A Decadent Day of Eating: Seattle

Let’s be honest: one of the highlights of discovering a new city is indulging in local specialties. While you’re on vacation, you’re free to leave your spinach salad and kale smoothie diet behind you and revel in some more interesting eats. After all, Seattle is home to over 660,000 hungry mouths, and a burgeoning foodie scene has grown to satiate them. If you only have one day of decadence in this Pacific Northwest gem, savor every moment by filling your time with some of the city’s many unique offerings.

Artisanal coffee at Seattle Coffee Works

Delve deep into what Seattle’s amazing coffee scene has to offer (beyond the original Starbucks). A family-run establishment that began in 2006, Seattle Coffee Works has delighted coffee connoisseurs with divine drinks at two locations ever since. The shop features an “Express Bar” if you just want to grab a quick and delicious coffee to go. If you have more time, check out the “Slow Bar,” a science lab-esque section where you can explore the ins and outs of brewing the finest cup of Joe.

Sumptuous Italian brunch at Agrodolce

Kick your culinary crusade off with brunch at Agrodolce. Located in the Fremont neighborhood, the restaurant boasts organic Sicilian cuisine and bottomless mimosas. The brunch menu features classic breakfast fare with a twist, like crispy bacon-topped fried chicken and waffles, or savory root vegetable eggs Benedict with arugula hollandaise. If you’re not a breakfast food fan, try the zucchini parmigiana or the ranch lamb burger.

Locally sourced lunch at Matt’s in the Market

Renowned for their delicious seafood fare, the local eatery Matt’s in the Market is a must-visit location if you’re exploring the famous Pike Place Market. The restaurant sources their ingredients directly from the market itself, so it doesn’t get much fresher than this. Sit down with a confit guinea hen leg or steamed mussels and clams, or take your lunch to go with one of their deluxe sandwiches, like the pan-fried cornmeal-crusted catfish. Since the menu relies on rotating local ingredients, be sure to investigate the daily special.

Highbrow high tea at the Fairmont

Wrap your hands around a warm cuppa and take a well-deserved break from your afternoon wandering with afternoon tea at the Fairmont Olympic Hotel. Along with your tea, you’ll be served a set menu of mixed berries, finger sandwiches and sweets. Savor the crunch of a cucumber and avocado mayo sandwich or munch on the cream cheese, capers and sliced egg sandwich. Finish your meal with some sweet treats, such as a pistachio raspberry gateau, honey crunch hucklepuff or strawberry shortcake cupcake.

Fine dining at Canlis

Nestled near the water in the northern Magnolia/Queen Anne neighborhood, the family-owned and operated Canlis restaurant has aimed to put the “fine” in fine dining since it was established in 1950. Reservations are highly recommended, and formal attire is required (gentlemen, you’ll need a sport coat). Choose from a variety of options under the three-course or four-course menu, or enjoy a table-shared dining experience with seven preset courses. Highlights include the Peter Canlis prawns with dry vermouth, garlic and lime; the tilefish with sweet potato and kohlrabi; and the wagyu, an American-grown kobe-style beef. Finish your meal off with the classic Canlis soufflé or crème brûlée.

Craft cocktails at Essex Bar

If you aren’t in a food coma yet, cap off your tour with a hand-crafted cocktail at Essex Bar. While you won’t be disappointed if you stick to an old favorite, try ordering off the inventive cocktail menu for something unique, like the “Paulie Walnuts.” This drink features rye, walnut liquor, amaro and cherry bitters. Plus, Essex Bar offers tasty food, so you can enjoy a snack with your nightcap.

While Seattle offers visitors plenty of things to see and do, sometimes you just need to focus on the food. Give in to your cravings with these local selections. Still hungry? Indulge in a gourmet food tour, which boasts more than 18 tastings over a luxurious three hours. Your taste buds will thank you.

Photo Credits From Top: Jay Wennington, Sonja Langford, Agrodolce, Lluís Domingo, Yen-Chi Chen, Canlis, Jeff Wilcox