A Culinary Road Trip Through Tri-Cities and Yakima: A Sunday Adventure
- Davina Gilroy
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Waking up at 6 a.m. on a Sunday might not be everyone's idea of fun, but it set the stage for a memorable drive home filled with delicious stops and scenic views. Leaving the Old Town, ID area by 7:30 a.m., the journey retraced familiar roads through the Tri-Cities and Yakima, offering a chance to enjoy some of the best local flavors along the way. This post shares the highlights of that day, from savory street tacos to sweet Mexican pastries, and the peaceful drive over White Pass on Highway 12.
Starting Early and Hitting the Road
The day began early to beat the traffic and make the most of the drive. Leaving Newport by 7:30 a.m. allowed for a smooth trip through the Tri-Cities area without the usual weekend congestion. This part of the drive is familiar but always enjoyable, with the landscape gradually shifting from urban to more open, agricultural views as the road leads toward Yakima.
The route taken was the same as on the way there, which made navigation straightforward and allowed anticipation of the planned stops. The morning light and quiet roads made the drive peaceful, setting a relaxed tone for the day ahead.
A Flavorful Stop at Ruebans Tortillarie
Yakima is known for its vibrant food scene, and one highlight was a stop at Rueben's Tortillarie. This local gem offers fresh tortillas made daily, along with a tempting selection of pork rinds and Mexican pastries. The tortillas were warm and soft, perfect for the next stop on the culinary journey.
The pork rinds provided a crunchy, salty snack that paired well with the fresh tortillas. The Mexican pastries, sweet and flaky, offered a delightful contrast and a taste of authentic flavors hard to find outside this region.
Tacos Del Rey: The Best Street Tacos
Just a short drive from Ruebans Tortillarie, Tacos Del Rey awaited with some of the best street tacos in the area. Known for their authentic recipes and fresh ingredients, the tacos here did not disappoint. Each taco was packed with flavorful meat, fresh toppings, and just the right amount of spice.
The combination of the fresh tortillas from Ruebans and the expertly prepared tacos made for a satisfying meal that felt both simple and special. This stop was a reminder of how street food can capture the essence of a place and its culture.
Scenic Drive Over White Pass on Highway 12
After the delicious food stops, the journey continued on Highway 12 over White Pass. This stretch of road offers stunning views and a chance to unwind after the busy food stops. The drive over the pass is known for its natural beauty, with rolling hills, dense forests, and occasional glimpses of mountain peaks.
The timing was just right to enjoy the scenery without rushing, making the drive as much a part of the adventure as the food. Arriving home by 6 p.m. felt like a good balance between a full day on the road and enough time to rest before the week ahead.
Reflections on a Sunday Well Spent
This Sunday drive was more than just a trip home; it was a chance to explore local flavors and enjoy the simple pleasures of the road. Starting early, making thoughtful stops, and taking time to appreciate the landscape made the day feel rich and rewarding.
For anyone planning a similar journey, consider these tips:
Start early to avoid traffic and have more time for stops.
Plan food stops at local favorites to experience authentic tastes.
Take your time on scenic routes to enjoy the views and relax.
Mix savory and sweet to keep the palate interested and satisfied.
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