Seattle by Fork

28 September 2007

It’s a dirty, rotten lie! Turns out that Seattle doesn’t get nine months of rain a year. I’m sure it does rain a great deal, but several people tells me that the myth is in place to keep Californians—and probably everyone else—out of the state. And with good reason, Seattle is wonderful! Bookending our seven-day cruise of Alaska were two nights of Seattle sightseeing and dining. Our favorite picks:

Crush
2319 E. Madison Street
Seattle WA 98112
206.302.7874

We went here twice, it was so good. The restaurant was a mere two miles away from Pike Place (a 30-minute drive at 5:00 p.m., unlike the rain, traffic problem rumors are NOT exaggerated) in a two-floor used-to-be-a-home space that makes dining comfortable and intimate. The bar overlooks the kitchen, where you can chat with head chef Jason Wilson or flirt with the really, really cute bartenders. The food, absolutely delicious, and the signature braised short ribs literally the best I’ve ever had.

The Steelhead Diner
95 Pine St
Seattle WA 98101
206.625.0129

You wouldn’t necessarily expect much from the outside facade, but this place really rocks. Perfect for casual lunching or dining, they do a fantastic fish and chips. And shrimp salad. And fried chicken. And these mussels in spicy broth that are plump, juicy, and the most flavorful mussels I’ve ever had.

Campagne
86 Pine Street
Seattle WA 98101
206.728.2800

Our first dinner in Seattle. Great restaurant in the heart of the Pike Place area. The fish was terrific, but I remember the wine the most.

Etta’s Seafood
2020 Western Ave
Seattle WA 98121
206.443.6000

I would move to Seattle simply to have bloody marys every Sunday morning here. Their calamari, their signature crab cakes, I’m getting all choked up …