Each year my friends and I take a different trip, and this year we explored the Yakima and Ellensburg area. After a guided float down the river, we stopped at Canyon River Grill, and it was the perfect spot to wrap up the adventure. The atmosphere was welcoming, and we felt perfectly comfortable coming in from the river in casual attire even though the food and drinks were decidedly upscale. I had the Chargrilled Columbia River Salmon with roasted peaches, pecans, and potatoes. It was fresh, flavorful, and so good I am still thinking about it. To drink, I ordered the Purple Hoh-bo which was an incredibly tasty craft cocktail and paired beautifully with the meal. There is a reason everything tasted so fresh. The chef's garden supplies the restaurant with seasonal produce straight from the garden, and you can taste the difference. Service was attentive, the vibe was relaxed, and with Red's Fly Shop in the same building, it is the perfect spot to end a day outdoors. Canyon River Grill is a gem with refined food in a down-to-earth riverside setting. Five stars. I would return in a heartbeat. read more

Canyon River Grill - Chargrilled Columbia River Salmon with roasted peaches and pecans, paired with the Purple Hoh-bo cocktail at Canyon River Grill. - New American Near Me - Ellensburg, Washington

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First time trying this place! Family and friends have always recommended but never had the chance of coming till now. The space itself is pretty tiny so making a reservation is much needed. The staff were super nice when taking us down for a reservation and also while serving us. They're very knowledgeable about the food items and accommodating for those with allergies. It was my first time trying both cod and halibut but they were both delicious! Their menu is smaller but is curated so all the food is very well thought about. I know their menu changes every week, so if you're unsure then checking their menu online to see what they have would be a good idea. I'm excited to come back in the future to see what other delicious food they offer. read more

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Excellent service, delicious food. Nothing bad on the menu, always satisfied. Definitely recommend. read more

Canyon River Grill - Rib eye - New American Near Me - Ellensburg, Washington

This place doesn't look like much from the road as it's attached to a fishing shop but the restaurant gives you a lovely view of the river. The food was quite good but prices were higher than expected. They also had good cocktail options. I was most surprised by how quickly they move people through. We were in and out in under 45 minutes! I never felt rushed though, things just arrived quickly. read more

Canyon River Grill - Halibut - New American Near Me - Ellensburg, Washington

Exceptional. If nothing else just come out here for the drive & the view and if you love fly fishing, that's a super bonus.Win win. So even though this place is quite loud and it is at a fishing lodge, I was happily surprised at the wine menu. There's something for everyone. Let's get to the food because even if the food is average, it's still worth coming here, but it's NOT average. The Caesar salad is charred lettuce heads (whoa!) and it comes with fabulous anchovies (not those canned anchovies) the white ones .. the extra touch just makes it exceptional (like I said in the outset). My husband ordered the fried chicken. I the flash fried red snapper and our friend the oysters and swordfish and I cannot say enough about how great the food is. Order the bread service. Ask for Maren our server. Not only is she an exceptional server. She's very easy on the eyes. read more

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This place punches way above its weight. Superficially it looks like a cafe that's tucked into the back of a fly fishing shop, but that does not do it justice by a long shot. The food is so darned good - the butter poached shrimp is the most crave-worthy, must-return-for-it menu item in my opinion (we practically licked the garlic butter from the bottom of the pan), but all of the other items we sampled were terrific, too (that first-of-the-season salmon was firing on all cylinders - succulent fish perfectly prepared, and the accompaniments! The asparagus, the fried Basil, the dried cherries, the toasted hazelnuts... oof). Dessert was pretty tasty, too; we shared the key lime pie and the flan. Portions were very generous, and easily shared. The service and location are charming, too - that view of the Yakima River and the canyon cannot be beat. Other Yelpers have complained about the price of a meal here, but it's well worth it in light of the location, food quality, and the warmth of the staff. read more

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We were looking for someplace for dinner other than the usual places in Yakima so I went online to explore our options ..searching menus to find something special ...different. When I read the menu to Hubby he perked up at the Southern Fried Chicken on it. He's tried fried chicken at other places but never found real Southern Fried Chicken...so I made reservations for Father's Day...seemed promising...well ... It was a beautiful drive along the Yakima River, very scenic through the canyon. Now ...about the restaurant ... I chose the Halibut ...WOW ...absolutely delicious Yup ...Hubby ordered the Southern Fried Chicken...another WOW ... the meal included delicious chicken..not 1 piece ..not 2 ..not 3 ...yes ..an entire half of a chicken 4 generous...moist ...perfectly seasoned pieces placed on a wonderful serving of mashed potatoes with gravy...topped with cooked spinach...he loved it ..honestly...took some chicken home ... it was our first time dining at Canyon River Grill ..we WILL be back. The restaurant is very nice inside ..wonderful views of the Yakima River rushing by ..and the server ..well she was very nice ..attentive and recommended a fabulous dessert .... YUMMMMM ... didn't think to take pictures until after it was already being enjoyed read more

We had an absolutely wonderful New Year's Eve dinner here and couldn't have asked for a better way to ring in the new year. From start to finish, everything was exceptional. We shared multiple appetizers, all of which were beautifully prepared and full of flavor. For our entrees, we had the Chilean sea bass, tuna, and steak--each dish was cooked perfectly and absolutely delicious. The drinks were just as impressive as the food, and the desserts were the perfect finale. The key lime pie and brownie sundae were rich, balanced, and incredibly satisfying. On top of the amazing food and drinks, the service was truly wonderful--attentive, friendly, and made the evening feel special without being rushed. A flawless dining experience all around. We will definitely be back and highly recommend this restaurant for a special occasion--or any night out. read more

Great food and service. Clean and happy employees. Great selection of beers. The cheesecake with homemade raspberry sauce was top notch.

We come here often, and this is the first time we had an off experience. However, it was bad enough to take it from 4 stars to 3 stars. Service is always great, setting is great, and food the is typically great. However, today...the food not so much. A couple of us (in the party) ordered Tagliatelle alle Vongole (clams), and they were terrible. For this dish, the clams should be little necks, and the clam juice (from steaming) should be the base of the sauce. A touch of wine, cherry tomato and maybe a hint of parsley... that is it. Not here, there was sooo much butter...absolutely no touch of wine, and completely saturated in handfuls of chopped garlic. Worst of all, the clams were jumbo size which completely finalized the smear of this famous dish. The chef missed the mark on this one. I'm sure we'll be back...but won't order this again. read more

We have never had a bad meal here! Most recently we had the pork chop and the salmon. Both excellent and enough food that this dessert lover had no room for one of their sweet treats. And- they are now carrying non alcoholic beer. Don't expect their food to be inexpensive, but do expect great service and a really satisfying meal. You won't be disappointed. read more

Food and drinks were excellent. The service was outstanding! We asked our server - I think her name was Maren - so many questions and she answered every one. Her recommendations were spot on. We can't wait to go back. Highly recommend. read more

Elegance on the river. Beautiful in every way. A delicious lunch stop. Extensive menu. Something for everyone! read more

Canyon River Grill - New American Near Me - Ellensburg, Washington

Great lunch menu and food. Service was good, and we had a view of the river when we dined here in August 2023. Given the casual appearance of the place, I don't think we expected the menu to include so many different options, and I sure didn't expect our lunch to be plated as beautifully as it was. Our salads, my soup, and dessert were all delicious. read more

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Met some friends there for dinner. Service, food and ambiance were spot on. We've been here once before and the experience was not as positive. Now we're ready to try it again. read more

For a long while, this spot has been a bit food a rotating door as far as restaurants go. Recently however, Canyon river grill moved in and the rotation came to a screeching halt! This is absolutely one of our favorite new spots and an absolute gem for the area. Located right in the river, it boasts a beautiful view from the deck and lovely sights inside. The place doesn't seat a ton of folks to reservations are a good idea. The menu is ever changing and is a healthy mix of southern inspired favorites like fried chicken, hush puppies and catfish. They pivot to fine dining options like sashimi grade tuna, steaks, halibut cheeks and kurobuta pork. It's a magnificent breadth of options! Each tim we've been here, the dishes are phenomenal and the service impeccable. Despite everything already being very impressive, the bar takes it up a level! The mixed drink options are excellent and run the gamut from boozy to very fruity and light. Many times, the bartenders will make you something based on whatever alcohol you like, and they have uniformly been phenomenal! Most recently, we had a basil infused vodka with a passion fruit whip on top. It was one of the favorite drinks we've ever had! The place is popular so plan ahead - You won't be disappointed checking this place out! read more

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Canyon River continues to impress. Fish is a must order when visiting, but if fish is not your thing the meat or pasta dishes are also wonderful. I love seeing cod, halibut and salmon options. The salmon with brown butter is delicious and seems to recur on the menu with rotating fruit (cherries or otherwise). Consistent cod or halibut options are always cooked to perfection with unique pairings. A favorite for myself, friends and family is the flue fin tuna which is sort of a deconstructed sushi plate. Spicy and fresh! Perfectly cooked fish and fresh (local) ingredients along with the location make this place very special. Staff are attentive and love seeing familiar faces over the years. The newly enclosed patio is a tad warm on our hot evenings but nice to have protection from the wind and will increase space in the colder months. read more

Wonderful setting and the food was delish! DONT be afraid to have your server ask the chef to prepare your fish exactly how you like it as the chef will gladly do it! Enjoyed it so much! I had the fried chicken dinner. Too much food for me but made a great takeaway! Eat the rainbow trout! Ask if they come from the Yakima river. That's what they catch there! Nothing better than good rainbow trout! Heading back to stay at the lodge , fly fish and dine in the Grill! Enjoy! read more

Cuisine, was excellent! Service was friendly and timely. Atmosphere was inviting, outdoorsy and warm!

The food here was absolutely amazing!! We pretty much had everything in the menu for our giant party and not a single person complained. From the Seasoned Oysters to the Crab Cakes to the Pork sandwich and Fish. Everything was just to die for. The desserts were also all amazing. Enjoyed a few pretty delicious drinks as well. Overall just 100% satisfied with the meal and experience. The view of the river is also a major plus. Staff was super polite and was willing to seat our large party in a separate portion of restaurant. Definitely will be coming back here given the chance. My personal favorite would be the seasoned oysters and pork sandwich. read more

This place is nestled in the Ellensburg Canyon. Normally a spot for Sunday drives now is a destination surrounded by a beautiful river and local campgrounds. This place is truly a hidden gem. The food is outstanding and our server Jarrod knew everything about the local sourcing of the food, even to their own in-house garden they have for herbs and vegetables, the building is shared with a pro shop on one side and townhouses on the other. Reservations are must and if you are a guest, they have beautiful stone lined path to walk along the river, benches, and parks for you to enjoy. read more

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I heard from many good friends that Canyon River Grill is doing big things. Currently I live across the country though after following their Instagram this became our number one spot to check out for dinner while back in town. Their menu is Cajun inspired, though they feature seasonal foods from the Pacific Northwest, particularly from the Yakima valley. Our waitress stated chef Kevin sources, the majority of its food from local farmers, and even forges through the cascade wilderness for mushrooms to compliments dishes. I want with the tenderloin which was phenomenal. How often do you see elk featured on the menu? The rest of our group went with more of the staples, including fish and chips and fried chicken. I have to say well. The elk was incredible. The fried chicken was the star of the evening for sure. I've been craving that crunchy goodness since. They recently renovated their patio, which has a nice outdoor covering and large fireplace. When I go back again, I'll definitely specify that my reservation is for the outdoor patio. The ambience is awesome. Almost every dining table has a view overlooking the Yakima river. Often times you'll see people out on their boats fly fishing, which is a pretty cool dining experience. They have a very expensive wine menu and future craft brewers from the Yakima valley. Their Instagram is definitely worth a follow to see their featured seasonal offerings. For sure, make a reservation advance as the tables and get booked up pretty quickly. This is by far one of the most fun Daniel experiences I've had in a while, we will be definitely back again. Next time you're in town! read more

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The dining destination experience you want in every town. The service ~ from greeting to finishing, friendly, sweet & courteous. The food ~ delicious. -Shrimp Po Boy batter was light & sauce has a nice slow kick. -Steak cooked perfectly with slight char. -Shrimp giant and glaze was licked up with the bread. -Asparagus quality thick and meaty -The chef himself made rounds making sure everyone enjoyed their meals. The patio ~ best view in the valley! Spacious, heaters, shade awning when needed. The air is just better in the canyon! A few doggies made it that much more neighborly and water bowls were kindly provided. After stuffing our bellies, we walked into Red's Fly Shop for some fishing gear. My kind of dessert! read more

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Great experience always! Great service, wonderful and varied food and beautiful setting! Hands down, our favorite restaurant in Kittitas County!! read more

Went to Canyon River Grill for our 49th wedding anniversary. The food was great. The service was equally good. For the several years we have always gone here for our anniversary. The ambiance is not as good as the food. It is loud and a little tacky as it sit behind a bait/fly fishes store. My only disappointment was when we told him our waiter it was our anniversary I thought they might comp our dessert. Having said all that we would go back but we are moving out of state read more

I've had a couple meals here during my visit to the awesome lodge and Red's Fly Shop, and the food was fantastic. From phenomenally good coffee and massively too huge breakfast sandwiches, to out of this world hamburgers & gumbo (thumbs up and I'm a New Orleans native), to sublime shrimp - I was never disappointed. I also loved the chocolate chip coconut cookies too - they are huge, but they are not to be missed! read more

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The service was great. The food was tasty, but the fish and chips was a bit spicy for someone who doesn't handle slice well. That wasn't expected. The other food was fine, but didn't quite justify the drive from Yakima and the price. The ambiance was okay, but I expected more given the location. Much of the dining room has an out building between it and the river, which from my POV was an unfortunate choice. Prices were on the high end and would have been justified with a little more attention to atmosphere and view. Worth a shot, but I'd say we've checked that box. I hope they improve. It could be great, although that would probably require significant investment. Good luck to these folks! They are trying. read more

We've passed this place many times, but with a car full of kids, it hasn't been a good match. Tried it today for lunch. A beautiful table overlooking the river, friendly service, and an exciting menu selection were highlights. We weren't ravenously hungry, but wanted something wonderful. It was so nice to see unusual and appealing salad choices on the menu. We tried two that we really loved. read more

Canyon River Grill - Watermelon cucumber salad with red pickled onions, radicchio, and feta. Very refreshing. - New American Near Me - Ellensburg, Washington

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Today was the second time I had lunch at Canyon River Grill. I love love love everything about this place. The setting on the river is gorgeous, the dining room is spacious with floor to ceiling windows, and the staff is friendly and competent. Brittany (I think) was our server and she was outstanding. The food is cooked perfectly, which can be dicey when ordering fish dishes. The fish and chips were perfection. The shrimp po-boy was excellent. The drinks were a little weaker than expected but it's a long drive to and from the restaurant. And the crème caramel dessert was perfection. I'm leaving Washington next week for Southern California, and I will miss coming to Canyon River Grill. Go there and enjoy!! read more

Canyon River Grill - Shrimp poboy - New American Near Me - Ellensburg, Washington

Awesome spot with delicious food and great service! The wine menu is amazing! Drinks are available as well. A great place and I definitely come back here! The ambiance is beautiful and with a great view on the canyon wall. The spot is basically right on the river. read more

What a fantastic place out in the canyon. But be careful if you go in the afternoon and they say it's on a shaded patio The minute the wind kicks up they can roll up the shade and you're in the sun. The food was excellent I got the fried chicken and it's a half a chicken I think they cut and bread there with delicious mashed potatoes and gravy. The bathroom is very nice The whole store is nice there's an attached fishing lodge next to it. There's plenty of parking in the front or if you sneak around to the underside there's plenty of parking right along the river. read more

Canyon River Grill - Fish and chips - New American Near Me - Ellensburg, Washington

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A little off the beaten path, beautiful scenic drive. Amazing views, friendly staff, eclectic and well Balanced food combinations.

We love the Canyon River Grill! Great food, friendly staff and excellent wine and beer selection. We've been there several times and would like to go again. However, the last three times we've made reservations and asked for a quiet area, we arrive and are seated in the bar, which is pretty loud. Even after calling a day ahead and explaining that two of our party are hard of hearing and requesting a quiet spot for them, we are still seated in the loud bar. In addition, with all of the gorgeous views, we've been repeatedly seated with a view of the outdoor shed (outside next to the bar). Eating at the Canyon River Grill is kind-of a splurge for us and we just had the bar experience again today so I don't know that we'll go again. read more

We enjoyed our food and cocktails. My wife asked for a window table that the host said was unavailable. The table sat empty through our entire stay... read more

Everything we ordered was fabulous. From the drinks, appetizers, mains and dessert were great. The flavors were all spot on, the preparations great. The four of us had the bread and butter, shrimp appetizer and crab fritters appetizers. For dinner we had fish and chips, the halibut and the steak salad. Everything was fresh and homemade. We make some pretty good meals at home. I'm tired of going out and having sub-par food when I can make better at home. But this place far exceeded our expectations! Not what I would make at home. Like I said, the fresh ingredients, special sauces, and homemade items were all great. We split the lemon cake with fresh berries and whip cream for dessert which was perfect. read more

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I came here for my birthday and it was AMAZING. This is by far the best resturant in the area hands down. Our server shared with us that the chef origionally is from NOLA which explains the southern twist on some of the food. The atmosphere is amazing and its connected to a really cool fly fishing shop. Its on the beautiful Yakama river and its a really scenic drive from Ellensberg WA. I had the fried chicken which was next level and better than places Ive been to in the south. To top it off the service from Paul was great. I highly recomend this spot! read more

Zane & Wylie's Steak Salad was excellent as usual, full of flavor, fresh vegetables, smoked bacon, and the appropriate amount of a vinaigrette. The steak was cooked a perfect medium as requested. The bartender recommended a delicious Cabernet Sauvignon from the Yakima Valley that paired well with the steak salad. I appreciated the quality customer service from the wait staff which is typical. I highly recommend this restaurant. read more

$6.00 for a side of ranch for our French fries....really? And was not good. They should tell you up front instead of the surprise on the bill! Check your bill, there were items on the bill we didn't order....just wow. read more

If you are looking for an out of the way place with incredible views and even better food Canyon River Grill is the place for you. Just outside of Ellensburg WA on windy Canyon Road this jewel is a must try. The people are all friendly and welcoming. The menu changes with the seasons so check back often to see different offerings. Sorry I wish I would have taken pictures but forgot. read more

So up until the end of our visit I would've rated 5 stars for sure! Our waitress was super nice and patient, 90% of the food was absolutely delicious, and their patio is dog friendly which was great as we brought our new puppy. Unfortunately I ordered the halibut but requested difference sides than what it normally comes with as I had an allergy. I was served one piece of halibut (pictured below) with absolutely no flavor and a side of mashed potatoes when I had also requested vegetables but never got any. The halibut did not even taste like it had salt or pepper. The waitress told us the "sides" typically are below the halibut which help to increase flavor, which makes sense, but that's why when I asked for different sides I expected those to also be beneath the fish. Anyways, after I told her the fish tasted like nothing her entire demeanor changed and it was not as pleasant. She was quite rude towards the end. The rest of the food was pretty good tho for being in the middle of literally no where. Pretty pricy though, definitely as much, if not more than what you'd pay at an upscale seattle restaurant. The gentleman at the table next to us also ordered fish and sent it back so maybe she was frustrated with both of us, who knows! read more

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