Best Restaurants in Renton (2025)
The Melrose Grill
Steak house · Renton
A restored 1901 landmark where hand-cut, dry-aged steaks and classic sides define dinner in downtown Renton. Frequently praised by local critics and voted Best Fine Dining by Renton Reporter readers in 2025, it’s the city’s special-occasion staple.
Anchovies and Salt
Vietnamese restaurant · Renton
A sprawling, lakefront Vietnamese restaurant with private rooms and a seafood-forward menu; think cha ca, wagyu pho, and raw oysters. Newly highlighted in Eater Seattle’s 2025 oyster guide and a buzzy gathering place for celebratory meals.
Smoking Monkey Pizza
Pizza restaurant · Renton
Downtown’s sci‑fi–themed pizzeria bakes crisp, creative pies with a cult following; locals swear by the Spicy Monkey and offbeat, nostalgia‑topped specials. Regularly recommended by Eater Seattle and named Best Pizza in the 2025 Renton Reporter awards.
Marianna Ristorante
Italian restaurant · Renton
Family-run Italian in the historic core, known for seafood pastas, ossobuco, and a warmly lit dining room that feels celebratory without fuss. Recognized by Renton Reporter readers in 2025 and verified active with nightly service and reservations.
Whistle Stop Ale House
American restaurant · Renton
A beloved neighborhood pub since 1995 with a century-old back bar, big burgers, and all‑day breakfast that draws families and beer fans alike. Featured by Eater Seattle and voted Best Lunch and Best Family Restaurant in the 2025 community awards.
Ocha Thai Kitchen and Bar
Thai restaurant · Renton
Downtown Thai favorite serving fragrant curries, wok‑fried noodles, and bright herb salads with a neighborhood bar vibe. Praised by locals and selected Best Thai Cuisine in the 2025 Renton Reporter list, it’s a reliable stop for spicy comfort.
Mori Sushi & Grill by Aji
Sushi restaurant · Renton
At The Landing, this independent sushi house pairs pristine fish and crisp tempura with a sleek, modern room and sake list. Winner of Best Japanese Cuisine in 2025 locally and open daily with lunch, dinner, and online ordering.
Cedar River BBQ
Barbecue restaurant · Renton
Downtown stalwart for Texas‑style smoked meats—brisket, ribs, and pulled pork with classic sides—run by a local team for over two decades. Frequently honored by Renton Reporter readers; current hours and menus are posted on their site.
Golden Peacock Restaurant
Restaurant · Fairwood
Fairwood’s family‑owned banquet hall has served old‑school American‑Chinese dishes for more than 45 years, from sizzling platters to family feasts. Celebrated by locals and named Best Chinese Cuisine in the 2025 community vote.
Berliner Pub
German restaurant · Renton
A downtown German beer hall with house‑made sausages, schnitzel, and steins on communal tables; summer spills onto the biergarten patio. A perennial favorite and 2025 Best Brewery/Tap Room winner, it doubles as a hearty meal stop.
5 Hermanos Restaurant
Mexican restaurant · Renton
Family‑run spot known for generous plates, margaritas, and a festive dining room; the menu ranges from caldo de pollo to carne asada platters. Voted Best Mexican Cuisine finalist and confirmed open with daily lunch and dinner service.
Papaya Renton Landing
Vietnamese restaurant · Renton
Light, modern Vietnamese with oxtail pho, sizzling iron‑pot rice, and crisp papaya salads near the cinema at The Landing. Praised by local diners and named Best Vietnamese Cuisine in Renton Reporter’s 2025 roundup.