Cynara Restaurant & Lounge: Elevated Mediterranean and Pacific Rim Dining in Olympia
Cynara Restaurant & Lounge offers a sophisticated yet casual dining experience in Olympia’s vibrant Market District. Inspired by the flavors of the Mediterranean and Pacific Rim, Cynara seamlessly blends fresh, locally sourced ingredients with culinary creativity to deliver dishes that delight the palate and nourish the soul. Owned by Christian Skillings, the visionary behind several beloved Olympia restaurants, Cynara is designed to be both a comfortable neighborhood spot and a destination for special occasions.
About Cynara Restaurant & Lounge
Named after the Greek word for artichoke, Cynara embodies balance and harmony, principles reflected in its vibrant menu and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant champions scratch-made dishes crafted with seasonal, sustainable ingredients, supported by a thoughtfully curated bar program featuring handcrafted cocktails and a diverse selection of wines and local beers.
Cynara’s décor combines warmth and sophistication, creating a space that feels both elegant and welcoming. With a focus on impeccable service, the restaurant prides itself on exceeding guest expectations by offering a memorable dining experience that blends culinary innovation with a community spirit.
The menu at Cynara showcases Mediterranean and Pacific Rim influences, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients and thoughtful preparation. Diners can choose from a variety of shareable appetizers, robust entrees, creative salads, and decadent desserts. The menu also features vegetarian options and specialties that highlight Washington state’s rich agricultural bounty.
Starters and Shareables
Cynara’s starters are perfect for sharing and set the tone for the meal with bold flavors and fresh textures:
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Cynara Toasts: A popular appetizer featuring rustic grilled bread topped with creative combinations such as chèvre with pistachios and grapes or Romesco sauce with pickled vegetables, creating contrasting layers of flavor.
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Deep Fried Artichokes: Crispy and lightly spiced, served with garlic aioli—a personal favorite among regulars.
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Crab and Red Pepper Bisque: A velvety, flavorful soup that highlights fresh seafood and subtle spices.
Signature Entrees
The entrees at Cynara exhibit the restaurant’s skillful balance of tradition and innovation:
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Wild Sockeye Salmon: Grilled to perfection, served with harissa glaze and seasonal accompaniments, showcasing Pacific Northwest freshness.
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Moroccan Lamb Stew: Slow-cooked lamb with fragrant spices, creating a rich and comforting dish.
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Filet Mignon and Rib Eye: Premium Royal Ranch beef selections seasoned and cooked with care for meat lovers seeking elegant options.
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Mushroom Risotto: Creamy and decadent, often paired with added protein such as chicken for a fulfilling meal.
Salads and Lighter Fare
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Cauliflower Quinoa Salad: Fresh, light, and flavorful, blending nutty quinoa with roasted cauliflower and herbs.
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Shakshuka: A Mediterranean dish of poached eggs in spiced tomato sauce, perfect for brunch or a lighter dinner option.
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Cobbler Salad: Featuring local berries and seasonal produce, offering a refreshing, nutritious choice.
Desserts and Drinks
Cynara’s dessert menu offers decadent, memorable finishes:
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Chocolate Marquis: A luscious chocolate mousse layered with curacao liquor cream and toasted hazelnuts, highly recommended.
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Bread Pudding: Warm and comforting, made with careful attention to texture and flavor.
The bar program complements the food perfectly with thoughtfully crafted cocktails such as the Cynara Gin Mary and the seasonal Briar Drop, alongside an extensive tequila and gin selection and locally brewed beers.
Regular visitors often praise the Wild Sockeye Salmon for its perfect balance of grill and glaze, the Moroccan Lamb Stew for its depth of flavor, and the Deep Fried Artichokes for their crispy, satisfying texture. The Cynara Toasts offer a unique communal dining experience, appealing to adventurous eaters and classic palates alike. Desserts like the Chocolate Marquis provide an elegant close to the meal.
Why Visit Cynara Restaurant & Lounge?
Cynara stands out due to its combination of bold, inspired flavors and a commitment to local, sustainable sourcing. The warm yet refined setting, paired with attentive and knowledgeable service, creates a dining experience that appeals both to casual diners and those celebrating special occasions. Its location in Olympia’s evolving Market District makes it an ideal spot for a culinary adventure reflecting the Pacific Northwest’s rich cultural mosaic.
Tips For Your Visit
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Enjoy brunch on weekends for featured items like the Cynara Eggs Benedict with pork belly and harissa hollandaise.
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Experience happy hour daily from 3:30 to 5:30 pm with $5 starters like the Grilled Onion Burger.
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Explore the cocktail menu to sample seasonal and classic drinks.
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Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.
Cynara Restaurant & Lounge offers an inspired Mediterranean and Pacific Rim menu that highlights fresh, local ingredients and culinary craftsmanship. With a warm atmosphere, elegant presentation, and top-tier service, Cynara is a must-visit dining destination in Olympia for those seeking a harmonious blend of comfort and sophisticated flavors.