When I returned home I wrote about my experience and forwarded my entry to the management at the Westin. In return I received a very nice email from the Hotel Manager, Andrea Norton. She wrote:

Ms. Myers

Thank you for sending me the link to your review of our hotel. I was disappointed and embarrassed that we failed you in so many ways.

Please accept my sincere apologies. I have shared all your comments (positive and negative) with the appropriate departments.

I hope you will afford us an opportunity to regain your confidence and patronage. Should your travels bring you back to the Seattle area, please do not hesitate to call me directly so I may personally attend to your reservation and stay.

Be well,

Andrea Norton
Hotel Manager, The Westin Seattle

In a day when customer service seems at an all time low and few companies bother to acknowledge customer complaints, it was refreshing to receive acknowledgment and an apology. Common courtesy goes a very long way in my book.

It was for that very reason that I took Andrea up on her offer and gave the Westin a second chance. Sadly our return to Seattle was due to a death in the family. We decided to end our trip on a happy note by staying downtown and spending a week enjoying our favorite city. In other words, I was entrusting a very important trip to Ms Norton and the staff of the Westin.

Thankfully, our trust was well placed. From the moment of our arrival the staff did their very best to make our stay comfortable and enjoyable. We had a great view the last time we stayed at the Westin but this time the view was magnificent. We opened our curtains to find the Space Needle right in the center of our window with the Olympic peninsula spread out before us. It was breathtaking. Why am I telling you when I can show you?

Our luggage followed quickly behind us along with a cart carrying chocolate covered strawberries, cheese, sliced pears and nuts. We’d mentioned to the desk manager who checked us in that we’d brought a case and a half of wine with us from the Yakima Valley. He thoughtfully sent the tray up to go with our wine.

I was somewhat embarrassed to learn that nearly every staff member I encountered had actually read my last review. One told me, “We’ve made a lot of changes. Your review was a good wake-up call. It’s our goal to have you leave feeling better than when you arrived.”

A couple of days into our stay I received a note from Andrea asking how our stay was going. I told her everything was going great and if I were to complain about anything, and this would be a minor issue, it was that I was unable to make a decent cup of tea in my room. You see, I grew up in England and I drink a good 10 cups of tea a day. In the old days you used to get a small coffee pot that you could run water through and get an ok cup of tea. Not great, mind you, but tolerable. Nowadays they tend to have pod pots. I ran water through the pod at least a dozen times and still bits of coffee were floating in my cup. I gave up.

Andrea kindly had a proper tea kettle delivered to my room. Unfortunately, it didn’t quite work correctly but I greatly appreciated the effort. The next morning I rang downstairs and asked if they could send me another one. When I returned to the room at the end of the day there was a new tea kettle and my message light was blinking. It seems that the hotel didn’t have another tea kettle, so they bought me one.

They bought me a new tea kettle!

I felt rather bad about that so I emailed Andrea and apologized for being such a pain in the tookus. Her reply, “That is how great service should be.”

In fact, that is exactly how great the service was at the Westin.

So, to Andrea, Cameron and the rest of the wonderful staff I’d like to take this opportunity to say Thank You! for exceeding our expectations. Thank You! for caring about the experience of two people all the way from Austin, Tx. We very much look forward to our next stay at the Westin.

Seattle, Downtown, Westin, Review, Hats Off, Hotels

Seattle Pride Parade
Sunday, June 29th
starts at 11:00 am
Corner of Union St. and 4th Ave

The Parade will proceed down 4th avenue to Denny Way. Foot traffic will be allowed to go east or west on Denny Way but all vehicle traffic will be turned west have until Western Ave to pull over, quickly disembark passengers, secure their vehicles, and leave the area. There are lots of activities planned so be sure and check out the website.

Georgetown Artopia
June 28th. Noon - 10pm.
Georgetown, Seattle

Artopia is a multi-disciplinary event that boasts an eclectic mix of art, ranging from the renowned to the obscure to the completely undiscovered. The program itself is unconventional, idiosyncratic, and welcoming. There will be a ton of wonderful artists.

If you live in Tacoma and you’re looking for something free to do then check out the Tacoma Zoo’s Free Day. Visitors who live within the city limits of Tacoma will be admitted free on Saturday, June 28, 2008. Please take proof of residency (current driver’s license or utility bill).

When: Saturday, 28/06/08 - All Day
Where: Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium, 5400 N Pearl Street
Description: Free zoo day for Tacoma residents. Must live within the city limits of Tacoma and show proof of residency. (ID or utility bill)

Also in Tacoma this weekend:

In the Spirit: Northwest Native Arts Market & Festival
When: Saturday, June 28 2008 @ 10:00 PM PDT - Sunday, June 29 2008 @ 05:00 PM PDT
Where: Washington State History Museum
1911 Pacific Avenue
Tacoma, WA 98402

Join the museum for a Native American arts market, with products from a variety of artisans, and a festival that includes dancers, musicians, and storytellers from local tribes.

Festival visitors can watch demonstrations of traditional artwork from the best Northwest carvers, printmakers, weavers, and bead artisans. Additionally, visitors can experience Native American culture by sampling Native foods and taking in live performances by local Native dancers, musicians, and storytellers.

There will also be a Collectors Seminar for those interested in collecting tribal art. Whether you’re looking for a day of family fun or you’re a serious art collector looking to add to your personal collection, this is an event you won’t want to miss!

If you’re in the mood for a cultural adventure, you can always count on the Seattle Center. Head over this weekend for the Iranian Festival.

Iranian Festival
Seattle Center
June 28, 2008
11 am – 11 pm
$$$: Free

Music, children’s activities, teas, traditional food and films offer fun for all ages from 11 am – 11 pm in Pavilion A, admission is FREE. The ancient history and eclectic culture of Persia is explored through an Iranian art exhibit, poetry in Farsi with English translation, costumes and music. An all-ages dance begins at 8pm. Co-presented by the Iranian American Community Alliance and Seattle Center.

Here is another great activity for getting out and enjoying the sunshine:

Strawberry Harvest Festival
Remlinger Farms
32610 N.E. 32nd St.
Carnation, WA
6/28: 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
6/29: 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
$$$: $13

Celebrate all things strawberry, with live music, children’s activities, steam train rides, visits from clowns, and more.

International Gem and Jewelry Show
Location: Qwest Field, 1000 Occidental Ave S
Cost: Tickets: $7.00 Children ages 16 and under are free
June 27th-June 29th, 2008
Friday 12pm-6pm
Saturday 10am-6pm
Sunday 11am-5pm

Come see dealers of gemstones, one-of-a kind jewelry creations, estate jewelry, special celebrity exhibits, and other luxury accessories. Attendees will find discounts and an infinite variety of beautiful exotic gems, beads and jewelry, which can be found among rows of exhibitors from every corner of the world.

There are no strollers allowed at the show

Call 301-294-1640 for more information:

Have a great weekend!

Seattle, Weekend, Tacoma, Georgetown, Wa, Washington, Things to do, What’s happening, 6/27/08, 6/28/08, 6/29/08, Seattle Center, Iranian, Festival, Pride, Parade, Strawberry, Remlinger Farms, Harvest, Museum, Native American, Northwest, Arts, In the spirit, Artopia, International, Gem, Jewelry

After a long day spent walking all over downtown Seattle and an afternoon spent stuffing our faces with dozens of fresh oysters at Elliott’s Oyster House, I wasn’t terribly hungry for a big dinner. I was looking around for a place where we could get a light dinner when I stumbled across the website for the Flying Fish. Their menu sporting “small plates” sounded like just the ticket. We called ahead and were told we wouldn’t need reservations and so we left the hotel and walked to the restaurant.

The Flying Fish is located in an area of Seattle known as “Belltown”, a trendy neighborhood filled with nightclubs, restaurants, art galleries and boutiques. It was a lovely evening for a walk, which helped to invigorate our appetite.

The restaurant is painted in bright colors with interesting art and a view into the bustling kitchen. We were seated immediately at a cozy booth where we perused the menu while sipping a lovely glass of Cabernet Savignon from the Bonair Winery in the Yakima Valley. A winery I toured and reviewed nearly a year ago.

After much consideration we settled on two “small plates”, the Thai crab cakes and the calamari. In addition we chose a platter of sister-in-law mussels which came with a chili lime dipping sauce.

The calamari was perfectly prepared. It simply melted in our mouths and both the honey jalapeño mayonnaise and cilantro oil were excellent accompaniments. The Thai crab cakes came with a lemongrass mayonnaise and were delicious.

The real show stopper though, was the sister-in-law mussels. It was love at first bite. I’ve eaten many a bowl of mussels but none like these. These little babies had been steamed in a Thai ginger and lemongrass concoction and came with a chili lime dipping sauce that made me weak in the knees. It was that good. The waiter was kind enough to tell us what was in the dipping sauce and gave us an idea of what went into the steam. I shipped a few pounds of mussels back to Austin and when I got home I gave it a go. I was quite pleased with the results and if it’s not the exact same recipe it’s close enough!

If you’re local to Seattle, or visiting, don’t miss the Flying Fish. The service was excellent. The food was divine! If you’re not local, do try my recipe, you’ll love it!

Seattle, Belltown, restaurant, review, downtown, seafood, Thai, Asian, mussels, small plates

So, first off, let’s look at brunch venues. You know my favorites, right?

Salty’s Seafood Grill
at Alki or Redondo

Salty’s is a class act with a spectacular brunch offering. Their food is simply the best. Check out my review. Top that fabulous food off with a fabulous view and you will understand why Salty’s always ranks at the top of my brunch list. DO call for reservations and I suggest you call NOW! Salty’s is a popular restaurant and will fill up fast. I have to admit that my favorite of the two locations is Redondo. It’s just beautiful there and to me, it’s worth the drive. However, the Alki location is also great. Their Sunday brunch is just fantastic and well worth the moderate price they charge. Brunch will usually set you back about $35 per person. The staff is friendly and accommodating and if the weather is nice, sit out on the deck.

• Alki Beach – Seattle (206) 937-1600
• Redondo Beach – Des Moines/South Seattle (253) 946-0636
• Columbia River – Portland (503) 288-4444

The Salish Lodge

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, this is hands down my favorite place to go for special occasions.

The Salish is offering up two menus this year. Their brunch menu will start you off with a glass of Northwestern Sparkling Wine, Mimosa or a Kir Royal. There will be baskets brimming with croissants, danishes and muffins. You’ll find an Omelette Station, a Seafood Station, a Carving Station and of course, a Dessert Station.

The Grand Buffet will have more traditional breakfast fare with buttermilk pancakes, old fashioned steel-cut oats with caramelized Wenatchee apples, brown sugar, raisins and almonds, artisan preserves and farmstead breads. Or you might like an omelette, served up with jumbo shrimp & smoked salmon herbed potatoes, savory marinara sauce, or poached eggs with crispy crab cakes, diced peppers herb shoestring potatoes and sauce béarnaise. You’re sure to find something you love at the Salish! ($49)

Campagne

Treat your maman to a bonne fête des mères at Campagne. Mother’s Day brunch hours are 9 AM to 2 PM. Of course they’ll be serving French toast, but not just any French toast. Oh no, theirs has been soaked in a bourbon egg batter. In addition there will be house-made dungeness crab and leek quiche, house-made chicken and mushroom sausage served with sautéed potatoes, country-style pork and chicken liver pâté and pan-roasted beef onglet served with pommes frites. Yum!

Mother’s Day Tea at Meeker Mansion
Where: Puyallup, Washington, USA
When: May 11, 2008

The Mansion will serve a formal Victorian Tea in three seatings per day, at 12:30, 2:00, and 3:30 p.m. The cost is $12.00 per person (includes tour of Mansion). Prepaid reservations are required! Please make your reservations early as this very popular event fills fast. Call 253-848-1770 for reservations or more information. Keepsake Photos Available

The Seattle Opera is offering a Mother’s Day Tea, as well. Take mom to see I Puritani and make it extra special by treating her to an afternoon Tea before the show. Enjoy freshly brewed tea, a selection of finger sandwiches and sweets, and exclusive pre-show access to the Norcliffe Room lounge at McCaw Hall. Take a break from the crowds and spend some quality time with Mom on her special day.

Tickets for the tea and the 2:00 p.m. performance of I Puritani are sold separately and are available through the Seattle Opera Ticket Office at 206.389.7676 or 800.426.1619.

If you’re kid’s mama is a comic book geek, and yes, I do know several female comic book geeks then consider taking her to the Emerald City ComiCon. The Emerald City ComiCon is the largest comic book and pop culture convention in the Northwest. There will be comic artists, exhibitors, and dealers looking to sell comic books, toys, magazines, and collectible cards. There will also be game tournaments, a Costume Contest, and several panels scheduled.

Emerald City ComiCon
Where: Washington State Convention Center
When: Sat 10a-6p, Sun 10a-5p
$$$: $30 for 2-day pass, $20 Sat, $15 Sun

If your mom is a gardener she’d probably enjoy the Federal Way Buds & Blooms Spring Garden Tour & Festival. Buds and Blooms will be celebrating Mother’s Day with workshops and tours. They will also showcase three top Federal Way gardens, an old-growth wetlands and wildlife

When: Sunday, May 11 2008 @ 10:00 PM PDT - 04:00PM
Where: Federal Way
$$$: $3-$5

Free Shuttle to all festival sites. Recommended parking at the Bonsai/rhododendron Gardens both days, and The Commons on Saturday only.

If you’re up for a little trip. You might want to check out MaiFest in Leavenworth. Celebrate Mother’s Day in Bavaria! Enjoy entertainment all weekend. Experience the Grand March and Procession including townspeople and vistors in Trachten (Traditional Bavarian Garb), horses and carriages, Leavenworth’s Beirwagon, Bernese Mountain Dogs and more! Join MaiFest dignitaries and speical guests in a salute to and celebration of MaiFest in Leavenworth with great live entertainment and traditional German dancing including the Maipole Dance. Stroll through the Bavarian Village of Flowers, visit all of our great shops and restaurants and tap your toes to oompa music! Sponsored by the Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce.

MaiFest
Where: Front Street, Leavenworth, WA 98826
When: May 9-11, 2008
Phone: (509) 548-5807

Seattle, Wa, Mother’s Day, Things to do, What’s Happening, Brunch, Sunday, Salish Lodge, Salty’s, Restaurants, Festivals, Sandcastle Competition, Pacific Beach, Tea, Opera, Meeker Mansion, Mai, Fest, MaiFest, Leavenworth, Campagne, Emerald City, ComiCon, Federal Way, Buds, Blooms, Seafood

Ah, if only I were there this weekend I would certainly hit this event:

Hop Scotch: Spring Beer and Scotch Tasting Festival
Where: Fremont Studios, Seattle
When: Friday May 2nd, 5pm-12am and Saturday May 3rd, 1pm-12am
$$$: $15 advance, $20 at the door

Hop Scotch is the celebration of all things spring. Toast to the new brews, and learn the art of Scotch tasting during this sixth annual event. This years celebration will also host a tequila tasting with its close placement to Cinco de Mayo.

If you’re into gardening, you may want to catch this event:
Tilth’s Annual Edible Plant Sale
Where: Good Shepherd Center, 4649 Sunnyside Ave. N.
$$$: No entry fee
When: Saturday 9 am -3 pm and Sunday 11 am -3 pm

There will be a large variety of vegetable starts including tomatoes, lettuce, peppers, herbs, drought tolerant and disease resistant perennials, and much more for sale at this annual event. They have a huge selection especially of organically grown heirloom vegetable starts.

For those of you who are crafters or at least enjoy hand made goods, check out this event:

I Heart Rummage

When: Sunday, May 4 2008, 12:00pm - 4:00pm
Where:
Chop Suey
3.5 star rating based on 41 reviews
1325 E. Madison Street
Seattle, WA
(206) 324-8000
$$$: Free

Looking for something unique and unusual? IHR features 40 of the Northwest’s most innovative indie designers and urban crafters at Chop Suey the first Sunday of most every month. IHR has what’s edgy and new in the world of urban crafts and functional art.

If you fancy a little trip this weekend you might consider this:

12th Annual Victorian Festival
Where: Port Townsend, Washington, USA
When: May 02 - May 04, 2008
$$$: See Website

Nestled in the Northeast corner of the Olympic Peninsula at the entrance to Puget Sound is beautiful Port Townsend, our historic Victorian Seaport and Arts Community. Come to the Victorian Festival and plan to stay a few days, partaking of the Festival fun and the limitless opportunities for exploration of historic sites and natural wonders all over the Peninsula. The city enjoys a unique place on the National Historic Register. One of only three such ports on the entire coastline of the United States, Port Townsend is known for its Victorian era architecture, breathtaking bayside harbor location and a wide variety of outdoor activities. Both marine and forest environments await. The mission of the Jefferson County Historical Society (JCHS) is “To actively discover, collect, preserve, and promote the heritage of Jefferson County in the State of Washington.

Seattle, Wa, What’s, Going on, Happening, Events, Things to do, weekend, I heart rummage, Hop Scotch, Festival, Beer, Gardening, Port Townsend, Victorian

If have a building project in mind, you may want to check out the sale this weekend at Earthwise where everything will be on sale for 10-50% off. Earthwise carries just about every item you could possibly want. Doors, windows, molding, cabinets, lighting, hardware and more! Not to mention appliances & tiles. You can also sell or trade your own recyclables there, too. Check them out!
or…

Join SCA, the University of Washington, and Seattle Parks and Recreation for a day of fun projects at the Washington Park Arboretum on Saturday, April 19.

What: Earth Day 2008 with University of Washington Botanic Gardens (UWBG) and Seattle Parks and Recreation
When: April 19, 2008, 8:30 – 3:00
Where: Washington Park Arboretum, Seattle
Who: SCA alumni, Conservation Leadership Corps members, SCA supporters, community members, SCA staff, UWBG staff, Seattle Parks and Recreation staff
Why: To celebrate our Earth, work together to beautify our community, get youth and community members involved.

Details:

• We will be working on a variety of projects around the Washington Park Arboretum. Something for everyone!
• Bring water bottle, sack lunch, snacks, sunscreen, rain gear, long pants, work gloves and boots.
• Directions to Washington Park Arboretum.

RSVP to join us on April 19th

or…

Leap for Green!

A sustainability fair for the community of Mercer Island, Washington, USA. Focus of the fair is the engagement of Children of All Ages in the issues surrounding sustainability and living lighter on the land. There will be book readings/signings, a Native American story teller and drummer, a reptile man, footprint calculators designed for different ages, a park planting event, mini-farmers market, a slide presentation of Al Gore’s Inconvenient Truth and much more. It will be at the Mercer Island Community Center on Saturday, April 19th, 2008 from 10am to 2pm. Children come and bring your parents and grandparents, aunts and uncles!

Check here for more Earth Day events.

Seattle, Tacoma, WA, events, earth day, April, Weekend, Things to do, family, children, Leap for Green, Metro, Parks, Mercer Island, sustainability, fair, Earthwise, salvage, sale

When: April 12 - April 13, 2008
Where:
Washington State Convention & Trade Center
800 Convention Place
Seattle, WA
$$$: $15 Festival Pass (per person). You get some cool extras with your admission. See website for more details.

Better World Books and Green Festival are partnering to offer $5 off Green Festival admission to attendees who bring in 3 or more books. Your donated books will be sold on BetterWorld.com to help fund girls’ scholarships in developing countries in Asia through Room to Read. www.roomtoread.org

Whirligig! runs daily and charges a minimal fee for a single ride ticket or a day-use pass except, KIDS RIDE FREE on Thursdays (in Center House not the Fun Forest). Face painters and balloon artists also charge a nominal fee.

HELPFUL HINT: Avoid the crowds and play Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday.

Dates: March 28 - April 13, 2008
Times: Monday - Thursday, 11 AM - 4 PM;
Friday - Sunday, 11 AM - 6 PM
$$$: All-Day Pass $7.25, All-Day Toddler Pass $4.25,
Single Ticket $1.50 and FREE Thursdays.

You can take part in a tradition this weekend and attend The Daffodil Festival The Daffodil Festival, a 501(c)(3) Organization, will celebrate its 75th year during the 2008 festival season and takes pride in calling the great State of Washington, specifically Pierce County, its home. The Festival is an annual event that culminates in April with a Grand Floral Street Parade, which travels through the cities of Tacoma, Puyallup, Sumner and Orting, all in one day. The Theme for 2008 will be “75″ Years, Remembering Your First Daffodil Parade”.

When: Saturday, April 12 2008 @ 10:30 AM PDT - 12:00PM
Where: S 11th and Pacific to S 21st and Pacific

Seattle Book sale! If you like to read as much as I do then this is your event! The Friends of The Seattle Public Library holds two major book sales each year. At each sale, over 200,000 books and other items are offered to the general public, including:

• Art prints and posters
• Audiocassettes
• Books



• Compact discs
• Computer software
• Records
• Sheet music
• Videocassettes and DVDs

When: Saturday, April 12 2008, 9:00am
Where:
Warren G. Magnuson Park
7400 Sand Point Way NE
Seattle, WA
(206) 684-4946
$$$: Free

Most books cost $1.00, but the sale also features “better books” including recent releases, and rare and collectible books, which are available at affordable prices even though they are higher priced than the majority of books. The price of other items varies, but all are “good deals.”

Those are my picks for the weekend. What are you up to?

weekend, Seattle, WA, events, things to do, what’s, happening, going on, 4/12/08, 4/13/08, April, Whiligig, Daffodil, Festival, Moisture, Green, Sustainable

Spring is a beautiful time to visit the Yakima Valley wine country. Without further ado, here is a list of upcoming events:

April

18, 19 & 20 Pre-Barrel Tasting on Friday, Saturday and Sunday The annual weekend before Spring Barrel Tasting is PRE-BARREL TASTING weekend, where the wineries roll out the barrels in a quieter, more intimate event featuring new wine releases, conversations with the winemakers about their hand-crafted wines, and great wine specials. Avoid the crowds that will be at all the wineries next weekend. Come to the wineries this weekend to sample new releases and blends. What’s the difference between this weekend and Spring Barrel Tasting the next? It’s all about the wine this weekend! Smaller crowds, no live bands, no fees or tickets, and more one-on-one with the winemakers. Some wineries will offer futures for sale on their soon-to-be released, hand-crafted wines. (Complimentary – no ticket required)

25, 26, & 27 Spring Barrel Tasting on Friday, Saturday and Sunday (Three full days of wine sampling and festivities.) Wine is not all you’ll experience during Spring Barrel Tasting weekend in the Rattlesnake Hills. Several wineries will have other things to tease you out of your winter doldrums, including live bands, BBQ at reasonable prices, and artists displaying their art. But the real entertainment is the barrel tasting, where winemakers offer samples of their hand-crafted wares while discussing terroir, grape cultivation, fermentation, or the fruit forwardness of the barreled wine. Learn the art of tasting the fruit of the vine, made and refined in the newest American Viticulture Area that is so close to Yakima, the Rattlesnake Hills! (Complimentary – no ticket required) Most of the wineries do not charge a tasting fee, except for their reserve wines, and no ticket is required to visit any of the wineries on the Rattlesnake Hills Wine Trail. We want you to experience the wines in the Rattlesnake Hills. Once you do, we’re sure you’ll want to buy! However, great discounts and/or free reserve tasting can be yours with a $5 Passport. Ask about them at any of the 15 wineries on the Rattlesnake Hills Wine Trail or at the Visitor Center in Yakima off I-82 at exit 33A. Three exciting days of great new wines, live bands, BBQ, artists, and more are on the Trail during the annual Spring Barrel Tasting! Just 2 hours from Seattle, and 2.5 from Portland, the Rattlesnake Hills wineries are just outside Yakima, WA and offer full estate wineries where the grapes for many of Washington’s premier wines are grown. For more information on this or any other Rattlesnake Hills event, E-mail info@rattlesnakehills.com or call 888.375.RHWT..

Those sampling wines from the barrel will need a glass. Glasses may be purchased at the wineries.

WINERY EVENTS during SPRING BARREL TASTING:

Bonair Winery – The fun and fabulous Bonair staff will offer barrel samples of our 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, Rattlesnake Hills, Morrison Vineyard. This intense full-bodied 100% cabernet is from the oldest vineyard in the Rattlesnake Hills, planted 40 years ago in 1968.
Claar Cellars - Claar Cellars will be barrel tasting our 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon. Rattlesnake Hills Passport holders are also invited to try a special barrel tasting of our Fouled Anchor Port. Bruno Corneaux, our winemaker will be on hand the 25-27th to talk about our wines.
Eaton Hill Winery – While St. Patrick was in the Rattlesnake Hills chasing out the snakes, he blessed Eaton Hill with Angel’s Posole’ – A heavenly soup divinely perfected to compliment our devilishly delicious Hungarian Oak Estate Rose’ de Franc and Riesling.
Horizon’s Edge Winery – Enjoy a bottle of wine while listening to the music. Live Band from 12:00-3:00PM on Saturday the 26th. Tasting from the Barrel: Vanilla Port Style Desert Wine. Passport holders receive free Food and Wine Matching Wheel with any Case purchase (one wheel per person) and 12% off all wine purchases, and 20% off with each case purchase.
Hyatt Vineyards – Barrel samples and new releases are featured this fabulous weekend. Don’t miss the live band, Blind Lemon Pie, on both Saturday and Sunday afternoons until closing, General Grant’s BAR-B-Q, and Ron’s Original Kettle Korn. Also, bottled water will be for sale, benefitting Beta Sigma Phi Sorority. This is always the weekend to be at Hyatt Vineyards!
Maison de Padgett Winery – Stop here for the fun and wine! Live Band from 12:00-3:00PM on Saturday the 26th . Tasting from the Barrel: Malbec Port. Passport holders receive a free poster with any 3 bottle purchase (one poster per person) 12% off all wine purchases and 20% each case purchase.
Masset Winery - Masset Winery will feature two unique wines to sample from the barrel and we will also be showing off our new releases! Also, please stop by to check on the progress of our latest Masset art project! Chairs and a gazebo on the lawn to relax in front of the historic 1905 Angel Farmstead Barn, maybe some cheese from our gift shop/tasting room? Don’t miss our new Chardonnay and dry Rose’ - perfect for summer. See you soon, the Massets
Paradisos del Sol Winery - For the 24th year, The Man in the Wild Pants will attempt enlightenment in the Arcane Magick of barrels and wines. Barrel One – Lemberger resting for 30 months. Barrel Two – Lemberger, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Tempranillo, and Sangiovese married for 30 months. Dave Ettl will also be attempting enlightenment via his own brand of Magic on Saturday afternoon, April 26.
Piety Flats Winery – Sample our scintillating 2006 Syrah direct from the barrel, browse the famous gift shop for wonderful treasures, or picnic on the lawn with a bottle of one of our award-winning wines.
Portteus Vineyards – We’ll have a couple of delicious reds from the barrel, but you’ll have to stop in to discover what they are!
Severino Cellars - Join Severino Cellars for it’s very first Spring Barrel Tasting! We will be serving wines from 10am-6pm and can’t wait to share our wine with you. Our new spring release is a 2005 Chardonnay and we will be sampling Cabernet Sauvignon from the barrel. For those of you who may need a snack during the day, we will have oysters on the half shell, hot off the BBQ (we really enjoy them with the Riesling). For more information please contact us at 509-829-3800.
Silver Lake at Roza Hills - Come Taste what the future has in store for Silver Lake Winery’s award winning wines during the Spring Barrel Tasting event! Sample newly fermented wines straight out of the oak barrels and compare them to their already bottled counterparts. Enjoy your sipping and sampling while relaxing in front of an incredible panoramic view of the valley with a great meal and some wonderful music all afternoon and into the evening on Saturday, April 26th. Stop here for your bottled water, too. This weekend only, take home all your favorite Reserves and Grand Reserves with our weekend 25% off Sale!
Steppe Cellars - Steppe Cellars will be sampling its 2007 Malbec from the barrel during the spring barrel tasting weekends. This will be one component of our Bordeaux style blend. Enjoy a fantastic picnic on Saturday prepared by Guerra’s Gourmet. We will serve grilled local asparagus along with grilled sausages, bread and salad on the Saturday of Barrel Tasting - (April 26). You can always purchase picnic goodies from the tasting room and make your own picnic. If you are looking for a great way to spend evening Friday evening, come to Steppe Cellars’ wine-maker’s dinner at Buhrmaster Bakery in Yakima. Wine-maker Anke Friemuth-Wildman will discuss our wines as you sample them with this delicious and thoughtfully paired dinner.
Tefft Cellars - We have a Vintage Wine Dinner on Sat 4/19 $35.00 Spanish Tapas ending with Paella and tasting older vintages. All SBT specials will be in effect. By reservation only 5-8 P.M. Limited seating – make reservations early! During Spring Barrel Tasting, we will be offering samples of our 2007 Viognier from the barrel and many other ‘specials’.
Two Mountain Winery – During Barrel Tasting weekend, not only will we offer barrel samples of our delicious wines, but for the first time, we will be having the band ‘Distant Satellite’ playing from 4-6pm on Saturday! Mariano’s famous Tacos Uruapan will be available for purchase all day. Per co-owner Pat Rawn, “They are the best tacos in town (or Mexico in my opinion).”

Remember the most important thing. Bring a glass or purchase one from any of the wineries.

WA, Washington, Yakima Valley, spring, wine, wineries, barrel, tasting, Rattlesnake Hills, Events, pre-barrel

Alki Community Center Pancake Breakfast
Saturday, March 22nd 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Enjoy scrambled eggs, sausage, juice, coffee, and allyou- can-eat pancakes. After breakfast you can enjoy the family candy hunt with your kids. (Ages 5 & under free)
Activity Fee: $4

Woodland Zoo Easter Brunch
Sunday, March 23, 2008, 9:00-11:00 a.m.

Usher in the season of spring at Woodland Park Zoo’s Easter Brunch at the Rain Forest Food Pavilion. The delicious menu includes carved ham, potatoes, fruits, pastries and more. It also includes a special visit from the Easter Bunny and an up-close animal encounter. Cost for members: $28.75 for adults; $16.95 for children ages 3-10; free for children ages 2 and under. Cost for non-members: $35.50 for adults; $21.75 for children ages 3-10; free for children ages 2 and under. Prices include zoo admission, service charge and tax. Advance reservations and pre-payment required. Must enter through the West Entrance at N. 55th St. & Phinney Ave. N. For more information and reservations, call 206.548.2662.

Supermall Easter Bunny Brunch
Saturday, March 22nd, 9-10:30am
1101 SuperMall Way, Suite 1268
Auburn, WA 98001
Food Court

Have breakfast with the Easter Bunny and Radio Disney. There will be games, music and fun! There will be coffee and cocoa for parents, for Momtopia club for moms members, registration available onsite.

Spring Egg Hunt and Pancake Breakfast, High Point
Saturday, March 22nd from 10 a.m. sharp
High Point Community Center and Field, 6920 34th Ave. S.W., Seattle
Ages: 11 and younger

Bring your family for a morning of coloring contests, egg hunts and free candy. Children 11 and younger will have an opportunity to search for what the bunny has left for them. Remember to bring your own bags or basket to carry the eggs. The admission is free and the hunt will begin promptly at 10 a.m., rain or shine! (206-684-7422).

Spring Egg Hunt and Pancake Social, Van Asselt
Van Asselt Community Center, 2820 S. Myrtle St., Seattle
Saturday, March 22nd from 10 a.m. to Noon
Activity Fees: $1 / person
$5 / family of 5 or more for the Pancake Social

Children 10 years and under join us at Van Asselt Community Center for our annual Spring Egg Hunt. Be on the look out for “SPECIAL EGGS”! They will lead you to extra prizes at the end.Please meet in the gym prior to egg hunt and staff will lead age groups out to field. Pancake Social will immediately follow the egg hunt.

Eggstravaganza, Redmond

Egg hunt, 10 a.m., pancake breakfast served until 11 a.m., kids’ crafts and games, photos with Mr. Bunny, 8-11:30 a.m.; Flashlight Egg Hunt, 8:30 p.m., family dance, 7-10 p.m., Redmond Senior Center, 8703 160th Ave. N.E., Redmond; for morning or evening event: ages 3-12 and seniors $5, adults $7 (425-556-2300).

Spring Egg Hunt & Pancake Breakfast, Southwest
Saturday, March 22nd from 10 a.m. sharp
Southwest Community Center
2801 S.W. Thistle
Seattle, WA 98126

Coloring contests, egg hunt and candy for ages 11 and younger, bring your own bag or basket, 10 a.m., followed by pancake breakfast, 10:30 a.m. Hunt free, breakfast $6/adult, $3/child

Easter, Kids, Rabbit, Bunny, Breakfast, Seattle, Washington, children, activities, Community Center, Pancakes, Egg Hunts, SuperMall, Momtopia, Disney Radio, Alki, March, 2008, Weekend, Events, Sunday

Anyway, if you don’t feel like staring at a sink full of dishes this year, why not go our for Easter Brunch? Here are my picks for favorite places to go for brunch in Seattle:

Salty’s

There is a reason this restaurant has been voted as one of the Top 5 Easter Brunches in both Seattle and Portland. Salty’s is a class act with a spectacular brunch offering. Their food is simply the best. Check out my review. Top that fabulous food off with a fabulous view and you will understand why Salty’s always ranks at the top of my brunch list. DO call for reservations and I suggest you call NOW! Salty’s is a popular restaurant and will fill up fast.

Easter Brunch is served in Portland Sunday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.; at Redondo Sunday 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Alki’s brunch is always served Saturday 9 to 1:30 p.m. (not just Easter) and Easter Sunday brunch is 7:45 a.m. to 7 p.m. Alki also now takes large brunch parties on Sundays up to 200 people. Call us to make reservations at:

• Alki Beach – Seattle (206) 937-1600
• Redondo Beach – Des Moines/South Seattle (253) 946-0636
• Columbia River – Portland (503) 288-4444

If you’re going to do brunch in Seattle, I say go for a place with a view. There are so many wonderful restaurants in Seattle with incredible views. Here’s another:

Anthony’s Home Port

Sadly, I have not been to Anthony’s in years but rumor tells me that they still serve a great brunch with a great view. The Seattle PI describes Anthony’s as “Well-priced enough to be part of a regular Sunday routine, yet lovely enough to be a special-occasion destination.” Anthony’s has several locations, here is the Shilshole Bay information. Check their websitehttp://www.anthonys.com/about/Easter%20Specials.html
for information on their other locations.

Located at the entrance to the Hiram Chittenden Locks.
6135 Seaview Avenue West
Seattle, WA 98107
(206) 783-0780
Reservations are recommended.

Brunch
9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

The Salish Lodge

This is hands down my favorite place to go for special occasions. The location is nothing short of spectacular and according to their website, “The waterfall is gushing, buds are appearing, and everyone at Salish is delighting in the warming weather. With an amazing view of the changing seasons, Salish Lodge & Spa provides the perfect setting for a springtime celebration.” Reservations are a must. The Grand Buffet features a Seafood Station, an Omelette Station, a Carving Station and a Dessert Station. The Dining Room Brunch will feature buttermilk pancakes and Poached Eggs Dungeness. Mmmm…doesn’t that sound divine?

Special Easter menus include:

* Grand Buffet Brunch in the Ballroom, served 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
* Brunch in the Dining Room, served 7:00 am - 3:00 pm

The Attic Bistro will offer both a la carte and special three-course menus from 11:00 am - 10:00 pm Easter Sunday, and a special room service brunch menu will be available for an even cozier dining option.

Campagne

I have yet to try this restaurant but the menu has me salivating. What’s not to love about a French breakfast with fresh fruit, baguettes, smoked salmon smothered in hollandaise and truffle omelettes? Mmmm… go and have some for me…pretty please? Take pictures so that I may live vicariously through you. If you get the opportunity have a pot of their hot chocolate, made at your table with Scharffenberger chocolate. It’s divine!

LA FÊTE DE PÂQUES - 23 MARS 2008

Delight in a relaxing French brunch at Campagne Restaurant with our fourth annual Fête de Pâques (Easter celebration). Easter brunch hours are 9 AM to 2 PM, dinner 5:30 to 10 PM.

Those are my picks for this year. If you make it out to any of these restaurants, I’d love to hear about your dining experience and link me to your pictures if you take them.

Easter, Brunch, Seattle, Washington, Wa, March, Salty’s, Salish, Campagne, Anthony’s Home Port, Breakfast, View, Seafood, Guide