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The Place Next to the San Juan Ferry

(Not Yet Rated)
The Place Next to the San Juan Ferry 0:0

Address

1 Spring St.
Friday Harbor , WA 98250
(360) 378-8707

Hours

Every day 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM

Review

The tagline is "casual fine dining", which is an apt description. Everything on the San Juan Islands is casual though they do take their fine dining a little more seriously in Friday Harbor. This is a restaurant of filet mignon and bouillabaisse, light ginger chiptotle sauce and simmering white wine. The bread is baked fresh daily and many of the ingredients are local (except, of course, for the New Zealand lamb and the Thai Black Tiger Prawns). The wine selection is extensive and the dessert menu is certainly tempting.

The management has taken an interest in art, to the benefit of patrons and artists alike. The menu covers contain reproductions of original works commissioned by the restaurant. Local art is also on display on the walls with prices, much like a gallery. Proceeds from the sale of this art goes to a scholarship fund to support an emerging local artist. Fresh flowers at your table and candlelight add to the classy atmosphere, especially in the late evening.

The most unique draw to the restaurant is its proximity to the ferry landing. The dining area literally overhangs the harbor mere yards from the ferry dock. The view of the stream of cars and people flowing on and off the ferry is one-of-a-kind. If the people on the ferry are crowding the rails and looking down at the harbor, chances are that there might be a harbor seal swimming (quite literally) under your nose.

The Place is not inexpensive but the quality of the dining experience certainly makes it a place to recommend.
Written By: Glen Berry
On: 10/2/2000

Directions

Well, it's right next to the ferry. You can literally jump onto the building from the ferry landing, but don't try it. Just hang a right when exiting the ferry. The restaurant is right there.

Features

Beer and Wine | Dinner | Smoke-free | Takes Reservations

Map

User Reviews

Connie Backlund
Hugo, CO
20rating
(1)
(1)
2/20/2003
First To Review
That was the name of the restaurant when it was first built. We were friends of Ernie and Mo the owners. In fact we had our before wedding dinner at that rest. almost 20 years ago. The building looks a lot the same. It was nice to see it still there. Thanks for the memories. Connie
(0)
(0)
Bob Wilson
10rating
(1)
(0)
12/11/2005
I believe the original name was "Nardo's," is that right? Now called "the place," it is the best restaurant on the island-bar none!
(0)
(0)
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