written by Cara Strickland

If you’ve spent much time dining in Walla Walla, you probably went to Whitehouse-Crawford, which closed during the pandemic. But the lights are on in that historic building again—you can now visit Kinglet, a new restaurant from Seattle chef Maximillian Petty of Eden Hill. You can choose your own adventure with the a’la carte menu, or put yourself in the chef’s hands for a grand tasting dinner (with optional wine pairings). Make a reservation at the chef’s counter for a front row seat to the culinary preparation, or enjoy a cozy table. You’ll find a wonderful wine list (it is Walla Walla), but also a creative craft cocktail list (the talented bartenders will whip up a zero proof drink by request). The food itself is made of excellent ingredients at the peak of freshness and the combinations are interesting, but not so much that they take away from the experience of eating them. The menu is constantly changing, sometimes daily, based on the seasons and produce availability, so savor each bite while it lasts.

55 W. CHERRY ST.
WALLA WALLA
www.kingletww.com

BEST PLACES FOR EATING WITH KIDS

BIG HOUSE BREW PUB

This place had me at their kid’s menu with items called: I Don’t Know, I’m Not Hungry, I Don’t Want That, I Want To Go To McDonald’s, I Want To Go Home, and I Don’t Care (these range from sliders to quesadillas and chicken strips, among others). If you’re a parent, I’m guessing you just chuckled, perhaps painfully. There are plenty of great options here for adults from a wide selection of beers on tap to generously portioned entrees in a wide range from healthy to indulgent.

11 S. PALOUSE ST.
WALLA WALLA
www.bighousebrewpub.com

THE RED HORSE DINER

This fun, retro spot has lots on the walls to keep kids entertained while dining. When the weather is nice, eat outside with some space for roaming and take advantage of the lawn games. The menu is bursting with classic favorites.

1518 W. UNIVERSITY WAY
ELLENSBURG
https://www.facebook.com/redhorsediner/

TOMATO STREET

This Italian staple has long been known for butcher paper table cloths, crayons and individually wrapped play doh. Color all night on the table while eating noodles? This is about as kid friendly as it gets. Parents will enjoy the classic dishes served in portions big enough for leftovers.

6220 N. DIVISION ST.
SPOKANE
www.tomatostreet.com

MÜNCHEN HAUS BAVARIAN GRILL & BEER GARDEN

This partially outdoor spot is a great choice with kids in tow. Let them sample the wide range of mustards (and pick your own favorite) while you enjoy traditional German food and local beer. Don’t forget to get a pretzel.

709 FRONT ST.
LEAVENWORTH
www.munchenhaus.com