Cocktail of the Week: The Armoiselle

Sure, a glass of wine or a beer is a nice way to unwind – but every now and then you deserve a happy hour that’s a little more... hmmm. What’s the word? Refined! Kelly Sparks of Queen Bee Mixology is graciously sharing a new cocktail with us every week, just in time for Happy Hour. Queen Bee is raising the bar for cocktails made at home with recipes that are both easy – and delicious! Want more? Connect with Queen Bee Mixology on social media for extra recipes and behind-the-scenes content.

That's So Seattle: There's now a CBD Soda Tasting Room in the heart of Belltown

I have this thing for CBD. It hasn’t always been this way. In fact, if you were to go back in time and tell my high school self that I would find myself in the CBD niche I would probably say something along the lines of "Huh?? " - while also passionately denying it. I find myself here after years of writing about the wellness space; mindfulness, yoga, fitness, testing weird health trends and writing about them (remember when I went on a juice cleanse? ) CBD was a natural next step.

Chef Joel Gamoran turns garbage into gourmet grub

Joel Gamoran is a chef with a passion for turning garbage into gourmet grub. "I was in New York [teaching a cooking class] and I was looking at everyone's garbage bowls and thinking in culinary school and restaurants I would get [chewed out] for throwing this stuff away, because that's profit in the restaurant industry," he said. "But at home we kind of forget about that. " Joel is Sur La Table's national chef, the host of A&E's "Scraps: Parts Uneaten" and the author of"Cooking Scrappy".

True Life: An Iron Chef made us a bowl of ramen, and he will for you too

He's a culinary icon who has earned accolades around the world, a prolific restaurateur, and an Iron Chef. Now, finally, with Momosan Ramen & Sake, Masaharu Morimoto is serving up his food to the hungry diners of Seattle's International District. "Ramen is good because it's reasonable and casual," said Morimoto. "You don't have to wear a necktie or a suit, it's more casual and more fun. You can come in with family, friends, everybody. It's easy.

From Shark Tank to Food Truck: Bantam Bagels is in Seattle for month of September

There's a reason why people are battling in line to get their hands on these Bantam Bagels. They're the bomb. Nick and Elyse Oleksak are the brains behind these bodacious bagels that are bite sized and filled with flavor. Their unique and tasty idea started in their small Brooklyn apartment and became so popular that they had to expand into a brick and mortar shop in the Big Apple.

Creative wine collabs are all the rage in the Northwest

Our Refined team got pretty pumped recently when we got our hands on a covetedCheez-it/House Wine Box. You probably saw all the posts on Facebook (ours included), about the ingenious collaboration... So consider our shock and delight when we found out that the "wine" part of this dynamic duo was none other thanPrecept Wine, the Northwest's largest private wine company! Turns out, that's not the only cool collaboration they've got going on right now.

Cocktail of the Week: The Sidecar

Sure, a glass of wine or a beer is a nice way to unwind – but every now and then you deserve a happy hour that’s a little more... hmmm. What’s the word? Refined! Kelly Sparks of Queen Bee Mixology is graciously sharing a new cocktail with us every week, just in time for Happy Hour. Queen Bee is raising the bar for cocktails made at home with recipes that are both easy – and delicious! Want more? Connect with Queen Bee Mixology on social media for extra recipes and behind-the-scenes content.

Simple yet satisfying Indian cuisine with Chef Ethan Stowell

Chef Ethan Stowell grew up in Seattle, kickstarting his culinary career working as the shake guy in an old drive-in. He worked through the ranks and established a name for himself here in his hometown as CEO and founder of Ethan Stowell Restaurants. His critically acclaimed group of restaurants blanket the city and serve up delicious, diverse food.

Open & Shut: This week in restaurant openings and closings

Openings. Ba Sa. With a name deriving from the Southeast Asia fish, Catfish, and sister restaurant to Pho T&N located in Poulsbo, Washington, thanks to the Nguyen siblings, Bainbridge Island will soon enjoy that flavor. Ba Sa will serve modern Vietnamese food inspired by Southeast Asian cuisine, using French techniques with local products found in the Pacific Northwest. 101 Winslow Way East, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110. Local Vegan.

Cocktail of the Week: The Smoot

Sure, a glass of wine or a beer is a nice way to unwind – but every now and then you deserve a happy hour that’s a little more... hmmm. What’s the word? Refined! Kelly Sparks of Queen Bee Mixology is graciously sharing a new cocktail with us every week, just in time for Happy Hour. Queen Bee is raising the bar for cocktails made at home with recipes that are both easy – and delicious! Want more? Connect with Queen Bee Mixology on social media for extra recipes and behind-the-scenes content.

Perfect pizzas in a pinch? Papa Murphy's has got you covered

Establishing a sense of family with your loved ones is an important part of developing relationships. One-way families try to do this is via weeknight family dinners but finding time to do this can be extremely challenging with busy work and school schedules. If you feel like family dinners at your house aren't necessarily the "norm," you aren't alone. Over the past three decades, studies have shown that family time at the dinner table has decreased by more than 30 percent.

Local breweries can play a big role in saving our oceans

If you’re from Western Washington, it’s likely that you live within an easy drive of the water. Whether a sound, ocean coastline, bay, or inlet, the waterways of Washington are a frequent stop for many of us and something we care deeply about. It’s the scent, the beauty, the sound, the memories of fun, and the exciting wildlife that combine to make Washington waters a breathtaking experience. Truly, what would we do without our beautiful shores and waters?

JUST IN: The PSL is back, and it's bringing a new pumpkin-flavored friend

I love you Starbucks, but please, please, PLEASE don't do this to me. Nothing represents and encompasses the beginning of ~fall season~ like the annual reintroduction of the Pumpkin Spice Latte. Starting today, August 27, 2019, PSL is now being served in Starbucks' everywhere - and is also (according to Starbucks) the first official day of fall.

Become a Winemaker For a Day at Chateau Ste. Michelle

I've said it once and I'll say it again. I love wine - a lot. There's nothing like a nice, heart-warming glass of full bodied Cab Sauv, you feel me? And with the amount of wine I consume, I should probably figure out where wine comes from, how it's made and how winemakers decide how to make blends (spoiler alert, they taste a lot of wine). So I went out to Western Washington's wine country and spent an evening with Chateau Ste.

Cocktail of the Week: Tequila Manhattan

Sure, a glass of wine or a beer is a nice way to unwind – but every now and then you deserve a happy hour that’s a little more... hmmm. What’s the word? Refined! Kelly Sparks of Queen Bee Mixology is graciously sharing a new cocktail with us every week, just in time for Happy Hour. Queen Bee is raising the bar for cocktails made at home with recipes that are both easy – and delicious! Want more? Connect with Queen Bee Mixology on social media for extra recipes and behind-the-scenes content.

Did we just find the best burger in WA state - in Stanwood?!?

More and more I’m finding that some of my favorite restaurants are tucked in the quaint downtowns of little cities in the Northwest. My most recent find being Mammoth Burger Co. in Stanwood. I first heard about Mammoth in a local Facebook group - “Have you heard about the new burger place? Sooooo good! ”I immediately sent my husband a text, “Honey, burgers ASAP, a new place! ” He was skeptical, as he always is when we stray from our regular restaurant lineup, but willing.

Where to get your pasta fix around Seattle

Pasta. We all love it. And from the looks of the burgeoning restaurant landscape of Seattle, we all want more of it. If you think about it, the Seattle-area is in a gilded age of pasta. We have our stalwarts like Capitol Hill’s Spinasse, Montlake’s Café Lago, and Columbia City’s La Medusa amongst many more. Look around and you’ll see new places opening up (or soon to open up) specializing in pasta.

Cocktail of the Week: Basil Lemoncocco

Sure, a glass of wine or a beer is a nice way to unwind – but every now and then you deserve a happy hour that’s a little more... hmmm. What’s the word? Refined! Kelly Sparks of Queen Bee Mixology is graciously sharing a new cocktail with us every week, just in time for Happy Hour. Queen Bee is raising the bar for cocktails made at home with recipes that are both easy – and delicious! Want more? Connect with Queen Bee Mixology on social media for extra recipes and behind-the-scenes content.

Toshi's has been the godfather of Seattle-style teriyaki since 1976

It seems like no matter where you go in Western Washington you'll find a teriyaki restaurant, but there's only one original, Toshi's Teriyaki Grill. "It's the best bang for the buck for sure and definitely the best tasting I've had," one customer told me. "The chicken is cooked so perfectly that I keep coming back. I can't stop. " "There's something magical about their sauce - I don't go anywhere [for teriyaki] but Toshi's," added another regular.

Hey Seattle, canned hard kombucha has landed in [some] grocery stores

Getting your pro-biotics on while ALSO getting a little buzz? That's what hard kombucha is all about, baby. Boochcraft, a handcrafted hard kombucha company (and one of the fasted growing breweries on the West Coast) has expanded to Washington and Oregon. The spiked kombucha will be available in 22-ounce bottles, 12-ounce cans and on tap in stores, bars and restaurants.

Bet your bottom dollar on Smith Tower's $25 cocktail, the Daddy Warbucks

At the Observatory Bar on the top of Smith Tower, you can just drink in the views right along with the cocktails. And there's one new cocktail on their summer menu you may want to bet your bottom (and middle, and top) dollar on - the Daddy Warbucks, a $25 personalized cocktail made just for you. "Lots of bars around the country, you go in and you’re looking for a specific cocktail," said bartender Mark Sassi.

14,000 lbs of vegetables were used in Salt & Straw's newest Farmer's Market series

If you have to eat your veggies, this would sure as heck be the way to do it! Premiere ice creamery Salt & Straw, just announced that their newest flavor series was made with 14,000 pounds of fresh vegetables from west coast farms - aptly called the Farmer's Market Series. The shop, partnering with Ballard Farmer's Market, is using around two tons of carrots, 7,000 ears of corn, 11,000 tomatoes and 3,500 zucchini. We can officially call these healthy, right?!

Cocktail of the Week: Oprah's Maui in December

Sure, a glass of wine or a beer is a nice way to unwind – but every now and then you deserve a happy hour that’s a little more... hmmm. What’s the word? Refined! Kelly Sparks of Queen Bee Mixology is graciously sharing a new cocktail with us every week, just in time for Happy Hour. Queen Bee is raising the bar for cocktails made at home with recipes that are both easy – and delicious! Want more? Connect with Queen Bee Mixology on social media for extra recipes and behind-the-scenes content.

Sushi, sandwiches, gyros, and more at the Kirkland Urban QFC!

The new Kirkland Urban QFC is your solution to every healthy lifestyle need! With uptown apartments, brand-new office spaces, major retail outlets, and delicious marketplace options within your grasp, there's no denying that Kirkland Urban is the place to be. Food for the mighty—Exclusively at the Kirkland Urban QFC!

Heading down I-5? Stop by Papa Pete's in southwest WA for Taco Pizza

When you think of the year 1974, what comes to mind? Watergate. The Space Race. Bell bottom jeans. Maybe Barbara Streisand’s The Way We Were. How about the beginning of Southwest Washington’s Papa Pete’s Pizza? If you haven’t stumbled upon Papa Pete’s yet, it’s time to get your next pizza fix there! For over four decades the team at Papa Pete’s has been serving up amazing pizza thanks to their proprietary dough and sauce recipes.

Cocktail of the Week: Watermelon Mojito

Sure, a glass of wine or a beer is a nice way to unwind – but every now and then you deserve a happy hour that’s a little more... hmmm. What’s the word? Refined! Kelly Sparks of Queen Bee Mixology is graciously sharing a new cocktail with us every week, just in time for Happy Hour. Queen Bee is raising the bar for cocktails made at home with recipes that are both easy – and delicious! Want more? Connect with Queen Bee Mixology on social media for extra recipes and behind-the-scenes content.

Olympia brewery recreates 100-yr-old lager after discovering brewmaster's old recipe book

Washington state is a beer lover's dream. We've got Yakima on the east side, which just happens to be one of the heaviest hops producers in the United States - and then we've got the artesian well sitting underneath Olympia. Olympia Brewing was right - it really is in the water! Washington's capitol is known for its iconic breweries and robust beer history, but new breweries opening in Oly are serving up modern style brews while also paying homage to the history of beer in Thurston County.

At Conversation restaurant in downtown Seattle, the food is definitely worth talking about

Every restaurant has its own hum. The sizzle of pans, the clanking of silverware, the sounds of laughter. It's a symphony of sorts. At Conversation in the Thompson Hotel, that soundtrack isn't background noise, it's the inspiration for the entire space. "Conversation is a restaurant that is created for people to escape from reality for a few hours and get back to the human connection," said Derek Simcik, Executive Chef.

Skagit County is home to the 'Best Small Town Restaurant in WA'

With a population of just under 4,000 residents, the town of Bow isn't considered a very big place - but that doesn't stop if from serving up some of the best oysters in the state. According to an article by Thrillist, The Oyster Bar on Chuckanut Drive was named Washington's "Best Small Town Restaurant. " Not only do they serve up Oysters and a plethora of other seafood like prawns, clams, mussels and scallops but - the views are outstanding along Chuckanut Drive.

Did you know WA is the nation's top producer of blueberries?!

Bill Gates, Seahawks, Starbucks, orcas, wine, and apples... all things Washington is well known for. But what about blueberries? You might be surprised, but our wonderful state is the nation's number one producer of blueberries. According to the Washington Blueberry Commission, in 2018, Washington state yielded about 129 million pounds of those little blue babies.

Theo Chocolate celebrates National Scotch Day with scotch-infused chocolates

Raise your hand if you knew it was National Scotch Day today, July 27th? Whether you answered yes or no, don't worry - you can still kick your feet up, go to the bar, or cheers a glass of Glenlivet to the holiday. But if drinking scotch isn't your cup of whiskey, or you're looking for something sweet, you might want to try Theo Chocolate's scotch-infused chocolate collection.

Open & Shut: This week in restaurant openings and closings

Openings. Bar Taglio. If you're looking for Roman style pizza, then look no further than The Exchange, one of downtown Seattle's historic buildings. There you will find the brand new pizzeria Bar Taglio, opening in late summer by Chef Brendan McGill. No stranger to running a restaurant, Gill says the Roman style-bar will offer "antipasti, salamiand cheeseboards, meatballs, and salads. " Pizza will be sold “by the cut” and range from $5 to $8 for a large square slice. 822 1st Ave.

Are you hosting a BBQ? Throw some pizza on the grill!

Burgers, hot dogs, and pizza? Warm summer nights are anything but typical and boring, so why should your menu be any different? Serve up something tasty at your reunion, outdoor party, or backyard BBQ by grilling up a Papa Murphy's Pizza to share. By heating for just a few short minutes on a hot grill, you can have delicious, scratch-made pizza for any summer gathering.

Cocktail of the Week: Strawberry Basil Martini with Infused Vodka

Sure, a glass of wine or a beer is a nice way to unwind – but every now and then you deserve a happy hour that’s a little more... hmmm. What’s the word? Refined! Kelly Sparks of Queen Bee Mixology is graciously sharing a new cocktail with us every week, just in time for Happy Hour. Queen Bee is raising the bar for cocktails made at home with recipes that are both easy – and delicious! Want more? Connect with Queen Bee Mixology on social media for extra recipes and behind-the-scenes content.

The Roanoke Inn has been a Mercer Island icon for 105 years

From the outside, with it's white picket fence and beautiful blooms, the Roanoke Innon Mercer Island looks like a stately country club. But it's delightfully different on the inside. Walk through the front door and you're greeted with dark green walls, eclectic decor, and a kitchy-slash-cozy vibe. There are retro beer signs, a phone booth (! ), a juke box that plays CD's (!! ) - and MUCH more.

Giant omelettes await at Carol's Corner in Vancouver, WA

Seven years ago we left Vancouver. Not British Columbia’s Vancouver - Washington’s Vancouver. Many think of it as a suburb of Portland seeing that it is right across the river, and, in some ways it is a part of PDX, but don’t be fooled - Vancouver is a destination all its own. Take the giant omelettes at Carol’s Corner Cafe for example. Those are worth showing up for. I could rave about everything on Carol’s menu, and I’ll share about my favorite sweet treat shortly, but first, the omelettes.

5 of our favorites from Bite of Seattle

Cocktail of the Week: Cherry Manhattan

Sure, a glass of wine or a beer is a nice way to unwind – but every now and then you deserve a happy hour that’s a little more... hmmm. What’s the word? Refined! Kelly Sparks of Queen Bee Mixology is graciously sharing a new cocktail with us every week, just in time for Happy Hour. Queen Bee is raising the bar for cocktails made at home with recipes that are both easy – and delicious! Want more? Connect with Queen Bee Mixology on social media for extra recipes and behind-the-scenes content.

Photos: Elysian celebrates anniversary of Apollo 11 moon landing with retro labels

This weekend's Bite of Seattle is back & better than ever

The Bite of Seattle is back this weekend, July 19-21 - and to say it's one of our favorite events of the year would be an understatement. Not only are there hundreds of different tastes and types of cuisines to choose from, but there are multiple events throughout the weekend that can take your Bite experience from good to OUTSTANDING. Here's some events happening at the Bite that you should absolutely be aware of! The Alley.

Donut Ice Cream Sandwiches are the hole-y experience you need this summer

If you love freshly fried confections, visiting Donut Factory is sort of a hole-y experience. Their motto is 'Donut worry, be happy, ' and happy - actually OVERJOYED - is how you feel stepping into this delicious destination. "We’re a real donut shop," said Bryan Phaysith, owner and King of the Cruller . "We have the best selection, the freshest quality. The best ingredients. " This place is known for it's incredible selection.

4 places to find the Adult Version of your fav Milkshakes, Popsicles & Slushies

On a pipin' hot day, are you more of an ice cold cocktail person, or an ice cream person? Margarita, or milkshake? If you don't want to pick one, you don't have to at these restaurants. Behold - four places to find boozy treats for a hot summer day. Boozy PopsiclesSoi. These aren't your kids' popsicles... a glance at their popsicle menu shows five different flavors like watermelon, Moscow Mule (ginger), Thai Tea, Thai Coffee and Spicy Pineapple (chili peppers and pineapple).

Cocktail of the Week: Bubblegum Martini

Sure, a glass of wine or a beer is a nice way to unwind – but every now and then you deserve a happy hour that’s a little more... hmmm. What’s the word? Refined! Kelly Sparks of Queen Bee Mixology is graciously sharing a new cocktail with us every week, just in time for Happy Hour. Queen Bee is raising the bar for cocktails made at home with recipes that are both easy – and delicious! Want more? Connect with Queen Bee Mixology on social media for extra recipes and behind-the-scenes content.

Photos: Could the perfect summer dessert be a cookie root beer float? Yes, yes it could

The perfect wine pairings for a summer BBQ

Call your buddies, pour a few glasses of wine, and throw a brisket on the grill – you've got the perfect recipe for summer fun. And here at Seattle Refined, we want to hook you up with all of the right tools to ensure you're eating, drinking, and having fun all summer long. That's why we teamed up with David Merfeld, winemaker at MERF wines and Jack Timmons, owner of Jack's BBQ, to share BBQ tips and the perfect wine pairings to enjoy in this summer weather.

All Tom Douglas Restaurants, Ranked

One of the biggest names synonymous with Seattle is Tom Douglas. Did you know that the star chef and cookbook author operates 17 different restaurants in the Greater Seattle area? You’ve probably even have visited a couple and didn’t even know they were his! We decided to rank them by combining scores from Zagat, Gayot, Trip Advisor, Google Reviews and Yelp. Let me tell you, it was not easy task.

Ballard Bar, or Summer Camp? You won't be able to tell the difference at this Pop-Up

The phrase, "Cracking a cold one open with the boys," may be a little outdated, but if anything could bring it back, it's probably this themed event. The Gerald, a cocktail bar in Ballard, is having a special cocktail pop-upfrom July 5 -15 called Camp Firewood, at which you'll be sure to have summer camp flashbacks. The theme? 'Camp Style a la Wet Hot American Summer'.

Cocktail of the Week: The Vesper Martini

Sure, a glass of wine or a beer is a nice way to unwind – but every now and then you deserve a happy hour that’s a little more... hmmm. What’s the word? Refined! Kelly Sparks of Queen Bee Mixology is graciously sharing a new cocktail with us every week, just in time for Happy Hour. Queen Bee is raising the bar for cocktails made at home with recipes that are both easy – and delicious! Want more? Connect with Queen Bee Mixology on social media for extra recipes and behind-the-scenes content.

Nestlé Toll House is bringing edible cookie dough to store shelves

CINCINNATI (WKRC) - Cookie dough lovers rejoice! There's a new edible cookie dough on the market. It's not technically safe to do but who hasn't had a few bites of Nestlé Toll House's cookie dough? Now, you won't have to take a risk when you want your fix. Photos of Toll House's new edible cookie dough were taken at a Publix Super Market in Sarasota, Florida and posted to the Instagram account @familyfooddude:

Cocktail of the Week: The Wanderer Negroni

Sure, a glass of wine or a beer is a nice way to unwind – but every now and then you deserve a happy hour that’s a little more... hmmm. What’s the word? Refined! Kelly Sparks of Queen Bee Mixology is graciously sharing a new cocktail with us every week, just in time for Happy Hour. Queen Bee is raising the bar for cocktails made at home with recipes that are both easy – and delicious! Want more? Connect with Queen Bee Mixology on social media for extra recipes and behind-the-scenes content.

Photos: Hundreds of fans celebrate Anthony Bourdain at 'Uncle Tony's Block Party'

The Right Reason to head to the Bachelor Casting Call is this themed menu

PNW Bachelor Nation: Your Bachelor Journey starts here! For the first time, KOMO News and Seattle Refined are teaming up with The Bellevue Collection and Lucky Strike to offer you a chance to be on the hit ABC show. Come show us that you’re here for the right reasons and vie for the final rose (or maybe just the chance to be a FabFitFun partner). Who knows, you may even find love like Seattle favorites Jason Mesnick, Catherine Lowe and Chris Siegfried!

Cocktail of the Week: Absolut Pear Martini

Sure, a glass of wine or a beer is a nice way to unwind – but every now and then you deserve a happy hour that’s a little more... hmmm. What’s the word? Refined! Kelly Sparks of Queen Bee Mixology is graciously sharing a new cocktail with us every week, just in time for Happy Hour. Queen Bee is raising the bar for cocktails made at home with recipes that are both easy – and delicious! Want more? Connect with Queen Bee Mixology on social media for extra recipes and behind-the-scenes content.

Photos: Seattle's Bacon, Eggs & Kegs was a giant boozy brunch festival

From MasterChef Jr. to Taste of Tacoma: 13-year-old star chef is one to watch

"I want to be a chef. It's been my dream since I was a little toddler. I also want to be a food critic. I want to travel the world and experience different cuisines and different cultures. I think it would be really fun. " 13-year-old Sadie Davis-Suskind might be young, but cooking is old-hat for her. Sadie's playpen has always been the kitchen. "I was cooking before I was talking, walking, well about at the same time," said Sadie with a laugh.

Walla Walla Steak Co. named among '100 Best Wine Restaurants in America'

Opening only eight months ago, Walla Walla Steak Co. was just named among the 100 Best Wine Restaurants in America by Wine Enthusiast Magazine! The prestigious list will be released in the August edition of the magazine, and it's selected by the editorial staff to recognize "restaurants that offer excellent food and service with wine as a focus. " Wine Enthusiast searched for creativity, quality and a unique dining experience that holds special appeal for wine lovers.

Pro Tip: Try a Date Milkshake in Grand Mound, WA

Burger Claim’s motto is “Strike it rich in taste! ” and I'm here to say that I can confirm this detail. Gold diggers from miles around find their bellies full and their hearts happy after a stop at this Wild West/Gold Rush themed restaurant in Grand Mound, Washington. No doubt, Burger Claim is worth its weight in gold! Puns aside, Burger Claim truly does offer a fantastic menu. And, as much as I love their burgers (Gorgonzola Burger for life!

Simple tips for sticking to your diet while traveling this summer

The official start of summer is right around the corner. And with the warmer weather comes vacations, parties, and cookouts – great for the social calendar, but not so great for that diet you've been working hard to maintain. That's where a little bit of planning can make a big difference. Sherene Kershner, the owner and founder of Evolve180, a weight loss studio in Bellevue, shared some of her favorite tips and tricks for traveling and dining out while trying to lose weight.

Cocktail of the Week: Blueberry Vodka Mojito

Sure, a glass of wine or a beer is a nice way to unwind – but every now and then you deserve a happy hour that’s a little more... hmmm. What’s the word? Refined! Kelly Sparks of Queen Bee Mixology is graciously sharing a new cocktail with us every week, just in time for Happy Hour. Queen Bee is raising the bar for cocktails made at home with recipes that are both easy – and delicious! Want more? Connect with Queen Bee Mixology on social media for extra recipes and behind-the-scenes content.

Neighborhood Nosh: Loco Moco, Cereal French Toast & more at Watson's Counter

In Neighborhood Nosh, we like to showcase restaurants that have been fixtures in the community for decades, but every once in awhile, I hear about a new spot and know I’ve got to check it out. That’s why we headed over to Watson's Counter in Ballard. "Watson’s Counter is basically a neighborhood coffee shop, restaurant and hang out spot. The original vision was [to create] a place where we served good food, good coffee...

Say Cheese...Cake! We visit an honest-to-goodness cheesecake factory in Blaine, WA

Blaine, WA may not yet be known as a cheesecake capitol... but chances are you've eaten cheesecake fromtheir local Chuckanut Bay Foods, a factory bakery that makes cheesecake. “We make really great stuff here, mostly cheesecake,” said David Loeppky, the Operations Manager. “If we’re making our small three-inch cheesecake, we can be doing 40,000 a day or so. ”That's a lot of cheesecake. Three inch cheesecakes are considered "personal" sized, perfect for cheesecake lovers who don't want to share.

Cocktail of the Week: Prickly Pear Margarita

Sure, a glass of wine or a beer is a nice way to unwind – but every now and then you deserve a happy hour that’s a little more... hmmm. What’s the word? Refined! Kelly Sparks of Queen Bee Mixology is graciously sharing a new cocktail with us every week, just in time for Happy Hour. Queen Bee is raising the bar for cocktails made at home with recipes that are both easy – and delicious! Want more? Connect with Queen Bee Mixology on social media for extra recipes and behind-the-scenes content.

Local artisan cheese, crafted in the Italian tradition, right in Ferndale

"Seed to Cheese" is the motto at Ferndale Farmstead, an artisan cheese shop in Whatcom County. Ferndale Farmstead is a vertically integrated farm and cheesemaker, meaning the farm grows the grass that's fed to the cows that produce the milk needed to make the handmade artisan cheese. Dairying is nothing new to Daniel Wavrin, co-founder and cheesemaker at Ferndale Farmstead. Daniel was raised on his three-generation family dairy in Eastern Washington.

Photos: Pass the [insane] Courvoisier Goblet

Cocktail of the Week: Elder & Pear Martini

Sure, a glass of wine or a beer is a nice way to unwind – but every now and then you deserve a happy hour that’s a little more... hmmm. What’s the word? Refined! Kelly Sparks of Queen Bee Mixology is graciously sharing a new cocktail with us every week, just in time for Happy Hour. Queen Bee is raising the bar for cocktails made at home with recipes that are both easy – and delicious! Want more? Connect with Queen Bee Mixology on social media for extra recipes and behind-the-scenes content.

5 Outdoor Patios to Enjoy this Summer

Let’s face it, Seattle’s beautiful summers are what keeps us locals sane through the dreary winter months. So when it comes to happy hours, drinks, and dining outdoors when the weather is nice, we have to take full advantage! Grab your sunglasses and sunscreen because we compiled a list of awesome patios and outdoor restaurants for you to soak up the sun this season! EASTLAKE BAR & GRILL:This spot has been a go-to of mine for years.

Cocktail of the Week: Rocky Balcocco - Lemoncocco

Sure, a glass of wine or a beer is a nice way to unwind – but every now and then you deserve a happy hour that’s a little more... hmmm. What’s the word? Refined! Kelly Sparks of Queen Bee Mixology is graciously sharing a new cocktail with us every week, just in time for Happy Hour. Queen Bee is raising the bar for cocktails made at home with recipes that are both easy – and delicious! Want more? Connect with Queen Bee Mixology on social media for extra recipes and behind-the-scenes content.

Eating the Evolve 180 way at home

We've all been there. You're trying to lose weight and get healthy, so you wake up Monday morning, telling yourself, "Today I'm going to be good about my food choices. " Then a coworker brings a dozen donuts into the office. So, you have one. Then two. So, you wake up on Tuesday and say, "TODAY, I'm going to make good choices. " And then you open your pantry and see that package of Oreos you forgot about. So, you finish off the box. And the cycle continues.

Love at First Taste: We tried Snoqualmie Casino's entry in the Blended Burger competition

Snoqualmie Casino Executive Chef Justin Lee takes food seriously. He oversees an array of outstanding restaurants, from stunning fine-dining establishments like Vista Prime Steaks & Seafood and 12 Moons to casual eateries like Falls Buffet. At each, the menu is crafted to showcase local products, some grown right on the grounds at Snoqualmie Casino.

You'll go crazy for the fresh, local ingredients in these recipes

In a world where so much emphasis is placed on what goes into our bodies, it can be hard to determine what's actually good for you. Well, feast your eyes on this: QFC is committing to putting locally-grown food in their stores, so you can ensure you're putting high-quality ingredients into your body.

Sip, sip, hooray! It's time for the Renton Wine Walk!

There's always something fun happening in downtown Renton. But one of our favorite events of the year is back: The Renton Wine Walk! On Friday, June 7, 2019, 12 local businesses will pair up with local wineries to bring you a night of shopping, wine, and quality time with friends. Here's a sneak peek at the participating businesses and the wineries: 1. Handsome Devil Ink and Armstrong Family Winery.

Open & Shut: This week in restaurant openings and closings

Openings. Hannyatou. You might know Mutsuko Soma and her acclaimed soba restaurant Kamonegi. Well she just opened a new spot with only 20 seats, seven at the bar with 13 tables. According to Food & Wine, Soma modeled this new spot after a Japanese Liquor Store. Honnayatou will offer about 20 different sakes and a short menu of fermentation-focused food. 1060 N 39th St. Seattle, WA 98103. Caffe Ladro.

Trophy Cupcakes celebrates a dozen years of The Sweet Life

Trophy Cupcakes takes the prize for darling and decadent desserts. "Here at Trophy we always have about 14 different flavors of cupcakes every single day," said owner Jennifer Shea with a grin. "And so you can see things like Cookies and Cream, Vanilla Chocolate, Lemon Meringue Pie... the popular YUMFetti. " Shea has had a passion for cooking up fun and flavorful treats for as long as she can remember.

Cocktail of the Week: Flaming Dragon's Blood

Sure, a glass of wine or a beer is a nice way to unwind – but every now and then you deserve a happy hour that’s a little more... hmmm. What’s the word? Refined! Kelly Sparks of Queen Bee Mixology is graciously sharing a new cocktail with us every week, just in time for Happy Hour. Queen Bee is raising the bar for cocktails made at home with recipes that are both easy – and delicious! Want more? Connect with Queen Bee Mixology on social media for extra recipes and behind-the-scenes content.

Photos: Ring a doorbell to get into this secret speakeasy in Capitol Hill

Not much on the outside, but once you're in - you're IN.

Cocktail of the Week: Mango Chili Margarita

Sure, a glass of wine or a beer is a nice way to unwind – but every now and then you deserve a happy hour that’s a little more... hmmm. What’s the word? Refined! Kelly Sparks of Queen Bee Mixology is graciously sharing a new cocktail with us every week, just in time for Happy Hour. Queen Bee is raising the bar for cocktails made at home with recipes that are both easy – and delicious! Want more? Connect with Queen Bee Mixology on social media for extra recipes and behind-the-scenes content.

Coltiva: Italian Pizza with a Seattle Twist

Garret McAleese loves pizza, he's also the owner of Coltiva - Pizzeria e Barra on Lower Queen Anne. "We’re all about making delicious pizza that kinda blends Italian goods with Northwest goods together,” McAleese said. Coltiva pizzas combine Italian cheese and flour with Pacific Northwest meats and produce, some of which comes from his parents' farm, The best of both worlds, according to Garret.

Cocktail of the Week: The Darth Vader Cocktail

Sure, a glass of wine or a beer is a nice way to unwind – but every now and then you deserve a happy hour that’s a little more... hmmm. What’s the word? Refined! Kelly Sparks of Queen Bee Mixology is graciously sharing a new cocktail with us every week, just in time for Happy Hour. Queen Bee is raising the bar for cocktails made at home with recipes that are both easy – and delicious! Want more? Connect with Queen Bee Mixology on social media for extra recipes and behind-the-scenes content.

Chace's Pancake Corral has kept it all in the family, for 60+ years

Bellevue may be in the middle of a building boom, but there's one charming eatery that's truly stood the test of time. Chace's Pancake Corral is THE place to find fluffy flapjacks, superb scrambles, perfectly crispy bacon and much more. The restaurant bears the name of the man who started it all - Bill Chace. "He was a dynamic man," said his daughter, and now owner, Jane Zakskorn. "He had a wonderful personality. He made everyone feel special. " The northwest native was also an amazing athlete.

No one is going away hungry when they eat at Odin Star

"We go big. Go big or go home. And I don't plan on going home. " That's what Dave Storm of Odin Star told me, when I stepped aboard one of Seattle's newest food trucks. And he wasn't kidding. Odin Star serves up massive, meaty sandwiches - the kind big enough to whet the appetite of a Norse god, or a Seattleite in search of a belly-filling meal between two slices of bread. "Lots of times with fine dining restaurants you can go away hungry," said Seth Richardson, chef and owner of Odin Star.

Starbucks Delivery launches in Seattle

Oh HALLELUJAH! Just when you think Starbucks couldn't get any greater... it just does. After announcing expansion to cities across the U. S. earlier this year, Starbucks Delivers officially launched today, April 30, 2019. Seattle is one of the first cities to experience Starbucks Delivers (as it should, right? ) which also launched in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Miami, Boston, Chicago, New York and Washington D. C. this year.

Cocktail of the Week: Salted Caramel Martini

Sure, a glass of wine or a beer is a nice way to unwind – but every now and then you deserve a happy hour that’s a little more... hmmm. What’s the word? Refined! Kelly Sparks of Queen Bee Mixology is graciously sharing a new cocktail with us every week, just in time for Happy Hour. Queen Bee is raising the bar for cocktails made at home with recipes that are both easy – and delicious! Want more? Connect with Queen Bee Mixology on social media for extra recipes and behind-the-scenes content.

Weeknight meal prep made easy, thanks to QFC

After a long day of work, the last thing you want to do is cook a three-course meal for the fam (heck, cooking for yourself is hard). Luckily, QFC is making healthy weeknight dinners as easy as 1-2-3. With nearly 60 stores in the Seattle area, QFC is a convenient, one-stop-shop on your commute home. All you need to do is pick up a few key ingredients (like the Simple Truth Rotisserie Chicken, a fan-favorite) to toss together—and boom! You have a simple, yet totally tasty meal.

Requiem for the last Arby's in Seattle

A few years ago, the second to last Arby's in Seattle closed and I didn't fret, because there was still one left in SoDo holding down the local Beef 'n Cheddar fort. But recently I headed there for their thinly sliced magical meat only to discover that it too had closed. Now there isn't a single Arby's in the Emerald City. This is an outrage! I'm crestfallen, distraught, inconsolable. Don't even try to console me. The scene in which I discovered this was as sad as they get.

Open & Shut: This week in restaurant openings and closings

Openings. Vinnie's Raw Bar. Remember when Navy Strength and Juice Bar closed down? Well, according to Eater Seattle, Chris and Anu Elford will be using that same space to open up Vinnie's Raw Bar. This spot will serve seafood and wine, which is about all we know thus far. The Elfords intend to keep this as hush-hush as possible. Head over to their Instagram account to see how the business is coming together! Vinnie's Raw Bar. 2505 2nd Ave. , Ste. 102. Seattle, WA 98121. Hannyatou.

Neighborhood Nosh: Maple Leaf's Mojito is 20 years of flavorful Latin American, Cuban food

If you've ever visited Seattle's Maple Leaf neighborhood, you've probably seen Mojito, with its brightly painted facade. For nearly 20 years this restaurant has been serving up scrumptious Latin American and Cuban food. "I love the flavorful food, the atmosphere, everything is just wonderful," one diner told me. "Every time we have guests, family, anyone in town, we always bring them here. ""The guy back there in the kitchen. He is amazing! " added another.

Inside Tacoma's historic Elks Lodge, now a McMenamins complex

A beautiful building, constructed in the classic Renaissance Revival style, stands tall right in the heart of Tacoma's historic district. It's an ode to the past - and a celebration of the present. "The Elks Temple originally opened in 1916 for $100,000 - which would be about $2. 5 million dollars today," said Matt Osborne, manager of the newly renovated McMenamins Elks Temple in Tacoma.

Cocktail of the Week: Buzz Button Verbena

Sure, a glass of wine or a beer is a nice way to unwind – but every now and then you deserve a happy hour that’s a little more... hmmm. What’s the word? Refined! Kelly Sparks of Queen Bee Mixology is graciously sharing a new cocktail with us every week, just in time for Happy Hour. Queen Bee is raising the bar for cocktails made at home with recipes that are both easy – and delicious! Want more? Connect with Queen Bee Mixology on social media for extra recipes and behind-the-scenes content.

Picture-perfect Bakery Nouveau is a little bit of Paris in the PNW

The aroma of freshly baking bread beckons you to step inside Bakery Nouveau. Just south of Seattle, this picture perfect place feels like Paris. "It's important with a bakery and any kind of food establishment when you walk in you should be able to smell it first thing," laughed pastry chef William Leaman. "And then see it - right. And this bakery is set up in a way that if you're not looking at food, you're looking at people making it.

Calling all vegetarians and vegans, this brewery is for you

Most people visit breweries for the beer. I mean, that’s what they’re known for, right? A moody stout or a hoppy seasonal? On tap or bottled to go? A good brewery offers it all! Washingtonians tend to know and love a quality beer and Aslan Brewing Company in Bellingham is not lacking in the slightest.

Meet the woman behind the popular foodie blog, 'Real and Vibrant'

Seattle based Sapana Chandra is a health coach, blogger and plant-based cook. With nearly 150,000 followers on Instagram, her recipes really resonate with people. "I'm just endorsing - hey whatever you're eating, whatever your lifestyle, add more plants, add more whole foods to it," said Chandra. Today, she's the picture of good health, but 15 years ago, Chandra has some serious problems. "It was this one day in spring 2004 that I started feeling this pain I never felt.

Easter Meal Roundup: Where to hop around Seattle this year

The greater Pacific Northwest is known for our food - so what better excuse than to ditch your apron and go OUT for your holiday meal this year? Six Seven Restaurant & LoungeEnjoy a delicious 4-course meal at an over-water restaurant this Easter for only $80/adult. Executive Chef Jesse Souze has pulled together a special menu for this special venue, set to include Sweet Corn Bisque and Moroccan Spiced Beef Short Rib. That, of course, is only scratching the surface of what is offered.

Photos: Skål, a Viking-inspired Scandinavian bar opens in Ballard

There's something undeniably intriguing about Vikings and they are the inspiration for a red-hot bar right in the heart of Ballard. "Skal is a viking inspired beer hall. It's a modern interpretation of a traditional mead hall," said owner Adam McQueen. "It's very beer focused in the back. We also serve aquavit, mead, wine and then also have a wonderful open kitchen in the front here. It's viking butcher shop inspired and is a very meat heavy menu. " But - Vegetarians, never fear!

Cocktail of the Week: Devil Dave's Bloody Mary

Sure, a glass of wine or a beer is a nice way to unwind – but every now and then you deserve a happy hour that’s a little more... hmmm. What’s the word? Refined! Kelly Sparks of Queen Bee Mixology is graciously sharing a new cocktail with us every week, just in time for Happy Hour. Queen Bee is raising the bar for cocktails made at home with recipes that are both easy – and delicious! Want more? Connect with Queen Bee Mixology on social media for extra recipes and behind-the-scenes content.

Mbar's food is amazing, but it's the environment that sets it apart

It's located on the 14th floor of a high-rise in the heart of South Lake Union, down a seemingly deserted hallway. But step inside, and the city of Seattle is there to greet you. It's not hyperbole to say the view from this restaurant is spectacular. A panoramic portrait from the Space Needle to Lake Union to Capitol Hill, best enjoyed on a sunny day (or really anytime from the patio).

$1 Tacos? Rosita's in Greenlake is throwing it back to 1979 pricing for one day only

Okay, listen. You know we'd never steer you wrong, which is why you to immediately cancel all plans for Tuesday, April 9: Rosita's will be selling tacos for $1 a pop Tuesday, April 9th. You did not read that wrong, ladies and gent. $1 tacos? Sign me up five times over! (Courtesy of Rosita's) Rosita's is turning 40, and throwing it back to their 1979 opening prices. Ah, what a time to be alive.