There’s nothing better than discovering a new favorite spot in Lakewood, with some very crispy fries and some very tender brisket. Actually, having all 17 of the best restaurants in one list is probably better—and we both know that’s exactly what’s happening here.
Jack’s BBQ – Lakewood
$$ | (253) 625-7580 | WEBSITE
It’s right there in Lakewood – a straightforward spot for BBQ enthusiasts – so you might not have the fanciest dining experience if you’re looking for white tablecloths, but Jack’s BBQ is a prime place to enjoy some seriously good smoked meats. Dig in.
The Adriatic at Oakbrook
$$ | (253) 584-8888 | WEBSITE
This Italian restaurant remains one of our favorite places to enjoy a meal (and relax on the golf course) in Lakewood. It has everything from rich Bolognese to sizable salmon linguini but what really sealed the deal for us was when we discovered their happy hour special with wine at just $6. That’s when we knew that we had to spend our next business lunch here.
I Pho
$ | (253) 476-7899 | WEBSITE
This beloved Lakewood staple often feels like a cozy neighborhood kitchen, but on chilly evenings, it transforms into a proper pho sanctuary. The steam rises from the bowls, and rain or shine, everyone’s ordering the brisket pho.
Fresh Rolls Lakewood
$ | (253) 507-8137 | WEBSITE
The self-proclaimed “Best pho in Lakewood″ has been serving standout beef pho and huge shrimp spring rolls with outstanding peanut sauce for years, and dealing with families seeking gluten-free and vegetarian options with a kindness that surely feels three times as warm to their customers.
El Antojo | Lakewood
$ | (253) 983-1550 | WEBSITE
Your day is dragging like overcooked carnitas, so you might as well eat fresh tacos. And that’s what you’ll get at El Antojo, where they’re serving stuff that’s made in-house, in a spacious spot with plenty of seating and a solid menu of Mexican fare.
Taco Mix
$ | (253) 301-0919 | WEBSITE
Tucked away in an inconspicuous location, this charming authentic Mexican restaurant offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere with friendly staff and affordable prices. The menu boasts a variety of delicious options including the popular Carne Asada burrito and Torta Ahogada reminiscent of traditional Guadalajara cuisine. Customers love the gorditas and sopes, and the horchata is a must.
They also enjoyed the California burrito, fajita burrito, nachos, Birria quesadilla, Carne Asada street tacos, and a Birria torta with guacamole and a large Mexican cola or Jamaica with ice. The variations of sauce were amazing, with the light red salsa being a standout. This small business with a big heart is a hidden gem serving up flavorful and high-quality food, and they also offer a take-out option.
Cafe Elite
$ | (253) 284-0001 | WEBSITE
Established as a local morning institution (or as we like to think of it, the place that makes getting out of bed worthwhile), Cafe Elite is certified Lakewood essential. Decorated with cozy warmth and positive vibes, starting your day after a particularly rough morning has never been more pleasant.
bb.q Chicken Tacoma Lakewood
$$ | (253) 507-5427 | WEBSITE
This Korean fried chicken spot never met a sauce it didn’t love (the menu boasts soy garlic, golden, and secret varieties), but there’s much more happening here. The crowd is diverse and bustling, the fried chicken is generously portioned, and with crispy boneless wings and flavorful kimchi fried rice, it’s the kind of place anyone can enjoy a satisfying meal.
Zesty Steakhouse
$$ | (253) 300-7993 | WEBSITE
A lively destination for special occasions that’s polished and celebratory in all the best ways, Zesty Steakhouse has live music, excellent service, and delicious cuisine. You’ll probably forget you’re anywhere else.
Espresso Stop
$$ | (253) 320-1905 | WEBSITE
Tucked away in a cozy corner of Lakewood, Espresso Stop greets you with the kind of warm familiarity that makes even the dreariest Pacific Northwest morning feel manageable. The baristas here don’t just remember your name—they remember your drink, your mood, and probably your dog’s name too, serving up excellent coffee and unique sips like their sparkling pomegranate lemonade with a genuine smile.
While the prices might nudge a bit above your average corner café, the quality of the brew, the energy in the air, and the overall friendly vibe make every dollar feel well spent. It’s the kind of spot where you can settle in, watch the world go by, and let the charm of the place turn your grumpiest morning into something surprisingly pleasant.
Hot Teriyaki
$ | (253) 584-7776 | WEBSITE
A reliable and straightforward spot in Lakewood. They’ve got all the teriyaki your appetite could crave, generous portions that satisfy, and exceptionally tasty egg rolls. The perfect place to come for a quick meal and leave completely content.
Dutch Bros Coffee
$ | (877) 899-2767 | WEBSITE
Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or just need a quick caffeine fix, Dutch Bros Coffee is a great place to grab a drink. Not only do they offer a variety of options like the popular Americano, but their menu is filled with choices like alternative milks, sugar-free beverages, and kid-friendly drinks such as hot cocoa and lemonade.
Wake Up Espresso
$ | (253) 582-1721 | WEBSITE
A reliable local coffee shop that’s been serving Lakewood since 2026, Wake Up Espresso offers excellent coffee, breakfast options, pastries, and smoothies. Oh, and it’s a family-friendly spot, in case you felt like bringing the kids along.
Cayaguanca Salvadorean Food
$ | (253) 625-8294 | WEBSITE
New to the Hispanic Mercado is Cayaguanca Salvadorean Food, a casual, food-court spot perfect for grabbing a quick, authentic bite. With a clean, bustling interior, shared seating areas, and a variety of shops that create a lively atmosphere, Cayaguanca has got everything Salvadoran food lovers need, plus a menu that includes a mix of pupusas, tamales, and revueltas, as well as $2 pupusas (!!!) during lunch hours.
Manic Meatballs
$ | (253) 584-9798 | WEBSITE
Sure, the original Lakewood spot may have moved (R.I.P.), but Manic Meatballs’ current location in that quirky, repurposed building remains – and it’s a great place to grab some meatballs (or six), catch a family meal (or three), or just kill an afternoon in the cozy dining room.
La Azteca
$ | (253) 733-9044 | WEBSITE
With its family-owned charm and welcoming atmosphere, La Azteca has a whole lot of Mexican baked goods – from traditional treats like soft sweet bread with butter and sugar on top to more novel flavors like Bolillo with cheese and jalapeño and coconut juice. Concha’s to pair with hot chocolate, too.
Cold Stone Creamery
$$ | (253) 589-8646 | WEBSITE
The flagship ice cream spot of the popular chain, Cold Stone Creamery is an ideal place for sweet cravings and special occasions. Objectively, their Signature Creation ‘Cookie Doughn’t You Want It’ is number one, but we also really enjoy a good ol’ scoop of their strawberry ice cream.