Seattle is a city that takes food seriously. From fresh-off-the-boat oysters to celebrated farm-to-table fare, the Emerald City offers a diversity of flavors rooted in Pacific Northwest tradition and global influences. What’s quickly gaining attention in this world-class food scene is Washington cider—an exciting, versatile, and food-friendly beverage with deep roots in the region.

For nearly a century, Washington has grown more than half of the nation’s apples, giving cidermakers unparalleled access to fresh fruit. Rooted in orchard traditions and fueled by innovation, Northwest cider offers a remarkable range: bone-dry to semi-sweet, still to sparkling, and tart to fruit-forward. Like wine, cider expresses terroir, the flavor of place, but with a lighter footprint on both palate and alcohol content (cider is generally 5–8% ABV, with more low- and no-alcohol options emerging).

For food lovers, that means cider is an incredible pairing partner. Its natural acidity refreshes the palate. Its bubbles lift flavors. Its wide flavor spectrum—from herbal to floral, oaky to funky—means there’s a cider for every dish. Whether you’re treating yourself to Seattle's renowned fine dining scene, grabbing a quick bite from a food cart, preparing fresh seafood at home, or packing a picnic to explore the great outdoors, cider deserves a seat at the culinary table.

Cider in Seattle: Where to Start

Seattle is home to some of the most celebrated cider makers in the country. Easy to access, you can visit them for a taste of homegrown, ready-to-pair cider.

• Yonder Cider in Phinney Ridge blends orchard-based techniques with creative twists and cocktail-inspired ciders including dry-hopped and rosé-style blends—perfect with picnic staples such as grilled chicken, smoked salmon, or potato salad.
• Seattle Cider Company in SoDo is a regional pioneer, producing clean, expressive ciders from classic apple to botanical and barrel-aged styles—excellent with shellfish, pork belly, or seasonal vegetable plates.
• Schilling Cider House in Fremont pours an unmatched variety, offering over 30 rotating taps from Schilling and guest producers. You can sample everything from bright and crisp to rich and complex styles in one stop–ideal to enjoy with the hearty fare and cheese boards available at eateries just steps away.

A City Surrounded by Cider

Washington’s cider scene doesn’t stop at Seattle city limits. Venture beyond and you’ll find a bounty of one-of-a-kind tasting room experiences, picturesque rural orchards and a myriad of small-batch producers crafting unique expressions of the fermented apple. Discover what Washington cider has to offer and plan your next cider trip.

Perfect Pairings Tips for Cider

Cider’s versatility shines across an array of cuisines. Here are a few to get you started:

• Seafood & Shellfish: Crisp, subtle fruit notes complement briny oysters, grilled shrimp, and ceviche.
• Spicy Dishes: A touch of sweetness tames heat in Thai, Indian, or Korean cuisine while amplifying spice.
• Cheese & Charcuterie: Dry, tannic ciders cut through creamy cheeses and balance salty cured meats.
• Roasted & Grilled Meats: Barrel-aged or wild-fermented ciders bring depth to pork, chicken, or beef.
• Vegetarian Fare: Herbal or floral ciders pair beautifully with mushrooms, squash, and root vegetables.

Learn more about why cider pairings work and how to pair like a pro at nwcider.com/cider-pairings

Raise a Glass

Whether you’re savoring oysters on Seattle’s waterfront, grabbing street tacos, or enjoying artisan cheeses from Pike Place Market, you can be part of the cider renaissance– ask what local cider is on tap. Order a flight. Share a bottle. Explore the range.

Northwest cider culture is rooted in tradition yet made for modern tastes—bright, balanced, and endlessly versatile. Ready to dive deeper? The Northwest Cider Association (NWCA) is here to help you! Bringing together more than 300 cider industry professionals, orchardists, allied suppliers, and cider enthusiasts to celebrate and uplift the Northwest cider movement. Let NWCA help you learn, taste, and connect more at www.nwcider.com.