Ask a Local: A Foodie’s Day in Wenatchee with Creighton Hilstad

If you really want to eat like a local, you have to ask one. That’s what this series is all about—getting the inside scoop from people who live here and know the best places to eat.

This week, we spent the day exploring Wenatchee’s food scene with local business owner Creighton Hilstad. He’s the owner of Henry Harrow, a beautifully curated downtown shop featuring home goods, decor, gifts, and Wenatchee-themed finds—perfect for anyone who loves thoughtful, local shopping. He also knows all the best hidden (and not-so-hidden) food gems in town.

We hit three of his go-to spots for an epic day of eating. Here’s what we ordered, what we thought, and why you should check them out.

McGlinn’s Public House

111 Orondo Ave, Wenatchee, WA
Visit McGlinn’s Website

McGlinn’s is one of those places that feels both classic and fresh at the same time. Their commitment to local, seasonal ingredients shows in every dish.

What We Ordered:

  • Mac & Cheese with Bacon

  • Pulled Pork Sandwich

  • Strawberry Spinach Salad

“I love McGlinn’s for crafting fresh, local foods that taste just like homemade. I highly recommend the Pulled Pork Sandwich—the pickled onions and caramelized pineapple make this sandwich something special.”

If you want hearty, elevated comfort food in a rustic-cool setting, McGlinn’s always delivers.

Tropical Salvadorean Restaurant

119 Palouse Street, Wenatchee, WA
Visit Their Facebook Page

Stepping into Tropical Salvadorean feels like being welcomed into someone’s home. Warm, authentic, and full of big flavors, it’s a downtown favorite for those in the know.

What We Ordered:

  • Beef Pupusas

  • Beef Carne Asada

  • Sandwich Salvadoreños

“Tropical Salvadorean is one of those places where you feel so welcomed the moment you walk through the door. The handmade Pupusas are amazing and fresh. They’re a must-order with every visit.”

If you’ve never tried Salvadoran food before, start here. And don’t even think about leaving without the Pupusas.

King Pizza

30 S Wenatchee Ave #2B, Wenatchee, WA 98801
Visit Their Facebook Page

King Pizza is pure Wenatchee charm with a laid-back vibe and seriously good pizza. It’s where Creighton goes for creative toppings and that perfect sourdough crust.

What We Ordered:

  • Breadsticks with Pesto, Bacon, and Gorgonzola

  • Raspberry Pear Salad

  • Pear Force Pizza

“King Pizza is my Cheers—everyone knows my name. They’ve won me over with their sourdough crust, which they craft to perfection. The Pear Force Pizza with pear, prosciutto, and olive oil is where it’s at. I love it.”

Their inventive combinations and chewy, flavorful sourdough crust make King Pizza a must-visit for any pizza fan.

Final Thoughts

Three stops, three distinct styles, all in one delicious day with a local guide. Big thanks to Creighton Hilstad for showing us around and sharing some of his favorite Wenatchee spots.

If you want to shop local too, check out his downtown store, Henry Harrow, for carefully curated goods with real Wenatchee character at 30 S Wenatchee Ave, Wenatchee, WA.

Where should we go next?