My favorite things: Seattle edition

I’ve been in Seattle for about six months and let me tell you it’s gone by very quickly. Sometimes I look at my life in disbelief. It hasn’t quite fully settled in that I live here. Thanks to parents who instilled in my sister and me the joys of traveling and experiencing new things I was more than prepared to handle living in a completely different environment. I’m grateful for all the family vacations we took during the summer, college football games in the fall, and the encouragement to step out of my comfort zone.

During my short time here I’ve done a pretty good amount of exploring and trying new things. Each time I’m surprised and delighted by the experience. I still have A LOT to do, but here’s a list of my favorite things so far. They are listed in no particular order. *drum roll please!*

GRUB

Tonkotsu ramen broth at Samurai Noodle.

Pho at Green Leaf.

Beef special from Cafe Zum Zum.

Shrimp dish at Shanghai Gardens.

Rolls from Six Coins Japanese food truck.

While I really REALLY miss Southern food (especially my Mom’s fried chicken, rice and mustard greens) there’s a plethora of other types of fare available here that are just as yummy. The sushi is amazing. Let me just say that again. It’s AMAZING. Nom nom nom. I’ve been to several sushi restaurants and never left disappointed. My favorite is Umi Sake House. The rolls are tasty, they have a late night happy hour menu, and it also holds sentimental value for me. It’s the first sushi restaurant I went to in Seattle when I first visited in 2010.

I’ve also eaten some delicious ramen, Indian, and of course pho (pronounced fuh). Pho restaurants are like McDonald’s. There’s literally one on every block here. Pho places are not only popular; many have unique names like “What the Pho” which is located in Bellevue. Buzzfeed even devoted a list to the creative business names.

THE VIEWS

Port Angeles, WA.

Port Angeles, WA

Green Lake Park

Green Lake Park

Kerry Park, BEST view of the city

Seattle isn’t on the coast but there’s plenty of water to make it feel as though we are. I frequently look at a map to see which body of water has captivated my attention. Is it Puget Sound? Lake Washington? Elliot Bay? Union Bay? Lake Union? Pontiac Bay? There’s more than enough water to appease a woman who grew up on the coast. Add to that views of the Cascades and Mt. Rainier and you’ve got the picture perfect post card.

Last month I rode a ferry across Puget Sound for a day trip to the peninsula. I spent time in several towns but Port Angeles stands out the most. It was beautiful. Driving around it reminded me of a fishing village you’d find in Rhode Island or another New England state.

One of my favorite places to take in the scenery is Green Lake Park. When the weather is befitting it’s a popular spot. I enjoy walking the nearly three mile path around the lake. Others choose to ride their bikes, walk their dogs, kayak, or play tennis. It’s always pretty and whenever I’m there I instantly feel better. Added bonus: Mighty O isn’t far away! They sell vegan Non-GMO donuts and coffee. Now before you crinkle your nose, let me just say they are delicious. Seriously. You can’t tell the difference.

ADULT BEVERAGES

Toast! Hilliard's brewery.

In Seattle craft beer reigns supreme. I learned pretty quickly ordering a Miller Lite was not going to be acceptable; unless of course I want to be looked at as THAT person. No thanks. So I’ve broadened my beer horizon and so far so good. The hard part is remembering what I really like. There are dozens of local breweries here so there’s a litany of options. My favorite watering hole is Beer Authority. It’s within walking distance of my place, has a “Cheers” atmosphere, and the owner is a Gamecocks fan. Loves. Doesn’t get any better than that.

I typically only drink beer but there are some cocktails that have wowed me. I give the “bloody dog” at Hazelwood in Ballard two thumbs up. It’s a twist on a classic greyhound. Also, the Vincey Rum Punch at The Innkeeper is delightful.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION 

Buses headed downtown are usually pretty full in the morning. This day I had to stand.

I only drive my car on the weekends and let me tell you it’s marvelous. I don’t mind taking the bus at all. From my place I can get to just about any part of the city. And when traffic is bad I’m not concerned. I just sit back and read a book. That’s a win win. On the way home from work the ride helps me unwind. The route I take now isn’t very exciting in terms of crazy stuff happening but whenever I venture downtown I always come home with a story.

DOWNTOWN

Downtown Seattle

View from the Smith Tower downtown.

"Hammering Man" in front of Seattle Art Museum (it moves!)

Downtown Seattle is a welcoming concrete jungle. As a longtime lover of New York City, Seattle comes close. A few of my favorite places are Pikes Place Market, Fado (where I play trivia) and Pacific Place. I enjoy being around the hustle and bustle plus there’s just something about being surrounded by tall buildings. During Seahawks and Sounders games the streets are flooded with people. The energy is crazy.

And just like any downtown you see a lot of interesting characters. Just follow @3rdandPike on Twitter to see what I mean.

HONORABLE MENTION: CHICKENS!

Stuart and Jason's chickens.

Chickens? Yes chickens. More specifically “urban chickens.” In the city of Seattle you’re allowed to have up to eight and lots of people have taken to raising them. My friends Stuart and Jason have four: Sophia Loren, Princess Grace of Monaco, Aretha Franklin and Elizabeth Taylor. The girls not only provide eggs they also have personality and are the main characters in some entertaining stories.