The Pacific Northwest is a haven for nature lovers, boasting breathtaking landscapes and tranquil escapes. Whidbey Island, a short jaunt from Seattle, perfectly embodies this with its stunning Deception Pass, scenic hiking trails, and charming towns like Coupeville. During our anniversary trip to this idyllic island, my partner and I immersed ourselves in its beauty, from the dramatic views at Deception Pass to invigorating hikes amidst nature’s splendor. After a delightful picnic lunch, our appetites led us to explore Coupeville’s dining scene, and that’s how we stumbled upon a local favorite: Front Street Grill Coupeville.
Coupeville, a historic waterfront town, exudes a peaceful charm, especially on weekdays. While the streets might have been quiet, the inviting glow of Front Street Grill beckoned us in. Stepping inside, we were greeted by a lively atmosphere, a stark contrast to the serene streets outside. It was clear we’d found a popular spot.
Fresh and Juicy Oysters at Front Street Grill Coupeville
My partner, an oyster enthusiast, was immediately drawn to the menu’s impressive selection of local Washington oysters. Served fresh and plump, these oysters were a true taste of the Pacific Northwest, a delightful start to our meal and showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to fresh, local seafood.
Platter of Washington Oysters at Front Street Grill Coupeville
Coupeville’s prime location on Penn Cove, renowned for its mussels, is a major draw. Front Street Grill capitalizes on this, offering stunning views of the cove right from the restaurant. Knowing Penn Cove’s reputation, we knew we had to sample the mussels. The menu boasted a variety of mussel preparations, but the Coconut Green Curry Mussels immediately caught our eye.
Coconut Green Curry Mussels at Front Street Grill Coupeville with Toast
The dish arrived beautifully presented, with a generous portion of mussels bathed in a fragrant green curry sauce, accompanied by toasted bread perfect for soaking up every last drop. The aroma alone was enticing, promising a flavorful experience.
Close-up of Coconut Green Curry Mussels at Front Street Grill Coupeville
The Coconut Green Curry Mussels lived up to their enticing presentation. The curry was flavorful, with a pleasant spice that didn’t overpower the delicate taste of the fresh mussels. The mussels themselves were cooked perfectly – plump, juicy, and tender. While the provided toast was good for dipping, a side of jasmine rice would have been an even more welcome accompaniment to fully appreciate the delicious curry sauce.
In addition to the seafood, we also opted for a chicken dish, wanting to sample a broader range of the menu. However, this proved to be less of a highlight. The chicken was slightly dry, and the accompanying bean soup didn’t quite hit the mark. In hindsight, we agreed that focusing on the seafood specialties, like ordering more of those fantastic mussels and oysters, would have been the better choice.
Chicken Dish at Front Street Grill Coupeville with Bean Soup
Overall, Front Street Grill Coupeville is a worthwhile dining destination, particularly if you’re a seafood lover. The restaurant offers a warm atmosphere, stunning Penn Cove views, and most importantly, delicious fresh seafood. For the best experience, we highly recommend sticking to their seafood offerings – you won’t be disappointed, especially with the oysters and the must-try Coconut Green Curry Mussels. If you find yourself in Coupeville on Whidbey Island, Front Street Grill Coupeville is definitely a spot to consider for a satisfying and memorable meal.
