While the Yakima Valley has become more well-known as a PNW beer and wine destination lately, it hasn’t exactly been known as a foodie’s paradise. However, in recent years, there have been a few new additions to the restaurant scene that have us reconsidering. In fact, all it takes is one meal at WaterFire to realize that Yakima’s dining scene is pretty great.
WaterFire is the kind of place that makes it impossible to decide on dinner… and that’s not a bad thing. Bring a group or a very hungry date with you, because you’re going to want to try everything on the menu.
You’ll find WaterFire at the corner of 40th Ave. and Washington Ave. in Yakima’s West Valley neighborhood.
Rachel Pohli / Google This place is the definition of a neighborhood gem. While it isn’t the first ownership to occupy this coveted space, it’s one with staying power.
When you step inside, you know you’re in for a treat.
X3M 2U / Google If the huge wall of wines from around the world (many from Washington, of course) doesn’t clue you in, the scents wafting from the kitchen will.
The goal here is (somewhat) simple: to deliver a Northwest culinary experience inspired by flavors from around the world. And since we have access to an abundance of delicious ingredients in Washington, that’s an achievable dream.
WaterFire Restaurant and Bar / Facebook Chef Derrin Davis, Executive Chef and General Manager, was raised in Yakima and studied at Johnson & Wales Culinary Arts in Providence Rhode Island.
You’ll always find plenty of classic American cuisine, like savory steaks and burgers, on the menu…
WaterFire Restaurant and Bar / Facebook
… but don’t be afraid to try something a little exotic.
Ty Walsh / Google The dinner menu rotates seasonally, but there are always plenty of international options. The Ahi Tuna Tower is a huge hit.
Thanks to all the seasonal seafood and produce found in the Pacific Northwest, you can dine here a dozen times and have a dozen different menus.
WaterFire Restaurant and Bar / Facebook The Dungeness crab-stuffed squash blossoms, heirloom tomatoes, fresh mozzarella and blistered cherry tomatoes over roasted garlic-tomato coulis with garlic crostini, balsamic glaze and mustard aioli was a huge hit this last summer. The fresh seafood here is out of this world.
But no matter when you visit, and no matter the occasion, one thing is certain: you’ll want to save room for dessert here.
Gerard / Google If you’re celebrating something when you visit, let your server know. You might just find a custom creation before you.
Ready to give the entire WaterFire menu a try?
X3M 2U / Google They’re open for lunch and dinner Tuesday - Sunday.
If you live in Central Washington, give WaterFire a try on your next night out. Make sure to let us know what you order!
Rachel Pohli / Google
This place is the definition of a neighborhood gem. While it isn’t the first ownership to occupy this coveted space, it’s one with staying power.
X3M 2U / Google
If the huge wall of wines from around the world (many from Washington, of course) doesn’t clue you in, the scents wafting from the kitchen will.
WaterFire Restaurant and Bar / Facebook
Chef Derrin Davis, Executive Chef and General Manager, was raised in Yakima and studied at Johnson & Wales Culinary Arts in Providence Rhode Island.
Ty Walsh / Google
The dinner menu rotates seasonally, but there are always plenty of international options. The Ahi Tuna Tower is a huge hit.
The Dungeness crab-stuffed squash blossoms, heirloom tomatoes, fresh mozzarella and blistered cherry tomatoes over roasted garlic-tomato coulis with garlic crostini, balsamic glaze and mustard aioli was a huge hit this last summer. The fresh seafood here is out of this world.
Gerard / Google
If you’re celebrating something when you visit, let your server know. You might just find a custom creation before you.
They’re open for lunch and dinner Tuesday - Sunday.
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Address: WaterFire Restaurant & Bar, 4000 Creekside Loop, Yakima, WA 98908, USA
