Puget Sound Area

Hello April!

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It is April 1st and it is a time to think ahead to sunnier days and the upcoming festival season.  Have you started getting tickets to the plethora of summer concerts?  Did you know that this March was the 3rd wettest on record for March in Seattle history?  Why am I thinking Summer when it is Spring?  It’s the time of year to Spring ahead, right?

Looking for something to do this month?  Here is a sampling of ideas:

  • Head to Mount Vernon (and surrounding towns) to see the tulip fields – the largest display in the great US of A
  • It’s National Park Week – admission to the National Park’s is free all week April 21 – April 29th
  • Enjoy a new restaurant during Seattle Restaurant Week – April 8 – 12th and 15 – 19th
  • Washington Artisan Cheesemakers Festival – April 7th at the Seattle Design Center
  • The Space Needle starts their 50-year celebration this month (a separate post coming soon)
  • Pike Place Market – April 20th Arcade Lights: a celebration of artisan food, beer, and wine
  • Support a cause – how about the MS Walk on April 15th? Alaska Airlines Arena/UW
  • Go shopping for a pop of color
  • April 21st – World Class Crab Races and Feed, Westport, WA
  • Moooove on over to the Spring Fair in Puyallup – April 19th – 22nd
  • See the Pacific Northwest Ballet perform Carmina Burana and Apollo at McCaw Hall
  • Check out the 3rd annual Mt. Rainier Spring Wine Festival in Ashford, WA on April 28th (2-8 pm)
  • Astoria, OR hosts the 30th annual Astoria Warrenton Crab, Seafood & Wine Festival – April 27, 28, 29th
  • Take a walk on a trail closest to you…or maybe within four hours reach?
  • It’s baseball season – get in to the swing of things with a Seattle Mariners game at Safeco Field
  • Check your listings for an Earth Day event
  • Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival 2012 at the Seattle Center

The Scotch and Vine

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The Scotch and Vine Restaurant, located on Marine View Drive S. in Des Moines, WA, is a treasure…there to delight your palate and quench your thirst.  The ambiance (a mix of vintage wine decor, dark woods…warm and inviting) with jazz/blues played overhead and live entertainment during the weekends. The great food, a large selection of bourbons, wine, scotches, local beer (like Big Al Brewing), and the hospitality… can’t be beat.  The menu is varied and what comes from the kitchen – delicious!

David, Jill and crew make you feel welcome and Chef Adam in the kitchen, cooks up top-notch creations.  On this visit, the Black Hills Gold Buffalo and N’awlins was had, along with Fry Bites (smashed pan-fried fingerling potatoes – a must side), a beverage and the can’t go wrong, favorite – a 15 yr. Pappy Van Winkle.  Mm Mm Good!  The Black Hills Gold Buffalo is a bison burger, served on a divine artisan bun, Beecher’s flagship cheese, Frisee lettuce, and a black bean corn salsa (which I asked to be served on the side).  Also served on the side is a trio of mustard and aioli for dipping with Fry Bites (or to be used on your sandwich).  This was a nice accompaniment as I am a big mustard fan!  The N’awlins is an Andouille sausage and beef burger with WSU crimson fire cheese.

The menu has something for everyone and you just might get a kick out of the references made to Squirrel food, Rabbit food, Just Beet It, You Say Tomato…  Artisan Cheese, a variety of Succulent Starters, Field Of Greens, Beef and Bleu salad, The Southern Belle (Louisiana gumbo), Lawrence Elk (elk burger), The Portobello, Seared Chicken, Crabby Risotto, and more.

The restaurant has a private room upstairs, complete with full bar – reserve it for a party, business meeting, or other.  Like The S&V on Facebook, follow them on Twitter, and check out their website for more info (and sign up for their newsletter).  http://www.scotchandvine.com/  The Scotch and Vine has a Wine class, Scotch class, Whiskey tasting, and weekly wine tastings on Thursdays (come by at meet the rep/wine maker).  Wine is available for take home purchase as well.  Live music on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings.  Stop in for happy hour.

I had an enjoyable dining experience and I know you will too!  Go by on a weeknight or for one of their tastings. Open daily.

 

Bistro San Martin

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Bistro San Martin, this gem of a restaurant in Arlington, WA, is worth any amount of time and or money to get there.  They serve a fine dining menu that includes a fresh sheet with a nice variety of fresh, seasonal seafood, meat, and vegetarian options.  The incredible handcrafted sauces add to the flavorful and delicious creations cooked-up in the open kitchen by Chef Martin…an excellent one man show behind the grill.  Steve, personable and engaging, is the perfect front of the house host.

On the menu this evening, the following was thoroughly enjoyed:

  • Mushroom Puff Pastry – Local Mixed Mushrooms Sautéed with Garlic and Fresh Herbs in Brandy Cream Sauce
  • Gnudi Ravioli Potato Gnocchi – with Ricotta, Parmesan, Spinach, Garlic, Brown Butter and Tomato Cream Sauce
  • Cup of Seafood Bisque – crab, halibut, and shrimp
  • Jumbo Sea Scallops – Pan-Seared Fresh Jumbo Sea Scallops with Sambal-Tomato Beurre Blanc and  Mixed Herb Chimichurri (South American Pesto).  Served with Edamame & Mushroom Risotto with Parmesan & Seasonal Vegetable Medley
  • Roasted Duck – “Maple Leaf Farms” All Natural Roasted Half of Duckling with a Seasonal Fruit Sauce and Red Wine Reduction, Basmati and Wild Rice with Toasted Almonds, Parsley, Green Onions and Seasonal Vegetable Medley
  • Raspberry Champagne Sorbet
  • Bottle of Five Star Cellars Merlot

The decor is a comfy mediterranean mix that has a warmth.  The flower vases are made from antique silverware which I thought was clever and added a nice touch.

All-in-all, a definite gem in the “Seattle” food scene.  The restaurant is closed for three weeks in January, so make a plan for a visit in the near future.  Reservations are recommended.  An all-around fabulous meal and experience!  Be sure to put it on your “must-try” list for 2012!

http://www.bistrosanmartin.com/

What are you going to make of your 2012?

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Whether you believe that December 21st, 2012 is the end of our days here on earth, or not… what do you want to make of this new year?  Here are a few ideas:

  • Once a quarter, go to an art gallery, museum, the symphony, or see a play or musical
  • Get active and enjoy an outdoor activity once a month
  • Try a new restaurant on a regular basis
  • Visit the Space Needle – it’s the 50th Anniversary!
  • A business idea…encourage others to try your new product (ex: release a different beer every month)
  • Have a party on December 20th
  • Be a spectator and go to a sporting event that you haven’t seen yet or been to in a while
  • If you are watching your funds…how about going to a new park or walking trail?

Whatever it might be, make a plan (or be spontaneous) and get out there!

Polar Bear Plunge – Happy New Year 2012!

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This New Year’s Day, the annual Polar Bear Plunge returned to the south end of Gene Coulon Park in Renton, WA.  At 11 a.m., many brave souls (or least those that wanted to make a statement) jumped into Lake Washington.  The water was 45 degrees with a temperature of 46 degrees outside.

This year the event was co-sponsored by Ivar’s (and yes, clam chowder was served) and the Reserve Sanctuary Apartments at The Landing. Other Puget Sound dips, plunges, dives, or swims are held at Matthews Beach in Kirkland, Magnuson Park, Ballard and Alki in Seattle, and at Pt. Defiance in Tacoma.  No registration required.  My guess is a couple hundred people showed up for the frigid event in Renton.  Some in costume.

Take the plunge and start the year off with a “chill”!  Happy New Year 2012!

Downtown Seattle – Holiday Lights Tour

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Downtown Seattle is a must see during the month of December. 

  • Gingerbread Village at the Sheraton
  • Stay at or visit the Fairmont Olympic Hotel…beautifully decorated for the season
  • Viewing of the bright star on the Macy’s store
  • Get a coffee or hot cocoa at the 2nd busiest Starbucks on the North American continent (corner of Pine and 4th)
  • Shop, view the decor in the window displays
  • see a musical at the 5th Avenue theatre… like Cinderella (we did!)
  • See the snow fall at Pacific Place, nightly at 6 pm
  • grab a bite…plenty of options.  We stopped at pnk Restaurant & Ultra Lounge this year, located at Pacific Place. Ambitious but missed the mark.  The calamari gets a thumbs up.
  • Pike Place Market
  • And what fun “tourist” event was enjoyed?  the Ride the Ducks Holiday Lights Tour:

Ride the Ducks of Seattle, known for a tour of Seattle by amphibious landing craft, does a Holiday Lights Tour during the holiday season.  Go with a participatory attitude and you’ll likely have a good time. Meg “Nog” was our wacky driver.  The music played was a mix of fun holiday music, 1999 by Prince, and what really made it for me was the Rock N Roll All Night (and party every day) by KISS – Whoo Hoo!  Awesome!  They provided warm blankets, bell ringers, and a duck quacker to add to the festive ride.  Bundle up. It is a short tour (30 minutes) and would suggest that they could go to/around the Seattle Center/Space Needle for more “lights”.  Find a coupon.  If you want more Seattle history and landmark discussion, take the regular tour.  It was a fun addition to the season.  http://ridetheducksofseattle.com/ 

See the December 4, 2010 post for more fun things to do during the holiday season.

 

Christmastime at Molbak’s, Swansons, and Wight’s

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Molbak’s…especially in December, is a tradition held by many!  It is the place to go to find every poinsettia imaginable, for a visit with Santa, to pick out your tree, take pics with your family and friends, and see an array of ornaments and Christmas decor alike.  Many choose to make this their annual holiday outing with friends.   Located in Woodinville, WA on NE 175th St.

We found the hard to find mistletoe here.   Or maybe you are looking for Danish Kringle or a gift for the garden lover?  Molbak’s has a wonderful selection of garden and home accessories, gift options, and  holiday products.  Take a wreathmaking class or add a collectible from Department 56.  This year’s purchase – mistletoe   http://www.molbaks.com/

Wight’s – much like Molbaks, Wight’s Home & Garden Wonderland of Christmas has a plethora of holiday trees decorated to fit many tastes.  Purchase an ornament or get a new idea.  I am always impressed how the staff can keep filling/decorating the trees, bins, and racks on their busiest days of the season.  This year’s purchase – a gift (ornament), glass garland, and glass icicles.  Located in Lynnwood, WA on 196th St. SW.  http://www.wights.com/

Swanson’s Nursery – this outing is sure to please!  Located in the Ballard area of Seattle on 15th Ave. NW.

  • A gift shop filled with nature inspired gifts for you, your home, or a friend.
  • Alexa’s Garden Cafe for a latte, a savory soup and scrumptious sandwich, an egg dish – serving breakfast and lunch
  • Take a Seminar
  • See Santa and the model train/village
  • Visit Curley, Moe, and the reindeer in the stables of the Reindeer Festival!  In case you are wondering… Curley is the Camel, Moe the Donkey
  • Christmas ornaments, gift options, poinsettia, and all the other garden essentials

This year’s purchase – a package of cocktail napkins http://www.swansonsnursery.com/

Next stop:  Squak Mt. Greenhouses and Nursery in Issaquah, WA .  And while I’m in Issaquah, maybe a stop at the Cougar Mountain Zoo to see the Issaquah Reindeer Festival (since 1988) – Santa, Reindeer, and more…  P.S. I recommend the gift shop!  http://squakmtnursery.com/  http://www.cougarmountainzoo.org/Reindeer%20Festival/mainreindeerfestival.aspx

Madrona… glassybaby, st. clouds

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glassybaby is where it all happens!  The Madrona studio showcases the art of glass blowing and the amazing creation of beautiful pieces of art.   glassybaby is located in Madrona, Bellevue, University Village, and New York City!  glassybabys can be purchased here.  Check out a road show too.  Maybe you want to rent a group of glassybabys for a special occasion?  We attended an event at glassybaby Madrona to benefit the Madrona Community Council…also sponsored by Leschi Market.  One thing you will want to note is that a number of glassybabys are designated to their own particular charity.  For example, if you purchase Wet Dog, a portion of the sales would go to the Humane Society.  There are others…  On the home page of their website,  check out “How to Light a glassybaby”… doesn’t it make you want one?  Under the goodwill section, ingest the message “As a company, we are determined to stay true to our mission, we are grateful to our community for sharing in our journey, remembering that as each of us moves through our own story, it is our own voice we must listen to, it is our light that must shine.”  http://www.glassybaby.com/home.aspx   All I can say is… So cool!

Afterwards, a stop was warranted … St. Clouds, who also offered up a number of snacks at the studio, also offers comforting foods, seasonal menus, subdued lighting and music to go with… The Beautiful Sunsets played this particular evening.  We stopped by for a light bite…Caramelized Onion/Grilled Fig and Goat  Cheese Bruschetta and Rusty’s New York Cheesecake with a half bottle of wine to top it off.  Another word for St. Clouds … Community.  View the Community section of their website for more information on the mission…charitable donations,  homeless cooking, putting people to work.  Check out all the inviting info at:  http://www.stclouds.com/

I will explore the Madrona neighborhood in more depth at a later date as the shops and other dining options are calling…. http://madronaseattle.com/

Din Tai Fung Dumpling House and others…

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Din Tai Fung Dumpling House, known for their world-renowned dumplings, has two North America locations… Los Angeles, CA and Bellevue, WA.  Watch the staff make the dumplings as you wait or as you pass by at Lincoln Square. If you were to pass by, most certainly come back!   I hesitated adding other “eats” to this post, as Din Tai Fung Dumpling House deserves its own!.

What’s on the menu?  Soups, steamed dumplings, steamed buns, noodles(made fresh in-house), wontons, fried noodles, fried rice, greens, dessert, and drink.  The Juicy Pork Dumplings (house specialty) and the Shrimp & Pork Shao Mai dumplings, are delicious!  10 pieces brought steaming hot to the table.  A nice addition is the Chicken Fried Noodle.  You will have much to choose from that will tempt your taste buds.  Try a pot of jasmine tea and/or a glass of Tsingtao beer, and you are all set!  Actually, I would have liked the Sauteed String Bean with Garlic dish or the Soy Noodle Salad, but those will have to wait till next time. http://www.dintaifungusa.com/

Dick’s Drive-Ins – Hello Seattlelites! Hello Puget Sounders! Hello Edmonds??? Dick’s Drive-In, a staple since the 1950’s brings good memories of the old and a new tradition for the young. Dick’s has opened its sixth and newest location in Edmonds, WA (actually on Hwy. 99 just north of 220th). Awards include ‘Best Cheap Eats’ and ‘Best Roadside Diner’ among others… Check out the Memories tab at http://www.dicksdrivein.com/ for nostalgia ….but most of all check out a Dick’s Deluxe… always a great eat.

Broiler Bay–  Onion rings to die for…really!  Lightly battered, the flavor of the onion shines through.  Located at the corner of 107th and Main Street in Bellevue, WA.  Try the Bacon Cheeseburger, and if you are watching your portions, the junior will be plenty (or just right).  Charbroiled 1/4 lb. burgers, chicken sandwiches, Philly Cheese Steak, among others (check out the menu).  Milkshakes are a favorite, with a host of flavors.  Been around since 1989.  Mom and Pop style.  Grease friendly.  Parking is limited.  Good prices.   http://broilerbay.com/

Also, I need to give a shout out to Chuck’s Donut Shop in Renton – located at 5335 NE 4th St in the Renton Highlands. I admit I am not a big donut fan, partaking in the delicious fried dough just here and there, but I must report that Chuck’s gets a big Yes! from me…  the icing is creamy and delicious! Open Monday – Saturday 3 am – 3 pm.

Up Next: A Diet

John Howie Steak

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Are you looking for an enchanting dining experience?  Try John Howie Steak at the Bravern in Bellevue, WA.  Whether it be for lunch or dinner, you will experience inviting ambiance, delicious food and exceptional service.  On this evening, Ira did it up well.   This restaurant makes for a great date, a business lunch/dinner, an evening out with friends or a special event with family.  The menu invites you to “comfort” sides, an appetizing selection of starters, including the Almond Crusted Sea Scallops, and prime custom-aged steaks.  In fact, I have to say that I liked so many of the menu options that I’ll have to go back…soon!  I had a melt in your mouth 8 oz. Filet Mignon and the Iceberg Wedge salad.  The salad is innovative in that it included Cerignola black olives, Kurobuta bacon, grape tomatoes, DuChilly hazelnuts, Rogue River Blue Cheese, and crispy shallots.  Also recommended (or so I was told) is the New York Strip French Onion style and the Dungeness Crab and Shrimp Chowder.  To view the tempting selections, check out the Fresh Sheet and full menu at  http://www.johnhowiesteak.com/