It’s our latest Observer Spotlight, and yes, there’s nostalgia oozing from the bun of Island Queen. With the ferry horns echoing in the distance and the salty breeze coming in from the sound, this spot feels like Vashon’s own homage to Dairy Queen days gone by, minus the iconic ice cream cone sign (or is it still there?). Whether you’re stepping off the ferry or strolling Uptown, a stop at Island Queen is like meeting an old friend who happens to make damn good burgers.
Instagram paints the picture perfectly: thick, juicy patties sandwiched between soft brioche buns, towers of crispy fries begging to be dunked, and shakes crowned with whipped cream and sprinkles. And that retro vibe? It’s real. Their Facebook updates showcase community events, charity drives, and news that this is more than fast food, it’s a hangout. One recent post even teases fundraiser activities and a donation drive with the tagline “Get on down here, drink a shake, and donate before it melts.” It’s charming, cheeky, and very Vashon.
Customers love it too. A Yelp reviewer called the experience “fun casual dining,” praising helpful staff like Finn behind the counter who guides diners through burger suggestions. Another pointed to the Philly cheesesteak being worth the wait, even if the fries took a few extra minutes. TripAdvisor backs it up, saying the spot is ranked number six on the island for its friendly service, tasty soup and burger combo, and perfect picnic table seating under umbrellas with a full ferry view.
Let’s talk menu because it’s worth talking about. They have build‑your‑own burgers, fried or grilled chicken, black bean patties, cod sandwiches that rival fish and chips fame, plus baskets of buttermilk fried chicken strips. Fries, onion rings, coleslaw, clam chowder, you name it, you can load it. Their flagship IQ Burger (avocado, housemade crispy onions, sriracha mayo) is a day-brightener, while the Cowboy Burger (bacon, cheddar, onion ring, BBQ sauce) is the kind that gets cheese on your chin and a smile on your face every time.
Personally, I walk in craving something indulgent and leave feeling like life is just fine here. The staff smiles, the counter chat feels like community radio, and the hum of cars drifting slowly down the highway towards town provides just enough background soundtrack. A burger in one hand, a look into the nestalgic uptown in another, what’s not to love?
Island Queen isn’t trying to be trendy. It doesn’t whisper about gourmet or artisan, though their menu suggests carefully crafted flavors. It makes classic comfort food, treats you like a guest, and sends you back out to the ferry with a full belly and a better mood.
So next time you’re island-hopping or need a hearty lunch after beach combing, swing by Island Queen. Grab a seat at a picnic table, order that Cowboy Burger and fries, and don’t forget to tag the photo. Because that’s the kind of simple, delicious moment worth sharing.
This feature is part of our ongoing Spotlight Series from the Vashon-Maury.com team, highlighting the unique businesses that make our island so special. If you own a local business and would like to be featured in the Observer, we invite you to submit an article for consideration at vashon-maury.com/submit-writing. Please include as much detail as possible about your business (what you offer, what sets you apart) and share a short story about how you came to Vashon or what inspired you to start your venture here. We’re proud to support the Vashon-Maury community and would love to help tell your story.
Author: Vashon Island
Vashon is an Island located between Tacoma and West Seattle. This account manages the vashon-maury.com website full on useful information for residents and visitors of the Island.
