Editor’s note 7/31/2024: This post and the PDF that goes with it have recently been updated since its original posting in 2016 and update in 2020. I will send the updated version to newsletter subscribers!
An essential part of my hike planning is what will I eat before and after my hike (thus the name of my blog). Although I follow a whole foods (mostly paleo/primal diet), I don’t hold to dogma and I do what is right for me. Hopefully you do, too!
At home it is no problem but when on the road eating for health can be more nuanced. For example, with the closing of Cultured Caveman in Portland during COVID, there really are no paleo dedicated restaurants in the Pacific Northwest (or much of anywhere else).
So for the most part, I travel with my own food. But if hiking or adventuring with family or friends it is inevitable they will want to stop for grub. These are a few places I have found where I can find something on the menu that comes close to my health goals and maybe you will, too. Several of these are on my Pacific Northwest Eating Guide to visit for the first time, this is as much for me as it is for you!
For those of us who are more selective about our food, we know that finding a place that is accommodating and wants to make the customer happy is half the battle. Even if they don’t have something on the menu for you, a establishment that wants to serve you something you can eat makes all the difference.
I also want to say that this guide is not meant to be exhaustive or definitive about being able to eat any particular way or what is available in any given area. It is based on places I have eaten at least once (with a few exceptions). I also didn’t include some of my favorite places like Burch Mountain BBQ in East Wenatchee because although I love the food and Justin is an amazing person, they do not have regular hours (more of a pop up, catering affair). But if you follow me on Instagram, you will see the love for places like Burch or Wild Alaska Weathervane Scallops Food Truck where you can get the most delicious scallop salad.
For me eating it out is about fun, enjoyment and usually the company of others. It also means trying to support establishments that care about the food they serve and thus the customers that walk in their door. Sometimes that means treats (which you will see in some of the pictures) or foods I would not normally eat at home (like gluten free buns). However, most of the time I am able to chose meals that include vegetables and sometimes that is a big win on the road!
Some tips to keep in mind:
- A restaurant that labels their menu for dietary considerations is a best friend. Check online ahead of time and go prepared with a restaurant suggestion to give those in your party.
- One usually can’t go wrong with salad and added protein or a burger without a bun and side salad. Just ask to leave off items not wanted.
- Chose singular dairy in a salad over what might be in a salad dressing as a great flavor choice for those who can tolerate dairy.
- Shared fryers/grills are always a concern for those with gluten sensitivity. If this is you, ask if they have a separate fryer/grill for gluten-free.
- Unless they make their sweet potato fries from scratch, most have a gluten coating. You might be better off with homemade regular potato fries. Ask.
- For those with Celiac’s disease. websites like Find Me Gluten Free are the best resource.
- Short of sneaking food into a restaurant, a natural foods store with a deli offers the most control over a meal. Think post-hike picnic!
An “*” indicates a dedicated gluten free establishment.
If you would like a copy of this Pacific Northwest Eating Guide in a portable and easy to read PDF format (AKA just the facts, mam), sign up for the Must Hike Must Eat Newsletter and I’ll send you a free copy!
Mount Baker Highway, Bellingham (SR 542)
North Fork Brewery, Glacier, WA
This is a popular stop on HWY 542 (Mt. Baker) when I hike with my meetup group. Needless to say, they have beer (and a few ciders). They serve locally sourced meals and we order a mix of pizza and salads. I usually get their spinach or antipasto salad and a pint of their own homemade root beer on draft. you may even find a tasty dessert like gluten free Death by Chocolate…
Chair 9, Glacier, WA
I like the Spinach salad or the Black Angus sans the bun.
Boundary Bay, Bellingham, WA
I don’t always drive into B’ham after hikes on Chuckanut Drive and Blanchard Mountain but when I do, I stop at Boundary Bay Brewery. A popular spot in downtown, you will find yourself surrounded by a great mix of Western students and locals. They have a delicious menu, locally sourced and designed to compliment their brews. I love their Harvest salad or lamb burger which they will put on a gluten free bun but I usually just have them put it on the salad side that can come with the meal.
Fiamma Burger, Bellingham, WA
Various burger options with a gluten free bun or a Burger In A Bowl where they will put your burger choice on a bed of spring greens!
La Fiamma Wood Fire Pizza, Bellingham, WA
Gluten free crust and vegan cheese options.
Lost Giants Cider Company, Bellingham, WA
Lost Giants does not offer a full food menu but any place that offers gluten free pretzels deserves a mention in my book. You will also find other chips and a charcuterie board. Pizza is available on the weekends with limited hours. The cider was perfect after a day of riding our bikes in the area and they are just down the street from Apple Yarns! (for my knitting friends)
For hike suggestions along SR 542, check out my trip reports here.
North Cascades Loop Highway (SR 20)
*5 B’s Bakery, Concrete, WA
This is a wonderful treat one block off HWY 20 in Concrete, WA as you head up the Cascade Highway (turn at the old concrete stacks). I personally love their cinnamon rolls but they have a wide selection in this dedicated gluten free café; they serve breakfast and lunch along with a variety of cookies, breads, pot pies, calzones, PRETZEL DOGS, etc. They have indoor seating and coffee brewing in the morning. It is no wonder they are one of the original establishments on the Pacific Northwest Eating Guide.
Birdsview Brewing Company, Birdsview, WA
My meetup group loves stopping at The Birdsview Brewing Company after hikes on HWY 20, especially because they are dog friendly. Their blue cheese and apple salad is divine and they offer ciders on tap in addition to a plethora of brews. And they offer gluten free buns and cookies from 5 B’s Bakery!
Methow Valley Ciderhouse, Winthrop, WA
This is an annual stop on our fall Cascade Loop road trip. Plenty of ciders to choose from and I love their salads and house made coleslaw! They also have ample outdoor seating and live entertainment. We will sometimes stayed at the Pine Near RV park in town and walked here for dinner. Just take a headlamp for the trip back!
The Mazama Store, Mazama, WA
You can’t hike in the Mazama area without a stop at the Mazama store. I even wrote up its own post here. Not only do they have some great nosh, they are the hub for local news and forest road information (like if you can drive to Hart’s Pass yet). You can also pick up gear at Goat’s Beard Mountain Supplies.
Mazama Public House, Mazama, WA
Dining options are limited in Mazama so it was a nice treat to see the Mazama Public House last summer on our way to Stehekin. Although I will probably still choose to eat at the Methow Valley Ciderhouse because I am not a fan of its parent restaurant, Old Schoolhouse Brewery, if you are in Mazama and need something yummy to eat, I can say the steak salad is pretty good.
Glover Street Market, Twisp, WA
This natural foods market in Twisp is a fun place to stop if you need snacks or a quick bite to eat from their kitchen counter. They focus on local and ethically sourced foods and products.
For hike suggestions along SR 20, check out my trip reports here.
The Puget Sound (I-5, SR 20, SR 532)
K Fresh, Everett, WA
If you are in the Everett area on one of our great urban trails like The Milltown, you have to pick up a bibimbap bowl from K Fresh where everything is gluten free. I get them to go on romaine lettuce, so good. If you want the hot bowl version, cauliflower rice it also available. Their shakes are coconut milk based if you feel like splurging!
The Sisters Restaurant, Everett, WA
Another local restaurant for me that has expanded their hours into dinner making it perfect for post hike or bike ride when I want a quick fresh salad to eat on the back porch. The hubs likes their house made nut burger! The bonus is that they are housed in the same building as the Sno-Isle Foods Co-op so you can pick up plenty of healthy treats for the road.
Soundbite, Everett, WA
An honorable mention in the Pacific Northwest Eating Guide, this is our local cidery. They don’t have food but you can bring some with you, we like Trader Joe’s or Basil’s Thai nearby. Say hello to Rob and Regina for me! They have opened a second location with Crucible Brewing, Pour Decisions, if you are in the Greenwood area.
Skagit Valley Co-op, Mount Vernon, WA
This is a large co-op located in the downtown area with groceries, a deli and coffee shop. Stock up on your food essentials pre hike! I wrote a post up here.
*Shambala Bakery and Bistro, Mount Vernon, WA
The storefront for a farm-to-table business, Shambala is a tasty spot for vegan and gluten free fare with breakfast available all day. I have a whole post about this restaurant and bakery here. I love their fish and chips AND their wish and chips (a cauliflower version). You can also get a breakfast sandwich to go!
Tapped Public House, Camano Island, WA
Tapped has several locations in the Puget Sound and we enjoy stopping by mostly after work or long bike rides. The one on Camano Island makes a great stop if you are out biking the island, camping at Cama Beach State Park or hiking in the Camano Ridge Forest Preserve. They offer several salads and you have to try the Brussels sprouts or cauliflower appetizers!
Mammoth Burger Company, Stanwood, WA
Another great stop after wandering in the trees or strolling on the beaches of Camano Island is Mammoth Burger company. They will lettuce wrap your burger!
Three Sisters, Coupeville, WA
This little market has some great gluten free snacks to pick up and picnic tables outside. The also stock products by 5 B’s Bakery!
Ultra House, Langley, WA
We have been spending more time on Whidbey Island lately, whether we head over for a hike or bike across on the ferry from home and when we do, a stop at Ultra House in Langley is a must. They serve authentic ramen dishes and offer homemade gluten free or vegan noodles as an option! Their menu is also labeled for gluten free and/or vegan.
Misfit Island Cider, Langley, WA
If you are at Ultra House, you will notice Misfit Island Cider right next door so give them a visit too! We love their English style ciders, AKA on the dry side of things. They can also be found at the farmer’s market in town on Saturday’s.
Razzi’s Pizzeria, Seattle, WA
Located in the neighborhood of Greenwood, this is the perfect place to come with a group of picky eaters after strolling Green Lake. Traditional, vegan, gluten free and vegan/gluten free menus are loaded with any variation of pizza, calzone or salad you can think of. This was the veggie Thai…
*a/Stir (once Capitol Cider), Seattle, WA
Okay, so this one is a splurge but I would be remiss not to mention another dedicated gluten free restaurant in the Puget Sound area. We typically go for things like birthdays or anniversaries, but it does make a good stop after some urban hiking or biking. They have the best selections of ciders in the area and the menu is top notch.
*Ghostfish Brewing Company, Seattle, WA
Gluten free beer and an extensive dedicated gluten-free pub menu also labeled for vegan and dairy free. I had chance to visit them this summer (finally) and can’t wait to go back for more. I really wanted to try the salad special but when the fish and chips started arriving for others in my party, I simply had to. Plus, my last three meals had been salads and it is all about balance! From what I sampled, if you don’t like you food heavily seasoned, Ghostfish is for you. The fish was perfectly cooked and the breading was crispy. Oh, and everyone agreed the tartar sauce was excellent.
Green Butterfly Walk Up Cafe & Juice, Vashon Island, WA
We took a Sunday day trip to Vashon to try some local cideries and walk the beach at the Point Robinson Lighthouse Park and decided it would be a good idea to stop for a little something to eat before getting back on the ferry. Most of the places in town were getting ready to close but when I googled gluten free we found this cute walk up cafe with just the right thing. Think veggie bowls, smoothies and such. Look at me, eating my beets!
For hikes in the area, check out my trip reports here.
Mountain Loop Highway (SR 92, SR 9, and SR 530)
LJs Bistro and Bar, Lake Stevens, WA
Another more upscale restaurant near Frontier Village, you will find delicious tapas and great happy hour specials. The date appetizers earned them a spot in the Pacific Northwest Eating Guide!
Creekside Ale House, Lake Stevens, WA
For a more sports bar atmosphere, Creekside is your place. I enjoy a steak salad with a cider from the tap.
Mirkwood Public House, Arlington, WA
Don’t be intimidated when you walk through the door or see the tattoo shop on the second floor. The staff are super friendly and the food is free range, organic and locally sourced. And Wednesdays is karaoke night!
River Time Brewery, Darrington, WA
This is another honorable mention in the Pacific Northwest Eating Guide because there aren’t really a lot of options in Darrington itself but if you want to cold drink or a gluten free pizza (vegan cheese possible) to split, River Time fits the bill. Plus, it is just a fun place to hang out with views of White Horse in the background. I share more here.
For hikes along the Mountain Loop Highway, check out my trip reports here.
Stevens Pass Highway (SR 2, SR 285)
Trails End Taphouse and Restaurant, Snohomish, WA
This makes the perfect stop after spending time on the Centennial Trail or on your way back down from Stevens Pass. They offer both inside and outside seating and they are open 7 days a week. You will find seven different salads on the menu but make sure to ask about dietary needs as the menu is not labeled for such.
Glorybucha, Snohomish, WA
You might wonder why this lovely place is in the Pacific Northwest Eating Guide because you can’t order food at Glorybucha but they have the jazziest kombucha on tap in Snohomish County. Once located in downtown Arlington next to the Centennial Trail they are now collaborating with a farm and brewery in Snohomish, Dairyland. Not only can you enjoy some of Glorybucha’s award winning kombucha, you can also try a taste of Shorts School Cider which is made in house. Stop by and have a flight of some of their delicious flavors.
Grilla Bites, Snohomish, WA
Burgers, salad bar, smoothies and more, this is a great stop if you are coming back from Lord Hill Regional Park or the Centennial Trail. The food is fairly basic so it is possible to get something without hidden ingredients.
*Grain Artisan Bakery, Snohomish, WA
If you just want a sweet treat on your way home from a hike (or bike) on SR 2, Grain Bakery will satisfy! They sell a wide arrange of gluten free items, along with offering typical coffee shop fare.
Route 2 Taproom and Grazing Place, Monroe, WA
A large outdoor seating area and conveniently located in Monroe, this makes the perfect stop. I usually get the steak salad but they often have daily specials. You can find a location in Woodinville, too.
Alfy’s Pizza, Monroe, WA
I have been eating at Alfy’s since I was a kid, they are a local Snohomish County chain. COVID was not kind (most of their business was group activities) and the one down the street from me has closed. However, you can still find one tucked away in Monroe and they have the BEST salad bar.
Good Brewing Company, Sultan, WA
Once the Timber Monster Brewing Company, the current owners are continuing the tradition of good food and a large beverage selection. They even have a cozy sitting area next to the fireplace. If the traffic is backed up in Sultan on a Sunday afternoon (and when isn’t it), pull in and enjoy yourself at Good Brewing instead.
Check out their brews from Ghostfish and a variety of ciders!
Espresso Chalet, Index, WA
The Espresso Chalet in Index, WA makes a great stop when hiking on HWY 2. They are in tune with what is happening in the area and are great to chat with. The milk alternatives offered make the longest list I’ve seen at a coffee stand. Don’t forget to look for sasquatch (he’s hard to miss) and check out the view of Mount Index from the back deck.
Gustav’s, Leavenworth, WA
Who doesn’t love Gustav’s in Leavenworth? I order one of their tasty salads and ice tea which they brew themselves. Here’s a picture of my Mom and I enjoying lunch at Gustav’s while I was hiking the Pacific Crest Trail in 2013.
Yodelin Broth Company, Leavenworth, WA
One of my new faves with a lovely view of Icicle Creek on their back patio, you will find burgers with gluten free buns, savory soups and salads in hearty bowls.
Leavenworth Cider House, Leavenworth, WA
On our trip to Glacier National Park last summer, Elizabeth and I stopped for something cold to drink and were pleasantly surprised by the delicious food. I still say this is the best gluten free pizza crust I have ever had. Yeah, no veggies with this one but we had a cooler stocked in the car for balance.
Dan’s Food Market, Leavenworth, WA
If you forgot your food essentials, stop here first! You can also get Jun on tap from Honey Jun brewed just outside town.
McGlinn’s Public House, Wenatchee, WA
The last few years I have been spending more and more time in Wenatchee and this is a must stop for me when it’s time for sustenance. I usually get the steak salad and you can see why. So good, and they brew their own ice tea. Plus, any place that puts both lemon and lime in your water is a keeper.
For hike suggestions along SR 2, check out my trip reports here. For Snohomish County in general, you will find more here.
Snoqualmie Pass (I-90)
Garlic Crush, Issaquah, WA
Shawarma, salads and kebabs, you can piece together some meat and veggies easily!
Agave Cocina, Issaquah, WA
One of my favorite memories is eating here after a drenching hike on Tiger and being the only ones not watching the game. For a Mexican restaurant they do pretty well, a great list of salads to choose from and they boast local and sustainably resourced ingredients, as well as gluten free, vegan and vegetarian options.
North Bend Bar & Grill, North Bend, WA
The North Bend Bar and Grill is a restaurant I have eaten at several times now with meetup groups. They serve locally sourced food and have a great beer and cider selection. I usually get the salmon quinoa or cobb salad and their menu is labeled for gluten free options. Like gluten free coconut prawns…
Chang Thai & Pho , North Bend, WA
Chang Thai North Bend This is another place I have eaten and I was impressed with the large menu and the waitress’ repeated assurance that they could do vegetarian if someone needed (AKA accommodating kitchen). Thai food is naturally gluten free; just avoid anything with soy sauce. Try the larb salad!
The Commonwealth, Snoqualmie Pass, WA
So conveniently located at the top of the pass, the Commonwealth does have a few salads and ciders on tap so you can enjoy hanging out with your friends post hike. If you can do nightshades, I recommend the beefalo chili.
Basecamp Books and Bites, Roslyn, WA
A local favorite with a little bit of everything, Basecamp deserves a leisurely visit. From books, to gluten free snacks to coffee, you will want to explore all the corners (including the restaurant downstairs) for yourself. Their menu is labeled for gluten free/vegan, always a helpful touch. You can even get your Northwest Forest or Green Trails maps you may have forgotten before heading up Salmon La Sac. We recently learned that Monday is half price burger night and they have gluten free toast if you don’t want to just have your burger on a side salad.
For hike suggestions along 1-90, check out my trip reports here.
Mount Rainier, Mount St Helens, White Pass (SR 410, SR 7, SR 12, SR 503)
Historic Mint Restaurant and Alehouse, Enumclaw, WA
I was so excited for time to be right to enjoy lunch at the Historic Mint in Enumclaw after hiking in Mount Rainier National Park in 2022. The grilled steak salad was on par and the house blend iced tea hit the spot. They label their menu for gluten free and have a “express menu” if you just want a light bite during lunch.
Farelli’s Wood Fire Grill, Sumner, WA
They offer a gluten free pizza crust and label for items with gluten. There are a few nightshade free sauce choices and more than a handful of salads to choose from!
Elbe Bar & Grill
This is an honorable mention because the menu is small and definitely what you expect from a tavern BUT I have been impressed on the two times I visited and really wanted a burger that they were gracious about putting it in a lettuce wrap without that funny look you sometimes get when you say you don’t want the bun.
Copper Creek Inn Restaurant, Ashford, WA
Restaurant options are a bit limited in the Ashford side of things (see Elbe above) but I have dined at the Copper Creek Inn and deem it a worthy stop if you can’t wait until a larger town. It is small and the menu isn’t that much larger but they do try to provide a higher scale dining experience for those staying at the inn. Huckleberry is king and you will find it in the butters, dressings and sauces galore (but I’m sure you can ask for regular if you want something less fruity). This meal did hit the spot on a wet and cold March day after snowshoeing on the mountain.
Cliff Droppers, Packwood, WA
Things are a little sparse in Packwood but hand crafted burgers you can get in a lettuce wrap are available at Cliff Droppers along with the local scoop.
Fargher Lakehouse, Yacolt, WA
A little out of the way unless you are on the backroads around Mount St. Helens but you can get a salad or gluten free burger and cider. The staff are ultra friendly and willing to accommodate! I was planning on skipping the bun altogether and going with just lettuce but our waitress was so insistent on preparing one for me and I was starving so I opted in. Sorry I didn’t take a better pic, lighting was on the dark side.
For hike suggestions in this area, check out my trip reports here.
Olympic Peninsula (HWY 101)
Quilbilly’s Restaurant and Taproom, Quilcene, WA
Very accommodating staff but you may have more gluten free knowledge than they do. A handful of salads to choose from (shrimp and bacon, yum!) and you could do a burger minus the bun.
Finn River, Chimacum, WA
Beautiful scenery on their farm with salad and gluten free pizza options.
*Nourish Sequim, Sequim, WA
More of a fine dining experience, this restaurant sits up above Sequim and offers a dedicated gluten free meal.
Turnip The Beet, Port Angeles, WA
A casual spot in downtown, you can pick from a wide variety of salad combinations or make up one of your own to get exactly what you want.
Yodelin Broth Company
Mentioned above, Yodelin now has a restaurant in Port Angeles! I had a chance to go this summer after hiking the Seven Lakes Basin loop and enjoyed a fresh salad on their deck.
Linda’s Woodfired Kitchen, Neah Bay, WA
Boasting local and wild ingredients, this quaint restaurant is a Neah Bay favorite. I had the most delicious steelhead dinner here!
Sunset West Co-op, Clallam Bay, WA
If you missed the co-op in Port Townsend, you can pick up snacks and homemade deli items here. You can even pull out a Cat Stevens LP and listen to it play in the indoor sitting area.
Pacific Pizza, Forks, WA
There isn’t a lot going in Forks healthy eating wise but they do have a gluten free menu. Over the years, the Thrifty Grocery store that shared the parking lot has upped its organic options, too.
Kalaloch Lodge, Kalaloch, WA
Not your usual hiker grub stop but they do label their menu for vegan/gluten free. On a wet and windy Olympic coast Thanksgiving outing, we tried the vegan artichoke dip and it wasn’t too bad! It also was a dry break for the kids out of the elements before heading back to the campground.
Serious Pizza, Iwalco, WA
If visiting the southern most area of Washington like Cape Disappointment, you have to stop by this yummy spot. They have more options than just pizza and the only thing disappointing is that they aren’t open every day (but are now open year round). It is also best to follow them on socials because being a small business with few staff, random closures do happen. You can read more about our visit here.
For hike suggestions on the Olympic Peninsula, check out my trip reports here.
Eastern Washington (SR 97, I-90)
Bear Foods Market, Chelan, WA
Truth is, we love to go and just check out their chocolate bar section. So many different ones from all over the world. The crepes and salads are delicious and we can always find something cold to drink. Oh, and I love to get their loose leaf Little Bear tea.
Steelhead Cider, Chelan, WA
Their upper balcony over looks the riverfront park and is a bright spot on a warm fall day. Pairing dark chocolate from Bear Market and ciders is one of our favorite fall treats.
Stehekin Pastry Company (AKA Stehekin Bakery), Stehekin, WA
You would have to be living under a hiking rock to have not heard all about the Stehekin Pastry Company and their many scrumptious baked goodies. But did you know they also make some mighty fine salads?? You may even be able to find a gluten free treat or two. Every year they are adding new offerings beyond just the one gluten free Morning Glory muffin that most bakeries seem to have these days.
The Pearl Bar & Grill, Ellensburg, WA
If passing through E-berg, a stop at The Pearl Bar & Grill will satisfy your hunger. They serve fresh and local ingredients, six salads, vegetarian burger options, and the menu is labeled for v/gf.
*Cole’s Bakery and Cafe, Spokane, WA
Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner along with a wide assortment of baked goodies, you are sure to be satisfied post hike. they even have a keto menu if you are into that!
For hike suggestions in Eastern Washington, check out my trip reports here.
Portland and Columbia Gorge Area (I-5, I-205, I-84, SR 14)
Walking Man Brewery, Stevenson, WA
This fun little pub is a town hang out and they make their food from scratch. The menu is labeled for gluten free/vegan and you can get a tasty salad or burger sans bun.
Thunder Island Brewing, Cascade Locks, OR
With a menu labeled for vegan/vegetarian/local, you will find several salad options (with protein add-ons available).
Gorges Brewing, Cascade Locks, OR
I had a chance to check out the new brewery in Cascade Locks when I was at Pacific Crest Trail Days in 2023 and their food and upstairs patio with surrounding views did not disappoint!
Cascade Locks Ale House, Cascade Locks, OR
This is a great pub for when you are driving I-84 or starting/leaving the Pacific Crest Trail. I had a perfectly cooked burger on top of a salad and one of the best blackberry ciders ever. They were very friendly (but busy) and you can even “pay it forward to a PCT hiker” when you are there! They offer gluten free/vegetarian on their menu. Plus, they just received a grant from the Backing Historic Small Restaurants Grant Program so you can look for a spiffed up building soon!
Crush Cider Cafe, Hood River, OR
This is our current absolute favorite place to stop post hike on the Gorge or after venturing in Central Oregon. Some of the finest ciders you will find and some pretty darn good Mexican food from Michoacan Grill in Odell. Definitely not nightshade free friendly or grain free but the chili verde or adobada tacos are my usual choice. If you can do potatoes, my husband highly recommends the German potatoes. Look for weekend specials and chat with Güntram and Sam!
Ground Espresso Bar & Cafe, Hood River, OR
A new find after biking the Historic Columbia River Gorge Trail, we were surprised by the yummy coffee and fresh baked gluten free options.
Farm Stand Natural Foods, Hood River, OR
Another great place to resupply or pick up portable salads or bone broth when I am being more strict or conscious around my paleo eating. They also stock a local kombucha and fermented foods from Blue Bus Cultured Foods and One Breath Beverage.
Ingrid’s Good Street Food & Paleo Grill, Vancouver, WA
The first time we went to try Ingrid’s, they were closed due to a kitchen failure! However, I made it there this summer and was able to sample some of their fare labeled for paleo. They were once a food truck but have been serving lunch in downtown Vancouver for about 7 years now.
Their menu was labeled with items that are paleo but make sure to ask if you have any questions. They had a gyro salad labeled paleo but I knew to ask if the meat had bread crumbs and she was quick to tell me it did and that was the one thing mislabeled. We enjoyed the bbq bulgogi and chicken salads, both coming on a bed of cabbage salad. The salad with the chicken was a coleslaw and we both agreed it more mild than we prefer. But the broccoli based salad with my bbq was more vinegary (flavorful). The bbq sauce is based on the sauce of another local food truck and the owners of both are friends. When Ingrid wanted to develop a paleo bbq sauce, the owner of the other truck helped them put it together. It is made fresh every other day!
Dick’s Primal Burger, Portland, OR
The brag about Dick’s is that they serve grass fed (and finished) beef burgers. The menu is set up to order in a variety of ways, not just a regular burger “sandwich” you have to ask to have modified. You can also “build a bowl” starting with a veggie base and adding toppers to your heart’s (and health’s) content. Their menu is well labeled for vegan, keto and gluten free options. A long standing Portland restaurant, give them a try.
*Bastion Eat Well (formerly Bastion PDX), Portland, OR
A newish restaurant on the eastside of Portland, Bastion PDX offers a 100% gluten-free, dairy-free, refined sugar-free, soy-free and corn-free menu and aims to accommodate a variety of diets and ways of eating. We stopped by for lunch and I had to try the chicken and waffle meal while Elizabeth tried a chicken sandwich. There way have also been some sides involved and a donut. They are in the process of opening another establishment nearby (Fallows Rest Wild) and I can’t wait to try their food too!
Back To Eden, Portland, OR
Aside from vegan and gluten free baked goodies, you can find some tasty salads.
Cosmic Bliss (once Coconut Bliss, once Luna & Larry’s), Portland, OR
If you are fan of this coconut based ice cream, you have to stop at their new location in the Pearl District of Portland, OR. The shop is set up to be a destination with a warm and cozy atmosphere! They also have dairy based concoctions.
*Kyra’s Bakery, Lake Oswego, OR
This has been a must stop for me when I am down in Oregon for a hike. Kyra’s Bakery has a wide selection of baked goods, a café menu with salads, soups and sandwiches and last time I was there they had started serving wine! Items are labeled for dairy, soy and egg free. There isn’t anything I haven’t loved from this dedicated gluten free establishment (Did I mention PRETZEL DOGS?). If the name is familiar, it is because Kyra is a winner of the Cupcake Wars which she did with a gluten free cupcake versus the regular stuff.
*Bierly Brewing, McMinnville, OR
If you are looking for a stop when driving back from the Oregon coast or Silver Falls State Park, this dedicated gluten free beer tasting room is worth a visit. They carry ciders from 12 Bridge Cider Works, also in Oregon. They don’t have a full menu but it continues to grow with sandwiches, soups and plenty of appetizers.
For hike suggestions near Portland and the Columbia River Gorge, check out my trip reports here.
Oregon Coast (HWY 101)
Pelican Pub and Brewing, Pacific City, OR
This is one of the finest views of the ocean while enjoying a salad or bunless burger!
Pacific Kitchen at Nye Beach, Newport, OR
Grass fed burgers, fresh seafood and yummy salads await you at Pacific Kitchen.
Rogue Ales, Newport, OR
I used to enjoy the one in Issaquah, now they are found only here in Oregon. If you are looking for a great cider with your meal, Rogue will set you up with a burger or salad too.
Eastern Oregon (SR 97, I-84)
Spork, Bend, OR
Loaded with vegan and gluten free options, this place has an Asian flair and lots of flavor. Be sure and try the Thai steak salad!
Broken Top Bottle Shop & Ale Cafe, Bend, OR
We ate here after a retreat at Sun River, joining friends of the hubs who live in Bend. Besides the obvious cold cases of almost anything you could find in a bottle, the menu was pretty good too (and labeled for gluten free options).
For hike suggestions in Oregon, check out my trip reports here.
And just for fun, I have added some places I can recommend from outside the Pacific Northwest area, you can look for this section to grow as my travels do!
Colorado (I-70, I-25, I-24)
*Just BE Kitchen, Denver, CO
This was one of our favorite finds in downtown Denver. You can read more about our 5 Hour layover here.
Adam’s Mountain Café, Manitou Springs, CO
If you need something hearty after ascending the Manitou Incline, Adam’s has some whole foods meals for you.
Tin Plate Pizza, Breckenridge, CO
The kiddo and I spent this last mid-winter break in Breckenridge and although we ate at the condo most of the week to save money, we did eat out a few times. Tin Plate had hearty salads and an amazing gluten free pizza crust and artisan pizza choices (I had the chicken, pancetta, and ranch).
Breckenridge Brewery and Pub, Breckenridge, CO
At Breckenridge Brewery and Pub I opted for a Brown Butter Trout dinner which was surprisingly moist and flavorful. Their menu is labeled for vegan and gluten free, as well.
California (SR 395, SR 190)
Panamint Springs Resort, CA
A trip to Death Valley and Joshua Tree had me stopping at Panamint Springs Resort for something cold to drink and I was surprised by how good their steak salad was for being so out in the middle of nowhere!
Nevada
Greens and Proteins, Las Vegas, NV
I mentioned in my January In Mojave Desert post that we enjoyed eating at Greens and Proteins while in Vegas, you can mix and match bowls and add-ons for the perfect meal.
United Kingdom
You can read more about the places I enjoyed eating in the UK here, like Frasier’s, Twice Brewed Inn, Byron’s, and *Niche.
I hope I didn’t forget anyone! What are your favorite dishes to order at these fine establishments? Do you have other favorite places you like to go to that I should check out?
Want to see all the suggestions from the Pacific Northwest Eating Guide (plus a few bonus gluten free spots) on the map?
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