18 Best Restaurants in Mount Vernon, WA
This article was written by local contributor Julianne Moses & edited by the Travel Lens team.
Living in Mount Vernon, Washington, has been a gastronomic delight for me.
The city's vibrant culinary scene has kept my taste buds on their toes, and I can't wait to share some of my favorite local restaurants with you.
From cozy cafes to flavorsome ethnic eateries, this city has it all.
So if you're in the area or planning a visit, make sure to check out this article for some of the best restaurants in Mount Vernon, Washington, that I simply can't get enough of.
Taste of India
I could not be happier to have Taste of India in my neighborhood.
This cozy Indian restaurant has quickly become one of my go-to spots for delicious meals.
I love that they use halal meat and locally sourced produce, making their dishes not only tasty but also fresh and sustainable.
You can check out their menu here.
During the tulip festival, I happened to stumble upon this gem when I was exploring the area with my friends.
The service we received was exceptional - something that is often hard to find these days.
We ordered samosas, lamb vindaloo, garlic naan, and mango lassi, which were all incredibly delicious.
I have to say, it's the best Indian food I've had in a long time.
While the restaurant itself has limited seating, there are a few outdoor tables available on nice days, as well as seating at the nearby park area.
Don't let the paper plates and plastic utensils fool you - the quality of the food and the overall experience at Taste of India is top-notch.
Plus, the prices are very reasonable for the amount and quality of food you get.
Rachawadee Thai Cafe
Another one of my favorite places to eat in town, the Rachawadee Thai Cafe.
This snug, family-owned restaurant has a vintage atmosphere and prepares some of the most delicious Thai staples you'll ever taste.
You can either dine in or take out, but I personally love dining there.
The place is quite small, with only about 9 chairs, but that's what makes it feel so special.
It's as if they are giving you their undivided attention, making it a truly unique and intimate dining experience.
You can watch the food being cooked right in front of you, which is always a treat for me.
Their dedication to their craft shines through in the quality of the food.
The portions are generous, and if you like your dishes spicy, they can definitely bring the heat!
Just be cautious with the spice level, as the peppers they use are seriously hot.
One thing I love about Rachawadee Thai Cafe is that they use fresh vegetables, hand-made noodles, and perfectly cooked meat in their dishes.
I've dined here many times, and the food is consistently excellent.
Cocina Sabores and Catering
I can confidently say that Cocina Sabores and Catering is hands down one of the best Mexican restaurants around.
The first time my partner and I visited, we were immediately impressed by the delicious authentic Mexican food, good portion sizes, and friendly service.
We knew right away that we'd be coming back with our family and friends.
You can check their website here.
Since then, we've tried various dishes from their menu and have never been disappointed.
The chile verde burritos are packed with flavor, and their breakfast burritos remind me of the ones I used to have when I lived in Southern California.
But my absolute favorite has to be the pollo burrito smothered in green sauce.
I'm happy to drive 10 miles past our local Mexican restaurants just to have it again.
In fact, their tacos were recently rated among the best in Western Washington by Seattle Times.
Whether you decide to dine-in or grab take-out, the food and service remain top-notch.
Just a heads up - they close at 4 pm, so if you're planning to take out for dinner, make sure to get there in time.
When it comes to parking, I've found that street-side parking or using the gas station parking lot for take-out can sometimes be easier than their own lot when things get busy.
COA Mexican Eatery & Tequileria
As a frequent visitor to COA Mexican Eatery & Tequileria, I can confidently say that this is one of the best spots in town to satisfy my Mexican food cravings.
The portions are generous, and the flavor is always on point.
One of my usual choices is their burrito, which is packed with beans, rice, meat, and topped with a delicious sauce that perfectly complements all the other ingredients.
The fajitas platter is another must-try – it's massive and boasts an explosion of flavor with perfectly grilled veggies and a generous helping of meat.
And don't even get me started on their nachos – they're almost too good, with thick tortilla chips and an abundance of toppings that often leave me too full to finish the entire plate.
COA's restaurant space is quite spacious, with a separate bar area for those who prefer a livelier atmosphere.
When the weather allows, their outdoor seating is a beautiful spot to enjoy a meal in the fresh air.
Ristretto Coffee Lounge & Wine Bar
I often find myself stopping by Ristretto Coffee Lounge & Wine Bar on weekends for a quick breakfast and coffee before exploring the nearby tulip festival.
This charming, brick-lined coffee shop offers made-to-order breakfast, lunch sandwiches, salads, wine, and beer - making it an ideal place to recharge and stretch my legs.
Their wraps are simply amazing, and the coffee never fails to hit the spot.
What sets Ristretto apart is their dedication to serving real, traditional espresso and coffee.
I usually go for a cortado, while my partner prefers the London fog tea, which is always very tasty.
We also enjoy their breakfast bagel sandwiches, which in my opinion, rival the ones from Whidbey Island Bagel Factory.
Aside from the delicious food and drinks, the atmosphere at Ristretto is warm and inviting.
The employees are kind, and the back counter is always clean.
It's also a pleasant surprise to find that they offer wine and craft beer during later hours, making it a versatile spot for any time of the day.
One thing to note is that the food items can take a little longer to make, but it's worth the wait.
While waiting, I love to admire the art and architecture that adds to the charm of this local favorite hangout.
As a bonus, they seem environmentally conscious, offering non-meat items without even asking and using minimal plastic in their packaging.
Temperate Habits Brewing Company
I just love stopping by Temperate Habits Brewing Company after a long day at work.
This cozy brewpub in downtown Mount Vernon has become one of my favorite places to unwind with friends and enjoy some delicious food and drinks.
The selection of craft beers is impressive, and I'm always happy to find a couple of gluten-free ciders on the menu.
I've even brought my dog along a few times, and they're always welcome inside.
The food at Temperate Habits is fantastic, with about 2/3 of the menu looking absolutely mouth-watering.
I can't get enough of their poutine, though I wish the cheese curds would melt a bit more.
But the real treat for me is their sandwiches and burgers – I have a gluten sensitivity, so I appreciate that they offer gluten-free bread substitutions for just $1.1.
I've heard great things about their PB&J burger and loaded tots, too, but I have yet to try them myself.
What I love most about this place is the relaxed atmosphere.
The seating options are varied and comfortable, with bar seating, rocking chairs, Adirondack chairs, family-style tables, and even some outdoor seating.
It's always a pleasure to grab a beer and sink into a comfy chair as I catch up with friends at Temperate Habits Brewing Company.
Dari Delite
I must admit that Dari Delite has always been my local hangout for a delicious burger.
Whenever I'm craving a juicy hamburger, I always find myself driving the short four minutes from my house to Dari Delite.
Their deluxe combo is my all-time favorite, and I can never go wrong with it.
One of the best things about this place is that their shakes are really great, and they always manage to make the food fresh and quick, even during their busiest hours.
The kitchen is always clean, and the service is prompt, which makes it an enjoyable experience every time I visit.
My 10-year-old son also loves Dari Delite.
He's a fan of Hawaiian pizza, so when he saw a burger on their menu that has ham and pineapple, he couldn't resist trying it.
Now, he's hooked and loves to order it whenever we visit.
The burgers here remind me of the old dairy queen burgers, and I appreciate their generous portions of home-cut fries.
Their deluxe burger comes with a full-sized bun, lettuce, tomatoes, and onions, making it a perfect choice for a satisfying meal.
While the burgers might be a bit on the smaller side, the prices are reasonable, so I don't mind ordering an extra one if I'm extra hungry.
In short, if you're ever in the area and craving a tasty burger, Dari Delite should definitely be on your list of places to try.
Pyung Chang Korean BBQ
My friends and I decided to visit Pyung Chang Korean BBQ last weekend, and we had a fantastic time.
The service was quick and friendly, and the food was absolutely delicious.
We ordered a combo C to share, along with several other entrées, and everything tasted amazing.
Although the food can be a bit pricey, it's well worth it for the quality and the experience.
The meats were high quality, marinated to perfection, and the kimchi soup had the perfect balance of spiciness and flavor.
The side dishes were also excellent, and we couldn't get enough of them.
The interior of Pyung Chang Korean BBQ is clean and well-maintained.
Asian Grill & More
One day, I stumbled upon Asian Grill & More, and I'm so glad I did!
This Vietnamese restaurant has quickly become one of my favorite spots for satisfying my cravings.
The food is consistently great, and I can't help but order my favorites every time I visit.
I started off with the calamari and pork fresh spring rolls, which were absolutely amazing.
The calamari was tender and paired perfectly with the delicious sauce it came with.
As for the spring rolls, they were like mini meals – fresh, clear, and extremely addictive.
For the main course, I've tried both the pork and chicken yakisoba dishes, and I've never been disappointed.
Each dish is packed with plenty of meat and vegetables, leaving me feeling satisfied and happy.
And let's not forget about their bubble tea – it's good, and the rainbow jelly is a fun addition!
But what really sets this place apart is their Vietnamese sandwich, which is, hands down, a ten out of ten.
No filter necessary, this banh mi has so much flavor, and the presentation is always impressive.
The pho is also a must-try, especially the meatball and brisket version.
The service at Asian Grill & More is no-frills, and the atmosphere is diner-style, but that just adds to the charm of this hidden gem.
Whenever I find myself in the area, I always make sure to stop by for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
The Lunchbox Diner
Just the other day, I decided to pay another visit to The Lunchbox Diner, one of my favorite local spots for a tasty meal.
I've been there a couple of times before, and I absolutely adore their breakfast burrito - it's huge and packed with flavor.
On this visit, my friend opted for the Rueben sandwich, which was quite good.
The cheeseburger I had on that day was juicy and perfectly cooked.
I also enjoyed the avocado bacon salad, which was fresh and well-made.
They always make me feel welcome and ensure that I have a pleasant dining experience.
Mr T's Family Cafe
Just last weekend, I decided to take my family for a hearty breakfast at Mr T's Family Cafe, and we were all blown away by the experience.
The place has a down-home, comforting atmosphere that reminded me of the diners my grandparents used to take me to.
Even though we had to wait for about 20 minutes to get a table for five, it was absolutely worth it.
The portion sizes were enormous, and the taste was just delectable.
I ordered the cowboy scramble while my partner went for the country-fried steak.
Our kids shared some huge pancakes that they couldn't stop raving about.
We all ended up taking boxes for our leftovers, so make sure you come with a big appetite or have some space in your fridge for tasty leftovers.
What really stood out for me was the quality of the food.
Unlike many other places that serve large portions to make up for mediocre food, Mr T's Family Cafe offers top-notch dishes.
The biscuits and gravy were heavenly - the biscuits were light and fluffy, while the sausage gravy was thick and peppery.
It was honestly the best I've ever had.
The service was also commendable.
Il Granaio Authentic Italian Restaurant
I recently had the pleasure of dining at Il Granaio Authentic Italian Restaurant with my partner, and it was an incredible experience.
We visited on a Friday evening and were pleasantly surprised to find the restaurant relatively empty, which allowed us to receive exceptional service.
The bread and oil they served as a starter were delicious, but the real star was the tomato soup.
It was hands down the best tomato soup my partner and I have ever had, and now we frequently call to see if it's the soup of the day.
Our pasta dishes were cooked to perfection, and the drinks were spot on.
The ambiance inside the restaurant is truly unique and rustic, making it a charming place to enjoy an intimate dinner.
We had such an amazing time that we decided to host a party at Il Granaio, and it it was nothing short of spectacular.
The food was hot, delicious, and even included a gluten-free option for one of our guests with dietary restrictions.
I highly recommend trying the Sunset specials on the back page of the menu for some fantastic deals on enticing dishes.
The bruschetta, pasta, and desserts were all mouth-watering, and the prompt, courteous service made the night even more enjoyable.
Despite being a busy Saturday night, the noise level was never too loud, allowing for pleasant conversation.
La Catrina Tacos & Tequila
Whenever I'm craving some delicious tacos and tequila, I always head to La Catrina Tacos & Tequila.
This compact, upbeat Mexican restaurant offers street-style tacos & burritos, as well as tequila cocktails that never disappoint.
The tacos here are absolutely amazing - my personal favorite is the chicken habanero, which is packed with flavor and has just the right amount of heat.
Don't forget to ask for the red dipping sauce, it's hot and incredibly tasty!
The atmosphere at La Catrina Tacos & Tequila is always lively and welcoming, making it the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat before bar hopping.
I'm not the only one who loves their drinks - their margaritas and Micheladas are consistently raved about.
I once tried their Jalapeño and Pineapple margarita, and it was the perfect combination of sweet and spicy.
Another must-try dish is the Barbacoa - it's so flavorful and tender, I can't help but order it every time I visit.
Plus, they're open on holidays like Memorial Day, which is a huge plus in my book.
Burgermaster
Burgermaster is one of the best places in Mount Vernon to grab a burger.
Whenever I'm in the mood for some classic American fast food, I always find myself heading to one of their locations.
Their website showcases the history and menu options for this veteran local chain, which was founded back in 1952.
The burgers at Burgermaster are definitely a step up from your average fast-food joint.
I often stop by after visiting Mount Vernon, and the fresh beef patties are one of the main reasons I keep coming back.
Their shakes are also incredibly delicious.
One of my favorite menu items is the double bacon cheeseburger with tomatoes, pickles, and onions.
It's a heavy, filling, and absolutely scrumptious meal that leaves me completely satisfied.
The grass-fed beef may make the burgers a little pricier than other fast-food options, but the taste and quality are well worth it.
Another great feature of Burgermaster is the option to order and eat in your car, which gives it an authentic drive-in feel.
Although there are some chairs and a small indoor eating area, I prefer the unique experience of dining car-side.
Thai House Restaurant
Just the other night, I decided to treat myself to a delicious meal at Thai House Restaurant, one of my favorite spots in the neighborhood.
The place is known for its mouthwatering noodle and rice dishes, curries, and specials.
As soon as I walked in, I felt welcomed by the warm ambiance and comfy booth-filled space.
I was immediately drawn to the beautiful tulip festival posters that adorned the walls, adding to the lovely atmosphere.
I ordered my go-to Thai tea and some spring rolls to start, which were as tasty as always.
Unable to resist, I also tried their milk rice with mango dessert for the first time, and it was absolutely delectable.
Orange Teriyaki
I've been going to Orange Teriyaki for quite some time now.
One of my favorite things to do after visiting the tulip farm nearby is to stop by Orange Teriyaki for a meal with my family.
The food has been flavorful, the place clean, and the portions huge.
It was always a pleasant experience, especially given the excellent service we received.
I have also tried their boba, which is priced reasonably, starting at $5.50, and found it to be very good.
Best Teriyaki
Best Teriyaki is my usual choice for Japanese restaurant whenever I crave some delicious teriyaki chicken.
Even though some may argue that the portions are a bit small and the prices are not the most budget-friendly, I believe the quality and flavor of their food are worth it.
Whenever I visit the restaurant, I notice that their teriyaki is always fresh, and the meat remains soft and tender, without a single dry piece in sight.
I also appreciate their fast and professional service, making it a great choice for a quick yet satisfying lunch.
One time, I ordered a meal, and it was ready in less than 5 minutes!
I understand that some customers might feel a bit rushed when ordering at the counter, but for me, it hasn't been an issue as I typically prefer to get my food to go.
Kyoto Kitchen
I've been to Kyoto Kitchen a couple of times now, and it's always a delightful experience.
The first time I visited, I was quite surprised by the size of their sushi rolls.
They were way larger than the standard rolls I've had at other places.
At first glance, the prices on the menu might seem a little higher compared to other Japanese restaurants, but trust me, the portion sizes make up for it.
One time, I ordered two rolls thinking it wouldn't be enough, but I ended up taking 2/3 of my second roll to go.
If my house was closer to Kyoto Kitchen, I'd probably be a regular customer.
Their food never disappoints, either.
So far, I've tried their Bento, Tempura, and Ramen dishes, and all of them were fresh, and delicious, and left me craving for more.
The Ramen, in particular, was very flavorsome.
My son, on the other hand, is a big fan of their Chicken Karaage.
Whenever I'm in the mood for some authentic and satisfying Japanese cuisine, I head straight to Kyoto Kitchen.
Final Thoughts
Mount Vernon truly has a diverse and exquisite culinary scene that never fails to impress me.
From the authentic flavors of Taste of India and Rachawadee Thai Cafe to the delightful bagels at Whidbey Island Bagel Factory, there's something for everyone's taste buds in this charming town.
So whether you're a fellow resident or just passing through, I highly recommend giving these fantastic restaurants a try – your taste buds will thank you!
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