The Wagyu fat truffle fries and spicy habanero butter shrimp are easy favorites, and the cocktails are spot-on — martinis, mezcal old fashioneds, and fancy red or white wines for just $7. Don’t miss the prime tenderloin bites, with lemongrass, ginger, garlic, and a kick of sesame and orange.

Hot Tip

Grab the tempura-fried Kurobota bacon — crispy perfection with an incredible maple dipping sauce.

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Founded in 2014 by sommelier Erik Liedholm and chef John Howie, Wildwood’s spirits, such as Kur gin and The Dark Door bourbon, reflect the same care and precision as a fine wine. Distilling each botanical separately and aging in hand-coopered oak barrels, it brings a winemaker’s approach to every bottle.

Locations: Bothell and Ballard

Hot Tip

The Wildwood Arande grappa is released in limited batches and is worth seeking out.

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On a recent evening, the bar and deck at Ray’s Boathouse was packed. It didn’t matter that it was only Monday. Drinkers and diners alike took advantage of reasonably priced cocktails and appetizers while enjoying stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. Bartenders and servers are always friendly and knowledgeable toward the many regular customers and newcomers alike.

Hot Tip

Ray’s Café, above the more formal Boathouse restaurant, is typically much less crowded, and offers a more casual atmosphere perfect for enjoying a sunny day or beautiful sunset. Don’t neglect reservations, however, as the deck can get crowded.

Staff Pick

Westward on the north shore of Lake Union. This is my personal favorite to take out-of-town visitors. Spectacular views you can’t have in any other city. — Jonathan Sposato, CEO

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The Seattle Storm isn’t just the city’s most popular sports team. It’s also its most successful. The WNBA club has enjoyed 18 winning seasons since its inception in 2000, and of course has won four championships. Having one of the best WNBA players of all time in Sue Bird doesn’t hurt, either. Bird retired two years ago but was around for all four titles.

Hot Tip

If you’re a regular you know this, but plan on standing until the Storm scores its first basket.

Staff Pick

AquaSox in Everett: They are a Single A, minor league team for the Seattle Mariners. Free parking, cheap seats, and baseball in its purest form. — Brandon Ferguson, CFO, COO

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The region’s most popular casino is in the midst of a significant expansion project. The $400 million undertaking began in 2022 and includes the additions of a 200-plus room luxury hotel, more casino space, two new restaurants (a third will open later), a full-service spa, and a 2,000-seat entertainment and convention center. Completion is slated for early next year.

Hot Tip

Snoqualmie boasts a fully enclosed non-smoking slot area, and all casino restaurants are 100% smoke-free.

Staff Pick

Tulalip Casino in Marysville. The service here is fantastic. There is so much going on that you need a few days just to take it all in. — Brandon Ferguson, CFO, COO

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At 14,410 feet, this snow-capped volcano towers over the Pacific Northwest, demanding to be photographed. During the rainy season, it may peek out from behind the clouds, or vanish entirely. In summer, it looms against the blue sky. Whether it’s the mountain itself or the Seattle skyline with Rainier behind it, the views are stunning. Like a dapper gentleman standing tall, Rainier is handsome and effortlessly classy.

Hot Tip

For a pretty shot, try sunrise or sunset, when the mountain’s snow-covered peak is bathed in pink and orange hues.

Staff Pick

Gas Works Park is iconic for a reason. You’ll always find me taking Instagram stories there — it’s stunning no matter the time of day or weather. — Emma Smith, account executive / social media manager

The post Best Instagram-Worthy Location: Mount Rainier appeared first on Seattle magazine.

Twisting through rugged peaks, shimmering alpine lakes, and charming small towns, the Cascade Loop is Washington’s signature road trip. This 440-mile route highlights the state’s natural beauty, with stops at North Cascades National Park, Lake Chelan, and Whidbey Island. From the towering pines of Stevens Pass to the pink haze of apple blossoms in spring, every bit of the trip will be beautiful.

Hot Tip

Plan your trip for fall to catch the stunning colors of the changing leaves.

Staff Pick

Bellingham has two scenic byways, Chuckanut Drive and Mount Baker Highway. Simply beautiful. Reminds me of my childhood when dad would take the family out for a long drive in the old Ford Fairlane 500. — Lisa Lee, publisher / advertising director

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Beardslee Public House in Bothell is all about comfort food done right, serving up favorites like jalapeño mac and cheese, juicy burgers, and house-made ales that elevate any meal. The industrial-chic interior creates the perfect setting for a casual night out, whether you’re catching up with friends or unwinding after a long week.

Hot Tip

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Since 1933, SAM has been showing off art, and does it well. SAM’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is clear in thoughtfully curated displays that explore global perspectives while keeping a Pacific Northwest focus. Its long-standing pledge to racial equity in programming has been active since the mid-1990s.

Hot Tip

Free admission on the first Thursday of every month year-round.

Staff Pick

The Museum of Flight. I posit that the top criteria for “best museum” should be the sheer volume of content, and the extent to which the content excites and inspires the senses. — Jonathan Sposato, CEO

The post Best Museum: Seattle Art Museum appeared first on Seattle magazine.

Nestled along the picturesque Pacific coastline, Seabrook is noted for its New England-style cottages and walkable streets. Outdoor activities include surfing, hiking, and biking. The town is an especially attractive destination for families, with an array of parks and playgrounds. Seabrook is also home to many local events and festivals, as well as local shops, galleries and restaurants.

Hot Tip

During the off-season (think late spring or early fall), you’ll find fewer crowds and generally better rates on accommodations.

Staff Pick

Whidbey Island’s Double Bluff Beach is not only gorgeous and pristine, but transports you to a place and time where real sandy beaches still exist. — Jonathan Sposato, CEO

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