If you haven’t been to Olympia in a while, now is the perfect time to make your return, not just for the vibe, but for the food. From new restaurants to local favorites, the food scene is full of stories. Meals shaped by people, families, and the traditions they carry. Whether you’re craving breakfast tacos, recipes passed down for generations, cozy date-night favorites, lively hangouts, or even a lakeside escape just outside the city, we’ve got ideas.

Hector’s Tacos

Hector’s Tacos is a newer addition from husband-and-wife Aaron and Lauren Rodriguez. Based on a decades-long dream of a Tex-Mex-style eatery rooted in family and community, Oly just got more colorful.

Situated on Olympia’s east side, the renovated building is a combination of Austin-inspired energy downstairs and South Texas coastal charm upstairs. Named after Aaron’s father, Hector’s honors heritage through family recipes like slow-cooked charros and handmade tortillas.

With co-owner Kurt Loertscher taking the lead on a multilevel restoration, the space reflects years of detailed planning. More than breakfast tacos, Hector’s is centered on connection, and a joyful place to gather, sip handcrafted margaritas, unwind, and feel at home. 1502 4th Avenue East, Olympia

Gardner’s Restaurant

Visit an Olympia staple. Gardner’s is a long-standing family-owned restaurant specializing in seasonal Northwest cooking. With a softly lit atmosphere, it’s a favorite for date nights and special occasions.

With candlelit tables, thoughtful dishes, and inspired cocktails, it’s a subtle balance between intimate and unpretentious, celebrating many birthdays, anniversaries, and even proposals.

Sisters Sarah Felizardo and Chelse Pagel have co-owned the restaurant for over 18 years, molding its personal feel alongside Executive Chef Dayton Kuenstler, who builds the menu around what’s fresh and locally sourced. 111 Thurston Avenue NW, Olympia

Cove Bar and Grill

Looking for laid back vibes for live sports, music, gathering, good food, and drink? Look no further than Cove Bar and Grill, a go-to Olympia hangout founded by Jason Gilbertson, Cody Mills, and Justin Hjelm.

Sample from a menu that’s anything but typical bar fare. Select from smoked salmon dip, craft burgers, or a Dungeness crab roll finished with lemon sauce on a soft New England bun. A strong drink program and lively energy keep the space buzzing.

When the weather turns, garage-style doors roll up, and the experience extends out onto the sidewalk for easy evenings and good company, in the heart of Olympia. 311 Capitol Way N., Olympia

The Lady of the Lake Public House

Just 12 miles outside of Olympia, near Tenino, Lady of the Lake Public House at Offut Lake Resort provides a relaxed lakeside escape. The family-owned restaurant pairs lake views with casual, hearty dining and an easygoing atmosphere.

Guests can settle in on the covered patio for signature cocktails like “The Lady,” a refreshing gin-based libation, along with a menu of steaks, burgers, fish, and pasta.

As the sun sinks beneath the lake, the setting does most of the work. For a longer stay, nearby cottages and cabins make it easy to turn dinner into a full lakeside getaway. 4005 120th Ave SE, Tenino

BY EMILY MOLINA