Top 12 Restaurant Supply Stores in Seattle for 2025

August 4, 2025

For Seattle's vibrant culinary scene, success hinges on efficiency, quality, and having the right tools for the job. Navigating the world of commercial kitchen equipment and supplies can be overwhelming, with countless options for everything from heavy-duty ranges to specialty serviceware. This guide simplifies that process for restaurant owners and chefs. We've curated a definitive resource detailing the best restaurant supply stores in Seattle, designed to help you discover the latest news, find exclusive deals, and stay informed about crucial industry trends.

This comprehensive listicle moves beyond simple directories. We provide a detailed analysis of each supplier, covering their product specialties, pricing structures, and unique service offerings. You'll find insights into exclusive deals, the latest equipment innovations, and practical advice on which store best fits your specific operational needs. Whether you're launching a new cafe in Capitol Hill, upgrading a downtown bistro, or managing a high-volume kitchen in SoDo, this resource will help you find the perfect partners to equip your establishment for 2025 and beyond.

Each profile includes direct links and key details to streamline your sourcing. Our goal is to help you optimize your budget, stay informed about the latest in restaurant equipment and supplies, and build relationships with the suppliers that will truly fuel your growth.

1. Encore Seattle Restaurant Equipment

Encore Seattle Restaurant Equipment stands out as a premier destination for commercial kitchen needs, expertly bridging the gap between premium quality and accessible pricing. Since 1990, they have established themselves as a cornerstone for the Pacific Northwest's food service industry, offering a robust inventory of both new and used equipment. This makes them one of the most versatile restaurant supply stores in Seattle, catering to a wide range of budgets and operational scales, from bustling full-service restaurants to nimble food trucks and pop-up concepts.

The key advantage of Encore lies in its strategic blend of high-end brands and certified used equipment, a model strengthened by its ownership under The Restaurant Warehouse. This unique structure allows operators to acquire top-tier appliances like refrigeration units, cooking ranges, and dishwashing systems at a fraction of the typical cost. Their physical presence in the Sodo District, complemented by a large Renton warehouse, provides a tangible, hands-on shopping experience that online-only retailers cannot match, allowing chefs to see the latest industry trends in equipment firsthand.

Key Strengths & Use Cases

Encore Seattle excels in providing practical, cost-effective solutions tailored to the specific challenges of restaurant ownership. Their offerings are designed to streamline operations and support growth.

For New Restaurant Openings: Entrepreneurs launching a new café or pizzeria can leverage Encore's extensive used inventory to significantly reduce initial capital expenditure. The knowledgeable sales staff can guide them to the right-sized equipment, ensuring they invest smartly without sacrificing performance.
For Established Kitchen Upgrades: A restaurant looking to enhance efficiency can find the latest models from leading brands. The free freight within Washington state is a substantial benefit, turning a major equipment purchase into a more manageable expense.
For Urgent Equipment Replacement: When a critical appliance fails, Encore's local warehouses and fast delivery options are invaluable. This quick turnaround minimizes downtime and lost revenue, a crucial factor for any food service business.

Navigating Encore's Offerings

The website is a clean, well-organized portal into their vast inventory. Users can easily browse categories or search for specific brands. To stay informed on the latest industry trends and get tips on sourcing equipment, restaurateurs can explore Encore's blog for valuable insights. For a deeper look into their pre-owned options, you can learn more about their approach to used restaurant equipment in Seattle. The site also clearly outlines their financing options, which are integrated with advanced technology to provide quick, customized solutions for bars, sandwich shops, and other commercial kitchens. This financial flexibility empowers businesses to acquire necessary tools without disrupting cash flow.

Website: encoreseattle.com

2. Seattle Restaurant Store

Seattle Restaurant Store, located just north of the city in Shoreline, operates as a classic, full-service supply house. While its website, srscooks.com, functions more as a digital catalog than an e-commerce platform, it is an invaluable tool for preliminary research. Restaurant owners can browse extensive categories of new and used equipment, from high-volume convection ovens to specialized refrigeration, allowing them to compare specs, identify potential models, and discover the latest offerings before visiting the showroom.

This store stands out for its deep inventory of used equipment, a significant advantage for startups or operators managing tight budgets. The real value, however, comes from the in-person experience. The knowledgeable staff can provide crucial insights on equipment performance, offer layout advice, and help you find the best fit for your specific operational needs, often clueing you in on industry trends and upcoming deals.

Key Details & User Experience

Best For: Sourcing major new or used kitchen equipment and benefiting from expert, hands-on guidance.
Product Focus: Heavy-duty cooking equipment, refrigeration, dishwashing systems, and a wide array of smallwares.
Practical Tip: Use their website to build a preliminary list of equipment needs. Then, call ahead or visit their Shoreline location to discuss your list, check for exclusive deals on used inventory, and get expert recommendations.
Limitation: The website lacks online purchasing capabilities and real-time inventory for used items, making an in-store visit or phone call essential for finalizing a purchase.

Website: https://srscooks.com/shop/

3. Bargreen Ellingson

Bargreen Ellingson transcends the role of a typical supplier, positioning itself as a comprehensive partner for foodservice operations. With a major showroom in Seattle, it serves as a one-stop destination for everything from fine china and glassware to heavy-duty kitchen equipment. Their website, while functional for browsing, is best used as a gateway to their deeper, more personalized services, including professional kitchen design and layout consultation, keeping you ahead of industry trends in kitchen efficiency.

What truly sets Bargreen Ellingson apart is its investment in the client's success, highlighted by its on-site test kitchen. This unique feature allows chefs and owners to trial major equipment purchases, ensuring a new convection oven or combi-steamer fits their workflow before committing. This hands-on approach minimizes risk and helps operators make informed decisions that align with their culinary vision and operational needs, a standout service among restaurant supply stores in Seattle.

Key Details & User Experience

Best For: New restaurant builds, major kitchen renovations, and operators wanting to test equipment before buying.
Product Focus: Full-spectrum supply, including tabletop items (glassware, china), bar supplies, heavy equipment, and custom fabrication.
Practical Tip: Schedule a consultation to leverage their design services. If considering a significant equipment upgrade, ask about booking time in their test kitchen to see the unit in action and inquire about exclusive manufacturer deals.
Limitation: The Seattle showroom has limited public hours (Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM), requiring careful planning for in-person visits.

Website: https://bargreen.com/locations/seattle

4. Dick's Restaurant Supply

Dick's Restaurant Supply is a long-standing institution among Seattle's culinary professionals, known for its extensive hands-on inventory and practical advice. While the company does not maintain a browsable e-commerce website, its physical presence provides an essential resource for operators who need to see and handle products before buying. It serves as a one-stop shop for everything from major cooking appliances to everyday smallwares, catering to a diverse clientele from full-service restaurants to local cafes.

What truly sets Dick's apart is the combination of its diverse inventory and the experienced staff. This is a place where you can directly compare new and used equipment side-by-side, a crucial advantage for balancing budget with performance. The team's knowledge is invaluable for navigating the vast selection and understanding industry trends, helping you find durable solutions tailored to your kitchen's specific workflow. For those seeking reliable restaurant supply stores in Seattle, a visit here can often uncover exclusive deals on floor models or recently acquired used items.

Key Details & User Experience

Best For: Sourcing a mix of new and used equipment, getting immediate, in-person advice, and fulfilling a wide range of supply needs in a single visit.
Product Focus: Cooking equipment, refrigeration, food preparation tools, and a comprehensive stock of smallwares.
Practical Tip: Come prepared with your kitchen layout and a list of requirements. The staff can provide tailored recommendations on-site and point you toward both new and budget-friendly used options, as well as any current promotions you might not have considered.
Limitation: The lack of an online catalog or e-commerce site means all business, from browsing to purchasing, must be conducted in person or over the phone, which requires more planning.

Website: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/dicks-restaurant-supply-seattle

5. Restaurant Depot

Restaurant Depot operates on a membership-based wholesale model, providing a true one-stop-shop experience for restaurant owners in Seattle. Its website serves as a valuable resource for viewing weekly flyers, locating branches, and understanding its vast product scope, which ranges from fresh produce and bulk pantry staples to commercial-grade equipment. While you can't purchase items online, the site allows you to plan your shopping trip meticulously, ensuring you can capitalize on the latest deals and exclusive member pricing.

This store's primary advantage is its immense buying power, which translates into highly competitive pricing and exclusive deals for those with a membership. For restaurateurs needing both perishable food items and durable goods like smallwares or janitorial supplies in a single run, Restaurant Depot is an unmatched resource. The immediate availability of such a wide inventory makes it a go-to for urgent needs, distinguishing it from other restaurant supply stores in Seattle that may require ordering and lead times.

Key Details & User Experience

Best For: Business owners seeking wholesale pricing on a massive range of food, supplies, and equipment in a single location.
Product Focus: Bulk food items, fresh meat and produce, kitchen supplies, janitorial products, and a selection of commercial equipment.
Practical Tip: Sign up for their email list via the website to receive weekly specials and plan your shopping trips around major discounts on key inventory items. This is the best way to stay informed about their exclusive deals.
Limitation: A free business membership is required to enter the store and make purchases. The model is entirely cash-and-carry, with no online ordering or delivery services available.

Website: https://www.restaurantdepot.com/

6. US Foods CHEF'STORE

US Foods CHEF'STORE operates on a warehouse club model but with a key distinction: it is completely open to the public with no membership fees required. This makes it one of the most accessible restaurant supply stores in Seattle for both industry professionals and ambitious home cooks. While the website primarily serves to showcase weekly specials, product categories, and store locations, it's an excellent tool for planning your shopping trip and discovering deals on bulk food items before you visit one of their multiple Seattle-area locations.

The store's strength lies in its vast selection of perishable and shelf-stable food products, from fresh produce and choice cuts of meat to dairy and frozen goods. While the focus is less on heavy equipment, you will find a solid range of essential kitchen supplies, disposables, and professional-grade cleaning products. Its convenient locations and ample parking make it a go-to for frequent, high-volume stock-ups, with weekly flyers offering exclusive deals on core ingredients.

Key Details & User Experience

Best For: Chefs and restaurateurs needing regular, bulk purchases of food products and essential kitchen supplies without a membership.
Product Focus: Fresh meat and produce, dairy, frozen goods, beverages, pantry staples, and basic kitchen supplies.
Practical Tip: Check the weekly specials on their website before your visit to plan your menu around current deals and maximize your budget. Signing up for their newsletter ensures you never miss a promotion.
Limitation: The website does not support comprehensive online shopping for its full inventory, making an in-store visit necessary for most purchases. The selection of heavy kitchen equipment is limited compared to specialized dealers.

Website: https://www.chefstore.com/

7. KaTom Restaurant Supply

KaTom Restaurant Supply is a major national online retailer that serves as an essential resource for Seattle-based operators seeking an exhaustive selection of equipment and supplies. Though not a local storefront, its comprehensive website functions as a powerful digital warehouse. Restaurant owners can access detailed product pages with spec sheets, customer reviews, and video guides, making it an excellent platform for staying informed on industry trends and comparison shopping on everything from specialized bar blenders to large-scale commercial ranges.

The platform stands out for its competitive pricing, frequent promotions, and robust financing options, which can be a game-changer for businesses funding a major renovation or a new opening. While it lacks the immediate, hands-on experience of a local showroom, KaTom’s user-friendly interface and responsive customer service team make it one of the most reliable online restaurant supply stores for Seattle businesses looking to discover the latest products or secure exclusive online deals shipped directly to their door.

Key Details & User Experience

Best For: Deep-dive product research, competitive price comparison, and purchasing specialized equipment not available locally.
Product Focus: An enormous range of commercial equipment, kitchen supplies, tabletop items, janitorial products, and disposables.
Practical Tip: Use their website's detailed filters to narrow down equipment by brand, price, and technical specifications. Sign up for their newsletter to stay informed on exclusive deals and industry trends.
Limitation: As an online-only option for Seattle, you cannot physically inspect items before purchase, and shipping times for large equipment can vary.

Website: https://www.katom.com/

8. Seattle Restaurant Equipment

Seattle Restaurant Equipment carves out its niche by focusing on cost-effective solutions, making it an excellent starting point for startups and small-business owners. Their website operates as a clear, organized catalog, showcasing a diverse mix of both new and used equipment. This allows restaurateurs to easily compare options from reputable brands and identify pieces that fit a lean budget without sacrificing essential functionality, often uncovering exclusive deals on pre-owned gear.

The platform stands out by blending affordability with expertise. While many budget-focused suppliers are self-service, this company emphasizes the value of its knowledgeable staff. They are available to guide new entrepreneurs through the often-complex process of outfitting a commercial kitchen, offering advice on everything from equipment selection to layout efficiency, and keeping them informed on the latest durable and affordable equipment trends.

Key Details & User Experience

Best For: New restaurant owners, pop-ups, and food trucks needing affordable equipment with expert purchasing guidance.
Product Focus: A balanced inventory of essential new and used cooking equipment, refrigeration, and prep stations.
Practical Tip: Browse their online catalog to get a sense of pricing and models, then contact their team directly to inquire about specific used items and get personalized recommendations for your concept. Be sure to ask about any unlisted specials.
Limitation: The website does not support direct online purchasing, requiring a phone call or in-person visit to finalize transactions and confirm the availability of used stock.

Website: https://seattlerestaurantequipment.com/

9. Sur La Table

While known primarily as a high-end consumer kitchenware retailer, Sur La Table earns its spot on this list for its exceptional selection of premium smallwares, specialized tools, and small-batch equipment. Its website and University Village location in Seattle serve as an excellent resource for chefs looking for specific, high-performance items and to stay informed on the latest culinary tool trends. This is the place to source everything from professional-grade stand mixers to delicate plating tools and top-tier knives that are often hard to find at larger, commercial-focused restaurant supply stores in Seattle.

The platform stands out by offering a curated selection of best-in-class brands like Le Creuset, All-Clad, and Vitamix, which are essential for open-kitchen concepts or operations where equipment quality is part of the guest experience. The knowledgeable staff and online product demonstrations provide industry trend insights and education on getting the most from your equipment, a valuable service for refining techniques or training staff on new tools.

Key Details & User Experience

Best For: Sourcing high-end, specialized smallwares, countertop appliances, and professional-grade culinary tools.
Product Focus: Premium cookware, cutlery, bakeware, and small electrics suitable for demanding professional use.
Practical Tip: Leverage their website to research and purchase specific tools or visit the store to get a hands-on feel for premium equipment. Signing up for their email list is a great way to learn about exclusive sales and clearance events.
Limitation: It is not a source for heavy-duty commercial equipment like ranges or industrial refrigerators, and its pricing is at a premium compared to traditional supply houses.

Website: https://www.surlatable.com/

10. Metro Restaurant Supply

Metro Restaurant Supply has carved out a niche as a reliable, hands-on partner for foodservice establishments across the greater Seattle area. While its website offers a glimpse into their extensive catalog, the company's true strength lies in its diverse physical inventory and the expertise of its staff. Operators can find everything from major cooking appliances to specialized smallwares, with options for both new and used equipment to fit varying budgets and operational scales.

The store distinguishes itself with a well-rounded selection that serves a broad spectrum of restaurant types, from full-service dining to quick-service cafes. This diversity makes it a practical one-stop shop for many local businesses. The emphasis on in-person consultation ensures that clients receive guidance tailored to their specific needs, from kitchen layout to selecting the right tools, and can often lead to discovering exclusive in-store deals. You can even find expert advice on topics like optimizing commercial kitchen storage when visiting their showroom.

Key Details & User Experience

Best For: Restaurant operators who value in-person service and want to compare new and used equipment side-by-side.
Product Focus: A balanced mix of heavy equipment, refrigeration, worktables, and a comprehensive range of everyday supplies.
Practical Tip: Browse their online categories to get a feel for their offerings, then plan a visit to their location to see items firsthand and discuss your project with their team. Ask about any current promotions or new arrivals.
Limitation: The website is primarily a digital brochure, not an e-commerce platform. An in-store visit or phone call is required to confirm inventory and make a purchase.

Website: https://www.metrorestaurantsupply.com/

11. RestaurantSupply.com

RestaurantSupply.com is a major national online retailer that serves as a one-stop digital shop for nearly any foodservice need. While not a local brick-and-mortar, its comprehensive e-commerce platform makes it a key resource for Seattle-area operators seeking a vast selection and competitive pricing without leaving their office. The website allows for detailed side-by-side comparisons of equipment, access to spec sheets, and a streamlined purchasing process, keeping chefs informed on the latest equipment trends nationwide.

This platform stands out for its user-friendly interface and extensive product information, making it easy to research everything from large-scale refrigeration units to specialized smallwares. For businesses managing cash flow for a large opening or renovation, the availability of equipment financing options and exclusive online deals is a significant advantage. Its nationwide logistics network ensures that even though it’s not local, it remains a competitive option among restaurant supply stores in Seattle for sourcing a wide variety of goods.

Key Details & User Experience

Best For: Business owners who prefer online research and purchasing, and for sourcing a wide range of items from a single vendor.
Product Focus: A vast catalog covering everything from heavy equipment and furniture to disposables and janitorial supplies.
Practical Tip: Use the website’s filtering tools to narrow down equipment by brand, price, and specific features. Check their "Deals" section frequently for promotions and clearance items to maximize savings.
Limitation: As an online-only retailer, you cannot physically inspect items before purchase, and shipping times to the Seattle area can vary depending on the product’s warehouse location.

Website: https://www.restaurantsupply.com/

12. Williams-Sonoma

While not a traditional restaurant supply store, Williams-Sonoma earns a spot on this list for its exceptional selection of high-end smallwares, specialized countertop appliances, and presentation-focused tools. For cafes, fine dining establishments, or bars where aesthetic and quality are paramount, their Seattle location in University Village and robust e-commerce site are invaluable. The platform is perfect for discovering the latest trends in gourmet kitchen tech and sourcing premium-brand items like Vitamix blenders, All-Clad cookware, and professional-grade knives.

This retailer stands out by offering a curated selection where every item is chosen for its superior quality and design. While you won't find industrial walk-in coolers, you will find the perfect sous vide machine or artisan-crafted serving platters for your front-of-house. Their knowledgeable staff and in-store demonstrations provide an educational experience, helping chefs and managers make informed decisions on tools that directly impact food quality and presentation, often highlighting exclusive deals for their professional clientele.

Key Details & User Experience

Best For: Sourcing high-end countertop appliances, premium cookware, professional knives, and elegant front-of-house serveware.
Product Focus: Gourmet small appliances, specialty bakeware, high-performance cutlery, and sophisticated tabletop items.
Practical Tip: Utilize their online "Business to Business" program for potential volume discounts and specialized services. Their email list and in-store events are great ways to learn about new products and exclusive deals.
Limitation: This is a premium retail experience, so prices are significantly higher than wholesale suppliers. The inventory is not designed for high-volume, back-of-house operational basics.

Website: https://www.williams-sonoma.com/

Comparison of 12 Seattle Restaurant Supply Stores

Provider	Core Features & Services	User Experience & Quality ★	Value Proposition 💰	Target Audience 👥	Unique Selling Points ✨
🏆 Encore Seattle Restaurant Equipment	New & used kitchen appliances, refrigeration, cooking, dishwashing	Expert guidance, reliable warranties ★★★★	Used-equipment pricing, free WA freight 💰💰	Bars, cafés, pizza joints, foodservice pros 👥	Tailored financing, exclusive deals, showroom ✨
Seattle Restaurant Store	New & used restaurant equipment, smallwares	Knowledgeable in-store assistance ★★★	Wide selection for diverse needs 💰	Restaurants seeking variety & deals 👥	Broad product range, industry news ✨
Bargreen Ellingson	Kitchen supplies, design services, test kitchen	Professional design help ★★★★	Comprehensive solutions 💰	Restaurants needing design & equipment 👥	Test kitchen, expert layout design ✨
Dick's Restaurant Supply	New & used cooking equipment & smallwares	Established reputation ★★★	Variety for multiple food businesses 💰	Local Seattle restaurants 👥	Trusted local supplier, in-store deals ✨
Restaurant Depot	Wholesale food & equipment, membership-based	Large inventory, immediate availability ★★★	Competitive member pricing 💰	Bulk buyers, wholesale users 👥	Exclusive deals, multiple locations ✨
US Foods CHEF'STORE	Food products & kitchen supplies, no membership	Convenient locations ★★★	No membership fees 💰	Professionals & home cooks 👥	Public access, weekly specials ✨
KaTom Restaurant Supply	Online catalog, nationwide shipping	User-friendly website ★★★★	Competitive pricing, financing 💰💰	Nationwide foodservice businesses 👥	Online ease, exclusive online deals ✨
Seattle Restaurant Equipment	New & used cost-effective solutions	Knowledgeable staff ★★★	Affordable pricing 💰	Startups & small businesses 👥	Budget-friendly used equipment, news ✨
Sur La Table	High-quality kitchenware, cooking classes	Premium quality ★★★★	Higher price points 💰	Professionals & home cooks 👥	Cooking demos, latest trends ✨
Metro Restaurant Supply	New & used equipment, local service	Established in-store experience ★★★	Diverse inventory 💰	Seattle-area restaurants 👥	Broad product range, in-person deals ✨
RestaurantSupply.com	Online restaurant equipment, financing	Comprehensive listings ★★★★	Competitive pricing 💰	Nationwide foodservice businesses 👥	Nationwide shipping, online deals ✨
Williams-Sonoma	Premium kitchenware, cooking classes	Premium product quality ★★★★	Higher price points 💰	Professionals & home cooks 👥	Cooking education, high-end products ✨

Making the Right Choice for Your Culinary Venture

Navigating the landscape of restaurant supply stores in Seattle reveals a diverse ecosystem tailored to every culinary need. From the sprawling aisles of wholesale giants like Restaurant Depot and US Foods CHEF'STORE to the specialized, service-oriented approach of Bargreen Ellingson, your ideal partner depends entirely on your operational strategy. This guide has unpacked the distinct advantages of each, empowering you to discover the latest industry news and secure exclusive deals on essential restaurant equipment and supplies.

The key takeaway is that no single store is universally "the best." The right choice is a strategic one. Your decision should be a direct reflection of your business priorities, balancing cost, quality, convenience, and staying informed on industry trends. A clear understanding of each supplier's core strengths is your greatest asset in building an efficient and resilient kitchen.

A Strategic Framework for Supplier Selection

Before you make a purchase, take a moment to create a strategic sourcing plan. This internal roadmap will prevent reactive buying and ensure your procurement process aligns with your financial and operational goals. Consider these critical factors:

For New Ventures and Budget-Conscious Operators: If cash flow is tight or you're testing a concept, prioritize stores with strong used equipment departments. Places like Encore Seattle Restaurant Equipment and Dick's Restaurant Supply offer significant savings on reliable, pre-owned gear, allowing you to allocate capital elsewhere.
For Large-Scale Operations and Renovations: When embarking on a major project or managing a high-volume establishment, a full-service partner is invaluable. Bargreen Ellingson's design and consultation services can prevent costly layout mistakes, while the bulk purchasing power at Restaurant Depot ensures you get exclusive deals on high-turnover items.
For Specialty and Niche Concepts: If your café prides itself on a unique aesthetic or your bar requires specific, hard-to-find tools, look beyond the basics. A store like Sur La Table can provide high-end, consumer-facing pieces, while online specialists like Katom offer an almost limitless catalog for niche equipment needs and the latest trends.
For Ongoing Supply and Ingredient Needs: For daily or weekly restocking, convenience and consistent deals are king. Membership clubs like Restaurant Depot and US Foods CHEF'STORE are designed for this exact purpose, combining food and supply shopping under one roof to streamline your procurement runs.

Implementing Your Procurement Strategy

Once you've shortlisted potential suppliers, the next step is implementation. Don't just browse online; visit the showrooms. Feel the weight of the smallwares, inspect the construction of the equipment, and speak with the staff. A productive relationship with the people at your chosen restaurant supply stores in Seattle can be a lifeline, providing you with industry insights, heads-ups on exclusive deals, and expert advice when you need it most.

Finally, stay informed about industry trends and exclusive deals. Many of these suppliers offer newsletters or loyalty programs that announce new product arrivals and special pricing. Subscribing to these is the best way to stay informed and can provide a competitive edge, ensuring you’re the first to know about innovative equipment or cost-saving opportunities that can directly impact your bottom line. Building a strong foundation for your Seattle restaurant begins with the right tools and the right partners.

Ready to explore a vast inventory of both new and used equipment? For a partner that understands the unique demands of Seattle's food scene, check out Encore Seattle Restaurant Equipment. Their expansive showroom and knowledgeable team make them a premier local resource for outfitting your kitchen for success.

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