5 Best Restaurants in Ellensburg, Washington Wine Country

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We've compiled the best of the best in Ellensburg - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.

The Early Bird

$ Fodor's Choice

From students recovering after a night of partying to hikers fueling up before hitting the trail, this cozy downtown café with big windows and an expansive side patio serves brunch daily—with cocktails, if you wish. Specialties include breakfast poutine with sausage gravy and salsa verde, banana–and–macadamia nut waffles, and avocado toast on sourdough with eggs, cotija cheese, and cherry tomatoes.

Cornerstone Pie

$

Set near the CWU campus and decorated with repurposed, reclaimed, and historical artifacts, this casual hangout with a great porch revolves around one central fixture, a wood-fire pizza oven. Out of that oven come pies and grinders with a focus on regional and seasonal ingredients—the salmon-caper and Thai chicken pizzas are among the favorites.

307 E. 5th Ave., Ellensburg, 98926, USA
509-933–3600
Known For
  • Pacific Northwest craft beer on tap
  • Bacon maple bars for dessert
  • Nice selection of wines

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Red Horse Diner

$

Step back in time to a 1930s-era service station that's been converted into a diner, serving up classic greasy-spoon fare, like steak and eggs, biscuits and gravy, charbroiled chicken sandwiches, banana splits, and the like. While you await your grub, check out the hundreds of vintage metal gas station signs and advertisements.

Recommended Fodor's Video

Iron Horse Brewery Pub

$
At this casual, hip pub you can have A Date with Kevin Bacon–-bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with blue cheese and almonds–-or some spent-grain beer bread. Then try a kale-and-spinach Caesar salad, bratwurst, or Korean short ribs with spicy kimchi. Wash it all down with the famous Quilter's Irish Death dark ale or Iron Horse IPA. The beer is made in a production facility across town, but this fun spot offers a good selection.

The Tav

$
This no-frills watering hole is a longtime favorite with locals and CWU students alike for its budget burgers and fries, nachos, and deep-fried mozzarella sticks, and the best jukebox in town. Previous diners have left their mark, carving their names into the wooden tables and brick walls. Sit in the courtyard when the weather's nice or enjoy a game of pool.
117 W. 4th Ave., Ellensburg, 98926, USA
509-925–3939
Known For
  • Super Mother and other burgers
  • Deep-fried appetizers
  • Popular dive bar that won't break the bank

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