Introduction
Yelm, Washington, often affectionately referred to as the “Prairie City,” offers more than just breathtaking scenic views and a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s a rising star in the South Sound’s culinary scene, quietly boasting a surprisingly diverse and delightful range of dining experiences. Located a short drive from Olympia, Yelm presents a welcoming alternative to crowded urban eateries, providing a relaxed atmosphere and a chance to savor fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Forget the generic chain restaurants; Yelm embraces individuality and supports its vibrant community of chefs and restaurateurs.
Are you searching for delicious food near Olympia? Perhaps you’re planning a weekend getaway and want to discover the best places to eat. Or maybe you’re a local resident eager to explore the culinary gems right in your backyard. Whatever your reason, this guide will be your compass, leading you through the tempting tapestry of flavors that Yelm has to offer. From hearty breakfasts that kickstart your day to elegant dinners that linger in your memory, Yelm is a food lover’s paradise waiting to be explored.
This guide explores the diverse and delicious food options Yelm has to offer, from casual eateries perfect for a quick bite to more upscale dining experiences ideal for special occasions. So, buckle up and prepare your taste buds for an adventure! We’re about to embark on a culinary journey through the heart of Yelm, Washington.
Start Your Day Right: Breakfast and Brunch in Yelm
There’s no better way to begin your day than with a satisfying breakfast or brunch, and Yelm offers several fantastic spots to fuel your morning adventures.
First up is Prairie Perks Coffee House. This cozy and inviting coffee shop is more than just a place to grab a caffeine fix; it’s a community hub where locals gather to catch up and enjoy delicious breakfast fare. Located right on Yelm Avenue East, Prairie Perks offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, complete with comfortable seating and friendly service. Expect a classic American breakfast menu with a few creative twists.
Must-try dishes include their signature breakfast burrito, packed with eggs, cheese, sausage, and your choice of toppings, and their fluffy pancakes, served with a generous dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries. Their coffee selection is extensive, ranging from classic drip coffee to expertly crafted lattes and cappuccinos. Prairie Perks is budget friendly, making it a great option for a quick and affordable breakfast.
Another local favorite is the Yelm Farm Winery. While primarily known for their wines, they also offer a delightful brunch menu on weekends. The atmosphere is relaxed and sophisticated, with beautiful vineyard views adding to the experience. The menu focuses on farm-to-table cuisine, utilizing fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced directly from local farms. This ensures both quality and supports the surrounding agricultural community.
Consider trying their quiche made with local eggs and vegetables, paired with a glass of their crisp white wine. Their pastries, baked fresh daily, are also a delightful treat. The Yelm Farm Winery is a mid-range priced option, perfect for a leisurely brunch with friends or family. Check their website for specific brunch hours and availability.
Lastly, don’t miss the chance to visit Stewart’s Meats. Now, it’s primarily a butcher shop offering high-quality meats, Stewart’s also offers breakfast sandwiches and other breakfast items to go. The atmosphere is casual and unpretentious, focusing on quality ingredients and friendly service. Stewart’s is located just off of Highway and is a great place to stop for a quick and satisfying bite.
Consider ordering a breakfast sandwich. This sandwich is made with eggs, cheese, and your choice of meat. Stewart’s Meats is another budget-friendly option, perfect for a quick and tasty breakfast on the go.
Lunchtime Delights: Casual Eats in Yelm
When lunchtime rolls around, Yelm provides a variety of casual dining options to satisfy your cravings.
One popular spot is the famous Pizzeria La Gitana. This family-owned pizzeria serves up delicious, wood-fired pizzas with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, with a cozy dining room and a friendly staff. Located in the heart of Yelm, Pizzeria La Gitana is a local favorite for its authentic Italian flavors and generous portions.
Their must-try pizza is the “La Gitana Special,” featuring a combination of pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and green peppers. They also offer a variety of salads, sandwiches, and pasta dishes. Pizzeria La Gitana falls into the mid-range price category, offering a great value for its delicious food.
For those craving Mexican food, head over to Casa Mia Mexican Restaurant. This vibrant and festive restaurant serves up authentic Mexican cuisine with a focus on traditional recipes and fresh ingredients. The atmosphere is lively and colorful, with traditional décor and friendly service. Located on Yelm Avenue East, Casa Mia is a popular spot for both lunch and dinner.
Consider ordering their fajitas, sizzling with flavorful vegetables and your choice of chicken, steak, or shrimp. Their enchiladas, burritos, and tacos are also delicious options. Casa Mia is reasonably priced, making it a great choice for a casual and satisfying lunch.
Another option is the Hometown Burger. For classic American comfort food head over to this spot and order a burger and fries. They also offer milkshakes and other dessert items.
Dinner is Served: Upscale and Relaxing Dining Experiences
As evening approaches, Yelm transforms into a place for more refined dining experiences. While Yelm might not be known for Michelin-starred restaurants, it does offer several establishments where you can enjoy a delicious meal in a relaxed and elegant setting.
Consider dinner at the aforementioned Yelm Farm Winery. In the evening, this location transforms into a classy restaurant that includes wine pairings with your meal.
Another great place to grab a meal is at Triple Play Sports Bar and Grill. While the establishment is primarily a sports bar, the food options are delicious. They offer a wide selection of American cuisine options. The environment is casual, with screens to watch your favorite sporting events.
Another option for dinner could be heading back to Stewart’s Meats. They offer a variety of steaks and other meats for dinner options.
A Taste of the World: International Flavors in Yelm
Yelm’s culinary scene is enriched by a variety of international flavors, offering a global dining experience right in the heart of the Prairie City.
As mentioned previously, Casa Mia Mexican Restaurant provides a warm and welcoming taste of Mexico. It’s a great place to grab a meal if you are looking for a good place for lunch or dinner.
Another place to visit would be Little Creek Casino Resort which is located just a short drive from Yelm. There are a multitude of options for dining at Little Creek Casino.
Classic Bites
Sometimes all you need is a pizza or burger. Yelm offers these classic bites at a variety of places. As mentioned before, Pizzeria La Gitana offers delicious wood-fired pizzas. And Hometown Burgers offer classic American Burgers.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth: Desserts and Coffee in Yelm
No culinary journey is complete without indulging in sweet treats and enjoying a comforting cup of coffee. Yelm offers several delightful spots to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Again, a great spot to visit is Prairie Perks Coffee House. This establishment offers coffee and baked goods that would be great to stop in for.
Stewart’s Meats also offers bakery and desert items.
Farm-to-Table and Local Fare: Supporting Yelm’s Food Scene
Yelm is surrounded by fertile farmland, and many local restaurants prioritize sourcing ingredients from nearby farms and producers, supporting the local economy and offering guests a taste of fresh, seasonal flavors.
Again, Yelm Farm Winery focuses on local, seasonal cuisine to offer the freshest tasting food possible.
Additionally, Yelm hosts a seasonal farmers market where you can purchase produce from local farmers. Visit their website for the hours and location of the farmers market.
Conclusion
From hearty breakfasts to elegant dinners, from wood-fired pizzas to authentic Mexican cuisine, Yelm’s culinary scene is a vibrant and diverse tapestry of flavors waiting to be explored. This charming Prairie City offers a surprising array of dining experiences, showcasing the talent and passion of local chefs and restaurateurs.
So, the next time you’re near Olympia, take a trip to Yelm and discover the delicious food scene this charming town has to offer. Venture beyond the well-trodden tourist paths and uncover the hidden culinary gems that Yelm has to offer. Support the local businesses and savor the fresh, locally-sourced ingredients that make Yelm’s food scene so special.
From comforting classics to international delights, Yelm is a food lover’s destination waiting to be explored, a place where you can enjoy a delicious meal, connect with the community, and create lasting memories. Come hungry and leave happy – that’s the Yelm guarantee!
