Bellevue, Must Visit, Seattle Metro, United States, Washington
Bellevue WA
There is no better chocolate: Läderach. How lucky we are in the Seattle metro area to have a location of this world renowned chocolatier. The biggest problem is what to have but, don't worry, it's all fabulous! While they have various California, San Francisco, United States, West Coast
San Francisco
French bistro in Hayes Valley: Chez Maman. Nice corner spot with plenty of outdoor seating which makes it a good choice for lunch. Had the savoyarde crepe which was very good...just like what you'd experience in the Savoie region of France. Also Ravenna, Seattle Metro, United States, Washington, West Coast
SeattleÂ
Revena location of this Seattle icon: Mioposto. This location was closed for 5 months in 2025 after an SUV crashed into the restaurant! It's back open and as great as ever. There are several locations and, this one like the others, California, Must Visit, San Francisco, United States, West Coast
San Francisco
New Southern cuisine in SFO: Prelude. Had to give this place a try and it's unique twist on Southern cuisine. Chef's grandmother hailed from Alabama...now you're talking! Modern and comfortable space. Can choose from a Chef's menu or ala carte. Must haves Seattle Metro, U Village, United States, University District, Washington, West Coast
Seattle
University Village: Joey Kitchen. This is a chain of restaurants out of Vancouver BC that serves a mix of Asian fusion, PNW, burgers, and steaks in a very nice upscale space. Service is always very good. Give the Korean fried cauliflower a East Coast, Philadelphia, United States
Philadelphia
Dinner for 20: P. J. Clarke's. Usually don't recommend group dinners but if I'm allowed to choose from the menu then it's fair game in my mind. That was the case for this restaurant in the Old City. The chowder was good
Italian in the Old City: Positano Coast. Small group dinner with choices off the regular menu. That always give me a better idea of a place rather than the dinner...
Vegan in Philly Cheesesteak land: Vedge. This restaurant continues to receive rave reviews and even though I’m nowhere near a vegetarian this place will not disappoint the carnivores out there....
Great place for Italian food: Tappi. The restaurant is in a very small town in the heart of cross country skiing and hiking areas of Eastern Washington. It’s always nice...
Mid ride stop: Lyla’s Cafe. Always good to have a place to replenish calories during a ride. This place fit the bill. Pastries, sandwiches and espresso round out the breakfast...
A place for cocktails: Copper Glance. It’s always great to find a place like this where you least expect it…this is one of those places. They have a few small...
Always room for another bakery choice: Grand Central Baking Co. They have a choice of sandwiches such as turkey with havarti cheese, lettuce, mayo and Grand Central cranberry chutney on...
Anyone like ice cream: Salt & Straw. Very popular place with several locations. They have an eclectic offering of flavors and pride themselves on local selections…for Seattle. Flavors like Beecher’s...
Espresso in the North Cascades: Karina’s Deja Brew. Looking for a quick coffee as you head off or return from a hike in the area? Give this place a try....
Close to the ferry dock: La Belle Creperie. About to head back to Seattle and needed some sustenance befor the long car ride. In a place known for seafood, pizza,...
Lunch anyone? Gordon’s Fusion Cuisine. New find in “downtown” Coupeville with both in and outdoor dining. The menu changes focus every 3 months so, approach the experience knowing it may...
New experience: Block Kitchen + Bar. How to describe the cuisine? How about New Asian. What do I mean? If you know bao it usually arrives with the filling inside...
Breakfast: Crust Bakery. Can’t pass on a pastry from a good bakery and this place didn’t disappoint so give it a try. When I arrived just after their morning opening...
A special experience: The Oystercatcher. From the street it still looks a bit like a burger and beer joint. Step inside and you’ll wonder what’s in store. First taste…you know...
Pays to have local knowledge: NÅ«ba Kitsilano. Dinner with friends and relatives yields…too much food! Since it comes from the kitchen faster than it’s possible to keep up with what’s...
Liquid food: Damsel Cellars. I first met Mari when she was the assistant winemaker at Darby Wines. She’s been making her own very solid wines for the last several years...
Recommendation from a local chef: Pestle Rock. The cuisine is Thai but it’s from the Isan or northeast part of the country. You will recognize the menu but there are...