Local Inspirations (Part V)


It has been a little while since I last visited the topic of where I head for local inspiration.  Two recent outings instigated this post.

……………….

Belle Clementine: I think my first introduction was when I noticed a foodie friend check in on Facebook.  I had never heard of this place so I googled it and then added it to my restaurant to-do list.  It’s a never ending list btw with 73 destinations and counting.  Fast forward to my business partner and I having occasional discussions on the merits of communal dining, she spots a mention in the Seattle Times, and presto we have reservations.  We loved it. Our family style menu is included below and for $40 per person (inclusive of a glass of wine or beer AND gratuity)… I’d say this is the best foodie deal in town!

Canapé of herbed fromage blanc and house-cured gravlax
Lentil soup with pickled peppers and creme fraiche
Braised Stokesberry rabbit, raddichio, corn & chanterelles with aged balsamic
Rice salad with herbs and greens
"Cookies and Cream"

Beloved dish:  the rabbit, raddichio salad was to die for but the menu changes daily
Special detail: Owner/chef, David Sanford, invites you to join him in the kitchen as your meal is being prepared
Delicious drink: modestly appointed wine list with an abundance of tasty options
Go: www.belleclementine.com
……………….

The Dray: For the love of beer!  This tiny and by tiny I mean less than 1000 square feet. Most of the local studio apartments are bigger.  But what it lacks in size it makes up in quality beers, snacks and locals hanging out there daily. 

Beloved dish: I really love their sandwich melts but my favorite is the extra-sharp white cheddar and turmeric pepper pickle relish on rustic whole wheat bread.
Special detail: dog friendly
Favorite server: Nico
Delicious drink: an easy dozen specialty beers on draught and a list of more than 80 in the bottle with show stoppers like Russian River’s Pliny the Elder (on tap as of last night) available.
Go: www.thedray.com

Jen Doak

Brimmer & Heeltap is a warm and welcoming neighborhood gem where elevated dishes meet exceptional hospitality. From seasonal menus crafted with care to a curated selection of wines and cocktails, every visit feels like a celebration of good food, great company, and unforgettable moments.

Join us for dinner Wednesdays - Sundays from 4-9 pm! We offer an Oyster Happy Hour Wednesday-Sunday from 4-5 pm, where you can enjoy 1/2 price glass wine pours and $3 local oysters. Dinner reservations are encouraged, especially on Fridays & Saturdays. For parties larger than 8 people, please call us at 206-420-2534. Want to host a private event in our space? Visit our private dining page. We can’t wait to serve you!

 

Our garden café, Red Arrow, is open 7 days a week! Enjoy delicious coffee and brunch dishes from 7 am - 2 pm. Across the street, you’ll find Halfseas Wine Bar, our newest edition to the neighborhood. Shop our shelves to find delicious and affordable wine bottles, or stay for a glass (or two!) and enjoy small plates. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 3-9 pm. Cavi-Hour runs 3-5 pm, Tuesday-Sunday, with 1/2 price wine glass pours and 1/2 price caviar tins.