October 21, 2024 | dining

Exploring Tukwila Eats!

Tukwila is one of the most diverse cities in Washington, home to a vibrant mix of cultures, languages, and traditions. As a hub for refugees and immigrants, this diversity is beautifully reflected in the city’s food scene, where you’ll find flavors from all around the globe. 

In this blog, we’ll take you on a culinary tour through some of Tukwila’s favorite spots, from Asian cuisine to American classics, East African dishes, and Mexican eats. And while this list highlights some must-try places, it’s only scratching the surface. For even more delicious options, be sure to check out our website’s dining page!

 

Papa Banh Bao

Established in Tukwila in 2019, Papa Banh Bao brings authentic Saigon-style flavors to the fast food scene. Pillowy soft steamed buns offer a quick, delicious handheld meal. There are seven savory stuffings to choose from, with meat and vegetarian options. Stop in for a quick meal on the go or buy in bulk and stock the freezer with ready-made meals. 

  • Hours: M-Sa: 10am – 7pm, Su: 12pm – 6pm 
  • Signature: Combo Bao, Salted Egg Bao
  • Also Try: Char Siu Bao, Mushroom Bao
  • Address: 904 Industry Drive

Gen Korean BBQ

Just having opened in March of this year, Gen Korean BBQ offers a hands-on dining experience where guests can grill their selections. It is known for its sleek ambiance, premium meats and seafood, and innovative cocktails. Gen Korean BBQ is part of a new dining district in Westfield Southcenter — Restaurant Row — which features grand openings of highly-anticipated spots like the first-to-market Mr. Dim Sum, and the Japan-founded Marguame Udon.  

  • Hours: M-Th 11am – 10:30pm; F-Su: 11am – 11pm
  • Signature Menu Items: Marinated Short Rib Steak, Wagyu Ribeye
  • Also Try: Kimchi Fried Rice, Hawaiian Bacon 
  • Address: 974 Southcenter Mall

Arashi Ramen

Since first opening in Tukwila in 2014, Arashi Ramen has become the “it” spot for ramen in South Seattle. Their menu offers nine different ramen options that are served in a rich, pork broth (tonkotsu), as well as a vegetarian option. Customize with your choice of over 15 toppings and enjoy sides of honey garlic karaage, takoyaki, or gyoza. The setting is small and cozy, perfect for a comforting bowl of ramen.

  • Hours: Tu – Sun 11:30am – 9:30pm
  • Signature Menu Items: Arashi Ramen, Miso Tonkotsu, Black Garlic Ramen
  • Also Try: Spicy Tan Tan with Eggs, Honey Garlic Karaage Chicken
  • Address: 17045 Southcenter Pkwy

 

Jony’s Breakfast & Lunch

Craving classic American diner food? This is the spot! It’s a hole-in-the-wall diner offering burgers, sandwiches, omelets, pancakes, and more. The reviews of this place speak for themselves. Jony’s serves up one of the best breakfasts around. Stop in and experience it for yourself. 

  • Hours: Tu – Sat: 6am – 2:30pm, Su: 7am – 2:30pm
  • Signature Dish: Carne Asada Omelet, Chilaquiles
  • Also try: Chicken and waffles, Corned Beef Hash, Cinnamon Roll French Toast
  • Address: 656 Strander Blvd

Rendition

Rendition is located inside Hotel Interurban, offering an upscale yet welcoming urban hangout in the heart of Southcenter. Rendition features classic American cuisine that highlights the Pacific Northwest. Also check out Urban Roast Coffee right around the corner for a morning pick-me-up or afternoon treat. 

  • Hours: Every day 7-10am, 4-10pm
  • Signature Dish: Fish & Chips, the Urban Burger
  • Also try: Shrimp Tacos, Flat Iron Steak
  • Address: 223 Andover Park E

Billy Baroo’s Bar & Grill

Billy Baroo’s Smokehouse & Bar opened inside Foster Golf Links in 2009. Featuring an in-house custom wood smoker, housemade BBQ sauces, and a rotating tap of 20 local beers; it’s the perfect place to catch a big game, relax after a round of golf, or hang out for a weekend brunch. With a large open patio, it’s an extra treat on a nice sunny day. 

  • Hours: M-F: 11am – 9pm; Sat: 9am – 9pm; Sun: 9am -7pm
  • Signature Dish: Brisket Dinner, Baby Back Ribs
  • Also try: Bourbon Salmon, Reuben Sandwich, Loaded Potatoes 
  • Address: 13500 Interurban Ave South

 

Halwo Kismayo Grill

This celebration of traditional Somalian cuisine first opened its doors in Tukwila in 2011 and has become a local favorite ever since. Open daily at 5am, this is a go-to spot for an early morning breakfast or quick hot chai latte. In addition to their traditional Somalian menu, they’re also serving up classic American eats, like burgers and cheesesteaks — wonderfully cravable late-night eats.  

  • Hours: Every day 5am – 11pm
  • Signature Dish: Beef Katakata
  • Also Try: Philly Cheesesteak, Lamb Gyro, Chai Latte
  • Address: 14822 Tukwila International Boulevard

Juba Café & Restaurant

With a focus on flavorful meats and traditional East African cuisine, Juba Restaurant & Cafe provides a welcoming, rich dining experience. Opening in 2011, it has cultivated a loyal following, known for its large portions and reasonable prices, perfect for groups, family-style meals, and catering.   

  • Hours: Every day 8am – 10pm
  • Signature Dish: Chicken Suqaar, Lamb Shank
  • Also Try: Ethiopian Injera, Chapati
  • Address: 14223 Tukwila International Boulevard

Dubai Cafeteria & Espresso

At Dubai Cafe & Espresso, stop in first thing for a warm morning coffee and hit it on the way home for an affordable takeout dinner for the whole family. Modest and unassuming from the street, this place serves up big portions and flavor at affordable prices. Also known for its warm and friendly staff, it’s a must-visit for authentic East African cuisine in South Seattle. 

  • Hours: Every day 6am – 11pm 
  • Signature Dish: Spaghetti with Lamb, Chicken Suqaar
  • Also Try: Mango Smoothie, Beef KK and Chapati
  • Address: 14857 Tukwila International Boulevard

 

Birrieria Grumpy’s

Birria, a Mexican dish of stewed meat, is insanely intense, complex, and delicious. Birrieria Grumpy’s is a master of it and is serving it up in all kinds of ways, injecting birria goodness into nachos, fries, tacos, burritos, quesadillas, salads, baked potatoes, and even ramen. 

  • Hours: Every day 11am – 9pm
  • Signature Dish: Quesa-Birria Tacos, Birria Ramen
  • Also try: Monarca Potato, Birria Nachos
  • Address: 14201 Interurban Ave South

Taqueria Jalisco

Taqueria Jalisco is one of many loved taco trucks in Tukwila. Great prices, fast service, generous portions, and a diverse menu make this a spot people keep coming back to. With a large, covered outdoor patio, it’s a welcome taco truck to stay and eat at or take to go.

  • Hours: Every day 10am – 10pm
  • Signature Dish: Lengua, Tripe, and Cabeza Tacos
  • Also try: Chorizo, Adobada, Horchata
  • Address: 14000 Tukwila International Blvd

Moctezuma’s Mexican Restaurant

Moctezuma’s has been a premium Seattle area Mexican dining institution for nearly 50 years, winning countless awards and recognitions. Tukwila is the proud home of one of four regional locations. In addition to its incredible eats, it’s a loved spot for its tequila bar, offering over a dozen signature margaritas and hand-crafted cocktails, as well as tequila-tasting flights. 

  • Hours: Su-Th: 11am – 10pm; Fri – Sat: 11am – 11pm
  • Signature Dish: Queso Flameado, Molcajete, El Chingón
  • Also try: Chile Relleno, Chimichanga
  • Address: 1150 Southcenter Mall

 

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The restaurants featured here are just a glimpse into the diverse flavors and experiences that await you. Whether you’re in the mood for savory ramen, hearty birria, or traditional Somali dishes, Tukwila has something to satisfy every palate. 

There are so many more amazing spots that we couldn’t fit into this list. Keep an eye out on our socials for more recommendations and dining adventures. In the meantime, browse our website’s dining page and let your taste buds guide you through Tukwila’s vibrant food scene!

Happy eating, friends!

March 24, 2023 | Dining, News, Seawolves

Seawolves Star Experiences Tukwila

Our good friend and Seattle Seawolves legend, Eric Duechle recently tried his hand at packing as many Tukwila-themed experiences as he could into a single day. He got pretty far. But honestly, it only scratched the surface of what our amazing city has to offer. 

Follow along, as Eric attempts the #TukwilaInADayChallenge.

First up, Green Tukwila Day at the Duwamish Hill Preserve. On a beautiful blue-sky November day, Eric joined a group of volunteers to help spruce up this local treasure. A place of deep cultural significance, Duwamish Hill Preserve has been stewarded by Indigenous communities that have called this area home since time immemorial. Expounding upon this fact was Ken Workman, Tribal Council Member and descendant of Chief Seattle.

Next on the schedule was Mayweather Boxing + Fitness. Eric met up with Jen and Miracle to jump into the ring and get a closer look at how Tukwila trains. The studio offers four different styles of classes throughout the week formulated with the perfect combination of boxing, strength, and cardio conditioning.

Rounding out the day was a stop at one of Tukwila’s most popular bar and grills, Billy Baroo’s. Surrounded by friends and bipedal whale mascots, Eric toasted to a day full of wonderful new experiences. 

How do you think Eric did? Could you fit more Tukwila experiences into your day? Give your best shot, and don’t forget to let us know how it goes on social media. 

Best of luck!

August 20, 2021 | dining

Experience Foods and Flavors From Around the Globe

There’s no better way to enjoy the distinct multiculturalism of Tukwila than through food. The Tukwila Village Farmers Market is the perfect place to sample flavors from around the globe and farm-fresh produce grown right here in our community.

Now in its third year of operations, the market offers produce grown by independent farmers who hail from the countries of Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Kenya, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and more. It also features an array of culinary offerings from the Spice Bridge food hall, which serves a rotating cast of global cuisines, such as Cambodian, Afghan fusion, Congolese, and Caribbean.

“They’re selling things that you won’t necessarily see at the grocery store or at other farmers markets, but [that] serve the needs of many different cultural groups,” said Kara Martin, program director of the Food Innovation Network.

The market is hosted by the Food Innovation Network — a program that supports small food business development and aims to improve local food systems in diverse communities in South King County — and acts as an incubator for urban growers and immigrant and refugee businesses.

The Tukwila Village Farmers Market runs every Wednesday from 4-7pm through October 13 and is located at the Tukwila Village Plaza (14350 Tukwila International Blvd). The market accepts cash, debit, credit cards, and SNAP (including double benefits with SNAP Market Match). Come hungry and leave happy!

Want more ideas for food options in the city? Check out our dining and shopping pages.

April 1, 2021 | Dining

Sponsoring Seattle Restaurant Week

Experience Tukwila is a proud sponsor of Seattle Restaurant Week — a bi-annual celebration of the greater Seattle area’s culinary community. This past year has been especially challenging for the restaurant industry, with COVID-19 forcing many operational changes. Seattle Restaurant Week, which runs April 1 – 3o, is the perfect opportunity to show your support for local restaurants and sample some delicious food while you’re at it.

Throughout the month of April, participating establishments will offer special prix fixe menus, with $20 lunch and $35 and $50 dinner options. Venues will offer a variety of dining options to allow guests to choose whatever format works best for them, including takeout, ready-to-heat, delivery, meal boxes, and indoor and outdoor dining as permissible by public health guidelines. 

A full list of participating restaurants can be found here, where you can sort by neighborhood, cuisine, dining options, diet, and ownership to find the perfect place to match your location, taste, and values. 

Participating Tukwila restaurants include Spice Bridge vendors — Afella Jollof Catering, Jazze’s, Moyo Kitchen, Seatango, Taste of Congo, Theary Cambodian Foods, Wengay’s Kitchen, and WUHA — Juju’s Caribbean Kitchen, Duke’s Seafood Southcenter, and Waterleaf Restaurant & Bar. Spice Bridge vendors are also offering a Buy One, Give One option, where you can add $10 to your order to support the Food Innovation Network’s free community meals program.

Here’s sample of some menu items to get your taste buds watering: 

  • Afella Jollof Catering: Chicken Yassa with samosas and fried plantains
  • Taste of Congo: Chicken Moyo with fried plantains
  • Theary Cambodian Foods: Duck curry with vermicelli noodles and toppings
  • Waterleaf Restaurant & Bar: Bacon chips n’ dip, smoked beef ribs, and cedar-infused pound cake
  • Wengay’s Kitchen: Chicken Inasal, garlic rice, pancit bihon, and veggie lumpia
  • Juju’s Caribbean Kitchen: Haitian style spaghetti, chicken gravy bowl, and Haitian crispy fried pork sandwich
  • Duke’s Seafood: Award-winning clam chowder, rockfish tacos, fish and chips, and crab cakes

Full, detailed menu options can be found here. Time to eat your way through the city!

 

February 5, 2021 | Dining

Tukwila: A Global Dining Experience 

Tukwila is home to a diverse community, making it the perfect melting pot for cuisines from all over the world. From authentic Mexican and traditional Italian dishes to flavorful East African and rich Asian food–your palate will delight in the variety of options available at every turn. Adding to this already robust collection of eateries is the new dining experience at Spice Bridge Food Hall.

Located in Tukwila Village near the Library, Spice Bridge Food Hall consists of women-of-color and immigrant-owned food stalls that operate on a rotating schedule. On a Tuesday, you may visit and find Gambian, Filipino, Congolese, and Ethiopian fare but if you returned on Friday you’d be treated to an entirely new assortment of global delights.

How does this all work? Well, it all began as a Food Innovation Network project aimed at helping immigrants achieve their culinary dreams while gaining a secure foothold in the community. The FIN’s Food Business Incubator pilot program offers subsidized rent options, a shared commercial kitchen, and helps with permits and marketing for these budding restaurant owners.

The 2,800-square-foot facility includes space for four stalls to operate per day plus equipment and resources for up to 20 food businesses to run catering services and to prep for attending local farmer’s markets. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, only outdoor dining and takeaway are available, but there are plans for an eventual community hub–a space where visitors can learn about the rich cultures behind each tasty restaurant.

So what’s currently on rotation at Spice Bridge Food Hall? You can find the most up-to-date schedule and full restaurant details here. But trust us when we say, no matter what type of food you’re craving, you’re sure to be able to satiate your appetite. Stop by Tuesday through Sunday and enjoy a global dining experience that supports a good cause.