A Bit Unrefined in Walla Walla: where to eat, explore, and raise a glass.
This isn’t a “best of” list — it’s the start of a love letter to the people and places that make Walla Walla feel like home. We go where the wine (and the stories) take us, and we’re here to share a few you might not have found yet. Over time, look for us to add more, and even start a monthly events guide (November is up!)
We started A Bit Unrefined to shine a light on the people who make this valley what it is — the small producers, local spots, and creative souls who put their hearts (and often their weekends) into what they do. The big names do just fine on their own; we’re here for the ones still building, experimenting, and quietly making something special.
Walla Walla has so much more to offer than wine — though the wine’s a good reason to start exploring. It’s a community full of creativity and hard work, where every bar stool, vineyard, and storefront has a story.
“Unrefined” to us means unpretentious enjoyment — the kind that happens over a shared bottle, an unexpected conversation, or a great meal cooked by someone who loves what they do. We love that we get to live somewhere these makers call home.
🍽️ Where to Eat (downtown)
We’re bar-sitters by nature — we love a place where we can chat with whoever’s next to us and learn something new from whoever’s behind the counter. This selection only scratches the surface – we have much more to come.
🍕Fiasco Pizza Pizza. In our book, that is enough said. Simple food, great crust, no wrong orders. Loud in the best way.
Saffron Mediterranean Kitchen Inventive, warm, and quietly world-class. The wine list is full of bottles you won’t see anywhere else — international, affordable, and wildly fun to explore. They now take reservations online, but locals know: the bar is first-come-first-served, and your best bet is to slide in just after happy hour.
Tavern Ancestrale New, chill, and instantly at home. A place to settle in for small plates, wine, and wine-adjacent cocktails (including great NA options). Who doesn’t love a spot where the drinks menu is longer than the food one?
👤The Witlof — So new we haven’t been there yet. Their tagline is “defy definition” and we’re here for that. Love to see a new kid on the block…
Don’t Skip the Classics (with a Twist)
🍸The Marc Bar (in the Marcus Whitman Hotel) — low light, proper cocktails, and lots of great seating. If Walla Walla sweet onion rings are on the menu, order them. Full stop.
🍷A Few Worth Finding
We go where the wine takes us — sometimes that’s a downtown tasting room, sometimes it’s a dirt road with vineyard views and a dog waiting to say hello. We love small producers who make wine because it is their passion. (It’s certainly not for the money). We want to meet them, hear their stories, and share them with you.
Here are a few we think you might not know — but should.
El Corazón Winery
There is no other tasting room like this. Anywhere. El Corazon is where other tasting rooms send bachelorette parties that aren’t having enough fun — and for good reason. Big red wines and a spirit that embodies being who you are, and loving it.
Floating Balance Cellars
Vineyard views, a dog greeting at the door, and the first shipping-container tasting room in Walla Walla. It’s a perfect example of innovative thinking in the vineyards — practical, creative, and full of heart.
Foolhardy Vintners
A newer face with French roots and Washington confidence. Elegant, expressive wines poured by people who clearly love what they’re building. Foolhardy brings a little old-world finesse to the unrefined charm of the valley — and it fits right in.
Gifford Hirlinger
Out on the south side, they skip tasting fees entirely and ask for donations instead — every dollar going to local causes. The wines are consistently excellent, but the spirit behind them is what stands out most: relaxed, generous, and grounded.
🎟️ Worth Planning Around
There’s more to do here than sip and swirl. What we love most is the variety — from live music to farmers markets to local theater, there’s truly something for everyone. Think outside the box for your visit; you won’t be disappointed
🎶 Wine Country Amphitheater — national acts and summer sunsets. The best of all worlds.
🎻 Walla Walla Symphony — the oldest continuous symphony west of the Mississippi, with a depth and skill that will surprise and delight you.
🎭 The Little Theatre — community theater with serious heart and a lot of local talent.
🎟️ Gesa Power House Theatre — live shows, stand-up, music, and unexpected surprises all year long.
💬 The Unrefined Takeaway
Walla Walla’s charm isn’t polished — it’s personal. Come curious, stay open, and let the Walla Walla valley surprise you. And join our email list to keep exploring.