West
Seattle
WASHINGTON
138 FoodTraveler l Winter 2016
Seattle is a place where urban lifestyle meets natural beauty . There is something for everyone here , whether you are looking to explore a park or dance the night away with friends . As a seaport city located in King County , Seattle has been recently named as the fastest growing city in America .
Originally pegged for its major logging industry , the city is now full of vivacious culture and has become a foodie ’ s dream . Enjoy fresh fruit and locally farmed ingredients in all of Seattle ’ s eateries , and tour Washington ’ s many original wineries , known for their hearty red wines and crisp , refreshing whites .
Visit Woodinville Wine Country , which is only 30 minutes ( driving time ) outside of Seattle , where you can taste and tour in over 100 wineries . Columbia Winery is one of the biggest around , and its iconic tasting room offers daily samples for only $ 12 per person .
If you are visiting in December , be sure to attend the 2 nd annual Parade of Boats Night . It is a Christmas ship festival that makes Lake Union sparkle each year with lights . More than 60 boats will be participating , and choirs on board will be performing for guests . Children can meet Santa Claus and there is a full service bar on the lead boat .
Hungry ? Grab a bite in one of Seattle ’ s 37 Zagat celebrity chef restaurants , of which 13 are James Beard Award winners . Take a culinary tour around the world right here in Seattle , as many restaurants specialize in Asian , Mediterranean , Mexican , French , and Italian cuisine . Try the Andaluca Restaurant & Bar , which showcases a variety of seasonal northwest dishes , combined with Mediterranean flavors . Reservations are recommended .
Andaluca has an exclusively separate gluten-free dinner menu , catering to those who may have special diets . The main dinner menu features innovative fare such as marinated olives or a mini crab tower as a starter , which comes with avocado , palm hearts , and a gazpacho salsa . Main courses are impressive , like the grilled salmon with rapini , hummus dukkah , and preserved lemon beurre fondue .