Summer Guide 2010: Waterfront & Bainbridge Island

Waterfront

Many locals try to steer clear of downtown during the summer months, but here are just a few reasons to venture forth among the out-of-towners. On the waterfront at Pier 66, try the mahi mahi tacos from the walk-up counter at Anthony’s Fish Bar (2201 Alaskan Way; 206.448.6688; anthonys.com/restaurants/info/pier66.html). Sitting on the patio right next to Bell Harbor Marina and people watching as the cruise ships spill forth their passengers can’t be beat. For higher-falutin’ fare, grab a seat on the view-tastic waterside deck at Waterfront Seafood Grill (Pier 70, 2801 Alaskan Way; 206.956.9171; waterfrontpier70.com) during happy hour (4–6 p.m. and 9 until closing), when steamed clams, smoky tuna ceviche, seared diver scallops and all other bar snacks are half price. And in case you hadn’t heard, strolling through the Olympic Sculpture Park and neighboring myrtle Edwards park is divine.

New Downtown Deck Alert!
Say what you will about Seattle’s new Hard Rock Café (116 Pike St.; 206.204.2233; hardrock.com/seattle), where the phones are answered, “How can I rock you?” For a truly rockin’ brew-with-a-view experience, the rooftop deck is a must-see. The urbane space is an incredible vantage point for the famous Pike Place Market sign and Elliott Bay beyond, and it includes canopied lounge areas and swanky fire pits (because it may be summer, but it’s Seattle, after all).

Bainbridge Island
Nothing reminds you of why you live here like a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island. For a quick hit of ferry fun, walk onto the Bainbridge Island boat at the downtown ferry terminal (Colman Dock, Pier 52; 801 Alaskan Way). On the way over, ooh and ahh at the Olympics and Mount Rainier. Then disembark, walk the short distance to the quaint town of Winslow, and head straight to Mora Iced Creamery (139 Madrone Lane; 206.855.8822; moraicecream.com) for ice cream handmade the old-fashioned way—in small batches with fresh milk, eggs and cane sugar. Along with “Old-World” classic flavors like dulce de leche, the shop specializes in seasonal flavors such as goat cheese with fig, and rose petals. Time your trip to coincide with the much beloved BAINBRIDGE IN Bloom garden tour (July 9–10; gardentour.info) to see gorgeous landscaping and dream lifestyles. (An athletic option: Take the tour by bike.)

Originally published in June 2010