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The Place Next to the San Juan Ferry  

San Juan CountyFriday Harbor

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Address
1 Spring St.
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
(360) 378-8707
Hours
Every day 5:30pm - 9:00pm
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.

Description:
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

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

Comments
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!
Bob Wilson on Sun, December 11, 2005

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
Connie Backlund on Thu, February 20, 2003

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In This Category
Back Door Kitchen and Catering  |  Bella Luna  |  Bilbos Festivo  |  Blue Dolphin Cafe  |  Bucky's Lopez Island Grill  |  Cafe Olga  |  Chimayo   |  Doty's Bakery  |  Front Street Ale House and San Juan Brewing Company  |  Front Street Cafe  |  Harbor View Restaurant  |  Herb's Tavern  |  Madrona Grill  |  Mi Casita  |  Portofino Pizzeria  |  The Doctor's Office  |  The Hungry Clam  |  The Sweet Retreat and Espresso  |  Vern's Bayside Restaurant and Lounge  |  Vic's Driftwood Drive Inn  |  West Sound Cafe

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