Visiting Olympia? Here’s Why You Should Make the Short Trip to Beau Legs in Lacey

January 26, 2026

Visiting Olympia, WA? Just minutes away, Beau Legs in Lacey serves fish & chips, gumbo, po’boys, and more. Discover why it’s worth the trip.

Breaded schnitzel with lemon wedge, fries, ketchup, and lettuce on a plate.

Olympia, Washington’s capital city, draws visitors for its history, culture, and natural beauty. From exploring the Capitol campus to strolling Percival Landing, the city offers plenty to see and do. But what about food? Olympia has no shortage of dining spots, yet those in the know recommend making the short 10–15 minute drive to neighboring Lacey. That’s where Beau Legs Fish & Chips has been serving locals and visitors since 2009. Known for its Southern-inspired seafood and signature fish and chips, Beau Legs offers a dining experience that captures both Pacific Northwest freshness and Southern comfort.


Why People Visit Olympia

Before diving into why you should head to Lacey, it helps to understand Olympia’s appeal. The city attracts visitors for many reasons:

  • Government & History: Tour the Washington State Capitol Building and Legislative Campus.

  • Nature: Visit Capitol Lake, Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, or nearby hiking trails.

  • Arts & Culture: Explore galleries, local theaters, and downtown’s eclectic shops.

  • Festivals & Events: From Arts Walk to Harbor Days, Olympia keeps a full calendar.

With so much to do, visitors often work up an appetite — and that’s when the hunt for great food begins.


Why Lacey Should Be on Your Itinerary

Olympia has plenty of dining options, but expanding your trip to include Lacey opens up even more ssibilities. Just minutes away, Lacey is home to Beau Legs Fish & Chips, a restaurant that offers something Olympia doesn’t: authentic Southern-inspired seafood in a family-friendly setting.

Key Reasons to Make the Trip

  • Convenience: Only a 10–15 minute drive from downtown Olympia.

  • Local Favorite: Ask around, and locals will point you to Beau Legs.

  • Unique Flavor: A blend of Pacific Northwest seafood and Cajun/Creole cooking.

  • Casual Atmosphere: A welcoming spot perfect for travelers of all kinds.

For visitors, Beau Legs turns a day in Olympia into a culinary adventure that feels both authentic and memorable.

What Beau Legs Offers Travelers

Beau Legs isn’t just another restaurant — it’s a destination for food lovers.

Signature Fish & Chips

The restaurant’s namesake dish is a must-try: crispy, golden-battered fish served with hand-cut fries and house-made sauces.

Gumbo & Jambalaya

Hearty, flavorful stews packed with seafood, sausage, rice, and bold Cajun spices. Perfect for Washington’s rainy climate.

Shrimp & Grits

A Southern classic made with creamy grits and seasoned shrimp. Comfort food at its finest.

Po’Boys

Shrimp, catfish, or oyster po’boys served on fresh French bread with traditional toppings.

Seafood Platters

Generous portions of fried seafood and sides, perfect for sharing with travel companions.

This variety ensures every traveler — from adventurous foodies to families with kids — finds something satisfying.

Southern Meets Pacific Northwest

What sets Beau Legs apart from other seafood spots in the Olympia-Lacey area is its cultural fusion.

  • Pacific Northwest: Fresh fish and regional ingredients.

  • Southern Comfort: Cajun seasoning, hushpuppies, gumbo, and po’boys.

  • Family Tradition: Recipes inspired by Southern roots, prepared for Northwest palates.

This combination creates flavors you won’t find anywhere else in the region — making it worth the short drive.

The Experience at Beau Legs

Travelers often remember more than the food when they dine at Beau Legs.

  • Friendly Service: Staff treat visitors like family.

  • Casual Atmosphere: Comfortable dining without pretense.

  • Community Feel: A local favorite where regulars mix with new faces.

For out-of-town visitors, Beau Legs provides a taste of local culture — not just through food, but through hospitality.

Ideal for Every Type of Traveler

No matter your reason for visiting Olympia, Beau Legs fits into your itinerary.

  • Families: Kids love the fries, wings, and seafood baskets.

  • Couples: Share a seafood platter or gumbo for a cozy meal.

  • Business Travelers: Quick, satisfying meals between meetings.

  • Foodies: Authentic Southern dishes without leaving Washington.

It’s a place where diverse groups of visitors can all find something they’ll enjoy.

Local Stories from Visitors

Many visitors to Olympia find themselves at Beau Legs thanks to recommendations from locals.

  • A Seattle couple exploring Olympia made the short drive after hearing about Beau Legs’ po’boys. They left calling it their “favorite meal of the trip.”

  • A family from Oregon stopped in after a day at the Capitol and Nisqually Refuge. The kids loved the fries, while the parents raved about the gumbo.

  • A business traveler from California tried Beau Legs during a quick trip to Olympia. They now make it a point to stop every time they’re in town.

Stories like these highlight why Beau Legs is more than a restaurant — it’s a travel experience.

FAQs About Visiting Beau Legs from Olympia

Q: How far is Beau Legs from downtown Olympia?
Just 10–15 minutes by car, located in nearby Lacey, WA.

Q: Is Beau Legs kid-friendly?
Yes. The menu includes options for children, plus generous platters for families to share.

Q: Do I need a reservation?
Walk-ins are welcome, but larger groups may want to call ahead.

Q: What’s the most popular dish for first-time visitors?
The fish and chips are the house specialty, but gumbo and po’boys are also must-tries.

Q: Does Beau Legs offer takeout?
Yes, making it easy for travelers to grab food to go.

Why Beau Legs Is Worth the Trip

Visiting Olympia is a rewarding experience filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. But if you want to truly experience the region’s hospitality and flavor, you need to venture just a little farther. Beau Legs Fish & Chips in Lacey offers a unique blend of Pacific Northwest seafood and Southern comfort food that you won’t find anywhere else in the area.

For visitors, it’s more than just a meal — it’s a chance to connect with local culture, enjoy hearty food, and discover why Beau Legs is beloved by Thurston County residents. Make the short trip. You’ll be glad you did.

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