neighborhood gems and off-the-beaten path eateries that may not get as much publicity, but are just as delicious.

You (probably) won't see any of these restaurants on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives or Man Vs. Food, and you may not have heard of most of them. Try them anyway, trust us.

1. Ambakity Cocina Mexicana, 8515 14th Ave. S., Seattle

Ambakity Cocina Mexicana started as a taco truck in Bothell, and they have a new location in Seattle's South Park neighborhood. It remains remarkably uncrowded, but that will definitely change once more people realize how tasty the authentic (really!) Mexican food is.

2. Phonthip Style Thai Restaurant, 1006 E Francis Ave., Spokane

Located on Spokane's North Side, this little Thai restaurant is a total hidden gem that serves the best Pad Thai in the city.

3. Citron European Bistro, 10716 A St., Tacoma

Citron doesn't look like much from the outside, and even the interior, while charming, is understated. But once you taste the food, you'll feel like you've been transported to France. This is fine dining without the high price.

4. Bon Vino’s Bistro & Bakery, 122 N 16th St., Sunnyside

Sunnyside is known more for its farms and its cheese factory than its restaurants, but Bon Vino’s Bistro is an excellent spot. They're open daily for breakfast and lunch, and the homemade cinnamon rolls are delightful.

5. Jerusalem Cafe, 106 E Evergreen Blvd., Vancouver

Vancouver's Jerusalem Cafe has two locations, both of them owned by an Israeli family who clearly understands the secret to making perfect hummus.

6. Hart’s Mesa, 903 Rogers St NW., Olympia

This cozy brunch spot is definitely a beloved local staple, but it's located in a residential neighborhood, so it's not always easy to find. But it's worth the effort - the food is delicious.

7. Brother's Office Pizza, 13221 E 32nd Ave., Spokane Valley

You can get Brother's Office pizza in Liberty Lake or the Spokane Valley, two areas that might seem out of the way for those living in most parts of the city. The pizza is highly underrated and worth the drive.

8. Bistro Baffi, 15217 21st Ave SW, Burien

Burien isn't known for its fine dining or Italian food, but this restaurant has managed to perfect both. Patrons rave about the pasta and seafood, and many of the ingredients are sourced from Pike Place Market.

9. Rail Station & Ale House, 29 N Columbia St., Wenatchee

We're not sure if it's the ambiance, the comfort food or the service that make this gastropub so great... but it's probably all of the above.

10. La Rustica, 4100 Beach Dr SW, Ste A, Seattle

Not only is this restaurant absolutely gorgeous, but it sits nestled on a quiet corner of Beach Drive in West Seattle, one of the most picturesque roads in the city. The food itself is outstanding, but no matter how tasty your entree is, you'll want to save room for a cannoli.

As great as it is to have a favorite go-to eatery, variety is the spice of life, so venture off the beaten path once in awhile and try a new local neighborhood restaurant.