Food and Wine
Plan to go hungry to Pike Place Market, the oldest continuous farmers market in the United States. Strolling through this nine-acre historic district, visitors find a feast of bakeries, cafes and casual and fine-dining restaurants, along with booths selling the freshest produce, fish, meats and bakery goods. Many of the market vendors will give you free tastes of their products.
A crafts market that represents 225 local and regional craftspeople is one of Robinson’s favorite places to shop at Pike Place Market.
“Besides one-of-a-kind art of all genres, this is a great place for vintage items,” she said.
For a lunch with the best view, Robinson suggests picking up some fish and chips at Ivar’s and enjoying time at Gas Works Park on Lake Union.
“Ivar’s has been around for 100 years and is a Seattle establishment,” she said. “Don’t miss some of their famous chowder, and enjoy your meal with sights of not only kites and seaplanes taking flight, but the skyline of our city. It just may be the best picnic you’ve ever had.”
Foodies may recognize Tom Douglas’ name as the 2012 James Beard Award winner as Outstanding Restaurateur. This celebrated chef owns 13 restaurants in Seattle, most supplied by fresh produce from his personal farm.
“You have to check out one of his restaurants. He is the hottest chef in Seattle, and while he is known for his fish entrees, you’ll just swoon over every dish he whips up,” said Robinson.
And with 800 wineries in the state of Washington, groups may need Visit Seattle’s assistance in choosing a leisurely day to visit just a few.
“If you’re not going to venture far from Seattle, Seattle Urban Wineries is a group of 14 artisan wineries all within blocks of downtown,” Robinson said. “It is especially interesting, because of our huge apple industry, to see how our hard-cider industry has taken off. You’ll taste it in all sorts of beverages, including beer. Yum!”
