Travel Guide: Seattle, Washington

Andrew and I recently took a week-long trip to Seattle. Both of us worked remotely, and it felt great to have a change of scenery. Traveling helps me get in my creative element and either sparks new ideas or resurfaces ones I haven’t pursued yet.

We love to feel like locals when we get to a city, and we often skip touristy things (though I’m sure this will change a bit once the kiddo is here), so here is a roundup of our favorite Seattle spots!

Neighborhoods

BALLARD

This was our favorite neighborhood and the area Andrew and I both said we could live. It has a laid-back vibe with an adorable main street full of shops, bars, and restaurants. On the weekends, the main street shuts down for their amazing farmers’ market.

Sabine – The perfect spot to grab a breakfast and coffee or morning cocktail. Sabine is open for lunch and stocks a full bar if you want to visit later in the day.

September – After eating at Sabine, bop on over to an adorable women’s clothing store. Unfortunately, the shop was closed when we visited, but I wish we could have stopped in.

Cycle Dogs – We loved this all-vegan spot for some burgers, hot dogs, and fries. The vegan cheeseburger was super reminiscent of a McDonald’s cheeseburger – pickles, diced onions, ketchup, and mustard. Haven’t had one in nearly 15 years, but damn did it taste good.

Mighty-O Donuts – Boasting multiple locations across the city, this all-vegan donut shop is a must-try, vegan or non-vegan.

Bale Breaker & Yonder Cider Taproom – This place has mazing ciders, outdoor fire pits, and local food trucks––what more can you ask for? There are several breweries in this area, so you easily could make an afternoon of brewery-hopping.

*Places we didn’t get to try but were on our list: Pie Bar, StudioRA, Cafe Munir

FREMONT

Kamonegi – This was hands down one of the most memorable meals I’ve had. The soba noodles are made in-house and served three different ways. Be sure to make a reservation as this restaurant is tiny and quaint!

Midnight Cookie Co. – Following dinner, head right next door to Kamonegi and grab a coffee or two for dessert.

Hannyatou – If you’re waiting for a table at Kamonegi, walk two doors down to another local Japanese bar for some fun bar snacks, small bites, and tasty drinks.

*Places we didn’t get to try but were on our list: Lazy Cow Bakery (all vegan), Stampede Cocktail Club, The BackDoor

BELLTOWN

Rocco’s Pizza – Andrew and I got a full vegan margarita pizza, and it may have been the best vegan pizza I’ve ever had. The crust was just right and half of a full pie was plenty for the two of us. Unless you want leftovers for days, I’d recommend half a pie.

Navy Strength – Fun cocktail bar

DOWNTOWN

Andrew and I stayed downtown at the Thompson Hotel, and the location was perfect for us. We had plenty to do right by our hotel (we were within two blocks of Pike Place Market and a 5-minute walk from shopping areas), yet we were within walking distance of several other neighborhoods.

Pike’s Place Market – With over 200 independently owned specialty shops and restaurants, Pike Place market is the city’s largest incubator of independent businesses.

Cinnamon Works – Amazing baked goods with loads of gluten free and vegan options.

Cobb’s Popcorn – Baked fresh daily, their kettle corn sells out quickly, so be sure to get there early! (vegan and non-vegan options.

Jarrbar – This intimate bar fills up fast, so get there early to snag a table or bar seat. Pair a cocktail or wine with cured seafood and meats.

Rachel’s Ginger Beer – Fill up a growler, get a pour to go, or have the bartenders mix a flavor into a cocktail for you. Whatever option you prefer, I can confidently say this is the best ginger beer I’ve ever had.

Noi Thai Cuisine – Andrew and I love Thai food (takeout is a weekly occurrence), and stumbled upon this gem one evening. The ambiance was casual but fun and the dishes were extremely flavorful and fresh.

QUEEN ANNE

Chihuly Museum – See the works of master glass blower Dale Chihuly and his students.

Museum of Pop Culture – Transport yourself to different eras of iconic pop culture experiences and live vicariously for a few hours.

CAPITOL HILL

Victrola – They have several locations throughout the city, but this was my favorite

Starbucks Reserve Roastery – As a former Starbucks barista, I had to checkout their Reserve Roastery. It’s a full experience with coffee cocktails, specialty espresso drinks, a more expansive food menu, and a gift shop.

Life on Mars – This all-vegan restaurant had a laid-back vibe and an incredible brunch menu. 100% would visit again!

Plum Bistro – Another all-vegan restaurant in the Capitol Hill neighborhood. It’s laid-back without being too casual. The portions are huge, so come hungry or be prepared for leftovers!

Frankie & Jo’s – This was the first all-vegan ice cream shop I’ve been to, and it took a lot of self control not to go back each night we were in Seattle. Vegans and non-vegans would love!

Oddfellows – This cafe and bar is open all-day and has a French and Italian vibe. It’s the perfect spot to meet friends for lunch, after wor drinks, or hangout with your laptop for a morning.

Capitol Cider – With over 200 ciders (plus wine and cocktails), you can find a cider that fits your palette. They also offer a gluten-free menu with several vegan options.