This Remote Restaurant In Washington Will Take You A Million Miles Away From Everything

It’s not difficult to find a wonderful restaurant in the state of Washington. In cities like Seattle and Spokane, the streets are lined with them… and even in our small towns, the locals will always tell you where to go for a great meal.

But some of our most decadent dining options are also the hardest to find. And in the case of Washington’s most remote restaurant, sitting at their table involves quite a journey. But if you’re willing to spend some time and money to find it, your tastebuds will be treated to some true culinary treasures.

management / TripAdvisor

You’ll find the Willows Inn on Lummi Island at the southwest corner of Whatcom County, in between the mainland and the San Juan Islands. The island is 9 miles long with less than 1,000 residents. The Willows Inn property itself is over 100 years old and offers several accommodation options ranging from cozy onsite rooms to nearby beach houses. It’s an incredible place to come for rest and rejuvenation.

Gina N. / Yelp

But it’s the acclaimed restaurant that earns the Willows Inn so much press. It has been named "One of the 10 Restaurants (in the world) Worth A Plane Ride" by The New York Times, and the James Beard Foundation honored it as the Northwest’s best restaurant.

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Willows Inn Facebook

Willows Inn Facebook

So what makes the Willow Inn dining experience so memorable? Well, for starters, the amazing chef, Blaine Wetzel, takes an "extreme local" approach to his menu. He described it as a "story about the land," and the team prides themselves on serving seasonal and local food only. It is fished, foraged and farmed every day.

Willows Inn Facebook

Christine K / Yelp

The food does not come cheap… at all. Expect to drop $195 for the prixe fixe menu and even more for the optional wine or juice pairings. But rest assured, you’ll have more than a meal - you’ll have a three hour culinary experience with about 20 different courses presented to you. Most people who have tried it call it the best dining experience they’ve ever had, and that’s really saying something.

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As if your dining experience at Willows Inn couldn’t get better, you’ll also be surrounded by natural beauty as you savor your meal. The restaurant has beautiful water views, and if you time it right, you can enjoy the best dining experience of your life while taking in a magical sunset.

Willows Inn Facebook

The Willows Inn is incredible, but you’ll have to plan ahead to go there – not only is it only accessible by boat or plane, but there’s a wait list that can sometimes be several months long. While you’re waiting, check out these more easily located unique restaurants.