5 Best Local Favorite Restaurants in Kirkland, Washington to Try

Kirkland blends lakeside beauty with an upscale, Pacific Northwest palate—fresh seafood, local produce, craft coffee, and cozy spots perfect for misty mornings or golden-hour sunsets on Lake Washington.

Cactus Kirkland

A buzzy, modern Southwestern spot right by the water, Cactus delivers bright flavors and a lively atmosphere.

Start with the tableside guacamole and queso fundido, then move to red chile chicken enchiladas or the butternut squash enchiladas if you’re going veggie.

Margaritas are a highlight—classic, spicy, or seasonal fruit riffs—and the weekend brunch draws a crowd.

DERU Market

Part café, part bakery, part market, DERU is beloved for wood-fired pizzas, vibrant salads, and over-the-top cakes by the slice. Ingredients skew local and seasonal, and everything tastes fresh and thoughtfully composed.

The prosciutto arugula pizza and the kale Caesar are standouts, and the chocolate cake slice is Instagram-famous for a reason.

Volterra

A Kirkland classic, Volterra brings Tuscan warmth to the Eastside with handmade pastas, truffle accents, and well-executed meats.

The wild boar pasta and grilled steaks are favorites, and the antipasti lineup—think burrata, roasted peppers, and cured meats—makes it easy to linger over a bottle of Italian wine.

Service is polished without pretense.

Anthony’s HomePort Kirkland

Set right on the marina, Anthony’s is all about fresh, regional seafood with postcard-worthy views.

Start with Dungeness crab, oysters, or clam chowder, then dive into alder-planked salmon or halibut when in season.

Sunset dinners feel special here, and the consistency keeps locals loyal for anniversaries and visiting guests.

The Slip

A laid-back lakeside burger shack with serious following.

Burgers come stacked with creative toppings—think blue cheese and bacon, green chiles, or teriyaki pineapple—on toasted buns with a perfect sear on the patty.

Hand-cut fries and milkshakes seal the deal. Snag a patio seat on sunny days and watch the lake life roll by.