Smoking Etiquette

Now, we all know that the recently passed ordinance banning smoking within 25' of the entrance or air vents of an establishment have been moved somewhere to the bottom of the police's enforcement priority, down there with pulling over people driving 56 MPH in a 55 MPH zone and arresting car prowlers in Wallingford. So, what's to do for the folks who are bugged by the smoke? K.A.M. writes: I'm curious if you know the proper way to go about having…

Continue ReadingSmoking Etiquette

Dine out for Life TONIGHT

Sorry for the late reminder. It's not that we hate life, really. Tonight is Dine out for Life night, with restaurants around the city donating 30% of your bill from tonight's sale to the Lifelong AIDS Alliance. In Wallingford, participating restaurants include The Rusty Pelican, Blue Star Cafe, Djan's Dining, Kabul, and Tutta Bella. See http://www.diningoutforlife.com/Seattle for the list city-wide. Many restaurants fill up tonight, so it doesn't hurt to call ahead.

Continue ReadingDine out for Life TONIGHT

Varsity Inn: New Mexican Dinner Menu

Last week, lower Wallingford's own Varsity Inn debuted a new Mexican dinner menu -- and I find myself wishing I were a real restaurant reviewer so I could do them justice. Best meal I've had in ages.  Succulent meat, fresh grilled vegetables, mature seasonings, a superb tortilla soup... wow. Here's a list from the new dinner menu: Steamed Mediterranean Mussels with homemade chorizo, onions, garlic, jalapenos, herbs An amazing Mole (half chicken with rice & beans) Carnitas Estilo San Luis --…

Continue ReadingVarsity Inn: New Mexican Dinner Menu

La Boulangerie: A Tale of a Great Baker

For years, I have enjoyed the smell and sight of La Boulangerie on the corner of N. 45th and Bagley, known for its assortment of fresh baked French breads decoratively lining the shelves. The cases are filled with fresh croissants and pastries that serve to tempt the public. Xon Loung (pronounced Song Loong) is the master behind it all, and when I say master, I mean it. He is a one-man show, and that is nothing short of amazing. The life…

Continue ReadingLa Boulangerie: A Tale of a Great Baker

Seattle Restaurant Week Kicks-Off This Sunday

Beginning this Sunday through Thursday, April 29, you can indulge in a sumptuous three-course dinner at Joule, Ivar's Salmon House, Tilth, or Avila, for just $25.  It's all part of Seattle Restaurant Week--a program launched by Seattle Restaurant Cooperative, a group of local top-notch restaurateurs. "This event is a great way for people to get out and try new things and different places, without killing their pocketbook," says Avila owner Jared Carpenter. If you're hankering for something outside the 'hood, have…

Continue ReadingSeattle Restaurant Week Kicks-Off This Sunday

Weekend Wonders in Wallingford

Tax Season has officially come to a close!  Huzzah!  Now, get out and do something fun this weekend.  Here are some of the cool things happening in Wallingford: Friday Grab yer partner and dosey doe to Hamilton Middle School's Hoedown and Bluegrass Concert, from 6:30-9 p.m. at the Lincoln H.S. gym.  Pizza, Vietnamese sandwiches, snacks and beverages will be available for sale.  Proceeds benefit the music program at Hamilton.  Tickets are $25 for a family, or $10 per person. Soak up…

Continue ReadingWeekend Wonders in Wallingford

School of Essential Ingredients

Erica Bauermeister, long-time Wallingford resident and the author of the novel The School of Essential Ingredients, took a break from her book tour and writing recently to meet us at the Mosaic Coffeehouse. She shared not only some of her insights into writing, but also some of the spots around Wallingford that inspired her. Wallyhood: Thanks so much for taking time from your book tour. Sounds like it's been hectic. Erica Baumeister: It has been a lot of fun and a…

Continue ReadingSchool of Essential Ingredients