The Seattle area is especially charming when the seasons transition from summer to fall. The weather cools, the leaves change from green to golden and burgundy. During my extended stay, I had the opportunity to sample the local fare.
Pomegranate Bistro in Redmond
When my significant other and I wanted to celebrate the end of the work week with date night, we wanted dinner at the Pomegranate Bistro. The friendly hostess seated us and we felt thrilled to find a table at such a popular eatery.
Their fresh ingredients and seasonal menu caused my mouth to salivate. The grounded, simplistic furnishings and the local beer selections draws a cult following amongst locals. And I am a believer. 😀 I had a warm butternut squash salad with ancient grains and grilled chicken. He had the juiciest burger with crispiest sweet potato fries and coleslaw on the side.
On the way to lunch, we wandered through the local farmer’s market. One of my favorite features of the farmer’s market is the gorgeous flower selection at affordable prices.
In addition to the flower bouquets and the fresh produce, local vendors and food trucks prepare sizzling, aromatic flatbreads and artisan kombucha. I believe the kitchen is the heart of the home since it is the place where people gather to eat, talk and laugh. Farmer’s market provide a special place for producers and consumers to uncover the the path from the farm to the fork.
When I was growing up in Los Angeles, I identified omnivore who craved animal protein. I never thought I would modify my diet to be 70%+ plant-based until the last couple years. Now I feel excited about sampling delicious, flavorful vegetarian and vegan cuisine without being bogged down with animal products.
Araya’s place is located in University Way NE. Although I felt skeptical about vegan meals designed without meat, I experienced an epiphany regarding the future of healthy, nutritious eating without being deprived. When I was at Araya’s Place, I wanted to try the panang curry with seasonal vegetables, bok choy, and bell peppers.
The fresh crisp bell peppers and the crunchy broccoli cut through the rich panang curry. As I continued chatting and nibbling, I didn’t miss the hefty, meaty bites. I realized vegan Thai food made perfect sense.
Gourmet eats at home with Uwajimaya
While I was working remotely in Redmond, I ordered groceries deliveries and of my friends recommended Uwajimaya for asian groceries. Although I eat from all different cuisines, I have a special place in my heart for super fresh sashimi grade fish, fried tofu, delicate sandos, and pickled shredded daikon.
Uwajimaya has a wide assortment of fresh pre-made bento boxes, sushi maki, rolls, skincare, and imported gifts that are delicately wrapped. Even when I am in Redmond, this foodie spot makes me feel at home.
One of my favorite parts of being in Redmond is spending time with friends and family. My younger cousin invited my significant other and me to his new home in Bellevue and I played with his new puppy. We picked up poke on the way to the house. Poké originated in Hawaii and includes sliced sashimi fish often marinaded in soy or dressed with creamy sauce and then tossed with other salad toppers. This poke bar offered healthy options in a fast causal environment.
Whenever I am traveling or working remotely, I always look for great coffee and scrumptious pairings with eats. As I was scrolling through my Uber Eats app on my phone, I came across this Brazilian coffee shop that delivers directly to my doorstep. Kitanda offers scrumptious açai bowls topped with fresh fruit slices and crunchy granola. They bake incredible cheese bread known as pão de queijo and include both sweet like nutella (chocolate hazelnut sauce) as well as savory fillings like egg and cheese.
The Mogolian Grill in Kirkland positions the customer as the chef with an incredble assortment of fresh vegetables, al dente noodles, rice options, locally sourced proteins, and edible garnishes for the ultimate stir fry.
The combination of colors, textures, and flavors provides a pleasant surprise with every bite.
The French Bakery Kirkland
I had not visited a French bakery in ages and I knew meeting with my old friend from Santa Barbara called for a delectable treat at this exquisite eatery. This bakery carried an assortments of bread loafs, savory and sweet croissants, decadent desserts, and popular pastries. Their menu also include paninis, crepes, lush salads, and perfectly balanced lattes.
During our brunch, I had a large latte with exquisite art with a turkey and cheddar croissant. The food tasted incredible as my friend and reminisced over our time in Santa Barbara. We shared about our experiences transitioning out of school and into workforce and what it means to position oneself as an executive.
Before flying back to Los Angeles, my significant other and his younger sister took me to an incredible brunch spot on the way to the Seattle-Tacoma International airport. Since my flight was scheduled in the morning, we met at The Whale Wins at 8:30 in morning.
This larder+ café offered James Beard award winning fare and had a scmorgasbord of local and international cheeses, olives, oils, vinegars, and crisps. One of their signature items included an open-faced sandwich called a tartine. I ordered a cortado coffee and a chicken salad tartine. The crispy, thick fluffy brioche slice was tender, but served as a solid foundation for the gourmet chicken slices laced with tangy diced celery, dried cranberries, and kissed with chardonnay emulsion.
The Seattle food scene evolves and develops with the seasons and is unapologetically authentic to the local tastes. Every time I come to town, I experience an exciting energy with a culinary scene filled with talented chefs and gifted restauranteurs. I look forward to the next food innovations in the Pacific Northwest.
Lilly C. Lew Ph.D. 