Things to do / Travel Guide
Residents of the northwest Washington and Cascades region appreciate a “food freshness” that borders on obsession. To that end, even fish or produce that is just a few hours old can be regarded with suspicion, and there is a general preference for dishes that include a few perfect ingredients rather than layers of spices and sauce. Wine, too, is taken very seriously in this region. Hallmarks of local produce in the region include apples, cherries, berries (especially cranberries), cheese, seafood, vegetables, and wine. Cranberries, for instance, can turn up in cakes, muffins, cookies, and other sorts of edible delights in a number of creative ways. And due to the residents' diversity of ethnic backgrounds across the region, many dishes may also derive inspiration from Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
Pacific Northwest Cuisine
Dining in northwest Washington and the Cascades is a unique experience for visitors as this region is known for Pacific Northwest Cuisine. This cooking style has drawn from many influences and has been developed and advanced by the efforts of many local chefs, most specifically Chef Kerry Sear and Native American Chef Loretta Barrett Oden. Sear's dishes include “Wild Grass and Herb-Baked Partridge with Blackberry Reduction,” while Oden has drawn on her indigenous heritage with dishes such as “Tlingit Salmon with Rosehip Sauce” and “Smoked Oyster Potato Cakes.” For the most part, Pacific Northwest Cuisine is not known for being cheap. Fresh fish, in particular, can run on the expensive side. As such, this cuisine style is generally available in the finer restaurants in the region's cities.
Cost-wise, Seattle is considered to be the most expensive place to dine in the region, with all other cities around the Puget Sound being considerably cheaper.
Dinner Cruise in Northwest Washington and the Cascades
For a truly unique way to experience the region, why not hop on a boat and go for a dinner cruise around the Puget Sound? Along the Seattle Waterfront there are many boat tour operators that offer dinner cruises. For the most part these cruises are truly romantic, with a master chef and a five-star meal with multiple courses to complement the stunning views of the city. Breakfast cruises and Sunday brunch cruises are also available. Cost-wise, dining at sea will be somewhat more expensive than on terra firma, but the difference in price is usually well worth the unique and pleasurable cruising experience.
Roadside Produce in Northwest Washington and the Cascades
Throughout the region, drivers will notice many roadside stands displaying excellent, succulent local produce. If you think cherries purchased from a farmer's market are sweet, just wait until you try these fresh, delicious delicacies, especially in the summer months. Locals claim the tastiest cherries in the world are grown here. You decide. To balance your picnic, go ahead and buy some apples, apricots, and fresh vegetables; they're great too!
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