Taking A Deep Dive Into Whidbey Island’s Best Seafood Finds

This wildly popular getaway near Seattle offers a wealth of outstanding fish dishes. Here are a few standouts that reflect the character of this charming place.

Mussels are a mainstay at most Whidbey Island restaurants, sourced locally from the rightly famous Penn Cove Shellfish, but nobody does them quite like this often-mobbed spot in charming Coupeville. They’re offered in the traditional wine-and-herb simmered style, but adventurous eaters should make a beeline for those bathed in the blood orange cider broth. The plump bivalves share the stage with generous chunks of andouille for the best kind of surf and turf. Do yourself a favor and order extra garlic bread for sopping up that seductive sauce.

This welcoming spot on Langely’s main drag is a seafood enthusiast’s dream, starting with the discounted oysters on happy hour right down into the intriguing entrees and rotating specials such as Pacific Northwest cioppino. Those beautifully shucked bivalves from various West Coast producers are served alongside freshly shaved horseradish and a perfectly balanced mignonette. That sublime starter should set you up nicely for an order of the exceptional crab cakes. Those golden gems are flapjack thin and crispy, packed with sweet chunks of Dungeness. A wonderful verde sauce on the side lifts the dish to next level status.

A mainstay that’s open daily makes its namesake product the old school way, boiled and baked. Its wide assortment of flavors sets it apart from most bagel places, though. More than 25 options are offered including a bahn mi bagel. Craving the most beloved bagel sandwich? Go for the sublime lox and cream cheese on a salt and pepper bagel, the red onion sliced impossibly thin and those capers completing this portrait of yumminess.

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An iconic destination that’s been drawing crowds for decades, this inn’s restaurant enjoys a spectacular view of Penn Cove. Start with an order of the steamed shellfish from those waters before moving on to the fantastic fish and chips. Thick fillets are coated in a batter spiked with Penn Cove Brewing beer and deep fried until crispy. Served alongside a generous pile of fries and a dill and caper remoulade, this preparation checks all the boxes when you’re in the mood for that classic combo.

Recently reopened by new owners, this haute spot in Coupeville has a compelling menu that might tempt some to order one of everything. There is a five-course chef’s menu option for those hoping to get the fullest experience. Consider yourself fortunate if you dine while the summer salmon runs are on, as the kitchen cooks this fatty fish expertly. Seared and served skin side up, a piece of King salmon had that buttery quality that makes this fish so special. Especially when it’s fresh. Before the main course, an order of baked oysters is essential.

If you go…

Many make the day trip from Seattle, catching the Washington state ferry at Mukilteo, but if you’re looking to stay for a day or two, there are some accommodations that are extra special.

Treehouse Whidbey is a work of art built in a stand of Douglas Fir. Yes, the structure sways when it’s windy and, OK, the shower’s a short walk away. Still, this gorgeous structure feels like the best kind of home away from home.

Same goes for the luxe suites at the newly updated Salty Von’s Waterfront Inn located on the main street in Coupeville. Perched on the deck for a dramatic sunset or making a meal in the dreamy kitchen, it’s tempting to settle in and never leave this lovely spot. If you’re dining at The Oystercatcher or Gordon’s Fusion, you don’t have to venture far. They’re just a five minute walk from this sweet spot.

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