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Eating your way up and down the West Coast of the United States is an indulgent and extravagant experience for any food lover. With its great variety of culinary experiences that are as diverse as its breathtaking scenic coastlines and stunning landscapes, it is one of the finest places in the country to travel as a foodie.
From the fresh ocean-to-table seafood of the Pacific Northwest to the amazing vintages from the rolling vineyards of California, the West Coast is a haven for travelers who love food and drink.
So whether you are a local or a visitor, you can cruise through the Pacific Coast on a wave of great flavors and delicious delicacies, from the vibrant seafood markets of Seattle to the sun-kissed shores of San Diego. Here’s a guide to the best of West Coast cuisine.
Seattle, Washington: A Seafood Lover's Dream
In the heart of Washington state, Seattle is a city that takes its seafood seriously. Located on the ocean, between the Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountains, Seattle guarantees that fresh, premium quality fish and shellfish are always on the menu.
Pike Place Market
Pike Place is the iconic food market that most of Seattle’s food culture revolves around. Not only is it a fantastic spot to purchase fresh fish, but you can see the famous ‘Pike Place fish toss’ as the fishmongers toss the catch of the day across their stalls. From Dungeness crab and oysters to Northwest salmon to clam chowder, it is a superb place for fish lovers to eat.
Portland, Oregon: The Farm-to-Table Capital
Portland has developed a serious reputation as a culinary hotspot thanks to a focus on innovative cooking techniques, locally sourced produce, and farm-to-table dining.
Portland Farmers Market
No visit to Portland would be complete without a trip to the Portland State University Farmers market. It is a showcase of the fantastic produce grown in Oregon, from fresh berries and heirloom tomatoes to artisanal cheeses and freshly baked bread.
Ox
If you are in the mood for a hearty feed, then Ox, a fusion of Argentinian and Pacific Northwest flavors is the place to go. Set around an impressive wood-fired grill, it is a hugely popular place for meat lovers but does a very decent seafood stew too.
Napa Valley, California: Wine Country Extravaganza
Napa might be best known for its wines, which are award-winning and world-class, but it also has an incredible gourmet food scene as well, which perfectly complements its renowned vineyards.
French Laundry
This acclaimed spot offers an unforgettable dining experience. Chef Thomas Keller has built and maintained an amazing three-Michelin-starred restaurant in Yountville which is without a doubt the best place to eat in the region.
St. Helena Olive Oil Company
Napa isn’t just wine - it is also known for its olive oil. The St. Helena Olive Oil Company is a family-owned business that produces the highest quality olive oils, balsamic vinegars, and gourmet pantry items, and is well worth a visit.
Los Angeles, California: A Melting Pot of Flavors
Los Angeles is a culinary melting pot, a swirling blend of cultures, ingredients, and food traditions that makes it one of the most authentic and interesting places to eat in the country.
Guelaguetza
LA boasts some of the best Mexican food north of the border, and Guelaguetza is a great place to start. Famous for its authentic Oaxacan cuisine, the tlayudas, moles, and mezcal here is a fantastic exploration of the wonderful flavors of Mexico.
Variety and difference are the hallmarks of West Coast cuisine, and a culinary adventure down the Pacific coast is a wonderful experience for any true food lover. From international flavors in LA to the freshest seafood in Seattle, strap in for a food tour you’ll never forget!
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