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!

July 27, 2023 | Activities

Make Your Summer a 10: Things to do in Tukwila

This summer has been unusually sunny—so much so that people all over the Pacific Northwest are at a loss for what else to do with all the sunshine. Well, we’ve got you covered. Tukwila is overflowing with activities and experiences perfect for those long summer days. Check out a few of our favorites below, inspired by the winners of our recent photo contest—Mikkell Jackson Roeland, Rene Hough, and Ric Meyer!

Catch Some Shade at Duwamish Hill Preserve and River 

Starting things off, we have the perfect remedy for these crazy-high temperatures. A walk through the Duwamish Hill Preserve or along the Duwamish River is a great way to cool down and find some shade from the sun while still enjoying the outdoors.

Power Up at Family Fun Center 

All this extra sun means tons of extra energy to put towards games! Dip into Family Fun Center for bowling, putt-putt, go-karts, bumper boats, batting cages, laser tag, arcade games, pizza, and much more. Honestly, you could spend all summer inside this place! 

All Fore Fun at Foster Golf Links

Other golf courses just have golfing. In Tukwila, we do it a little differently. One of our favorite summer experiences is “First Fridays” at Foster Golf Links. Enjoy live music and a movie at sunset out on the green while loading up on your favorite food from Billy Baroo’s restaurant just a few steps away. 

Soar Above the Heat at the Museum of Flight 

What would a trip to Tukwila be without a visit to the Museum of Flight? A staple of our city for decades, the Museum of Flight is a favorite way to soar above the heat and explore the history of flight.

Make a Splash at the Tukwila Pool 

Dive into one of the coolest places in Tukwila, the Tukwila Pool! But make sure it’s only in the deep end! This favorite summer pastime never fails. Enjoy a leisurely float, jump off the diving board, or sign up for classes today! 

Book Your Summer with Fun

The Tukwila Library not only has a large selection of books, but also a whole calendar full of exciting activities and experiences, like Math Club, Arabic Story Time, Arts & Crafts, and plenty more.

Try a New Lane at Bowlero Bowling 

Strike off a classic summer activity on your list with Bowlero Bowling. At Bowlero, they pull out all of the stops to make your bowling experience unforgettable. In between games, you can enjoy delicious food, refreshing drinks, billiards, a full arcade, and more. Bowling sure has changed since we were kids! 

Experience Tukwila on Two Wheels 

The summer fun never tires in Tukwila! At 14 miles, the Interurban Trail is a favorite among cyclists and runners. It’s the perfect way to take in all of the sights and sounds of Tukwila. Think you can conquer it in a single day? You probably could—14 miles is long but not, like long-long. 

Kick the Heat at Starfire 

Still stuck on ideas? Here’s an assist: grab a soccer ball and take to the pitch at Starfire Sports! Anyone can reserve a spot to play a pickup game, host a party, or even go all in on a full tournament. Inside and outside fields available. Champions train in Tukwila, and many of their careers begin right here at Starfire. You could be the next star! Or just a casual weekend player—that’s cool too! 

Freshen Up at the Farmers Market

There’s nothing more refreshing than fresh food, and we know just the place to fill your tote with locally grown fruits and veggies. Tukwila Village Farmers Market is your classic community market, providing locally grown produce. When you shop here, you’re also supporting local immigrant and refugee growers. Take a stroll through the market every Wednesday afternoon, now until mid-October!

Now it’s time to get out there.

Phew! That was a lot of activities and experiences to get through—we’re breaking a sweat! Time to go cool off at one of the many amazing restaurants in Tukwila…or maybe we’ll see a movie…or maaaaybe we’ll go to the VR arcade! Oh wow, so many more things to do in this town. Guess we’ll have to compile another list soon! 

We hope this list was helpful and will bring you some more summer joy. Enjoy your time in Tukwila!

November 22, 2022 | Activities

10 Things To Do in Tukwila in the Rain

AHHHH! WHAT IS THAT?! 

Oh right, rain. 

After what felt like an eternity with that giant mass of fire in the sky, the rain has once again returned to its rightful realm: the Pacific Northwest. And what makes this place so special is how unbothered everyone is by a little water. Simply put, it’s all a matter of perspective. If you fight the rain, you only fight yourself. Accept the rain and you free yourself to enjoy all the amazing things this region has to offer. 

Buuuuuuut, if you really just don’t want to deal with it all, then we have a few recommendations on where to spend a nice rainy PNW day right here in Tukwila. So go ahead, check out our Top 10 Rainy Day Activities in Tukwila!

 

Escape in a Game Room

Does the rain have you wanting to escape to a new reality? Maybe one where you’re not stuck inside seeing daylight rainy skies move into dark rainy skies at 4pm? Then stop by Tukwila’s premier gaming destinations—Dimension XR and Legacy Gaming—and get transported to a new dimension filled with adventure where anything and everything is possible.

 

Get a Thrill at iFly

Feeling couped up inside? We have the perfect place for you: iFly. The indoor skydiving craze has taken over the country, and now you can try it for yourself. Like Superman in training, don the fancy jumpsuit and helmet and then shoot off into the stratosphere* with guidance from one of the skydiving professionals. 

*more like 20 feet, but you can use your imagination.

 

Fill Your Belly at Spice Bridge

Rain + gray = give me cozy comfort food right now. Duck on into one of Tukwila’s most vibrant displays of world cuisines: Spice Bridge. This global food hall is home to immigrants and refugees who bring with them insane culinary talents. With a rotating selection of food businesses, there’s always a new exciting dish to try. It’s the perfect place to cozy up with a hot meal.

 


Hit the Lanes at Bowlero

Bowling is an absolute classic rainy-day activity. So, it should come as no surprise that Tukwila has one of the best bowling spots around, Bowlero. What more do you need to know? It’s bowling. You get it. Ball, lane, pins. Done. Now go do it and have a killer time inside not getting wet.

 

Race at SyKart

There’s a common joke in this area that people don’t know how to drive in the rain even though it’s raining all the time. What that says to me is that more people need to hit the go-kart track for some high-intensity practice. Sykart is the place for all your go-kart needs. Situated right here in Tukwila, it’ll provide the much-needed boost on a gloomy rainy day.

 

Jump Around at Defy

If you hate jumping in puddles, might we recommend jumping into giant pits filled with foam instead. That’s just the start of the fun at Defy, a trampoline park in Tukwila. Foam pits, trampolines, rock walls, basketball, this list goes on. This one-of-a-kind action park is filled with challenges that are fun for the whole family. So, what are you waiting for? Don’t feel the FOAMO. Visit Defy today!

 

Watch a Movie at AMC Southcenter

When it looks like Waterworld outside, it’s best to stay inside and watch a movie… like Waterworld. Research studies show that the best place to watch new movies is in a movie theater, and I definitely didn’t just make that up. Regardless, Tukwila is home to AMC Southcenter, featuring Dolby Cinema and IMAX theaters. Escape the rain and immerse yourself in a story far far away.

 

Stay Active at Mayweather Boxing

Just because it’s raining doesn’t mean you can’t still stay active. Train like the champion you are at Mayweather Boxing and Fitness. The studio offers four different styles of classes throughout the week formulated with the perfect combination of boxing, strength, and cardo conditioning. Get drenched in sweat, not rain.

 

Visit a Meadery

Breweries are everywhere in the Seattle area. But only a few special places have meaderies. And situated right here in Tukwila is one of the best around, Oppegaard Meadery. Warm your belly and your spirits in this Viking-clad tasting room.

 

Go on a Hike

Okay, you got us. This activity won’t protect you from the rain. In fact, it puts you directly in its path. BUT, hear us out. Taking a walk or run along the Green River Trail or at the Duwamish Hill Preserve in the rain is a really unique activity that many won’t experience. So, if you work up the courage, grab that rain jacket, lace up those boots, and just lean into it.

 

As you can see, Tukwila is filled with all kinds of activities that make a rainy day actually something you will look forward to. So next time the clouds roll in and the rain starts falling, just make your way over to Tukwila to help brighten up your day.

Until then, head on over to our Activities and Events pages to stay up to date on all the exciting things going on in our city.

 

March 24, 2022 |

Spring Seattle Restaurant Week

It’s the most delicious time of the year again: Seattle Restaurant Week. And this year, Tukwila is flexing hard with 5 must-try restaurants participating in the classic prix fixe dining event. Get out and support your city and your stomach during a week of festivities that celebrates our city’s diverse, exciting culinary scene. 

Participating Tukwila restaurants:

  • Rendition
  • Sumi Korean Grill
  • Taste of Congo
  • Theary Cambodian Foods
  • WUHA 
  • Jazze’s

March 21, 2022 |

Poke to the Max Grand Opening Celebration

Award-winning chef and renowned “Godfather of Poke” Sam Choy is bringing his famous poke fusions to Tukwila. With locations in California and Washington, this poke powerhouse serves up some of the most iconic poke on the west coast—as well as other tasty dishes like Spam Musubi, Loco Loco, and their famous Garlic Chicken. 

Join Sam and his team this Saturday, March 26th for their official grand opening celebration in Tukwila. Start the day with a celebratory hula by Halau Hula Ka Lei; learn about the unique history of this prized Hawaiian dish with a live demo/ poke history lesson from Sam himself; dig in to some of the famous dishes that put Poke to the Max on the map; and then work it all off on the dance floor during a live performance from guest jammers. 

 

October 14, 2021 |

Seattle Restaurant Week – Fall 2021

Experience Tukwila is once again a proud sponsor of Seattle Restaurant Week — a bi-annual celebration supporting the greater Seattle area’s culinary community.

From October 24 – November 6 choose from the over 200 participating venues across 45 neighborhoods and cities in the Greater Seattle area who are offering special menus of $20 lunches and $35 and/or $50 dinners.

Participating Tukwila restaurants include Spice Bridge vendors — Afella Jollof Catering, Jazze’s, Monique’s Hot Kitchen, Moyo Kitchen, Taste of Congo, and Theary Cambodian Foods — in addition to Hotel Interurban’s Rendition and Sumi Korean Grill.

You can view the full list of participating restaurants along with their special, limited-time Seattle Restaurant Week menus here.

Several Spice Bridge vendors are also offering a Give a Meal donation program, where you can add $10 to your order to support the Good Food Kitchens’ community meals program. Learn more about the program here.

September 16, 2021 |

Spice Bridge Anniversary Celebration

In September, Tukwila’s Spice Bridge celebrated its first anniversary. This global food hall has been such a bright spot in our community this year, feeding folks delicious dishes from around the world and building space for aspiring women of color, immigrant, and refugee chefs to develop thriving food businesses.

On Wednesday, October 6, from 4-7pm, join the Spice Bridge team for a special anniversary party that will honor and celebrate the rich cultural traditions of our community. The event will include poetry readings by stories of arrival, live music, kids’ activities, story time with the Tukwila Library, a vaccination station, coffee celebration, and the unveiling of the “Food is Love” wall.

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.

July 22, 2021 |

Hello Sunshine

Celebrate summer and enjoy live music, games, giveaways, perks, and more from July 28 – Aug 1 at Westfield Southcenter! Stop by and join the fun near Macy’s court on Level 1.

Open Hours:

  • Wednesday, July 28th – Saturday, July 31st: 10AM-6PM
  • Sunday, August 1st: 11AM-6PM

Live Music:

  • Daily: 4PM-6PM

Westfield Rewards earn double points exclusively from July 28 – Aug 1 when you shop at any store! On Friday, July 30th from 12pm-5pm only, Westfield Rewards members will enjoy a complimentary shave ice from Mike’s Shave Ice as a sweet treat (valid one person, must present in-app perk to redeem).

Plus, join on select dates for special community events in partnership with Tukwila Police Department and pick up your collectible trading card featuring exclusive retailer offers valid 7/28-8/1!

“Be Safe” Safety Poster Design Contest

  • Wednesday, July 28th – Sunday, August 1st

Coffee with a Cop

Train Like A Cop Fitness Workout (Family-Friendly!)

July 2, 2021 |

Tukwila Village Farmers Market

The Tukwila Village Farmers Market is open from 4-7pm on Wednesday afternoons from June 23 through October 13. The Market is a community-driven nonprofit serving produce grown by refugees and immigrants in our community.

The Market accepts Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and participates in SNAP Market Match, which doubles aid.