An Escape to Seattle: Five Days of Food, Art, and Adventure
Seattle welcomed my wife and me with its signature charm—a mix of bustling markets, world-class cuisine, stunning views, and quirky experiences. Over five unforgettable days, we immersed ourselves in everything this Pacific Northwest gem had to offer, from the iconic Space Needle to cozy cafes and hidden treasures. Here’s a recap of our journey.
Day 1: A Dreamy Start in Downtown Seattle
Our adventure began at the Grand Hyatt in downtown Seattle, a luxurious retreat in the heart of the city.
After settling into our room, we ventured to The Pink Door for dinner, a hidden treasure near Pike Place Market.
The ambiance was magical, with live jazz music setting the tone for a memorable evening. We savored dishes like the rich and savory Crostini Toscani, creamy Celery Root & Roasted Pear Bisque, and the fresh Bitter Winter Salad. For our mains, my wife chose the “Branzino Style” Whole White Fish, while I opted for the Northwest Fish of the Day, a seasonal swordfish creation by Chef Dylan Giordan. Every bite was a testament to the restaurant’s reputation for blending Italian-inspired cuisine with local ingredients.
As we walked back to our hotel, the city lights sparkled, hinting at the adventures to come.
Day 2: Art, Skyline Views, and Hidden Gems
We were treated to a nice view as we woke up from our hotel overlooking downtown.
We started our day with a hearty breakfast at Tilikum Place Café, known for its European-inspired dishes. My wife’s Eggs in Purgatory—baked eggs in a tomato-garlic sauce—was rich and flavorful, while my Classic Dutch Baby, a puffed pancake with powdered sugar and maple syrup, was light and citrusy.
The Chihuly Garden and Glass Exhibit was a feast for the senses and one of the most awe-inspiring stops on our trip. Located in the heart of Seattle, right next to the Space Needle, this exhibit celebrates the incredible artistry of Dale Chihuly, a pioneer in the world of blown glass. Every room, every sculpture, and every detail told a story of creativity, imagination, and mastery.
As we stepped into the exhibit, we were immediately captivated by the Glass Forest, an ethereal display of tall, slender glass forms lit from within. It felt like entering another world, where the boundaries between nature and art blurred seamlessly.
The exhibit continued through several galleries, each more dazzling than the last. One of our favorite rooms was the Mille Fiori, meaning "a thousand flowers" in Italian. It was a sprawling landscape of colorful, glass-blown flowers, reeds, and tendrils that seemed to grow organically, filling the space with vibrant energy. The intricate details and lifelike movement of the glass made us forget we were looking at something man-made.
Another standout was the Persian Ceiling, a breathtaking installation where hundreds of intricately designed glass pieces were suspended above us. The sunlight streaming through the colorful glass cast a kaleidoscope of hues across the walls and floor, creating a dreamy, otherworldly effect.
The outdoor Glasshouse was the crown jewel of the exhibit. A massive 100-foot-long installation of vivid orange and yellow glass flowers stretched across the ceiling, perfectly framed by the Space Needle towering above. The contrast of the delicate, translucent glass against the backdrop of Seattle’s skyline was nothing short of magical.
Outside, the Garden continued the theme of blending art with nature. Brilliantly colored glass sculptures were nestled among lush greenery and blooming flowers, creating a whimsical landscape. It was impossible to tell where nature ended and art began—it all blended together in perfect harmony.
To make the experience even more memorable, we caught a live glass-blowing demonstration at the theater. Watching the glassmakers work their magic was mesmerizing, as they transformed molten glass into intricate shapes right before our eyes. Seeing the process added a layer of appreciation for the sheer craftsmanship and skill involved in Chihuly’s creations.
The Chihuly Garden and Glass Exhibit left us in awe and gave us a newfound appreciation for glass as an art form. It’s a place where creativity knows no bounds, and every corner offers a new perspective to marvel at. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just someone looking to be inspired, this exhibit is a must-see when visiting Seattle. It’s a vibrant, colorful world that we’ll carry with us long after the trip.
No trip to Seattle would be complete without a visit to the iconic Space Needle, and it was one of the highlights of our adventure. Rising 605 feet above the city, the Space Needle is a symbol of Seattle’s innovation and futuristic spirit, first built for the 1962 World’s Fair. It offers not only breathtaking views of the surrounding area but also a unique experience that makes it so much more than just an observation tower.
We began by taking the high-speed elevator ride to the top, which was an experience in itself. As the elevator ascended, the floor-to-ceiling glass revealed jaw-dropping glimpses of the cityscape below, building the excitement for the views waiting for us at the summit.
Once at the top, we were greeted by panoramic, 360-degree views of Seattle. The vistas were nothing short of spectacular—on one side, we could see Puget Sound’s sparkling waters, with ferries cutting across the bay.
But the real showstopper was the rotating glass floor, a feature that makes the Space Needle truly unforgettable. Located on the lower observation level, the Loupe is the world’s first and only rotating glass floor. Walking on it felt thrilling (and a little daring!) as it slowly spun, giving us a completely unique perspective of the city below. We could see straight down through the transparent floor to the ground over 500 feet below—an exhilarating experience that gave us butterflies and added an extra layer of fun to our visit.
To make the moment even more special, we treated ourselves to glasses of wine from the café on the observation deck. Sipping our drinks while soaking in the views felt indulgent and romantic, and it gave us time to truly take in the beauty of Seattle from above.
The Space Needle’s rotating floor, combined with its breathtaking views, made for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whether you’re visiting during the day to see the glistening waters and snow-capped mountains or at night when the city lights twinkle below, the Space Needle offers a perspective of Seattle that you simply can’t get anywhere else. It’s not just an attraction—it’s an adventure, and one we’ll never forget.
Lunch was at Bounty Kitchen in Queen Anne, where fresh, healthy dishes like the Cha Cha Bowl and a seasonal salad left us feeling refreshed. Then we walked around the neighborhood to explore its quaint charm.
Our late-night dinner at Qiao Lin Hotpot, conveniently connected to the Grand Hyatt, was one of the most interactive and flavorful meals of our Seattle trip. This authentic hotpot experience is perfect for foodies who love bold flavors and the fun of cooking their own meal right at the table.
We opted for a three-broth split pot, which gave us a variety of flavors to enjoy. Each broth was distinct and brought its own personality to the table:
Chongqing Broth: This spicy and aromatic broth packed a serious punch! Perfect for fans of heat, it was loaded with chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns that created the signature numbing sensation hotpot lovers crave. It brought every ingredient to life with its bold and fiery depth.
Golden Chicken Broth: Rich and comforting, this savory broth was a great counterbalance to the spiciness of the Chongqing base. Its golden hue hinted at the hearty, slow-cooked flavor—perfect for cooking vegetables, noodles, or delicate proteins like thinly sliced meats.
Tomato Broth: A mild yet flavorful option, the tomato broth was a delightful surprise. Its tangy sweetness added a refreshing twist to the meal, pairing beautifully with seafood and leafy greens.
The variety of fresh ingredients we selected for our hotpot made the experience even more memorable. We cooked thinly sliced beef, tender lamb, shrimp, tofu, and an assortment of fresh vegetables and mushrooms right in front of us, letting them soak up the flavors of the broths.
The dipping sauces were another highlight. Qiao Lin offers a DIY sauce station, allowing us to customize our flavors with sesame paste, garlic, soy sauce, chili oil, and more. It added an extra layer of personalization and flavor to every bite.
What made this meal special wasn’t just the incredible food—it was the experience of cooking, sharing, and experimenting together. With the warmth of the broths and the lively ambiance of the restaurant, Qiao Lin Hotpot felt like the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring Seattle. If you’re looking for a unique dining experience that blends bold flavors with hands-on fun, Qiao Lin is a must-visit.
Day 3: Market Adventures and Parisian Cuisine
The Athenian Seafood Restaurant and Bar, nestled in the heart of Pike Place Market, was the perfect blend of incredible seafood, historic charm, and stunning waterfront views. Sitting by the large windows overlooking Puget Sound, we indulged in fresh, succulent king crab served with melted butter—a true taste of the Pacific Northwest. The restaurant’s cozy, nostalgic atmosphere, paired with its prime location in Seattle’s iconic market, made for a memorable dining experience.
Adding to its charm, The Athenian is famously featured in Sleepless in Seattle. We couldn’t resist taking a photo where Tom Hanks sat, thanks to the little plaque marking the spot. Beyond its Hollywood ties, The Athenian embodies the soul of Seattle, offering fresh, local seafood and friendly service with views you won’t forget. It’s a must-visit for anyone exploring Pike Place Market or seeking a delicious slice of Seattle’s history.
The rest of the morning was spent exploring Pike Place Market, from the whimsical Gum Wall to a free demonstration at the Atrium Kitchen, where we sampled grilled bread topped with prosciutto. We grabbed a snack of salmon and tuna sashimi from City Fish Co., followed by a scoop of Greek-style ice cream from Hellenika Cultured Creamery.
After strolling along the waterfront and snapping photos of the Great Wheel, we stopped at Old Stove Brewing for a beer before heading to the Seattle Public Library.
The Seattle Public Library’s Central Library is an architectural marvel and one of the city’s standout landmarks. Designed by Rem Koolhaas and Joshua Prince-Ramus, the building’s bold, geometric glass façade immediately draws you in. Inside, the sleek, modern design and expansive open spaces make it a fascinating place to explore. During our visit, we headed straight to the highest point of the library—the 10th-floor reading room. From there, the floor-to-ceiling windows offered stunning views of downtown Seattle, with the city’s bustling streets and skyline stretching out before us.
The combination of natural light and striking architecture gave the space a peaceful yet awe-inspiring feel, making it a perfect spot to pause and soak in the beauty of the city. While we didn’t explore every nook of the library, the breathtaking views and the building’s innovative design left a lasting impression. Whether you’re a book lover or just looking for a unique perspective on Seattle, the library’s highest floor is well worth the visit.
Dinner that evening was a romantic Parisian affair at Le Pichet. We shared the Assiette de Charcuterie, a platter of artisan cured meats, and a crisp Salade Verte. For our mains, my wife had the classic French Onion Soup, while I indulged in the Roasted Chicken, served with decadent pommes aligot, caramelized endive, chestnuts, and a luscious prune sauce.
Day 4: Crumpets, Trolls, and a Snowy Stroll
We couldn’t resist another visit to Pike Place Market, where breakfast came from The Crumpet Shop—buttery crumpets topped with honey and paired with coffee from Storyville Coffee were the perfect start to our day.
Next, we explored Seattle’s hidden history on the Underground Tour, a fascinating walk through the old passageways beneath Pioneer Square.
For lunch, we headed to Fremont for happy hour at Swel Restaurant, enjoying wine, calamari, a fresh salad, and carne tacos. A visit to the quirky Fremont Troll added some fun before the afternoon turned magical—it began to snow! We strolled through the snowy streets to Aslan Brewery, where we warmed up with craft beer before returning to our hotel for dinner.
That evening, we kept things simple with takeout from Kas Japanese Restaurant, savoring sushi burritos and sashimi in the comfort of our room.
Day 5: Bonus Adventures in Seattle
An unexpected flight cancellation due to weather gave us a bonus half-day in the city. Although it was stressful finding out how to rebook to another flight the same day, we made the most of it. We started with a visit to the Original Starbucks, where it all began, before grabbing a savory Beef and Onion Piroshky from Piroshky Piroshky.
Then, we headed to Capitol Hill to visit the luxurious Starbucks Reserve Roastery, where we sipped specialty drinks at their elegant coffee bar. Before leaving, we treated ourselves to a shared indulgence at Voodoo Doughnut, choosing the playful Homer’s Doughnut—a pink-frosted creation straight out of The Simpsons.
As we finally boarded our flight that evening, we felt a mix of gratitude and nostalgia. Seattle had surprised and delighted us at every turn, from its vibrant markets and artistic treasures to its incredible food and breathtaking views.
Until next time, Seattle—you’ve left us with memories we’ll cherish forever.
Cheers!
Matt
