Best Places to Eat in Sammamish – From An Anti-Foodie

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If you ask most locals where to eat in Sammamish, the first thing you’ll hear is something like, “Well, you go to Issaquah or Redmond.” And it’s true—Sammamish isn’t exactly a culinary destination. There are no celebrity chefs here, no trendy tasting menus, no award-winning food trucks. But that doesn’t mean there’s nowhere good to eat.

What Sammamish does have is a small but growing food scene built on comfort, consistency, and neighborhood charm. The kind of places where the owners know their regulars, the specials rotate based on what’s fresh, and the food doesn’t need to be overhyped to be worth your time.

Whether you’re new to town, passing through, or just looking for something besides takeout Thai again (though we’ll cover that too), here’s a guide to the best places to eat in Sammamish—based on real experiences, not just Yelp scores.

Sammamish Café & Spirits

This is probably Sammamish’s most iconic local restaurant. It’s a diner-style spot with an old-school feel, and it’s been the community’s go-to breakfast place for years. Chicken fried steak, omelets the size of your head, and bottomless coffee. It also doubles as a laid-back bar later in the day, with friendly staff and a cozy vibe. On weekends, expect a bit of a wait—but you’ll rarely leave disappointed.

Tanoor

Authentic Lebanese food served in a polished, modern space. Their hummus, falafel, and lamb dishes are legit, but what makes Tanoor stand out is how much pride they take in presentation and hospitality. It’s a great place for a relaxed dinner that still feels like an occasion. The outdoor seating in summer is a bonus.

Pine Lake Ale House

Equal parts sports bar and neighborhood grill, Pine Lake Ale House has been a staple for years. It’s not fancy, but it hits the spot—especially if you’re in the mood for fish and chips, a hearty burger, or a steak burrito. The beer selection rotates, the TVs are always playing a game, and the service is solid. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like a regular even if it’s your first time.

MOD Pizza

Yes, it’s a chain. But it’s also one of the few spots in town that’s quick, kid-friendly, and totally customizable. It’s hard to argue with a pizza place that lets you pile on as many toppings as you want for the same price. Bonus: the staff at the Sammamish location are usually upbeat and speedy, even when it’s slammed.

La Casita Cocina Mexicana

Tucked into a little strip mall, this spot delivers some of the best Mexican food on the Plateau. It’s bright, colorful, and welcoming, with a full cantina menu and generous portions. The enchiladas and carnitas are standouts, and their margaritas are worth coming back for.

Thai Trio

This place opened quietly but has quickly gained a following among locals. The flavors are bold, the curries are rich, and the spice level actually means something if you ask for it hot. Great for takeout, but the dine-in space is clean and modern if you want to stay awhile. Their pad see ew and green curry are safe bets.

Issaquah & Redmond Spillover

It’s true—some of the best meals you’ll eat while living in Sammamish will technically happen outside of it. Downtown Issaquah is just down the hill and offers everything from sushi to upscale Italian. Redmond has fast-casual Indian, Korean barbecue, and excellent ramen. But when you don’t want to drive far, Sammamish has more options than it gets credit for.

A Few Extras Worth Mentioning

  • Kid-Friendly Picks: Sammamish Café, MOD Pizza, and Tanoor are all places where the menu works for picky eaters and the staff don’t mind a little table chaos.
  • Outdoor Seating: Pine Lake Ale House and Tanoor both have decent patios when the weather cooperates.
  • Date Night: Tanoor if you want something cozy and elegant, or Pine Lake Ale House if you want low-key and fun.

Final Thoughts

Sammamish might never make a list of foodie capitals, but maybe that’s part of the appeal. Eating here isn’t about chasing clout or reservations made six weeks in advance. It’s about reliable, no-drama meals with the people you like best. And if you find a favorite dish somewhere on this list, don’t be surprised if it becomes part of your own weekly rhythm.