Downriggers - Friday Harbor

Pro: Our dinner was tasty, gluten free options were solid. Con: Our server was very unengaged/distracted. Beverage glasses remained empty halfway through the meal to the end, empty plates for a solid 15+ min, they disappeared for a really long time. We had to ask our friendly/awesome water guy to help get us the check.

If you want incredible food this is the spot. But above all request Isaiah to be your waiter. He knew the menu and gave great recommendations, he also paid attention about my wife being gluten free and made sure she had an option for our appetizer plate so my wife could enjoy it as well. Our drinks were never empty and made sure we had everything we needed. Even after we had a little hiccup with my meal ha made sure it was made right. I work in the food industry, and he provided an experience that made our night delightful. Thanks Isaiah, we plan on coming back soon

If I could 0 stars for service I would. The food is good, beautiful location. Service HORRIBLE! My friend came in from Nebraska to see Washington for the first time. I was excited to show her one of my favorite towns Friday Harbor. Before going whale watching we went to Downriggers for some lunch. We were seated given water and told the waitress would be with us. 15 minutes later watching her wait on everyone around us that were seated after us. Finally, we flagged down one of the 3 employees circling the dining room like vultures. She said she’d look into it. Finally, the waitress came over. She said she was not our waitress, although she had ALL the tables around us, but she would take our order. She kept her back to my friend, who is black, only when I redirected her did she acknowledge her. When she walked away, I suggested we leave, my friend did not want to make a scene, so we stayed. After about another 5 minutes another waitress came up again only speaking to me she said she did not realize we were her table, again she had one table in another person’s section. Strangely, we never saw that waitress again. To say I am disappointed does not cover it. I proceeded to tell every person I spoke to about my experience. We went to other restaurants while we were there and did not have this problem. EXTREMELY DISAPPOINTED! I will never go back to Downriggers. Another caution for those with food allergies. Both my friend and I have celiac. The menu had GF marked on several items. With no further note, we assumed that meant that item was completely gluten free. I ordered the portabella burger and noticed gluten free bun, so was able to make that adjustment. My friend ordered the crab dip, again clearly marked GF. When we finished eating the waitress offered us a free dessert for the “confusion,” I said I doubt there is nothing gluten free, the waitress replied no, then paused and asked if we were both gluten free, which we confirmed. The waitress replied the chips on the dip were not gluten free. My friend was extremely ill for the rest of the weekend.