What Foods is WA Known For?
When I moved to Washington State, I didn’t quite know what to expect in terms of local cuisine. But as I explored farmers’ markets and local eateries, I quickly discovered that WA is a hidden gem when it comes to food. The roster of unique foods is both extensive and intriguing, offering flavors that are tied deeply to the state’s geography and culture.
First, let’s talk about the famous Pacific Northwest Salmon. Now, I’ve had salmon from all over the world, but nothing beats the fresh, wild-caught salmon you can find here. Washington is among the top producers of sockeye and chinook salmon in the United States. In fact, according to the NOAA Fisheries, in 2019, Alaska and Washington combined contributed over 94% of the wild-caught salmon in the U.S. Just imagine savoring a perfectly grilled salmon steak, possibly caught that very morning. It's an experience that will undoubtedly keep your taste buds wanting more.
But there's more to Washington than just salmon. Have you ever heard of geoduck? Yes, it’s a funny-sounding word, and yes, people always seem puzzled when they see it on the menu. Geoduck is a type of clam native to the Pacific Northwest, known for its unique appearance and sweet, briny flavor. This quirky delicacy has gained popularity in recent years, even making its way to high-end restaurants outside of WA. Impress your friends at dinner parties with these fun facts: in 2019, geoduck sales reached a staggering $60 million, showcasing how this under-the-radar seafood item has become a lucrative catch.
Now, picture this: you are sitting at a quaint café, surrounded by locals discussing the most recent food trends, and then you spot Washington's wine culture taking center stage. The state is the second-largest wine producer in the U.S., behind California. According to the Washington State Wine Commission, in 2020, there were over 1,000 wineries and 14 AVAs (American Viticultural Areas) in Washington. This makes it a veritable paradise for wine lovers. The unique climate, with hot days and cool nights, allows grapes to flourish, creating wines you won’t find anywhere else.
Curious about what goes well with that gorgeous glass of Merlot? Look no further than the artisan cheeses produced throughout the state. Washington is also making strides in the cheese industry, with a range of local farms producing award-winning cheeses. A report from the Washington State Dairy Products Commission states that Washington ranks among the top 10 cheese-producing states in the U.S., and products like “Mt. Townsend Creamery’s Seastack” are excellent partners for your favorite red wine.
Moving along, we have apples. Washington is known as the Apple State for a reason. Reports indicate that the state produced over 6.5 billion pounds of apples in 2020, accounting for about 50% of all apples grown in the U.S. The iconic Red Delicious apple originated in Washington and is still a popular choice. If you ever venture up to Wenatchee—often called the "Apple Capital of the World"—you’ll quickly understand why these juicy, sweet fruits are so revered.
Let’s not forget about the classic and unique flavor of Rainier cherries. Named after Mount Rainier, these sweet, yellow cherries are an unforgettable summer treat. The state accounts for about 75% of the total Rainier cherries produced in the U.S. each year. You might be curious to know that in 2021, almost 207 million pounds of Rainier cherries were harvested, leading to delicious pies, preserves, and simply unforgettable snacking.
Lastly, we cannot overlook coffee. Seattle is often heralded as the coffee capital of the world, largely due to the rise of big brands like Starbucks. However, it’s the local coffee roasters that truly keep the caffeine culture thriving. According to a 2021 report, Washingtonians consume around 3.2 cups of coffee per person per day. From artisanal shops serving meticulously crafted brews to local roasters contributing to sustainable coffee farming, there's always something new brewing in Washington’s coffee scene.
In summary, Washington State offers a culinary landscape as captivating as its natural beauty. Whether it's the wild-caught salmon, the unusual geoduck, or the celebrated Washington wine, foodies are sure to discover something to satisfy their cravings. The mix of culture and geography gives rise to truly remarkable offerings that keep both locals and visitors coming back for more. Ready for a taste? Come and explore Washington’s food scene—you might just find your new favorite dish!
