Looking for your next favorite spot for a lunch date? Tucked away in corners across the Yakima Valley you’ll find unique, family-owned eateries loved by the locals. On your next trip to the Yakima Valley, join us for lunch at one of these gems on a sunny afternoon.
1. The Lab is the newest and hugely popular endeavor of The Fat Pastor, Yakima’s celebrity chef, Shawn Niles, of the hit show MasterChef. Try the Hawaiian Fried Chicken, which first debuted on MasterChef Season 8, where The Fat Pastor fried them up for Gordon Ramsay, Aaron Sanchez and Christina Tosi. Or savor the cheesy polenta cake w/ braised portabellas, sweet drop peppers, slivered almonds and arugula. The coconut curry and adult sloppy joe are other favorites! The Lab menus features a variety of options, including vegetarian, vegan and gluten free dishes, all celebrating favorite flavors of the world! Visit them for lunch only Monday through Friday, 11 am to 2:30 pm at 910 Summitview Ave. in Suite 7A.
2. Lulu’s Lunchbox at Vintage Me is your perfect stop for shopping and lunch in downtown Yakima. What’s not to like? Drop into Vintage Me for vintage-inspired home and garden décor, clothing, jewelry and gifts. Then, stay for lunch at the 50s-style lunch counter hidden inside the store. Enjoy a selection of delicious sandwiches, homemade soup and salad. Try the $10 Lunchbox Special with a sandwich, chips, pickle, drink and a sweet treat available “to go.” Find them at 106 South Third Street in Yakima.
3. Doolie’s Kitchen is a sweet little bakery has everything you need for a happy tummy! Fill up on freshly baked bagel sandwiches and espresso, with donuts or cinnamon rolls for dessert. Take a dozen home to share or let it be our secret! Pick up bagel sandwiches and sweet treats for your next wine tasting tour! You’ll find them at 1024 West Nob Hill Boulevard.
4. Los Hernandez Tamales is home to the James Beard award winning Asparagus and Pepper Jack Cheese Tamales or the equally delicious pork or chicken tamales. The lunch special is only $6.75 and includes 2 tamales with rice and beans, as well as 1 small salsa, available from 11 am to 2 pm. Choose from the handmade fresh garden salsa with tomatoes, jalapeños, onions and a blend of spices or the green salsa, with fresh tomatillo, jalapeños, cilantro and a secret blend of spices. You’ll find them now at two locations. The original is in Union Gap at 3706 Main Street in Union Gap and the newest location is 6411 West Nob Hill Boulevard in Yakima. Asparagus tamales available seasonally.
5. Reno’s on the Runway is a great new spot where you can watch the planes come in for a landing at this little place next to the Yakima Airport as you enjoy the unlimited freshly made soup and salad bar for only $12. Or, try one of their specialty salads and sandwiches, such as the rustic grilled cheese and the Cockpit Sandwich, with steak, arugula, pickled red onions and herb spread. Kids are welcome and they have their own choices on the menu. After lunch, wander next door to McAllister Museum of Aviation for displays of Yakima Valley’s flight history. Find Reno’s at 2012 South 16th Avenue in Yakima.
6. Essencia Artisan Bakery is located in the heart of Downtown Yakima. It’s a locals’ favorite place to savor espresso, artisan pastries, breads and exquisite desserts. But, you’ll also enjoy an $8 lunch special with a cup of soup a half specialty sandwich and a small salad. Selections rotate, but they are always innovative and full of fresh, vibrant flavors. Their signature sweet potato, curry rice soup is a long-standing favorite. Stop in for lunch or grab to take wine tasting at 4 North 3rd Street in Yakima.
7. Nana Kates makes it difficult to choose from their extensive menu of gourmet sandwiches, salads and soups. Get them to go for a winery picnic. They offer gluten free, low-carb/keto and vegan options. Find them at 432 East Goodlander in Selah.
8. BonVino’s Bistro & Bakery is tucked into the middle of the Yakima Valley in Sunnyside. This is one place that’s worth the drive if you like delicious food! From Tuscan chicken fettuccine to freshly grilled paninis, you will find just what your taste buds crave! It’s a perfect lunch stop on a wine tasting tour at 122 North 16th Street in Sunnyside.
Looking for more choices? Find even more restaurants in the Yakima Valley!
Categorized in: Food and Dining
