N. Oregon Coast's Chowder Crawl Declares Washington's Castaways Seafood Grille Winner

Published 02/06/25 at 6:39 p.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Cannon Beach, Oregon) – A much-loved north Oregon coast culinary tradition and seafood contest has declared a winner: this time just to the north, on Washington's coast. (Above: Castaways Seafood Grille courtesy photo)

After a month of sampling and voting, Castaways Seafood Grille of Long Beach has been declared the Chowder Champion of 2025 by the United Way of Clatsop County. This announcement follows the conclusion of the annual Chowder Crawl, where community members had the opportunity to taste and vote for their favorite chowder from a diverse lineup of local eateries.

The Chowder Crawl, a cherished winter tradition in Clatsop County and the north Oregon coast, invites chowder enthusiasts to purchase Chowder Crawl Cards, granting them access to sample chowders from participating restaurants. This year, voters assessed each chowder based on key criteria: temperature, flavor, presentation, and service. Castaways Seafood Grille emerged as the winner, impressing palates and securing the top spot in this culinary competition.

Claire Catt, Executive Director of United Way of Clatsop County, said the group is so grateful for all the enthusiasm shown by Chowder Crawl samplers.

Long Beach, courtesy Washington State Parks

“The participation from local restaurants and the community’s engagement truly made this event a success. Congratulations to Castaways Seafood Grille for their outstanding chowder and for bringing home the title,” she said.

The 2025 Chowder Crawl featured an impressive roster of participants, showcasing the diverse culinary talents of Clatsop County. Restaurants that contributed to the event included Pelican Brewing, Ole Bob’s Seafood, Sea Breeze Roadhouse, Long Beach Tavern, Lost Roo, Portway Tavern, Merry Time Bar & Grill in Astoria, The Logger, Pig N Pancake-Seaside, Dundees Bar & Grill, Seaside Brewing, Ecola Seafood Restaurant and Market in Cannon Beach, Driftwood Restaurant & Lounge, Tom’s Fish and Chips, Mo’s Seafood & Chowder, Pacifick Distillery in Astoria, T Paul's Supper Club in Astoria, Sonny's Pizzaria, and Tre Bros.

Astoria: Angi D Wildt Gallery photo

Beyond celebrating culinary excellence of the Oregon and Washington Coast, the Chowder Crawl serves as a fundraiser for the United Way of Clatsop County, supporting local programs that address essential community needs.

“Events like this not only bring us together as a community but also help us raise vital funds for those in need,” said Catt. “We appreciate every participant who helped make this event a success.”

Also coming up in the area in April:

Astoria at night

The Astoria Warrenton Crab, Seafood and Wine Festival takes place annually on the last weekend of April at the Clatsop County Fair & Expo Center. Coordinated by the Astoria-Warrenton Area Chamber of Commerce (AWACC) since 1982, this event features approximately 150 vendors showcasing hand-crafted arts, coastal cuisine, Oregon wine, and local brews.

Attendees can enjoy a selection of northwest flavors from about a dozen food vendors. While the food options are primarily crab and seafood, there are also other cuisines available, including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and kid-friendly options.

Dates:
Friday, April 25, 2025. 4 to 9 p.m. – Saturday, April 26, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. – Sunday, April 27, 2025, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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Andre' GW Hagestedt is editor, owner and primary photographer / videographer of Oregon Coast Beach Connection, an online publication that sees over 1 million pageviews per month. He is also author of several books about the coast.

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