Articles Tagged "Dining"

Portland offers plenty of restaurants serving fantastic international dishes. Whether you're in search of a new favorite roll or you've never tried sushi before, join our brokers in celebrating International Sushi Day on Saturday, June 18 with a visit to one of these amazing Portland restaurants.

• Bamboo Sushi - 310 SE 28th Ave., Portland, OR 97214 
  In 2008, Bamboo Sushi established a new level in responsible dining by becoming the world's first certified sustainable sushi restaurant. They have partnered with organizations such as the Marine Stewardship Council, an independent group that sets guidelines for sustainable fishing and seafood traceability. Don't miss their Big Island roll, a customer favorite that's available as a "Little Island" vegetarian option. Bamboo Sushi is open 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. daily except Friday and Saturday when doors close at 10 p.m.
  
  
• Masu Sushi - 406 SW 13th Ave., Portland, OR 97205
  At Masu Sushi, the dining room is as much a feast for the eyes as the food itself. Masu is located on the secluded second floor of a turn-of-the-century building in downtown Portland. The mid-century modern decor creates an ambiance that's both elegant and comfortable. Add a touch of drama by ordering the St. Helens Volcano roll, which comes in an appropriately flaming presentation. Masu is open seven days a week from 5 p..m. - 9 p.m.
  
  
• Murata Japanese Restaurant - 200 SW Market St., Portland, OR 97201
  Are you looking for a traditional Japanese dining experience? Join family and friends in one of the classic tatami rooms at Murata Japanese Restaurant. Fans of Murata appreciate the attentive and efficient customer service, with food arriving promptly but no one feels rushed. If anyone in your group doesn't eat sushi, Murata has a full menu of other Japanese favorites, including teriyaki, tonkatsu, and broiled fish. Seating is limited, so reservations are strongly recommended. Lunch hours are 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. weekdays and dinner hours are 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
  
  
• Mirakutei - 536 E. Burnside St., Portland, OR 87214
  Mirakutei, which translates to, "a place to eat and enjoy," perfectly sums up the restaurant's mission. Sushi chef Hiro Ikegaya founded Mirakutei in 2011 as a Japanese tapas, ramen, and sushi bar. Upon his semi-retirement in 2018, he passed the baton to brothers Nico and Job Martinez, who worked their way up under Hiro's tutelage. Treat yourself to omakase, or "chef's choice," which is available any time on request. Hours are noon - 9 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Yoko's Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar - 2878 SE Gladstone St., Portland, OR 97202
  Yoko's Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar dates back more than 30 years, to the time when sushi was still somewhat new on the Portland dining scene. The restaurant is still a trailblazer thanks to Yoko herself, who is one of only a relative handful of female sushi chefs in the country. Andrea Damewood, restaurant critic of the Portland Mercury, calls Taka's Tuna "the most iconic sushi dish in town." This unique item features spicy ahi tuna, avocado, and rice fried into the shape and texture of a McDonald's hash brown patty. Hours are 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. every day but Monday.
  
  
• Sho Japanese Restaurant - 10100 Barbur Blvd., Portland, OR 97219
  While Sho Japanese Restaurant serves authentic dishes, they aim to blend tradition with the best elements of Portland's thriving food scene. In this family-owned restaurant, all dressing, sauces, and broths, including dashi, are made from scratch with high-quality ingredients. Sho also sources all seasonal vegetables from local growers whenever possible. According to one rave review, a diner was so pleased with their food that they immediately ordered more to take home. Lunch is served weekdays from 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m., while dinner hours are 4 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Sho is open weekends from 11:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. 
  
  
• Sushi Mazi - 2126 SE Division St., Portland, OR 97292
  Whether you're talking business, sharing a romantic date night, or meeting friends for dinner and drinks, Sushi Mazi is the place to be. The sleek, contemporary decor complements chef Marc Mazi's cutting-edge approach to sushi, experimenting with ingredients and techniques. If you're following a special diet, the menu includes a number of vegetarian and gluten-free options. Most items are available as your choice of nigiri, sashimi, roll, or cone. Hours are 3 p.m. - 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 3 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Portland homes for sale are surrounded by a diversity that's unlike anyplace else. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for qualified help buying or selling a home. 

With its lively mix of trendy shops, eclectic restaurants, high-rise condos, and boutique hotels, Belltown attracts tourists and local residents in equal measure. Dining out is always a special event at these hot Belltown restaurants recommended by our brokers.

• El Gaucho - 2200 Western Ave., Suite 101, Seattle, WA 98121
  El Gaucho is a throwback to the elegant steakhouses of the 1950s. The current Belltown location is a homage to the original El Gaucho at Seventh and Olive that closed in 1985. An open exhibition-style kitchen and tableside presentations turn dining into a show for all the senses. Reservations are highly recommended. Hours are 4 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
  
  
• Tavolàta - 2323 Second Ave., Seattle, WA 98121
  Seattle celebrity chef Ethan Stowell brings his magic touch to Italian food at Tavolàta, one of Stowell's wildly popular local restaurants. Rigatoni, spaghetti, tonnarelli, and linguini, made fresh daily, are adorned simply with a sauce or served with chicken and pork meatballs. Family-style dining around the centerpiece communal table creates a welcome atmosphere of community and sharing. Tavolàta is open seven days a week from 4 p.m. - 10 p.m.
  
  
• Shiro's Sushi - 2401 Second Ave., Seattle, WA 98121
  The namesake founder of Shiro's Sushi has moved on to new projects, but his hand-picked successors masterfully continue his stellar legacy. In 1994, Shiro Kashiba pioneered Pacific Northwest-style "edomae." The term comes from "Edo," the original name of Tokyo, and "Mae," which referred to fish caught in Tokyo Bay. In Shiro's application, "edomae" defines sushi prepared with traditional methods using seafood from local waters. For the full experience, sit at the sushi bar and ask for "omakase," or "chef's choice." Hours are 4:30 p.m. - 10 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Imperial Lounge - 2400 First Ave., Seattle, WA 98121
  Seattle is known for its wide range of outstanding Asian restaurants, but Imperial Lounge ups the ante by added Latin flavors. In addition to classic dishes from both cuisines, such as katsu, paella, and quesadillas, the menu features fusion dishes like birria udon, with beef cooked in traditional red sauce. The comfy vibe, craft cocktails, and small plates menu make Imperial Lounge an inviting place for happy hour after work or late night after a concert or Mariners game. Hours are 5 p.m. - 2 a.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 4:30 p.m. - 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday, and 5 p.m. - 2 a.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Buckley's in Belltown - 2331 Second Ave., Seattle, WA 98121
  Sometimes you just need a good burger, and there's no better place to satisfy that craving than Buckley's in Belltown. Favorites include the American cheese-stuffed Jucy Lucy and its Latin cousin, the Lucinda Caliente with pepper jack cheese and jalapeños, but you can't go wrong with the basic cheeseburger. Want breakfast for dinner? Steak and eggs, omelets, and croissant sandwiches are served all day. With its pub-style ambiance and numerous TVs, Buckley's is a great place to spend game day. Buckley's is open weekdays from 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. and weekends from 9 a.m. - 2 a.m.
  
  
• Lola - 2000 B Fourth Ave., Seattle, WA 98121
  Tom Douglas gained national fame with an upset win over original Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto on Food Network's classic cooking competition, but he still calls Seattle home. Lola is a loving tribute to his wife's grandmother of the same name, a Kentucky native who married a man from Greece named Louie. Dishes such as keftedes, halloumi cheese-fig kabobs, and spice-rubbed lamb chops are inspired by imagining what Lola and Louie would have eaten on a trip back to Greece. Save room for Tom's signature triple coconut cream pie, which is a Seattle legend. Hours are 7 a.m. - 8 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. Saturday, and 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Karaage Setsuna - 2429 Second Ave., Seattle, WA 98121
  Fried chicken is a quintessential American dish that gets a global update at Karaage Setsuna. Japanese-style fried chicken, or karaage, is a ubiquitous fast-food item in that country that's been gaining popularity in the United States. The meat is marinated and coated with flour or starch before frying, which results in deeply infused flavor and a crunchy exterior with a moist interior. The restaurant serves a number of other dishes such as poke, loco moco, and shabu-shabu shrimp. Karaage Setsuna is open Tuesday through Sunday, with lunch served from 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. and dinner served from 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Seattle homes for sale span many vibrant neighborhoods. See for yourself when you start browsing Seattle homes for sale. Get the latest information when you contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain.

Seattle is known for its vibrant restaurant scene, and there is a growing number of local restaurants making their mark with authentic and flavorful BBQ. Join our brokers and celebrate National Barbecue Month in May with a meal or two at these great BBQ spots. 

• Pecos Pit - 2260 1st Ave. S., Seattle, WA 98134
  The legend of Pecos Pit began with a modest carryout window in SoDo that was beloved by Mariners fans and workers at nearby businesses. Iconic Seattle restauranteur Gerry Kingen took over in 2010 and opened a sit-down outpost in West Seattle with the same hearty sandwiches and creative side dishes. There's also a spinoff, Pike's Pit, located in historic Pike Place Market. SoDo hours are 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday, Wednesday, and Thursday and 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Friday and Saturday. West Seattle is open daily from 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
  
  
• Bitterroot - 5239 Ballard Ave. NW, Seattle, WA 98107
  Bitterroot is dedicated to the three B's: BBQ, beer, and bourbon. Their smoked meats are prepared with a dry rub, allowing you to apply your own choice of four housemade BBQ sauces. The beer and whiskey list has been carefully curated to provide perfect complements to the food. Bitterroot is also the temporary home of Mammoth, their sister BBQ spot, serving up appropriately-named sandwiches such as the Sabertooth, a take on a Cuban sandwich with pulled pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and Dijon mustard. Hours are 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, noon - 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Wood Shop BBQ - 2513 S. Jackson St., Seattle, WA 98144
  Matt Davis of Kansas and James Barrington of Texas created a happy medium of regional favorites with the tasty food at Wood Shop BBQ. Meats are prepared in a smoker with the whimsical name of Brad Pit, using hickory wood from the Ozarks and post oak wood from Texas. Wood Shop has also developed a reputation for serving what some have called the best mac and cheese in the state. Can't make it to the restaurant? Their food truck makes regular stops at establishments around Seattle homes for sale. Wood Shop is open from 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.
  
  
• Jones Original Barbecue - 4417 Fauntleroy Way SW, Seattle, WA 98126
  Located in a small, blink-and-you'll-miss-it storefront off the West Seattle Bridge, Jones Original Barbecue is worth the trip. Their primary claim to fame is the sweet/hot sauce, which comes in mild, medium, and hot varieties you can take home by the bottle. Their rib, pork, brisket, and chicken dinners come with a generous half-pound of meat and two sides. Heartier appetites or undecided customers go for the combos, including your choice of any or all of the different meats. Hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and noon - 8 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Lady Jaye - 4523 California Ave. SW, Seattle, WA 98116  
  Lady Jaye describes the vibe of their restaurant as "Anthony Bourdain meets Clint Eastwood." This perfectly sums up their blend of traditional BBQ and contemporary sensibilities. Cletus, a 2,500-pound smoker, constructed from an old air tank found at an archery factory in Walla Walla, is Lady Jaye's MVP. The menu features upscale dishes such as prime bulgogi short rib melt, smoked tofu chili, and smoked Delmonico cheesesteak. Don't miss the baked odds & ends black-eyed peas, flavored with all the bits and pieces left behind in Cletus. Lady Jaye is open 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 4 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 2 p.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Lil Red Jamaican BBQ & Soul Cuisine - 4225 Rainier Ave. S, Seattle, WA 98118
  Barbecue goes global at Lil Red Jamaican BBQ & Soul Cuisine. The bold flavors of Jamaica marry well with tangy American BBQ. The menu offers jerk chicken and pork, cooked low and slow over a grill with a marinade that gets heat from Scotch bonnet peppers. Lil Red is also the rare BBQ restaurant that incorporates seafood, prepared escovitch-style with a topping of onions, bell peppers, Scotch bonnet peppers, and vinegar. Hours are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.

No matter how long you've lived here, there's always something new to discover in Seattle. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for experienced help with all your real estate needs. 

Spring is here in Portland, but there will still be some chilly days where you'll need comfort food to help you warm up! Ramen is flavorful and inexpensive, putting it high on the list of comfort foods as ranked by our brokers. When you need a meal to satisfy your body and soul, head to one of these great ramen spots near Portland homes for sale.

• Afuri Izakaya - 923 SE 7th Ave., Portland, OR 97214
  Afuri Izakaya is one of the more popular ramen restaurants in Tokyo. When it came time to open their first location outside Japan, they passed up international hubs like London, New York, and Dubai in favor of Portland. The owners found that Mount Hood's ecosystem, much like the namesake Afuri mountain, produces pure spring water that's ideal for making ramen. Afuri's signature yuzu shio broth is flavored with Japanese citrus and salt for perfect balance. Hours are 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Ramen Ippo - Nob Hill Carts, 1845 NW 23rd Pl., Portland, OR 97210
  After Japanese native Daisuke Kondo worked as a sushi chef in Las Vegas for 15 years, he turned to a childhood favorite when opening his own business with Ramen Ippo. The headliner is paitan broth, flavored with chicken, but the menu includes vegetarian and vegan options as well. Thanks to the success at Nob Hill Carts, Ramen Ippo just opened a second cart at 6200 SE Milwaukie Ave. Hours at Nob Hill are 11:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Boke Bowl - 1028 SE Water Ave., Portland, OR 97214
  As a monthly pop-up in 2010, Boke Bowl was in the vanguard of the ramen craze. After a year, they had developed enough of a following to open their brick-and-mortar location. The hearty ramen dishes are supplemented with whimsical sides and desserts, such as PB&J steamed buns and "Boke Twinkies," made with miso and butterscotch. Boke Bowl is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
  
  
• Mirakutei - 536 E. Burnside St., Portland, OR 97214
  With a name that translates to "a place to eat and enjoy," Mirakutei doubles down on iconic Japanese cuisine by offering a wide selection of sushi and sashimi. Pair your bowl of sapporo ramen, characterized by its buttery flavor, with one of dozens of specialty sushi rolls. Customer favorites include the Trail Blazer, with shrimp tempura, crab salad, and avocado, and the Hello Kitty, a California roll topped with tuna, yellowtail, and salmon. Mirakutei is open seven days a week from noon - 9 p.m.
  
  
• Boxer - 1668 NW 23rd Ave., Portland, OR 97210
  Founders Micah Camden and Katie Popp earned their culinary chops with burgers and donuts before turning to the fast-casual concept with Boxer. Customers rave about the spicy red miso and tonkotsu shio broths, both topped with pork belly, while vegetarians love the yellow coconut curry broth with broccoli rabe, pickled shiitake, corn, and scallions. Boxer recently expanded its menu to include sushi, sashimi, and craft cocktails. Hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.
  
  
• Kinboshi Ramen - 609 SE Ankeny St. A, Portland, OR 97214
  Marukin, the local outpost of a Japanese chain, has been reincarnated as Kinboshi Ramen under its Portland owners. Kinboshi's claim to fame is being the first to bring hakata-style ramen, with its creamy pork broth and thin, straight noodles, to the area. The menu also includes several vegan broths made with organic soy milk known as tonyu. Try the Tebasaki chicken wings, a recent addition that's made a big splash. Kinboshi is open daily from 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
  
  
• Kayo's Ramen Bar - 3808 N. Williams Ave. #124, Portland, OR 97227
  Kayoko, owner, and namesake of Kayo's Ramen Bar, learned to cook at the tender age of 8 while her parents were busy running their department store in Osaka, Japan. When Kayoko moved to Portland, she put her skills to use with her innovative ramen restaurant. Kayo's specialty is light, clear, and thin assari-style broths. Each bowl is finished with one of 17 incredible sauces made fresh every day. The lighter broth means you'll have room for a slice of the delicious Japanese-style Basque cheesecake. Kayo's is open Monday through Saturday, with lunch served from 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. and dinner from 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.
  
  
• Hapa PDX Ramen & Whiskey - 3848 SE Gladstone St., Portland, OR 97202
  It's island love times two at Hapa PDX Ramen & Whiskey. Their signature G-Special bowl is a mash-up of Tokyo ramen and Hawaiian plate lunches. The ginger ale and sake highball is a popular choice from the sophisticated cocktail menu. Lunch runs from 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, and dinner is 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. every day but Tuesday.

Life in Portland is wonderful in all seasons. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for answers to all your real estate questions.

There are so many wonderful places where you can get to know Seattle, from markets and museums to stunning, Instagram-worthy waterfront destinations. But what could be a better way to learn about a city than to explore its culture of cuisine? The famed, internationally-inspired dining scene around Seattle homes for sale offers so many options that it can be hard to know where to start, which is why food tours are such a great way to get to know both the city and its dining destinations. Our real estate agents have the details on some of the best food tours that will take you all around Seattle.

Savor Seattle Food Tours – 1916 Pike Place Market #12-480, Seattle, WA 98101

Based in the historic, world-famous Pike Place Market, Savor Seattle Food Tours is one of Seattle's top-rated food tour companies, with a variety of expertly guided walking tours of the market that you can enjoy anytime and even a special Gourmet Kayak Expedition to beautiful San Juan Island.

• Pike Place Market Signature Tour
  If you're new to Seattle, then you're probably already excited about the prospect of visiting Pike Place Market and experiencing the country's oldest continuous market for yourself. The Pike Place Market Signature Tour will give you an excellent first taste of the sights, sounds, and flavors of the market. This two-hour tour features more than 12 tastings around the market and is also family-friendly.
  
  
• Pike Place Market VIP Early Access Tour
  Even if you're already familiar with Pike Place Market, you may have dreamed of visiting the market with no crowds and feeling like you have the place to yourself. The Pike Place Market VIP Early Access Tour allows you to do just that, getting priority service and tastings at some of the markets best food vendors with a small group size of a dozen or less. Enjoy outstanding breakfast food, experience Pike Place Market before the crowds arrive, and take advantage of special VIP perks like a demonstration of the bean-to-bar process for making chocolate.
  
  
• Gourmet Kayak Expedition to San Juan Island, WA
  Looking for a more outdoorsy food tour? The Gourmet Kayak Expedition will take you on a journey to San Juan Island, which is located between Seattle and Vancouver Island. Spend your days kayaking around the islands, sipping some of the best local wines from the Seattle area, and enjoying delicious dining at every stop. This tour lasts for three days, and space is limited so it's worth reserving your place ahead of time.
  
  
• Private Tours
  Interested in having a private tour with your own group of friends, family, or colleagues? Savor Seattle also offers Private Tours for groups ranging in size from 12 to 60 people to a variety of popular dining locations around the city.

The Emerald Palate Seattle Food Tours – Seattle. WA

Pike Place Market is an excellent place to start your journey, but what about when you want to explore some out-of-the-way, less famous destinations where the food is no less amazing? The Emerald Palate is a Seattle-based food and lifestyle blog that offers a selection of detailed, self-guided tours that will take you all around the city. Find the spots that the locals love, and discover some fantastic neighborhoods that tourists don't even know to visit.

• Ballard Food Tour
  Seattle's artistic Ballard neighborhood offers more than just great culture to explore. It's also home to a vibrant, diverse collection of local restaurants with something to suit every taste. The 40-page, self-guided Ballard Food Tour features more than 20 excellent restaurants, including pictures, suggestions on what to order, and even interviews with restaurant staff. If you want to dine like a local, this tour will help you feel right at home.
  
  
• Fremont Food Tour
  A truly unique neighborhood, Fremont is definitely a place that you'll want to explore as you get to know Seattle. The Freemont Food Tour checks in at 39 pages and also features 20 local restaurants to visit. The Emerald Palate updates all of its self-guided tours every month, so you'll always be able to stay up to date on the best places to dine around Seattle.
  
  
• Food Tour Bundle
  Can't decide which tour to choose? You can always try both, save with a bundle, and discover more than three dozen of Seattle's best-hidden gems. The Food Tour Bundle is perfect for anyone looking to find restaurants they'll enjoy visiting again and again in some of Seattle's best neighborhoods.

When you're ready to buy or sell your next home close to all of the amazing dining experiences around Seattle, our local real estate team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes in the Seattle, WA area.

It's no exaggeration to say that Seattle is the city that turned the food hall into an art form, thanks to the legendary Pike Place Market. But that's not the only amazing food hall around the city! Whether you're a dedicated foodie shopping for the perfect ingredients for your next creation or you're searching for fresh, expertly prepared food inspired by cultures from around the world, the food halls of the Seattle area have you covered. Our brokers have the delicious details on 7 of the best food halls to visit in Seattle and nearby communities.

1. Pike Place Market – 85 Pike St., Seattle, WA 98101
   When you're talking about food halls near Seattle homes for sale, there's only one place to start. Pike Place Market is a world-famous destination for food, shopping, and fun, with a history that stretches back more than 100 years. Pike Place Market brings together local restaurants, food vendors, farmers, craftspeople, specialty food purveyors, and live performers to create one of the best places on the planet to enjoy some shopping. There's also a busy schedule of programs and signature special events, so you'll always have something new to see at Pike Place Market.
   
   
2. Melrose Market – 1531 Melrose Ave., Seattle, WA 98101
   It may not be quite as famous as Pike Place Market, but Melrose Market has earned a loyal following thanks to its fresh ingredients, delicious meals, and great deals. Melrose Market is home to 10 local vendors selling locally sourced ingredients, fresh, delicious prepared meals, unique home goods, and fine spirits. With its emphasis on local vendors, Melrose Market is a great place to find out what's going on in the neighborhood.
   
   
3. Spice Bridge Global Food Hall – 14200 Tukwila International Blvd., Ste. 141, Tukwila, WA 98186
   Interested in exploring cuisine inspired by diverse cultures from around the world? Spice Bridge Global Food Hall is well worth the trip, with a lineup of vendors that emphasizes women of color, immigrant, and refugee chefs. Sample dishes from international cultures, enjoy a packed schedule of special events, and support a great cause in the process. Be sure to check the schedule ahead of time if you're looking for a particular vendor, as the lineup rotates each day with fresh options.
   
   
4. Lincoln South Food Hall – 500 Bellevue Way NE Floor 2, Bellevue, WA 98004
   In the mood for an outstanding meal near Bellevue homes for sale, but not quite sure what you want to eat? Lincoln South Food Hall has you covered with an eclectic collection of dining options and many of the Pacific Northwest's favorite craft beer selections on tap. Stop by for a gourmet meal from Barrio Luchador, Burger Brawler, or What the Pho, then head to the bar to find your perfect pairing.
   
   
5. Matchbox Food Hall – 2329 California Ave. SW, Seattle, WA 98116
   With 5 restaurants serving sandwiches, salads, wraps, and pizza along with one outstanding bar, Matchbox Food Hall is sure to satisfy your craving for a delicious meal close to home. Fresh, healthy food is the name of the game at Matchbox Food Hall, where you will find Forge Pizza, Sway Sandwich Co., Carrera Taqueria, Chop Salads, and Boxcar Bakery. Shep's Tavern is where you'll find an extensive collection of craft cocktails, as well as locally crafted beer and wine.
   
   
6. Uwajimaya Seattle – 600 5th Ave. S., Seattle, WA 98104
   For Asian cuisine, ingredients, and sweet treats, it's hard to top the experience at Uwajimaya Seattle. Part specialty grocery store, part food court, this local chain has 4 locations in Seattle and nearby communities. The flagship Seattle location covers more than 35,000 square feet, with a grocery store and large food hall all in one place. The food hall at Uwajimaya Seattle has 10 unique dining options, with more always being added. Grab a great book from Kinokuniyana Bookstore – also located in-house – then head to the food hall to enjoy some fresh, authentic Asian cuisine while you read.
   
   
7. City Hall Farmers Market – 600 4th Ave., Seattle, WA 98104
   While it may not be housed indoors like the other food halls on our list, the popular City Hall Farmers Market offers many of the same perks as some of the city's most famous food halls in an airy, inviting outdoor setting. The City Hall Farmers Market takes place every Tuesday morning and early afternoon. It brings together local farmers and food vendors to share their wares with the public, with a different selection depending on which time of year that you visit.

Searching for a home that makes it easy to visit your favorite Seattle food halls anytime? Let our team help you find the perfect match. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Seattle, WA area.

Los Angeles may claim to have started the food truck craze, but Portland has truly embraced the trend. With more than 500 trucks, or "carts," as they're referred to by locals, Portland's food cart scene has drawn raves from Bon Appétit, CNN, and other national sources.

Our brokers spotlight some of their favorites among the exciting food carts found just minutes from Portland homes for sale.

• Yoshi's Sushi - Multnomah Village French Quarter, 3518 SW Multnomah Blvd., Portland, OR 97219
  So you're viewing Portland homes for sale and you get a craving for sushi. What to do? Pick up the phone and call Yoshi's Sushi. Owner/chef Yoshi Ikeda shows that you don't have to go to a glitzy, upscale restaurant to get fresh, high-quality sushi. Customers rave about the nigiri, especially salmon and hotate, or scallop. Yoshi's is open Tuesday through Saturday for phone orders only, with lunch served from noon - 2 p.m. and dinner from 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. 
  
  
• Jojo - 3582 SE Powell Blvd., Portland, OR 97202
  Chicken sandwich wars are raging among fast-food outlets everywhere, and many will declare JoJo to be the clear winner. Their fried chicken sandwiches come in four different varieties, and the star is the Fried Chicken Melt. Two slices of toasted shokupan bread hold a patty topped with American and Cheddar cheeses, Crystal hot sauce, house ranch, coleslaw, and chives. Jojo is open daily from 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
  
  
• Viking Soul Food - 4255 SE Belmont St., Portland, OR 97215
  It's called Viking Soul Food, but their Scandinavian-inspired dishes will definitely satisfy your taste buds as well. Owners Megan and Jeremy put their own spin on dishes from Megan's childhood, such as the Norwegian meatball wrap that was sampled by Guy Fieri on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. Save room for a lingonberry lefse wrap, stuffed with plump lingonberries and smooth cream cheese. Hours are noon - 8 p.m. daily except Friday and Saturday when closing time is 8:30 p.m. 
  
  
• Tierra del Sol Oaxacan Cuisine - 7238 SE Foster Rd. #1, Portland, OR 97206
  Mexico's famed street food makes it a natural fit for a food truck. Located in the lively Portland Mercado, Tierra del Sol Oaxacan Cuisine offers classic dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The showstopper is the tlayuda, a 14-inch corn tortilla piled with chicharrons, black beans, queso Oaxaca, and veggies. Meat is optional, and the tlayuda comes packaged in a pizza box. Tierra del Sol is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
  
  
• MF Tasty - 3927 N. Williams Ave., Portland, OR 97227
  MF Tasty grew out of another food trend, when husband-and-wife Eric and Nicole operated a secret supper club in Phoenix, AZ. After moving to Portland, the couple opened a food cart serving "Southwest inspired, Portland made" dishes. The menu changes each week, but typical offerings include pumpkin-spiced risotto, harissa-BBQ glazed "beetloaf," and their award-winning chorizo mac & cheese. Follow them on Instagram to view the current menu. Hours are 5 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Sunday and Monday.
  
  
• Birrieria La Plaza - 600 SE 146th Ave., Portland, OR 97233
  Hard to improve on perfection, but birria-style takes tacos to another level. Birreria La Plaza cooks the flavorful dipping consome for hours to bring out all the seasonings and spices. Owner Oracio Hernandez's secret weapon is his mother, Doña Sofia, and the recipes she learned growing up on a farm in Jalisco, Mexico. Cheese lovers go for the combo that includes one each of quesotaco, mulita, vampiro, and quesadilla. Hours are 10:30 a.m. - 7 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. - 7 p.m. Saturday, and 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Stretch the Noodle - 223-269 SW Washington St., Portland, WA 97204
  A visit to Stretch the Noodle rates high on both food and entertainment factors. On most days, you can watch chef Xuemei Simard practice the esteemed art of noodle-pulling as he folds, twists, and stretches dough into delicate strands. Every dish is made to order, and well worth the wait. Try the biang-biang noodles, a wide noodle with hot oil, black vinegar, and garlic sauce, topped with a sprinkling of sesame seeds. Stretch the Noodle is open weekdays from 9:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.
  
  
• Erica's Soul Food - 803 SE 82nd Ave., Portland, ME 97216
  Authentic down-home Southern cuisine comes to Portland via Erica's Soul Food. Comfort food classics such as meatloaf, pimento cheese fries, and shrimp & grits will make you forget you're on the West Coast. Check out the Soul Bowls, mash-ups of Southern favorites like the Grandma, with meatloaf, cornbread, black-eyed peas, and cabbage. Erica's is open Wednesday through Sunday, with lunch served from noon - 2 p.m. and dinner from 4 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Find out why everything's coming up roses in Portland. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain to learn more.

As home to nearly 70 breweries, more than any other city in the world, Portland has been a vibrant part of the craft beer movement since the early 1980s. What better place to be during Oktoberfest? Our brokers raise a toast to these microbreweries throughout the Portland area. 

• Upright Brewing - 240 N. Broadway, Portland, OR 97227
  What does brewing beer have in common with composing music? According to Upright Brewing, both activities are methods of "exercising creativity and craft" in ways that defy categorization. In keeping with the musical theme, Upright Brewing designs each beer label to look like an album cover. Pair your beer with a sandwich or snack from adjoining PBS Café. Tasting room hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Ruse Brewing - 4784 SE 17th Ave., Portland, OR 97202
  The spirit of Portland runs through the DNA of Ruse Brewing. Inspired by the city's culture of creativity, founders Shaun and Devin made community support the primary element of the company's vision. Ruse Brewing teams up with local artists and musicians to create specialty brews for beer releases and other events. The cozy taproom, filled with natural light and wood accents, gives off a major Pacific Northwest vibe. Hours are 3 p.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 3 p.m. - 10 p.m. Friday, 1 p.m. - 10 p.m. Saturday, and 1 p.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Back Pedal Brewing - 1425 NW Flanders, Portland, OR 97209
  Back Pedal Brewing is using its space to host a pop-up from Road Beers PDX. Enjoy a beer in the taproom or place an order to go for brands from one of Road Beers' many partner breweries. The taproom is open Wednesday and Thursday from 2 p.m. - 8 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from noon - 8 p.m.
  
  
• Threshold Brewing & Blending - 403 SE 79th Ave., Portland, OR 97215
  Jarek and Sara Symanski, owners of Threshold Brewing & Blending, aren't content to simply brew a great beer. They love to experiment with unexpected flavor profiles. Check out the tart funk of farmhouse-style beers or the assertiveness of bourbon-forward dark beers. Be sure to go hungry and try the zapiekanka. Jared brought the unique open-faced mushroom and cheese baguette sandwich from his native Poland. Stop in with the whole family, including four-legged members, after viewing Portland homes for sale. Hours are 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. Friday, 3 p.m. - 9 p.m. Saturday, and noon - 6 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Culmination Brewing - 2117 NE Oregon St., Portland, OR 97232
  Culmination Brewing bridges beer's past and present with classic flavors that are updated to appeal to modern tastes. They generously promote the local beer industry by collaborating with other breweries to create some of their flavors. Miami Nice provides a food menu of vegan Cuban cuisine, such as empanadas, croquetas, and yuca fries, that's so tasty. The taproom is open 3 p.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, noon - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon - 9 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Zoiglhaus - 5716 SE 92nd Ave., Portland, OR 97266
  The amusing and memorable name of Zoiglhaus is actually deeply rooted in German brewing tradition. Zoigl brewing dates back to the Middle Ages when towns had a communal brewhouse where people would take turns making and serving their personal beers. Fast-forward to Portland today, where Zoiglhaus aims to foster that same sense of community. Food such as Bavarian pretzels and jägerschnitzel reflects the same German influence. Hours are 4 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. daily. 
  
  
• Breakside Brewery - 820 NE Dekum St, Portland, OR 97211
  Since opening in 2010, award-winning Breakside Brewery has grown from a modest pub to a large regional operation with five metro-area locations, as well as a sixth coming soon in Beaverton. Breakside has gained a devoted following thanks to creative flavors such as their version of the classic Black & Tan, with notes of whiskey, milk chocolate, and caramel. Two years ago, Breakside proudly became one of only a few employee-owned breweries across the country. Breakside is open seven days a week from noon - 9 p.m.

There's something new to discover every day around Portland. If you're buying or selling a home, contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain to learn more. 

With a city surrounded by water and mountains, is it any wonder that outdoor dining is so popular in Seattle? Pack a basket or grab some carryout and visit one of these amazing picnic spots around Seattle recommended by our brokers. 

• Waterfall Garden Park - 219 2nd Ave. S., Seattle, WA 98104
  An urban picnic area may sound like an oxymoron, but Seattle is full of such unconventional delights. Waterfall Garden Park is tucked into an unobtrusive 60-by-80-feet spot in historic Pioneer Square. Until 1975, the site held the headquarters of United Parcel Service. Today, the charming park includes a 22-foot man-made waterfall and a dual-level patio with tables and chairs, making it a wonderful place for a lunch hour picnic or reading break. Park hours are 8 a.m. - 3:45 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Green Lake Park - 7201 E. Green Lake Dr., Seattle, WA 98115
  The area around Green Lake Park features some of the most desirable Seattle homes for sale, and it's not hard to see why. Who wouldn't want to live just down the street from a beautiful three-acre lake surrounded by lush green space? The neighborhood is full of great restaurants, delis, and sandwich shops where you can pick up a picnic-friendly meal. Work up an appetite or work off some calories with swimming at the lifeguard-patrolled beach or a walk along the 2.8-mile path that circles the lake. Bring along a guidebook to identify the numerous birds and waterfowl you're sure to see. Green Lake Park is open 24/7.
  
  
• Dr. Jose Rizal Park - 1007 12th Ave. S., Seattle, WA 98144
  Seattle has one of the most iconic skylines in the country. Take in some incredible views of downtown and Puget Sound during your picnic at Dr. Jose Rizal Park on Beacon Hill. With nearly 10 acres of grounds, including reservable picnic areas, the park can accommodate groups of any size. Be sure to bring Fido along and spend some quality time at the off-leash dog area. Park hours are 4 a.m. - 11:30 p.m., seven days a week.
  
  
• Gas Works Park - 2101 N. Northlake Way, Seattle, WA 98103
  When someone in Seattle says, "Go fly a kite," people immediately head to Gas Works Park. The 19.1-acre site, once the home of the Seattle Gas Light Company plant, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Kite-flying on the park's spacious hills is a local ritual, while remnants of the original facility are incorporated into a play barn that's a favorite of families. Watch seaplanes land and take off from Lake Union against the backdrop of the downtown skyline. Gas Works Park is open daily from 6 a.m. - 10 p.m.
  
  
• Washington Park Arboretum - 2300 Arboretum Dr. E., Seattle, WA 98112
  Nature is on display in all its glory at Washington Park Arboretum, a 230-acre extravaganza of gardens, wetlands, and wooded areas. The grounds contain 5,500 different plants from all corners of the world, including one of the top Japanese maple tree collections. Choose your favorite points of interest and create your own walking tour along the numerous trails. Print one of the seasonal scavenger hunts from the website and see how many items kids can find. Leashed dogs are welcome at the arboretum. Hours are dawn - 8 p.m. daily, and admission is free.
  
  
• Carkeek Park - 950 NW Carkeek Park Rd., Seattle, WA 98177
  Washington state is known for apples because of spots like historic Piper's Orchard in Carkeek Park. Six miles of trails lead to the orchard, as well as spectacular views of Whidbey Island and the Olympic Mountains. The salmon-themed playground plays tribute to another notable product of the state. Check out the tide pool beach at low tide, when you can walk hundreds of feet out into Puget Sound. Park hours are 6 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Woodland Park Rose Garden - 750 N. 50th St., Seattle, WA 98103
  With 2.5 acres filled with nearly 3,000 roses, Woodland Park Rose Garden is perfect for a romantic picnic for two or a delightful family outing. The garden is one of only two dozen American Rose Test Gardens in the country, displaying new hybrids before they're available to the public. Fun fact: since the garden went pesticide-free in 2006, the flowers have been used to feed animals in adjoining Woodland Park Zoo. Hours are 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily, and admission is free.

Picnics don't get more exclusive than the ones you hold in the backyard of your Seattle home. Have questions about buying or selling real estate? Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for cheerful and experienced help.

Think you have what it takes to be a trivia champ in the Portland area? Grab your family and friends and join our brokers in showing off your knowledge at these great trivia nights near Portland homes for sale. 

• Schmizza Pub & Grub - 320 NW 21st Ave., Portland, OR 97209
  Could there be a better name for trivia hosts than Geeks Who Drink? With a slogan of, "Useless knowledge means everything," this national company brings their British pub-style trivia show to Schmizza Pub & Grub each Thursday night at 7:30 p.m. Teams compete in seven rounds of eight questions each, with cash and other prizes for the winner. Be on your toes for bonus questions when you can score extra treats. Keep your brain cells fueled with one of Schmizza's two-dozen specialty pizzas, such as Alligator Pie, topped with alligator sausage, red peppers, onions, tomatoes, and feta. Regular hours are 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily except Sunday when doors close at 8 p.m.
  
  
• Chill N Fill - 5215 N. Lombard St., Portland, OR 97203
  Looking for a place to unwind after a long day of work? With its casual decor and relaxing ambiance, Chill N Fill has created a classic neighborhood gathering spot. You're sure to find a favorite beverage from more than 30 rotating taps of craft beer, wine, cider, and kombucha. If that's not enough, Chill N Fill also carries a wide selection of local bottled beer, wine, and cider. Stop in Tuesday nights at 7 p.m. for team trivia hosted by Rain Brain, an award-winning local quizmaster. Get a head start and test yourself with sample questions on Rain Brain's website. Don't forget to fill your growler before you head home! Regular hours are noon - 11 p.m., seven days a week. 
  
  
• Rose City Book Pub - 1329 NE Fremont St., Portland, OR 97212
  Whether you want to socialize or just curl up with a good book, Rose City Book Pub has you covered. This cozy shop combines the best qualities of a bookstore with a European-style bistro, serving appetizers and light meals along with beer and wine. In addition to interactive Zoom trivia on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m., Rose City Book Pub hosts author readings, live music, and various cultural events. Regular hours are noon - 10 p.m. daily.
  
  
• The Old Barn - 9656 SW Barbur Blvd., Portland, OR 97219
  You won't find any live animals or haystacks, but The Old Barn is definitely a comfy place to kick back with friends. Watch the game on one of 20 TVs or try your hand at video poker. Seafood lovers flock to The Old Barn on the second Friday of each month for Dungeness Crab Day, with a menu showcasing the iconic Pacific Northwest shellfish. Wednesday night trivia at 6:30 p.m. is hosted by Last Call. Sign up for their newsletter to get a list of answers to random questions that may or may not turn up at The Old Barn. Regular hours are 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 a.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - 2:30 a.m. weekends.
  
  
• Jolly Roger - 5627 SW Kelly St., Portland, OR 97239
  Nestled in the venerable John's Landing neighborhood, Jolly Roger was originally Stanich's West until Rob and Starr Jackson purchased and remodeled the restaurant in 2008, reopening under its current name. According to their slogan, "No one has more fun than we do," and that's especially true during Wednesday night trivia at 8 p.m. Local quizmaster Bridgetown Trivia is the host, and with teams of as many as 35 players allowed, the proceeding can get rambunctious. Bridgetown uses a variety of question styles, including puzzles, pictures, music, and fill-in-the-blank. Regular hours are 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily except Sunday when closing time is 10 p.m.
  
  
• Cascadia Tap House - 13619 NW Cornell Rd., Portland, OR 97229
  Stumptown Trivia, the newest player on the Portland quizmaster scene, has gained fans with their lively trivia nights. You'll find them at 7 p.m. on the third Tuesday of every month at Cascadia Tap House. Raffle prizes give you additional chances to win. Sip on one of the many local and regional craft beers, wines, and ciders available at Cascadia as you nibble on chips and salsa, artisan pretzels, and other favorite bar snacks. You're also welcome to bring in food from one of the restaurants around the mall. Regular hours are 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sunday.

Buying or selling a home in Portland is no trivial pursuit. When you need the right answers, contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain.

If you're looking at Seattle homes for sale, prepare for delicious cuisine.

Seattle has a rich and diverse culinary heritage our brokers know as one of the things that make the Emerald City unique. Seattle flavors have been shaped by remarkable Pacific seafood as well as the many immigrants from all over the world who have helped to make Seattle what it is today.

Over time, Seattle has become famous for dishes originating across the globe, from its unique take on Chinese dumplings to its unbeatable burgers, hot dogs, and much more.

Let's drop in on some of the restaurants that offer true Seattle classics:

1. The Walrus and The Carpenter – 4743 Ballard Avenue, Seattle, WA 98107
   The Walrus and The Carpenter isn't just one of the most surreal scenes from Alice in Wonderland – it's also the #1 place for oysters, a long-time Seattle favorite. Now with outdoor seating and convenient online reservations, The Walrus and The Carpenter serves up sophisticated seafood and wine pairings that epitomize the Pacific Northwest. Other delights on the menu include scallop crudo, smoked coho, grilled sardines, and steak tartar.
   
   
2. The Pho Bac – 1240 South Jackson Street, Seattle, WA 98144
   With no less than four locations throughout the Seattle area, The Pho Bac is a leading purveyor of short rib pho. Pronounced fuh, this Vietnamese dish is a soup containing broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat. While chicken is the mainstay approach to pho, The Pho Bac expands the palate with a curated shortlist of new takes. Now in its second generation, it is one of Seattle's best-known family-owned businesses.
   
   
3. Dahlia Bakery – 2001 4th Avenue, Seattle, WA 98121
   Famous for its delicious triple coconut cream pie, a Seattle staple, Dahlia Bakery also stocks delectable artisan breads, handmade pastries, and desserts. You'll want to come back frequently since everything here is small batch and the menu changes regularly. There are also classic breakfast sandwiches, including the bacon and egg and veggie varieties and lunch specials.
   
   
4. Dick's Deluxe – 12325 30th Avenue Northeast, Seattle, WA 98125
   No list of Seattle favorites could be complete without mentioning Dick's Deluxe, which since 1954 has been the city's go-to hamburger joint. Known far and wide for its fresh burgers, real potatoes, and hand-dipped shakes, Dick's has various drive-in and food truck locations. There are also ice cream sundaes, cones, and root beer floats that are perfect for the kids. No matter where you are in Seattle, a location isn't far away.
   
   
5. Sushi Kashiba – 86 Pine Street, Suite 1, Seattle WA 98101
   "Omakase" loosely means "chef's choice," and Sushi Kashiba owner Shiro Kashiba has been called Seattle's "sushi grandmaster." There may be no better place in Seattle to enjoy the classic omakase sushi bento box, which includes an eclectic mix of sushi rolls, sashimi, and other Japanese lunch foods arranged by Chef Kashiba. With ample cuts of fish in brilliant colors, it plates as good as it tastes.
   
   
6. Mee Sum Pastry – 4343 University Way Northeast, Seattle, WA 98105
   For maximum flavor, Seattle's famous curry beef hom bow, known elsewhere as bao, must be made fresh each morning. When you visit Mee Sum Pastry, you might even have the chance to watch. In the bustling University of Washington area, this is one of the foremost places for Taiwanese cuisine with a Seattle spin. You can also savor a full assortment of other beef, chicken, pork, seafood, and vegetarian-friendly entrees.
   
   
7. Rain City Hot Dogs – 2700 Rainier Avenue South, Seattle, WA 98144
   The classic take on a Seattle Dog includes cream cheese and sauteed onions – and that's the marquee meal here at Rain City Hot Dogs. One of the highest-rated hot dog experiences in town, it also offers full-service catering. Every dog on the menu can be customized with your choice of a quarter-pound all-beef hot dog, a spicy Louisiana-style hotlink, or a veggie dog. Don't miss out on the Smoky PB&J!
   
   
8. Chinook's at Salmon Bay –1900 West Nickerson Street, Seattle, WA 98119
   Copper river salmon flown in from Alaska have become a hallmark of some of the best Pacific Northwest dishes, and Chinook's at Salmon Bay is widely hailed as one of the best places in Seattle to enjoy the iconic fish. From its Fishermen's Terminal location, fish scarcely gets any fresher than this. Enjoy an afternoon or evening right on the waterfront patio and have lunch, dinner, or selections from the seasonal Oyster Festival menu.

Coldwell Banker Bain is here to help with your Seattle real estate needs. Contact us to learn more today.

You might think it's impossible to celebrate Valentine's Day when you can't go out on the town. But who says you have to leave the house to have a romantic evening?

Light some candles! Open a bottle of wine! And order takeout from one of our real estate agents' favorite restaurants in the Seattle area. 

1. Spinasse - 1531 14th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122
   Few places in Seattle do high-end Northern Italian food quite like Spinasse. Their hand-made pasta alone earns them a place among Seattle's finest eateries. Spinasse is just minutes from many Seattle homes for sale and is currently offering curbside pickup and delivery. 
   
   
2. Jak's Grill - 14 Front St N, Issaquah, WA 98027
   A no-frills, no-nonsense steakhouse known for its Nebraska beef, Jak's Grill is Seattle's carnivore heaven. Jak's Grill is located in Issaquah, about 20 minutes from the heart of Seattle and within walking distance of many Issaquah homes for sale. A second location is open in West Seattle, and both locations offer delivery and curbside pickup. They also offer freezer packs, so you can cook your own date-night dinner at home and show off your champion grilling skills. 
   
   
3. Archipelago - 5607 Rainier Ave S, Seattle, WA 98118
   The fresh, vibrant Filipino-American flavors at Archipelago are truly one of a kind and perfect for a romantic Valentine's Day. Using ingredients sourced from local Seattle markets and regional Filipino and Filipino-American farmers, Archipelago offers an ever-changing menu that relies on the ingredients that are seasonally available. Archipelago's take-home menu changes weekly, with each week's offerings announced on Tuesdays. 
   
   
4. Shiro's Sushi - 2401 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98121
   There may be no better meal for a romantic dinner than sushi. And you'd have a hard time finding a better place to get it than Shiro's Sushi, a fixture of the Belltown food scene. Shiro's makes sushi prepared the traditional Tokyo way but using seafood sourced from right here in the Pacific Northwest. One of Seattle's most respected sushi restaurants, Shiro's offers takeout and local delivery through various delivery services.  
   
   
5. Mamnoon - 1508 Melrose Ave, Seattle, WA 98122
   At Mamnoo, you can expect to get authentic, traditional Middle Eastern cuisine... with a modern twist. Call ahead for curbside pickup or delivery, and be sure to check their website for their regularly updated menu. To-go options and specials change almost daily, but there's always a meat entree as well as a vegetarian alternative. Mamnoo also offers what they call "Mama Family Meal," rotating to-go feasts inspired by the most-loved dishes that the chefs prepare for the staff before their shifts. You can even order beer, wine, or cocktail kits to go with it!
   
   
6. Monsoon Seattle - 615 19th Ave E, Seattle, WA 98112
   The elevated Vietnamese cuisine at Monsoon Seattle is truly extraordinary, packing a dizzying array of flavors. Monsoon's two locations in Seattle and Bellevue each offer takeout, along with the option of curbside pickup. Delivery is available through third-party delivery services. Monsoon's menu features all of the restaurant's classic flavors (including their signature clay-pot catfish), along with a few surprises (like cocktails to go). 
   
   
7. RockCreek Seafood & Spirits - 4300 Fremont Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103
   A relatively new addition to Seattle's ever-vibrant seafood scene, RockCreek Seafood & Spirits has quickly become a hot destination in the Fremont neighborhood. Their seafood is brilliantly fresh, expertly prepared, and globally sourced. Expect a menu packed with specialties like kona kampachi from Hawaii, striped bass from the East Coast, and crabs and mussels from right here in Washington. RockCreek is currently open for delivery Tuesday through Saturday. 
   
   
8. Assaggio Restaurant - 2010 4th Ave, Seattle, WA 98121
   Assaggio has been under the same ownership for more than 25 years, and it shows. They have the kind of time-honored recipes that feel as though they've existed for generations. This is authentic Italian food at its finest, with a simple yet rich menu packed with staples like lasagna with house-made noodles and penne vodka with imported pancetta. Call ahead to place an order for takeout. 

Seattle is a unique place to call home, and it's a city that still offers a wealth of opportunities. Contact us to learn more about life in Seattle, and talk to our team about finding your dream home in Washington today.

It's that time of year again -- the time when everyone starts to think about changing their habits and getting healthier in the New Year. Luckily, there are plenty of great local restaurants that serve healthy fare. Having a go-to list will help make the transition so much easier! 

We recently asked our brokers for recommendations. Here are a few of their favorites. 

1. Eve Freemont: 704 North 34th St., Seattle, WA 98103
   Popular restaurant Eve Freemont is committed to serving clean, wholesome food that's good for the body and the soul. They're known for their globally-inspired, locally-produced menu that features items like Bibimbap and Bison Burgers. If you're looking for a clean-eating restaurant with a hip, modern vibe and a unique variety of food options, this is it.
    
2. B-Side: 421 E. Thomas St., Seattle, WA 98102
   For a healthy breakfast or lunch, you can't go wrong with B-Side. This small, quaint restaurant offers classic items like breakfast sandwiches and eclectic items like house-made pickles, rice bowls, kombucha, and 24k Beer (Ranier with spicy fermented carrot juice). They're open daily from 8 am to 2 pm and are within walking distance from some of the best Seattle homes for sale. They also have a walk-up window and accept Google Pay for extra safety and convenience.
    
3. Plum Bistro: 1429 12th Ave., Seattle, WA 98122
   Capitol Hill's most loved vegan restaurant since 2009, Plum Bistro, has made a major reputation for itself. Here you'll find artful, upscale dishes that even carnivores love. They serve brunch, lunch, and dinner, as well as tasty drinks and desserts. We recommend trying the General Tso's Cauliflower, Buffalo Portobello Burger, or "Northwest at its Finest" -- made with herb-roasted mushrooms and black truffle sweet potato gnocchi. In addition to the Bistro, the Plum family also includes Plum Chopped, Sugar Plum, Pantry by Plum, and the Plum Truck.
    
4. Mamnoon: 1508 Melrose Ave., Seattle, WA 98122
   An award-winning Middle Eastern restaurant, Mamnoon offers a modern version of traditional classics. The menu changes seasonally, giving you a steady stream of new, healthy dishes to try. We recommend the Mama Family Meal, which is $40 and has plenty of food for two people. This option allows you to choose a meat or vegetarian entree, seasonal salad, rotating side, and rich and tasty labneh. These specials change all the time and are a great way to explore their delicious menu.
    
5. Harvest Beat: 1711 N. 45th St., Seattle, WA 98103
   Voted Best Vegan Restaurant in 2019 by Restaurant Guru, Harvest Beat offers healthy, vibrant food while also supporting local farmers and foragers. At this time, they've suspended in-house dining and are only offering food to go. However, the meals are still incredible! They serve lunch and dinner and items like cookies, hummus, and pickled vegetables from their market. For a truly memorable experience, try their five-course dinner menu to go. 
   
   
6. Marination: 2000 6th Ave., Seattle, WA 98121
   Known as Seattle's sauciest food truck since 2009, Marination offers Hawaiian-Korean curbside cuisine. They now have multiple locations, including Marination Ma Kai in West Seattle (1660 Harbor Ave. SW), Marination 6th & Virginia, and Super Six (3714 Hudson St.). Also, keep an eye out for "Big Blue," their mobile food truck. No matter which location you visit, you'll love the delicious and flavorful menu options. This includes a huge variety of unique tacos like Miso Chicken, "Sexy Tofu," and Kalua Pork. They also offer sliders, kimchi fried rice, salads, fried foods, and lunch plates. Visit once, and we promise you'll find yourself craving it again and again.
    
7. Homegrown: 999 3rd Ave., Seattle, WA 98104
   Not only do the folks at Homegrown offer delicious, healthy food, they also are on a mission to reduce their environmental impact by ensuring all of their ingredients are sustainably sourced. If you want to take good care of your body and the planet, you'll feel great about ordering from them. The seasonal menu features tasty options like carrot sweet potato soup, spicy braised tofu bowls, grass-fed steak, and blue sandwiches.
   
   
8. Bounty Kitchen: 7 Boston St., Seattle, WA 98109
   Seattle vegan and vegetarian restaurant Bounty Kitchen is a modern neighborhood cafe offering a chef-driven menu with a focus on healthy eating. They serve brunch all day, every day, as well as salads with layers of flavor and texture, noodle bowls, grain bowls, and more. 

Is a new home on your 2021 wish list? If so, we can help! We've got lots of great listings available, so don't delay. Contact us today to get started. 

It's no secret that Seattle is a haven for phenomenal food trucks, but with so many wonderful options, you may be wondering where exactly the best mobile meal stations are parked around the city. Never fear, our brokers are here to help you track down some of the tastiest grub in the Emerald City. We've gathered a top five list of food trucks commonly found in neighborhoods like Central District, Belltown, and Capitol Hill. From barbeque and burgers to poke and hot dogs, here are a few of our favorite food trucks that you should check out around Seattle.

1. Wood Shop BBQ – BBQ
   Bringing an interesting take on Kansas City and Central Texas barbeque to the Pacific Northwest, Wood Shop BBQ has made a name for themselves as Seattle's best BBQ. Brisket, smoked chicken, pulled pork, and pork spare ribs are available to order by the pound. You could also enjoy their brisket, pulled pork, smoked chicken, and portobello machaca on a toasted brioche bun with pickles and buttermilk slaw on the side. We prefer to savor their juicy meats by diving into one of their amazing Mac & Cheese bowls. 
   
   
2. Sam Choy's Poke To The Max – Hawaiian
   Although Seattle is closer to Hawaii than many other American cities, you don't need to hop a plane to taste amazing Hawaiian food. Sam Choy's Poke To The Max is ready to bring their Hawaiian grinds to your curb! Award-winning chef Sam Choy, known as the God Father of Poke, has taken his creation out of the restaurant and into the streets with his Poke To The Max food truck. Poke can be seared or served fresh in a rice plate, in a salad, or in a wrap. If you're not digging poke, you can order other salads, wraps, and sandwiches with chicken, pork, or beef.
   
   
3. Macho Burgers – Burgers
   If you're looking for a great burger, head down to Macho Burgers. Served with Cascioppo Brothers Meats, you can get everything from a Classic Bacon and Cheese to their Macho-Macho Burger stacked with bacon, cheese, peppers, lettuce, onions, and their special sauce. Cod Burgers and Fish & Chips are available if you don't fancy beef, and there is also a Chipotle Black Bean Veggie Burger with salsa, mushrooms, and cheese. Gluten-free buns are also available, and with the option to nix the bacon and cheese on the Mushroom Bacon Swiss Burger, Macho Burgers can accommodate many dietary preferences. If you love their South of the Border Burger, then you've got to find their sister food truck Macho Tex Mex Enchiladas – their enchiladas, bowls, and taco salads are fantastic!
   
   
4. Big Dog's – Hot Dogs
   Hot dogs are quintessential street food and even though plenty of carts know how to grill a sausage, only Big Dog's is Washington's #1 Hot Dog Food Truck! Voted the best hot dog and food truck in King 5's Evening Magazine, Big Dog's invites you to go Beef Mode with their 100% all-beef ¼-pound dogs served on a steamed stadium roll. Run a Blitz with cheddar cheese sauce, chopped onions, BBQ sauce, and crushed potato chips or call upon the Sea-Dog filled with roasted garlic, chili aioli, jalapenos, and crumbled bacon. 
   
   
5. Mo Pockets – Chinese
   Fans of noodles and potstickers should head down to Bellevue for amazing Chinese street food served up by Mo Pockets. This exceptional food truck has cold spicy or sesame noodle bowls, as well as their signature Mo Pockets filled with pork, beef, chicken, or veggies. Potstickers and popcorn chicken make great sides but it's the house-brewed fresh milk tea that really hits the spot.

Are you searching for a home in one of Seattle's most desirable neighborhoods? Contact us today to browse Seattle homes for sale in Bellevue, Capitol Hill, Eastlake, Fremont, Queen Anne, SoDo, and more!

Coffee is a great morning pick-me-up, but if you're looking for a refreshing mid-day treat, bubble tea is the best beverage to hit the spot! A Taiwanese beverage that looks as unique and incredible as it tastes, bubble tea is a blended tea featuring milk, fruit, fruit juice, and the signature tapioca pearls known as "bubbles." 

Our brokers love bubble tea, and we know you will too. Head to one of our favorite bubble tea cafes around Portland and make your day a little bubblier!  

1. Bubble Bubble Tea — 11723 SW. Beaverton-Hillsdale Hwy., Beaverton, OR 97005
   After moving to Portland from Taiwan, owners Robin and Francie craved an authentic cup of bubble tea. They opened Bubble Bubble Tea in 2001 and have traveled back to Taiwan many times over the last two decades to give Portland's tea drinkers the best cup of authentic bubble tea in town. Milk tea, hot milk tea, green milk tea, and smoothies are on the menu, but we suggest trying their Snow Bubble Smoothie. This blended and non-caffeinated sweet and creamy smoothie can be made in 25 different flavors. A Snow Bubble Smoothie is the perfect mid-day pick-me-up to keep you energized for a day full of Beaverton homes for sale showings.
   
   
2. Tea Bar Pearl — 1055 NW. Northrup, Portland, OR 97209
   Quality over quantity, that's the goal of Tea Bar. Their curated menu is made fresh to order without the use of artificial flavors, powders, or dyes. Many of their beverages are certified organic, use locally sourced ingredients, and their boba are made using grade A tapioca pearls. Purchase one of their reusable canteens, and they'll reward your sustainability efforts with a free drink. Swing by when you're touring Portland homes for sale and discover your new favorite hangout spot.
   
   
3. Tea Chai Te on Burnside — 616 E. Burnside, Portland, OR 97214
   For almost 20 years, Tea Chai Te has offered a selection of more than 120 high-quality teas. This has made them so popular that they've appeared frequently on the hit TV show Portlandia. This Portland staple is a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike. With so many options, allow one of their 'TEAm members' to make a suggestion. House brewed Happy Mountain Kombucha, and bubble teas are on deck, as well as 75 organic teas and 15 uniquely handcrafted chai blends. 
   
   
4. 5 Flavor Café — 14740 NW. Cornell Rd. #160, Portland, OR 97229
   Don't let their name full you — 5 Flavor Café can mix up twenty-six different tea varieties. Choose a classic like a Thai milk tea, HK milk tea, or their house milk tea. Sip on a specialty tea like the Pretty In Pink Jasmine tea with strawberry, Adzuki Cream house black milk tea with cream cheese mousse, or the Indigo Honey matcha milk tea with lavender, honey, and matcha pudding. Better yet, mix your own beverage by blending a tea, milk, and topping together to create your perfect boba tea.
   
   
5. Braganza Tea — 9585 SW. Washington Square Rd., Portland, OR 97223
   Spend any time in the Pacific Northwest, and you'll stumble upon Braganza Tea at your favorite mall. As the most successful bubble tea company in the region, their growing team also serves up milk teas, iced teas, and smoothies. As you're searching for Portland homes for sale, stop by the Washington Square Mall for a bubble tea.
   
   
6. 22 Below — 4155 Rickey St. SE., Salem, OR 97317
   Mix a Taiwanese drink with a Thai snack at 22 Below. Rolled ice cream is a new Thai preparation method for this classic dessert. A liquid ice cream base is poured into a pan at -22 degrees, ingredients are added, the mix is spread into thin sheets, then rolled into delicious spirals. They also serve up flavored soda with popping boba bubbles, brewed milk teas, refreshing shaken drinks, and amazing Boba Smoothies. These caffeine-free smoothies are topped with your choice of nearly a dozen tapioca toppings. A Boba Smoothie is the perfect beverage to cruise with when you're touring Salem homes for sale.  

The bubble tea cafes are just one of the many reasons Portland is a sweet area to call home. For assistance buying homes for sale around Beaverton, Salem, and Portland, contact us today!

Shelter in place orders may have all of us spending more time at home, but that doesn't mean that you can't still enjoy a great meal from some of your favorite Portland restaurants. With dine-in service off the table for the immediate future, ordering takeout, curbside pickup, or delivery from local restaurants is a great way to keep things fresh at home while supporting your favorite dining spots during a challenging time for small businesses. Ready to skip cooking tonight? Our brokers have you covered, with our guide to Portland restaurants offering takeout.

1. Miss Delta – 3950 N Mississippi Ave., Portland, OR 97227

   As a long-time favorite located close to Portland homes for sale, you'll find that Miss Delta has everything you need to enjoy a great family meal at home. The restaurant specializes in Southern fare of all types, from jambalaya to po-boys. Miss Delta is currently offering takeout service via curbside pickup every day of the week, with orders placed online or by phone. With classic comfort food and delicious desserts, you're sure to find something to love on the menu. If you can't make it out for takeout, Miss Delta is also offering delivery options.

2. Ecliptic Brewing – 825 N Cook St., Portland, OR 97227

   When you can't sit down at your favorite Portland pub, why not bring a little piece of the pub home with you? Ecliptic Brewing, known for its truly unique spins on all of your favorite styles of beer, is also a great place to grab a bite. You can still order takeout from the pub every day during lunch and dinner hours, with a menu that will appeal to everyone in your family. 

3. Andina – 1314 NW Glisan St., Portland, OR 97209

   The kitchen at Andina is still turning out all of the Peruvian flavors that you know and love, with takeout available for dinner seven nights per week. Planning a stay at home date night? Andina is offering a meal deal for two, with your choice of two appetizers and entrees for an affordable price. You can order online, and gift cards are also available with some proceeds going to support restaurant staff who are unable to work at this time.

4. G-Love – 1615 NW 21st Ave., Portland, OR 97209

   Billed as Portland's first-ever "reverse steakhouse," G-Love is a popular bistro that specializes in vegetarian and vegan fare. The team at G-Love keeps things fresh by partnering with a local farm, located an hour south of Portland, for all its ingredients. With a focus on sustainability, leftover ingredients are even sent back to the farm to be used as compost. You can order an extensive selection of menu items for takeout from G-Love, along with wine bottles and even cocktail kits to go with your meal.

5. Carne – 2512 NE Broadway St., Portland, OR 97232

   While the popular live music scene at Carne is on hold for the time being, this Latin steakhouse is still offering all of your favorite meals for takeout and delivery. The restaurant is open Tuesday through Saturday during dinner hours, with special deals on meals for two and family meals. With steak, seafood, sangria, and tons of delicious appetizers, you're sure to find something to love on the menu at Carne.

6. Yonder – 4636 NE 42nd Ave. Suite A, Portland, OR 97218

   Offering a mix of classic Pacific Northwest cuisine infused with the Southern flavors made famous in Charleston, Yonder is currently offering takeout from Tuesday through Saturday every week. The menu is packed with comfort food favorites, including fried chicken, that's as good as you'll anywhere in the country. With online ordering now available, it's easy to order your favorites for dinner anytime.

7. Top Burmese – 413 NW 21st Ave., Portland, OR 97209

   When you're craving a delicious vegan meal, it's hard to top the selection of authentic Burmese cuisine available at Top Burmese, which is currently offering takeout, curbside pickup, and delivery seven days a week at both of its local restaurants. The menu here is filled with fantastic curries, soups, noodles, and so much more. 

When you call Portland home, you're never far from your next world-class meal from a beloved local restaurant. Contact us to buy and sell homes in the Portland, OR area.

Small businesses do so much to support the communities that they're a part of, and during times like these it's crucial for communities to show the same support in return. With so many small businesses in Seattle forced to change their business models, stop serving customers in person, or drastically limit hours due to coronavirus precautions, your favorite local businesses need your support now more than ever. Even though visiting local businesses in person has become difficult, there's still plenty you can do to help! Our brokers know how important Seattle small businesses are to every neighborhood, and we've put together 7 ways that you can support your favorite local businesses right now.

1. Support Neighborhood Restaurants by Ordering Takeout or Delivery
   While they currently cannot serve dine-in customers, many restaurants located near Seattle homes for sale are still turning out great food from the kitchen. You just might have to pick it up in a different way than usual. There are a ton of Seattle restaurants still offering delivery, takeout, or drive-thru service, so it's easy to support your favorites while getting access to great promotions in the process. Remember that tips are a major part of the income for many service workers, and tipping can go a long way. Even though you can't dine in, you can still leave a tip when you pick up your food in order to help the staff.

2. Remember That Online Storefronts Are Always Open
   Retailers are feeling the pinch just as much as restaurants, and supporting your favorite shopping spots is simple even if you can't visit in person. Many local small businesses also offer online shopping and local delivery, so you can order your favorite items without ever leaving home. Even if you're just picking up basic necessities like groceries, ordering online and having them delivered helps you stay safe while supporting the community in the process.

3. Be Patient and Remember That Small Businesses Are Doing the Best They Can
   Small businesses are doing everything they can to adapt to an ever-changing situation, and staffs are being stretched to their limit. When you do visit a local business or order something online, remember that the business is doing the best it possibly can to serve you. That may require patience because things can take a bit longer than usual, but it's worth it to support small businesses during trying times.

4. Share on Social to Encourage Others to Shop
   If you're trying to find ways to support small businesses, you likely have friends who would do the same! Make it a point to share on social media when you shop at local small businesses, and point your online connections to businesses who are still serving customers. Many people want to show support but don't know how, so your sharing can make a big difference.

5. Buy Gift Cards from Your Favorite Local Businesses
   Want to support your favorite businesses, but don't have anything you need to buy right now? Purchasing a gift card is a great way to infuse some cash into small businesses, and show your confidence in the local economy. You can hang on to the gift card for a rainy day, give it away as a gift, or donate it.

6. Leave Online Reviews to Promote Small Businesses
   Just like with social sharing, online reviews are an extremely important part of the marketing mix for small businesses. So many people rely on reviews as a significant factor when choosing where to shop, so why not help out your favorite Seattle businesses by leaving a positive review online? It only takes a few minutes of your time, it helps other people find the businesses that you love so much, and it's an easy way to show your support.

7. Avoid Visiting Businesses If You're Not Feeling Well
   While there's plenty you can do to help small businesses, it's just as important to remember what not to do. If you're not feeling well, regardless of whether you've visited a doctor, it's best to stay home, stay safe, and help the community stay safe, too. 

When you're ready to experience the community spirit of Seattle for yourself and find your next home in the city, our team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Seattle, WA area.

You already know that Portland has a legendary culinary scene, but have you considered brunch? PDX has a brunch hotspot to suit every taste. From the finest French-inspired cuisine to the home-cooked joys of eggs, meat, and potatoes, it's easy to satisfy your brunch cravings close to home in Portland. Our brokers love local meals, and we've got the details on 7 of the best brunch destinations around Portland.

1. Tasty n Alder – 580 SW 12th Ave., Portland, OR 97205
   make it easy to enjoy all of the delicious brunch destinations on our list, including the lovely Tasty n Alder. In the evening, Tasty n Alder is known as one of Portland's top steakhouses, and the brunch menu more than equals what you'll find at dinnertime. Executive chef John Gorham, who owns a variety of top-rated restaurants around the city, has created a brunch menu that incorporates cooking styles that he has learned while traveling the world. Mix in a huge selection of craft cocktails, and you have the perfect brunch destination close to Portland homes for sale.

2. Hunnymilk – 1981 W Burnside St., Portland, OR 97209

   If you've ever visited the weekly Hunnymilk brunch pop-up on 28th Ave., then you'll be excited to learn that Portland's favorite pop-up brunch hotspot now has a brick and mortar location! The unique menu at Hunnymilk allows you to pick one sweet dish, one savory dish, and one drink to create a brunch that perfectly suits your mood. There are a variety of vegan and gluten-free options available, with every dish and drink created from fresh, local ingredients.

3. Mother's Bistro & Bar – 121 SW 3rd Ave., Portland, OR 97204

   Owned and operated by executive chef Lisa Schroeder, Mother's Bistro & Bar is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing brunch with your favorite people. If you're looking for an elegant brunch spot that still offers a laid-back atmosphere, this is the place to be. Mother's serves comfort food, but never skimps on quality. The menu features local pork, beef, and wild salmon, along with European-style ingredients that add a dash of unique flavor to every meal. Mother's also features the Mother of the Month program, which includes special dishes inspired by each month's winner.

4. Bijou Cafe – 121 SW 3rd Ave., Portland, OR 97204

   Looking for an upscale brunch spot that's big on flavor and unique dishes? Stop by the Bijou Cafe, where everything on the menu is as fresh as it is delicious. Serving delicious meals since 1978, the Bijou Cafe offers a menu packed with French-style cuisine, a style which owner and chef Kathleen Hagberg has honed over decades in the kitchen. Every ingredient is sourced locally when possible, and the menu at Bijou Cafe is always evolving.

5. Milk Glass Mrkt. – 2150 N Killingsworth St., Portland, OR 97217

   If you'd like to enjoy a craft cocktail or fine glass of wine with your next brunch, be sure to visit the popular Milk Glass Mrkt. for your next late-morning meal. In addition to excellent cocktails, Milk Glass Mrkt. is known for its savory brunches and delicious dessert menu. Stop by for some homemade bread pudding or warm almond butter cake, right after you enjoy a fresh salad, sandwich, or egg plate from the simple, delightful menu at Milk Glass.

6. Irving Street Kitchen – 701 NW 13th Ave., Portland, OR 97209

   With an extensive drink list and tons of great food fresh from the griddle, Irving Street Kitchen has everything you need to enjoy your next brunch outing. Irving Street Kitchen is a true brunch destination, offering a flavorful mix of your favorite morning and early afternoon meals. Try the famed Irving Street Kitchen sugar and spice donuts, which provide the perfect way to finish off your delicious meal.

7. Radar PDX – 3951 N Mississippi Ave., Portland, OR 97227

   Famed for its warm, intimate atmosphere and a list of awards a mile long, Radar PDX consistently ranks as one of the top brunch spots in the entire region. While some brunch spots stick to a few select dishes, Radar PDX offers a huge selection of meals with plenty of options to customize your brunch. Mix in a great variety of cocktails, and it's easy to see why this spot is a local favorite.

When you call Portland home, your only concern with finding great food is how to fit in a visit to all of the amazing restaurants around the city. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the area.

Now that winter has settled in around Portland homes for sale, it's time to celebrate National Hot Chocolate Day on Friday, January 31. Indulge your love affair with chocolate by sipping a warming cup of hot cocoa at one of these amazing neighborhood cafés.

1. Cacao - 414 SW 13th St., Portland 97205
   Expand your horizons with a visit to Cacao, which makes three basic drinking chocolates: dark French, Venezuelan milk chocolate with cinnamon, and spicy dark with ginger and coconut milk. Hot chocolate is available in 100 percent pure dark unsweetened chocolate and several other varieties, including vegan and sugar-free options. Cacao is open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily.
   
   
2. Moonstruck Chocolate Co. - 6600 N. Baltimore Ave., Portland 97203
   The owners of Moonstruck Chocolate Co. chose the name as a reference to the magic and wonder we find in both the moon and chocolate. Moonstruck's decadent chocolates are infused with fresh Pacific Northwest flavors. All products are handmade on-site at Moonstruck's factory store underneath Portland's iconic St. Johns bridge. Hot chocolate comes in five delicious flavors, including mint and cinnamon. Hours are 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. weekdays.
   
   
3. Creo Chocolate - 122 NE Broadway, Portland 97232
   What could be more fun than eating a delicious chocolate bar? How about designing your bar at Creo Chocolate? "Creo" translates as "I believe" in Spanish and "I create" in Latin, and both elements are a part of this delightful chocolate shop in the Lloyd District. The owners of Creo partner directly with farmers in Ecuador to support the workers and provide the highest quality chocolate to customers. Take the one-hour Make-a-Bar Tour for $20, or go in-depth with the two-hour Chocolate 101 class for $50. Creo's sipping chocolates, which can be enjoyed hot or cold, are made with the same chocolates used in their bars. Hours are 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
   
   
4. Alma Chocolate - 140 NE 28th Ave., Portland 97232
   At Alma Chocolates, their goal is to nourish the soul by pleasing the taste buds. Alma's chocolate products are made with real vanilla, organic butter, and cream, and fresh herbs. But aside from the top-quality ingredients, no two batches are the same as they're infused with the individuality of the person who crafts them. Looking for unique treats to savor along with your hot chocolate or chocolate chai tea? Reese's meets Asian flavors with the Thai peanut butter cup. Layers of milk chocolate, peanut butter, ginger, coconut, lime, and chili are topped with a dash of volcanic sea salt for the ultimate in sweet-and-savory. Visit Alma Chocolate from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.  Sunday.
   
   
5. Cup & Bar - 118 NE Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Portland 97232
   If there's one thing the Pacific Northwest is more passionate about than chocolate, it's coffee. Local favorites Trailhead Coffee Roasters and Ranger Chocolate Company joined forces to open Cup & Bar, Portland's first coffee and chocolate tasting room. This cozy café is a perfect place to catch up with a friend over a snack or light meal with a cup of hot chocolate or a mocha latte. Liven up your weekends at one of Cup & Bar's many art, music, literary, or fund-raising events. Cup & Bar is open 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. seven days a week.
   
   
6. Woodblock Chocolate - 1715 NE 17th Ave., Portland 97212
   Jessica and Charley Wheelock met through a mutual love of antique restoration and woodworking. Once they discovered an interest in another type of craftwork, Woodblock Chocolate was born. The family business has grown from making chocolate in their home kitchen to a charming manufactory/café in Portland's Irvington-Broadway district where you can get a first-hand look at the process. Woodblock Chocolate is known for its trademark enfleurage products, in which chocolate "rests" alongside an aromatic product such as tea, coffee, or hops to absorb the fragrance. Hours are 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. weekends.

For a deeply satisfying experience buying or selling a Portland home, contact us and let our brokers go to work for you.

With Thanksgiving and its turkey now just a memory, we're firmly in the thick of the holiday season. December's ticking away at a rapid clip, but before you get mired in a tangle of tinsel, gift wrapping or kransekake baking, have some fun first! There's so much going on this time of year it's hard to choose. Here are a few ideas we just couldn't resist.

Portlanders really know how to get into the spirit, or should we say spirits, this time of year? At the  Holiday Ale Festival in downtown Portland, nearly 50 craft brews and ciders will be on tap, along with food, merchandise and more (Dec. 4-8). On the other hand, what could be more fun than 300 tubas gathered together in Portland's Pioneer Courthouse Square to play Christmas carols and other seasonal songs at Tuba Christmas (Dec. 14)? You'll see more than three ships go sailing by at this year's Christmas Ships Parade, where for two weeks fleets of festively decorated vessels will cruise the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, much to the delight of the onshore crowds (Dec. 5-22). A trip to the zoo is family fun any time of year, but ZooLights at the Oregon Zoo ups the ante with a display of more than 1.5 million bulbs that turn the animal kingdom into a magical wonderland (through Jan. 5). Seattle has its Candy Cane Lane, but Portlanders head to Peacock Lane, where residents there have been festooning their Tudor-style homes in holiday garb since the 1930s. Drive through or park nearby and stroll at your leisure. Free hot chocolate and cider will be on hand, though a donation is appreciated (Dec. 15-31).

In Bend, there's an interesting onstage sequel to Pride and Prejudice, the Jane Austen classic, in Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley, presented by the Cascades Theatrical Company. Set two years after the original novel and focusing on middle sister Mary, the play has been called "an unstuffy, highly entertaining and warm-spirited work," by the Chicago Tribune (through Dec. 15). In the Old Mill District, local choirs sing their hearts out and fill the air – and shops and restaurants in the outdoor mall – with holiday spirit (through Dec. 21). The Old Mill District is also the site of the annual menorah lighting in celebration of Hanukkah, with music, food, Hanukkah gelt (chocolate coins) and more (Dec. 22). Pack up the kids and head to Gingerbread Junction at Sunriver Resort, where amazing candy and cookie creations have been dazzling holiday visitors for nearly a quarter century (Dec. 6-Jan. 4).

The Teddy Bear Suite at the Fairmont Olympic Hotel in downtown Seattle is an annual holiday pleasure for kids and parents alike. But heads up: If you plan to visit the teddy bear wonderland on the weekend, be prepared for a lengthy wait in line (through Dec. 26). In Bellevue, it's a party every day on Snowflake Lane, where a nightly parade of holiday characters, dancers, lighted floats, falling snow – even Santa as the 12^th Man – enliven the sidewalks between Bellevue Square and Lincoln Square (through Dec. 24). After the parade, sashay over to the ice rink, strap on your skates and enjoy more than 9,000 square feet of real ice. Can't skate? Don't worry; free skating lessons are available or you can take a two-week class for $40 (through Jan. 20). Area green-thumbers are in for a seasonal treat at the Garden d'Lights, the annual holiday extravaganza of more than half a million twinkling lights shaped like plants, flowers, birds and more on view at the Bellevue Botanical Center (through Dec. 31). See you there!

November is World Vegan Month — but that doesn't mean it's a vegan-only event! This official global celebration of cruelty-free lifestyle is an excellent opportunity for everyone to learn more about the veganism way of life. People choose a vegan diet to promote the humane treatment of animals, the protection of the environment or for health concerns.

Although vegan dishes do not include meat, dairy, eggs, fish or honey, there's one thing vegan meals are full of — great taste! Our brokers encourage you to celebrate World Vegan Month at one of these fantastic vegan restaurants in Seattle.

• Wayward Vegan Café — 801 NE. 66th St. Suite C, Seattle, WA 98115
  There's just something comforting about eating at a family-owned diner. Perhaps that's why Wayward Vegan Café has been a beloved part of the Seattle community for fifteen years. Get your fill of breakfast favorites with a vegan twist like the Ex-Benedict or Suns Over Seattle. Stop by for lunch or dinner for a Chico Vegan Melt, Tempeh Reuben or Pacific Phil's Quinoa Extravaganza. Not only are their items vegan, but many are also gluten-free, so those with dietary restrictions will have no trouble finding a delicious option.     
  
  
• Plum Bistro — 1429 12th Ave., Seattle, WA 98122
  Plum Bistro is Capitol Hill's most loved vegan restaurant. Their artful, upscale dishes display the true potential humble vegan ingredients possess. A must for Sunday brunch, Plum Bistro's brunch menu has everything from classic scrambles and French toast to plant milkshakes and breakfast sandwiches. Their lunch and dinner menus are just as fresh and tasty. Be sure to stop by during happy hour for small snack plates and drink specials.
  
  Head's up. There's more to Plum Bistro than meets the eye. Their main location also features Plum Chopped which functions as a food truck but is designed like a restaurant. They also have a location called Pantry by Plum Bistro at The Armory at Seattle Center, which is more of a casual vegan dining spot. Their delectable Sugar Plum sweetshop is located at both locations. Keep an eye out for the Plum Truck too, as it's often seen cruising around Seattle offering up grab-and-go vegan dishes!
  
  
• Harvest Beat — 1711 N. 45th, Seattle, WA 98103
  If you're looking for an excellent vegan restaurant in Emerald City, Harvest Beat is hard to beat! They use the freshest local ingredients to unite the community of farmers and diners under one roof. They also strive to reduce their carbon footprint in everything they do, producing as little waste as possible. Their creative menu is influenced by whatever ingredients are in season, allowing the chef to plate a delicious meal using the best fruits, vegetables, and grains possible. Stop in for a five-course meal consisting of a soup and salad styled starter, a tantalizing appetizer, filling entrée, and a perfect dessert. They will also pair your meal with the best vegan wines or teas available.
  
  
• Vegan Pizza Pi — 5500 University Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105
  Finding a good vegan pizza is a top priority for every vegan eater. Thankfully, the oldest vegan pizzeria in the country is located right in Seattle. Vegan Pizza Pi's tasty menu will convince you that meatless, cheeseless pizza is fantastic. Order up their Breadstix or cheese bread starter while you decide how to top your pie. Choose a size, a sauce, and tons of fresh toppings. Many kinds of cheese are dairy-free like their House Made Cashew Ricotta or House Made Tofu Feta. Trust us. Once you bite into a pizza from Vegan Pizza Pi, you'll realize that you can still get authentic pizza taste from modern vegan ingredients.
  
  
• No Bones Beach Club — 5410 17th Ave NW., Seattle, WA 98107
  No Bones Beach Club has one powerful slogan — "Just cause it's vegan, doesn't mean it sucks!" With locations in Seattle, Chicago and Portland, hundreds of satisfied vegans agree that No Bones Beach Club is the real deal when it comes to the best vegan food. Their colorful menu of Bites, Greens & Things, Chomps and Brunchies will make your mouth water. Buffalo Cauliflower Wings and Amazeballs mac 'n' cheese balls are perfect shareables. While the Jackfruit Flautas, Pineapple Mavericks Burger and Beet Battered Avocado Tacos are so good, you'll want to keep them to yourself.

Even if you don't have a vegan diet, there are still choices you can make during World Vegan Month, like trying one of these great vegan restaurants. See a new side to the Seattle community you may not be acquainted with and enjoy delicious, locally-sourced, and cruelty-free ingredients. If you'd also like help shopping Seattle homes for sale, contact us today!

Portland Food-On-Wheels: 10 Favorite Food Carts

Call us biased, but some of our Brokers think Portland has the tastiest food carts in America. Food carts (aka trucks) are a staple in our local Portland community.  

Depending upon who you talked to, Portland's first food trucks came into the picture as early as 1910 with Joseph Gatto selling from a horse-drawn cart. Fast forward to 2019, and you'll find nearly 600 food carts in our city with the aroma of food enticing hungry passersby to flock to their neighborhood. 

Food carts have a style all their own that adds to the charm of Portland. Food carts are a huge part of our culture in Portland, and their popularity only continues to grow throughout our neighborhoods. Recently, a U.S. Chamber of Commerce study named Portland as one of the five friendliest cities across America for food trucks.  Our city's food-friendly attitude invites new entrepreneurs to build their food cart businesses here and add to our "food-omenon."

If you're searching for Portland homes for sale, you'll want to try out some of our restaurants on wheels.

Many locals use apps like Food Truck Fiesta, Eat St., and Roaming Hunger to track their favorite trucks. For the most part, each cart has a weekly rotation so you can always find them.

Let's say hello to ten of the top food trucks in the city:

1. Gracie's Apizza – 8371 North Interstate Avenue, Portland, OR 97217
   Gracie's Apizza is a fusion of New Haven and Portland pizza with genuine wood-fired pies served from an iconic little red van. You can find Gracie's ranging throughout many Portland neighborhoods, from Kenton to Hillsborough. The mozzarella is always made fresh.
2. Gumba – Northeast Alberta Street and Northeast 23rd Avenue, Portland, OR 97211
   Gumba operates out of an unassuming cart led by local celebrity Jesse Martinez, the former sous chef of elegant Bar Mingo. With partner Robin Brassaw, he creates hand-crafted pasta dishes you have to see to believe. From beef short rib to Pizza Mondays, it runs the gamut of flavors.
3. Matt's BBQ – 4233 North Mississippi Avenue, Portland, OR 97217
   You'll spot Matt's BBQ in Prost Marketplace, where top food carts hang out. The headliner is a simple yet succulent barbecue, but there are many Tex-Mex meals to choose from. Start with The Whole Shebang for a taste of all the meats and three side dishes.
4. MF Tasty Food Truck – 3925-3927 North Williams Avenue, Portland, OR 97227
   MF Tasty Food Truck is the brainchild of chef-owner Eric Gitenstein, known for his delectable paella of the week. Cheesy quesadillas, cart-made chorizo, and other beloved Mexican-American bites can be enjoyed to go or under the covered seating area nearby.
5. Kee's #Loaded Kitchen – 3625 Northeast MLK Jr. Boulevard, Portland, OR 97212
   Kiauna Nelson is an Internet sensation who rose to prominence with Kee's #Loaded Kitchen after teaching herself to cook and earning a business degree. Here, she serves up daily specials fresh. Check out her social media to learn what they are each day.
6. Hapa PDX Ramen – 6035 Northeast Halsey Street, Portland, OR 97213
   Your ramen craving will be cared for with Hapa PDX Ramen, which has brought the savor of Hawaiian-style ramen to Portland. Its G-Special Ramen is not to be missed: It combines pork and chicken broth, sprouts, spinach, pork belly, and a sprinkling of shiitake mushrooms.
7. Wolf and Bear's – 113 Southeast 28th Avenue, Portland, OR 97214
   With nearly ten years of experience behind it, Wolf and Bear's is lauded as the top Portland food truck for Middle Eastern food. It has two locations in Portland and is known for its extensive vegetarian-friendly menu. Classics like falafel and hummus are always on hand here!
8. Wild North – 930 Southeast Oak Street, Portland, OR 97214
   Right outside Basecamp Brewing, Wild North serves up wood-fired cuisine from a refurbished Pyro Pizza cart. Local ingredients come together in spectacular ambitious dishes like whiskey lamb bone marrow topped with mushroom gremolata. Don't miss out on the clam chowder.
9. Viking Soul Food – 4255 Southeast Belmont Street, Portland, OR 97215
   Authentic Scandinavian delights await you at Viking Soul Food! Rounding off nine years of experience, it pairs heaping helpings of meatballs with smoked salmon and hot seafood chowder. Wash everything down with a cold, refreshing lingonberry iced tea.
10. Burger Stevens – 6238 Southwest Capitol Highway, Portland, OR 97239
    What about the old-fashioned burger? Grab one at Burger Stevens, home of chef Don Salamone – a veteran of multiple Michelin-starred restaurants. His cheeseburger may well be the best in Portland thanks to its Creekstone ground beef.

The flavors of Portland will tempt your taste buds, and the city's fleet of lunch trucks grows by the day. Why not get started on your road to a Portland home you'll love? To find out more or get started, contact us today. We look forward to helping you.