Tugboat Annie’s Olympia: Classic Waterfront Dining with Hearty American Fare

Tugboat Annie’s,

About Tugboat Annie’s

Since opening its doors in 1999, Tugboat Annie’s has been more than just a restaurant—it’s a community landmark. Its building sits on a site rich with local maritime history, reflecting Olympia’s waterfront roots. The venue offers both relaxed indoor dining and outdoor seating for those ready to bask in sweeping views of Budd Inlet and the marina. Its décor pays homage to seafaring culture, with nautical accents and an inviting, lively atmosphere that celebrates the spirit of the Puget Sound. Tugboat Annie’s is a favored destination for gatherings, game days, casual lunches, and laid-back dinners, serving as a welcoming place where guests feel like regulars from their very first visit.​

The Menu: American Comfort Meets Pacific Northwest Seafood

Tugboat Annie’s menu is designed to please a wide range of tastes—from pub classics and loaded burgers to abundant seafood platters and vegetarian-friendly options. The kitchen takes pride in working with fresh, local ingredients, taking comfort food and coastal cuisine to the next level. The laid-back menu style matches the maritime backdrop, offering plenty to share with friends or enjoy solo after a day exploring Olympia’s historic waterfront.​

Starters and Shareable Plates

• Nachos: Layered with tomatoes, black beans, cheese, green chilies, and salsa; customizable with your choice of chicken, BBQ pork, or beef for extra heartiness.​

• Tugs Poppers: Hand-dipped jalapenos stuffed with sweet chipotle cream cheese, served with marmalade for a savory-sweet kick.​

• Crab Artichoke Dip: A creamy, indulgent favorite paired with toasted bread—highly recommended by regulars.​

• Chili Cheese Fries: Piled high with homemade chili, melted jack cheddar, and offered with a medley of toppings like roasted garlic, green chilies, bacon, or andouille sausage.​

Soups and Salads

• Signature Clam Chowder: Creamy and loaded with fresh clams, a must-try at Tugboat Annie’s and consistently praised by guests.​

• Budd Bay Seafood Salad: Mixed greens packed with Northwest seafood such as shrimp and crab, topped with house vinaigrette.

• Soup and Salad Combo: A lighter choice featuring their homemade soup of the day and a crisp side salad.

Mains and House Specials

• Fish and Chips: A house classic—fresh halibut battered crisp and golden, served with fries, tartar, and lemon.​

• Seafood Sauté: A medley of scallops, shrimp, salmon, cod, mussels, and mushrooms, sautéed in lemon, garlic, wine, and butter; comes with your choice of sides, making this one of the most popular seafood platters.​

• Jambalaya: Made fresh to order, blending chicken, andouille sausage, prawns, peppers, and tomatoes in a medium-spiced rice base; available blackened or baked for those who crave a taste of the South.​

• Coconut Shrimp: Large shrimp dipped in coconut breading, fried until golden, and served with sweet marmalade and your choice of vegetable, rice, or fries.​

• Fried Oysters: Lightly breaded, fried to perfection, and paired with classic sauces and sides, using fresh Taylor oysters from local waters.​

Burgers, Sandwiches, and Pub Fare

• The Annie Burger: Loaded with cheddar, Swiss, bacon, ham, and a fried egg—a hearty, flavor-packed signature burger.​

• Blue Cheeseburger with Bacon: A customer favorite, known for its bold flavor and generous toppings.​

• Salmon Burger: Wild-caught Pacific salmon grilled and served with lettuce, tomato, and house tartar—praised as a must-try for seafood lovers.​

• Prime Rib Sandwich: Juicy, tender prime rib piled high on a toasted bun, often topping customer recommendations.

• Chicken Sandwich with Chipotle Sauce: Fried chicken breast topped with spicy chipotle sauce, another recent addition winning rave reviews.​

• Hand-breaded Halibut Sandwich, Pulled Pork, and Reuben: Rounding out the sandwich menu alongside vegetarian burgers and wraps.

The pub menu also features wings, chicken strips, and plenty of baskets for sharing—ideal for game day or group gatherings.​

Comfort Plates and Smokehouse Favorites

• Combo Plate: Generous portions of chicken, ribs, and brisket accompanied by sides like smoked beans and tangy potato salad—a hit among barbecue enthusiasts.​

• Chicken Fried Steak: Covered in rich country gravy, often served with vegetables and potatoes—a stick-to-your-ribs classic.​

• BBQ Ribs and Brisket: Slow-cooked and seasoned to perfection, available as platters or part of the combo.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Tugboat Annie’s is committed to inclusivity, offering a selection of vegan and vegetarian meals, from black bean or veggie burgers to customizable salads and pastas.​

Sides, Desserts, and Drinks

• Sides: Choose from classic fries, house potato salad, seasonal vegetables, rice, and more.

• Desserts: Indulgent offerings such as hot fudge brownie sundaes, mud pie (peanut butter coffee ice cream on Oreo crust with hot fudge), and the signature Banana Annie (deep-fried coconut banana over vanilla ice cream with rum sauce).​

• Full Bar: Features craft beers, local wines, and signature cocktails, including refreshing margaritas and creative house-made infusions—a key part of the Tugboat Annie’s experience.​

Menu Highlights: Standout Dishes and Customer Favorites

• Fish and Chips and clam chowder top the list for returning guests, both praised for freshness and taste.​

• The Annie Burger and Blue Cheeseburger are iconic, drawing burger fans from all over to try their creative, over-the-top toppings.​

• Sharable starters like crab artichoke dip and tugs poppers remain favorites for groups and happy hour.

• Southern-inspired plates such as jambalaya and the combo barbecue platter keep regulars excited for something beyond standard pub fare.

• Don’t skip the mud pie or Banana Annie for a memorable, sweet finish.

What Locals Love About Tugboat Annie’s

• Unbeatable views: The marina and waterfront backdrop provide a relaxing ambiance for any meal.​

• Family-friendly energy: Spacious seating, outdoor tables, and a welcoming staff ensure all ages feel at home.

• Generous portions and fair prices: Guests consistently comment on the great value for quality and portion size.​

• Lively bar scene and happy hour: Signature drinks and local draft beers pair perfectly with appetizers and sunset views.

• Rich character and maritime décor: Nautical memorabilia and historic photos add fun, local flavor to every visit.

Tips for Your Visit

• Consider making reservations for weekends and event nights due to the restaurant’s popularity.

• Outdoor seating is perfect for sunny days or evening sunsets—arrive early to secure a spot with the best views.

• Explore the bar menu for house infusions and happy hour specials (daily from 2–5 pm).

• The menu rotates seasonal specials, including market-fresh seafood and rotating desserts, so ask about what’s new.

• If dining with a group, sharing starters and combo baskets lets everyone try a bit of everything.