The Irresistible Charm of Walla Walla
The place so nice they named it twice.
If you’re a fan of Washington Grown, then you know that for 12 years, we’ve been all about one thing: highlighting the extraordinary farm–to–table dining experiences found in Washington and the wonderful people that make it happen. As a state, we are blessed with an incredible agricultural bounty, and our creative citizens have founded some of the best restaurants in the country. When you combine great local ingredients with creative and passionate chefs, what you get is millions of great meals served at thousands of great restaurants, and it’s all Washington Grown.
The farms and restaurants we love are scattered all over the state, in every small town and big city. But if you really want to get a concentrated dose of the Washington Grown experience, you need to make plans to visit Walla Walla in the southeastern corner of the state.
Walla Walla is a hidden gem full of small–town charm and offering an array of delights for visitors and residents alike. Known for its world–class wineries, vibrant culinary scene, rich agricultural heritage, and stunning natural surroundings, this small town has managed to maintain its quaint appeal while drawing in adventurers, foodies, and wine enthusiasts from all over the world. In short, your experience in Walla Walla will be quintessentially Washington Grown. The Washington Grown team has been enchanted each time we’ve visited Walla Walla, and we wanted to share some of the highlights that we’ve experienced over the years.
The story of Walla Walla begins with agriculture. The fertile soils of the Walla Walla Valley have supported farming for centuries, with early settlers cultivating wheat and onions, including the famous Walla Walla Sweet Onion. Today, the town continues to embrace its agricultural heritage with thriving farms, orchards, and vineyards that produce some of the finest crops in the Pacific Northwest.
With warm summers, cool evenings, and an average of over 200 sunny days per year, Walla Walla offers the perfect conditions for growing a variety of crops, particularly wine grapes. This ideal climate, combined with the valley's unique terroir, has helped put Walla Walla on the map as a premier wine destination. The region is home to over 120 wineries and more than 2,800 acres of vineyards, producing a diverse range of award–winning wines. From bold Cabernet Sauvignons to elegant Syrahs and crisp Rieslings, Walla Walla offers something to please every palate.
Many of the wineries are family–owned and -operated, creating an intimate and welcoming atmosphere for visitors. Wine tasting in Walla Walla is more than just sipping and swirling; it’s an opportunity to learn about the winemaking process, meet the passionate individuals behind the labels, and experience the unique character of each vineyard. Even if you don’t know much (or anything) about wine, spending a weekend wandering around the Walla Walla Valley will give you a great education.
Some of the must–visit wineries in the area include L’Ecole No. 41, a historic schoolhouse–turned–winery; Pepper Bridge Winery, known for its sustainable practices and panoramic views; and Echolands Winery, celebrated for its biodynamic farming and distinctive wines. These and many others have gorgeous tasting rooms right at their vineyards, so plan to drive around and try a few (with a designated driver, of course).
Complementing its wine scene, Walla Walla boasts a culinary landscape that rivals those of much larger cities. Compared with other small towns, Walla Walla is practically packed with farm–to–table restaurants, cozy cafés, and gourmet eateries that showcase the region’s bounty. Local chefs take pride in sourcing ingredients from nearby farms, ensuring that every dish is as fresh and flavorful as possible.
For fine dining, TMACS offers a welcoming, homey environment that belies the fantastic quality of the food. The Marc Restaurant, in the Marcus Whitman Hotel, offers a menu that highlights Pacific Northwest flavors with a creative twist. Or just down the street, Saffron Mediterranean Kitchen serves up delectable dishes inspired by Mediterranean cuisine. For breakfast, don’t miss the giant skillets at the Maple Counter Cafe or the incredible kouign-amann (a flaky, caramelized pastry) at Colville Street Patisserie.
Food festivals and farmers markets are also integral to Walla Walla’s charm. The annual Feast Walla Walla event brings together local chefs, wineries, and breweries for a celebration of the region’s culinary treasures. Meanwhile, the Walla Walla Farmers Market offers a chance to sample fresh produce, artisanal goods, and handmade crafts in a lively, community–oriented setting every Saturday in summer and fall.
One of Walla Walla’s most endearing qualities is its sense of community. The town’s residents are known for their friendliness and hospitality, making visitors feel right at home. Community events and festivals are a regular occurrence, bringing people together to celebrate everything from music and art to food and wine.
Walla Walla may be a small town, but it offers big experiences. Whether you’re savoring a glass of wine at a vineyard, indulging in a farm–to–table feast, or exploring the great outdoors, Walla Walla has a way of capturing hearts and creating lasting memories. A visit to Walla Walla isn’t just a trip; it’s an invitation to experience the best of what it means to be Washington Grown.
