Chef in the Black Bandana Italian Market and Hot Foods - Oak Harbor, Washington

Gretchen A.

Amazing shop and restaurant. On our first visit, we picked up guanciale, parm, and eggs to make carbonara at home (plus focaccia and some lemon sodas) - it was all incredible. We've stopped in for sandwiches a few times since, and they've all been incredible.

Robert M.

I discovered Chef in the Black Bandana by accident while conducting some business next door.

For those that know Zanini’s restaurant, Black Bandana has taken over their location under Frasier’s Gourmet Hideaway on Dock St.

After talking with the hostess, I found out the chef has over 30 years experience and the hostess is also the front manager and she has over 30 years of managerial experience.

I perused the menu on a large chalkboard and chose the Emmer Spaghetti and added the optional meatballs.

While waiting for my meal I discovered that they might have cannolis! I asked about getting a cannoli and was told that they would need to see if there was enough ingredients for one. I was in luck and was able to order one!

The spaghetti was very well prepared and cooked. I enjoyed the flavor of the sauce and the homemade pasta. The meatballs were the highlight in my opinion! The background music was playing “Celebration” by Kool and the Gang and there’s a line that asks “what is your pleasure” and I thought “right now? This meatball and the spaghetti!”

Then I was handed my cannoli and I was amazed at the flavors and textures! One end was dipped in chocolate chips and the other end in pistachio pieces 🤤! The filling had a slight citrus flavor and of course the shell was nice and crispy.

I was very pleased with the meal and dessert. In the photo you may notice that my spaghetti was served in a plastic container. Keep in mind The Chef in the Black Bandana just opened 8 days ago and they are still working through the startup process. In fact, their official Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting is April 26th.

Amy C.

I went to Chef’s storefront on Feb. 13th looking for something easy to make for Valentine’s Day dinner for my partner and I. Crystal (I believe her name is - I forgot to ask!) popped out from behind the door with a big smile and asked how she could help me. She worked with me personally for at least ten entire minutes, asking me questions regarding dietary restrictions/preferences, how much cooking I wanted to do, what flavors we like, etc. She was fun and easy to talk to.

I ended up leaving with a fully assembled butternut squash ziti main course (all i had to do was cook in the oven, directions provided), two spreads (olive tapenade and an absolutely stellar eggplant spread), a ciabatta loaf, and a tiramisu dessert. I haven’t mentioned that I asked for everything to be vegetarian and she was still able to assemble an entire multi-course dinner for me on the spot.

When I tell you this food was outstanding - that doesn’t even begin to describe it. It may have been the best meal I have ever had the pleasure of serving at my dinner table. The pasta was noticeably fresh. The flavors were rich yet perfectly balanced. The ingredients were whole and nothing was heavily processed. The flavors were outstanding. Incredible. I had leftovers for days and I basically dreamt about eating it again and again.

Haven’t been able to go back since then, so I decided to write a review in the mean time since I’m STILL thinking about the food. Please please do yourself a favor and visit the market if you can. Support them. I need this in my life for years to come.

Isabel S.

Adorable little shop, super yummy food, went twice in one day!! First I got some of their bacon apple jam and then couldn’t stop thinking about some pasta for dinner so I went back and got the bucatini for me which was delicious and the spicy Milano for my husband which he devoured! The owners are so sweet and personable, will definitely be returning frequently:)

kristilyn1963 H.

The food is wonderful but the rock music intrusive. It was explained to me that it was their "vibe." I get that but with food like that and a tiny space, Italian music would have been nice. I think I'll do take out next time. I had the vodka chicken and it was really, really good.

Joan D.

From your Holiday Savory Pie Menu we tried both the butternut squash pot pie (as a main for vegetarian family for Christmas dinner and side for others) and froze then later thawed and baked the shepherd's pie. Both had highest ratings from all! Thank you for offering tHem.

David T.

Had a wonderful Valentine's Day dinner with the love of my life! The food was so delicious and made even better by the wonderful and personal service. Anything the Chef makes is absolutely going to please!

Amy G.

Chef in the Black Bandana catered our cider press party for 45 guests and did an outstanding job! Tacos (pulled pork, shredded chicken, and black bean), sides (corn salad, Texas caviar, mango peach salsa, and more), and a churro cake for dessert = mouthwatering perfection. Guests raved about the food and are still raving post party. In addition to creating a terrific meal, Thomas was organized, professional, communicative, and left our kitchen cleaner than he found it. Highly recommend! Thank you. 🙏