Vashon Island Coffee Roasterie: To be honest, this is one of the very few coffee shops on the island - but it’s definitely the best. Grab a cappuccino, make friends with the locals, and walk into town. You’ll feel as though you’re living in a Nicholas Sparks novel! (@tvicr)
Breakfast
Snapdragon: This vegetarian bakery and cafe is mouth-wateringly delicious. We suggest going for lunch, and going hungry. The baked goods are large, and the lunch portions are bigger. You’ll love it all. (Snapdragon on Instagram)
The Hardware Store: What used to be an actual hardware store, this historic restaurant has become a Vashon Island staple - and it’s easy to see why. Their weekend brunch is one of the best on the island (if not THE best), and the staff are all incredibly kind. (The Hardware Store on Instagram)
Bobby’s pick: Red Flannel Benedict
Alli’s pick: Breakfast Bowl
Lunch/Dinner
Earthen: This cozy little dinner restaurant serves local farm-to-table cuisine that’s as fresh as it is tasty! Their housemade pasta is out of this world, and their Charcuterie & Cheese board is the best on the island. We suggest ordering a few small plates/appetizers and splitting them with a bottle of wine. (@earthen.bistro)
Pure Organic Cafe and Juicery: We CRAVE a good green juice when we travel - and this place hit the spot!! You can get everything from juices and smoothies to healthy, hearty bowls. If you’re really needing something to cleanse your system - try the Vashon Cleanser! (@pure_organic_kitchen_juicery)
May Kitchen + Bar: Hands-down the most famous restaurant on the island - and for good reason. This authentic Thai restaurant doesn’t look like much from the outside, but step inside and you’re immediately transported to a different world! People come to Vashon just for May’s - so be sure to make your reservation in advance. And come hungry, it’s a lot of food! (Be sure to start with the Yum Phak Boong!) (@maykitchenbar)
Bobby’s pick: Phad Kee Mao (it’s SPICY)
Alli’s pick: Phad Thai (with half the spice!)
Vashon Brewing: Termed a “Community Pub”, we love this little spot for grabbing a flight of beer and some small bites. All of their recipes are handcrafted on Vashon - and the Fireside English Ale and Aromatherapy IPA are two of our favorites! (@vashonbrewing)
Dragon’s Head Cider: If you’re a cider lover like Alli, this place is one of the BEST. Open only on the weekends (so take note), the tasting room is a great way to learn more about the art of making cider, and you’re welcome to bring your own snacks to enjoy. $8 will get you four tastings and a logo glass to keep! (@dragonsheadcider)
Palouse Winery: Open weekends 12-5pm, this local winery has friendly servers, beautiful views, delicious wines, AND they’re dog friendly! It’s the perfect spot to spend a Saturday afternoon! (Palouse Winery on Instagram)
Lodges on Vashon: In our opinion, this truly is the best place to stay on the island. There’s 16 lodges, all of which have a king size bed, fireplace, luxurious bathrooms, and more. We loved our little lodge so much we hardly left it!! They also have great public spaces that you can use, and a staff that’s friendly and attentive. And it’s a five minute walk to town! (@thelodgesonvashon)
Walk/eat your way around the downtown: Speaking of walking… the town of Vashon is incredibly walkable. We spent one morning exploring everything the quaint little town had to offer - and it was magical! There are plenty of cute shops, restaurants, and bakeries to discover… you’ll instantly be obsessed.
Point Robinson Park: This picturesque park with a cute little lighthouse and a rocky shore is absolutely charming. Bring a frisbee, hike around, catch the sunset… it’s magical. Our pup could have played in the water here all day!
Be cozy: One thing we love about Vashon is that it’s small. You can easily explore most of the island in a day - so relax! Don’t fret about “doing everything”, and enjoy a slower pace. One day we hardly left our lodge - we lit the fire, drank tea, read books, and played cards. We suggest you do the same.
Vashon is a GREAT place to bring your pup. From the ferry ride over, to the many trails and parks, it’s a dog’s paradise! The Lodge at Vashon has several dog-friendly rooms, and many restaurants welcome furry friends on their patios. Your pooch is bound to love it!
