Northwest Salmon Smokehouse & Artisan Market — Restaurant in Chehalis

HOLY SMOKES. It took me a little while to dine here the first time given the name and that I don't care for any seafood... Now Frank and Dainelle can't get rid of me. EVERYTHING is outstanding. The service is never less than friendly and efficient. Perfect lunch spot.

Though there are many hearty options like footlong hotdogs, pulled pork or brisket loaded baked potatoes, mac and cheese, nachos, and chili in THE BEST bread bowls, there ARE lighter options that stand on their own like salads and a made from scratch salmon chowder. While their grilled chicken is a great seafood substitute this summer I've been living on the Westport tuna salad and have them throw on some pulled pork in place of the tuna. Epic. They're always willing to accommodate.

The portions are huge, big bang for your buck.

As I mentioned, I don't care for seafood, but have personally overheard the following compliments to the chef:

"I have had chowder all across the US and I can tell you, without competition, this is hands down the best chowder I have EVER had." And "I live for a well done tuna melt and pride myself on making one of the best and this tuna melt has mine beat."

OH!! And don't forget the sweet treats! You might miss them if you don't go up to the register. Big fat cookies and sometimes peanut butter fudge I can't stop thinking about.

Some people think the best local carrot cake comes from Centralia and I say, those people haven't had the carrot cake at the smokehouse!! Life changing. To die for. Need it.

Man I should start taking photos of food for yall.

Go. Just go. Go often. Try it all. Extra stars for Danielle and...

Went there on a Friday early afternoon.

The salmon smelled good. I was able to enjoy the smell before even tasting it. It tasted good, too - no fishy smell.

The chowder was rich and not too salty. The ratio of salmon, potatoes (?), and soup was good - no obtrusive chunky feeling. Herbs added complexity to the taste in a good way.

The salmon mac & cheese avoided a common issue encountered by certain bacon mac & cheese - the salmon and mac and cheese worked together instead of the salmon's stealing all the spotlight. The amount and types of cheese made the mac & cheese alone taste good, and the smoked salmon further added complexity of texture and flavor to the whole dish.

The herby bread that came with the mac & cheese was surprisingly good.

The salmon panini was good, but I haven't thought of how to describe the delicious spread.

The seating was good. Good space between different tables, and nice street or store view (depending on the direction). The store was a relaxing place with clean interior and comfortable atmosphere to shop some interesting products, such as rather unusual kind of soap, tea, sauce, salad dressing, etc.

The owners (?) and staff were friendly and sometimes identified our needs before we said anything.

Those who like the smoked salmon and/or spread can buy some to take home, too.

The experience was...

My first time ever leaving a food review so you know it’s worth it! Everyone needs to know about the NW Salmon Smokehouse. Laid back and easy vibe inside restaurant. I was seated right away. After pondering through the menu, I decided to go with the “Most Epic Baker”. But do yourself a favor and start with a cup of chowder first, best chowder I’ve had in the NW in years, actually order a bowl because you’ll want more. Back to the “Most Epic Baker,” be prepared for a feast. It was like a 5-course meal all on one plate. Huge baked potato cooked perfectly, layered with a special white sauce, then the Mac-n-cheese, then the pulled pork, then more cheese, then more meat(Kielbasa), then more cheese and topped with butter and sour cream. I didn’t know if I would finish but I couldn’t stop eating. Dollar for dollar, the value was extremely worth it for how much food you get! I’ll definitely be coming back next month when I’m in town to try again. Thank you NW Salmon Smokehouse for the best meal I’ve had in...