What to Know About Savor the San Juans (2024)
Known as the gourmet archipelago, the San Juan Islands are home to some of the region’s best farm-to-table chefs. Thanks to their remote location, locally sourced ingredients aren’t just a nicety — they’re a necessity. The dining scene is laid back chic, with joints that would welcome you in heels as quickly as they would jeans. And the ambiance? It’s filled with rustic charm and stunning vistas.
This is the kind of foodie destination that calls for lingering. During Savor the San Juans, inquisitive diners can get a behind the scenes look at the islands’ farms, meet chefs, and partake in seasonal events.
15 Reasons to Go Indulge In Savor the San Juans
Can’t Miss Events & Dinners
As the summer season slows down, the islands seem to breathe a sigh of relief. Chefs can flex their creative genius a bit more. Farmers have time to welcome guests. And some of the regions best events take place. It’s a beautiful time to visit the islands.
* Harvest Dinner at the Madrone Winery — September 8 — San Juan
Gather under 100-year-old heritage apple trees to enjoy dinner by Salmonberry Catering, paired with wines by Madrone. The locally-sourced, seasonally-focused menu will be served with Madrone’s newest releases. Following dinner, you will be invited to a tour of the Madrone winery with owners Shaun and Amy Salamida — including a sample from one of the vintages aging in barrel.
* Portside Patio Snacks & Sips — Now through September 9 — San Juan
Friday Harbor House provides it all—stunning views, inviting ambiance, and an elegant place to rest for the night. The restaurant at Friday Harbor House offers a sumptuous dining experience with a seasonal menu featuring locally-sourced gems like crab and halibut cakes, wild mushroom risotto, and an island lamb burger made with lamb from Stillwater Ranch. On pleasant evenings, request a seat on the patio, where the warmth of outdoor firepits and the soft glow of bistro lights create a magical atmosphere.
* San Juan Island Farm Tours — September 27-29 — San Juan
San Juan Island Farm Tours offer a captivating glimpse into the island’s agricultural life, allowing visitors to explore a variety of local farms that highlight the region’s dedication to sustainable farming. Participants can visit diverse farms, from organic vegetable plots to artisan dairies, where they can meet the farmers, see sustainable practices in action, and sample fresh produce directly from the source. The tours provide an educational and immersive experience, giving insight into the island’s agricultural heritage and the strong community spirit that supports local food production.
* San Juan Oktoberfest — September 28 — San Juan
The 6th Annual Oktoberfest at San Juan Island Brewing Co. is a lively affair featuring beer specials, a German menu, and live music all day. Kid-friendly activities range from face painting and crafts to special treats! Plus, the stein holding contest is always a hoot!
* Orcas Island Farm Tours — October 4-6 — Orcas
Explore the rich agricultural heritage of Orcas Island during the Orcas Island Farm Tour. The center for the Washington fruit packing industry in the early 20th century, strawberry crops were particularly prevalent. During the self-guided tour, you can still see many of the orchards and old barns. Be sure to visit the restored strawberry packing plant in Olga, which now serves as an artist co-op known as Orcas Island Artworks.
* Lopez Island Farm Tours — October 11-13 — Lopez
During the Lopez Island Farm Tour, visitors can experience a range of farm environments, from organic vegetable gardens to small-scale livestock operations, all while learning about the techniques and philosophies that drive local food production. The tours often include opportunities to taste fresh, seasonal produce and artisan products, providing a true farm-to-table experience.
* Hops on the Rocks — November 9 — Orcas
More than 20 breweries, cideries, wineries come together on Orcas for one of the island’s top events — Hops on the Rocks. A host of food will from local vendors will also be available and live music will be performed throughout the day!
“Island Grown” Cuisine
Rich with sunlight and temperate weather, the San Juan Islands fertile farmlands generate some of the best produce, well-cared farm livestock, and artisan products. With its proximity to the Salish Sea seafood here is fresh, often caught that day.
All restaurants participating “Island Grown” restaurants certify that at least 10% of their ingredients are sourced within San Juan County. The result is a locally sourced meal that showcases the bounty of the season.
* Coho — San Juan
Coho Restaurant in Friday Harbor, a beloved island staple, is known for its commitment to farm-to-table cuisine. Located in a charming historic Craftsman House, just a few blocks from the seaplane terminal at Friday Harbor Marina, this cozy dining spot is perfect for an intimate date night. The house-made pastas are a standout, as is the halibut. But if you’re looking for salmon, you won’t find it on the menu. In a nod to sustainability, Coho has stopped serving salmon to help protect the Southern Resident orca whales, who rely on this vital fish for their survival.
* Doe Bay — Orcas
Doe Bay’s seed-to-table cuisine begins on-site with the kitchen’s own garden and deep commitment to locally-sourced, sustainable ingredients. With such a local focus, the menu changes weekly based on availability. Dinner reservations are required, as is breakfast for parties of 6 or more.
* Ursa Minor — Lopez
Lopez may be fondly dubbed Slowpez, but don’t let the pace fool you. It’s home of one of the best restaurants in the San Juans — Ursa Minor. It’s been praised by The New York Times for a menu that not only “relies heavily on the bounty of the island — but also on nontraditional ingredients.” Additionally, Chef Nick Coffey’s cookery has earned him a Jame Beard Award nomination. The menu changes daily based on what’s available, but keep an eye out for anything pickled — as these are particularly delightful.
* Duck Soup — San Juan
Nestled in a charmingly converted woodshop, the menu at Duck Soup strikes a perfect balance between refinement and approachability. The restaurant takes pride in sourcing ingredients locally from producers like Westcott Bay Oyster Company and Mama Bird Farm. While every dish is tempting (as are their craft cocktails), the freshly baked sourdough is a must-try. This starter has a rich history, having been nurtured and passed down from chef to chef over the years, giving it a complex and unique flavor.
* Market Chef — San Juan
Reminiscent of Grandma’s kitchen, The Market Chef Deli operates like a community hub. It features cafeteria-style tables and a hearty line-up of sandwiches, pre-made salads, and fresh baked cookies. The only catch is, they’re not open on the weekends. So you’ll need to plan a visit Monday through Friday to score a visit.
* Orcas Island Food Co-op — Orcas
This community-owned co-op focuses on selling locally-produced goods. From produce and gut-friendly ice cream to all-natural beauty goods and locally baked bread, the Orcas Island Food Co-op provides a full array of the necessities.
* Paellas San Juan — San Juan
This San Juan based catering company is known for its high-quality, locally-sourced Mediterranean Cuisine. Paellas San Juan offers a wide array of catering services and classes, along with pop-ups often found on locations throughout San Juan Island. Keep an eye out for some exciting menus during Savor the San Juans.
* Roche Harbor Restaurants — San Juan
The historic seaside village setting at Roche Harbor Resort is a dreamy, photo-worthy backdrop for any outing, especially grabbing a bite. The resort offers a variety of dining options, ranging from the island’s most formal dinner at McMillin’s Dining Room to the ultra-casual and family-friendly fare at Madrona Bar & Grill. Not to be overlooked is Lime Kiln Cafe, a classic diner-style restaurant with donuts that can’t be missed.
