It's been a while since I've discovered new and fun places to go in Seattle...so herewith, I give you two: And they are right next door to each other! Two birds with one stone!
Bella Umbrella is a darling wonderful (A lady from Tasmania told me only people are darling, not things...so I sit corrected) little shop - filled to the brim with unique and vintage umbrellas...so what, you ask? Well, remember this IS Seattle...and even though the natives don't use umbrellas (they're all descendants from loggers and such so they're tough) the tourista's do...and they have, by far, the most beautiful umbrellas you'll ever see! Double ruffles, parasols, jewel handles - they have the largest vintage collection in the world...or something like that! Now, think about covering a ceiling with upside down umbrellas for the next wedding reception in your life! I'm going to do that for MY next wedding! Bella Umbrella's rents umbrellas, too...next time you're in their neighborhood be sure to pop in and check them out: 1421 NW 70th Street. Seattle (Ballard), WA 98117
Feast your eyes upon this! Honore Artisan Bakery, written up in all the Seattle mags, does indeed have the best tasting macaroons...and just look at all the beautiful colors! However, don't do what I did...don't order two of each color just because you think they'll look pretty on a plate together...they are $2.00 a piece...and when you throw in 2 currant scones and a piece of pumpkin bread you'll walk out the door carrying a small sack where your $30 used to be! But...DO buy one, or two, and perhaps a pain au chocolat, which I'm told is delish...on a rainy, cold day it's a nice little spot to duck into - they are next door to Bella Umbrella at: 1413 NW 70th St. Seattle (Ballard), WA 98127.
I hear you...why go to Ballard at all? Let me count the whys:
1. Cookies Possibly the smallest store in the world, but it's jammed with every conceivable cookie cutter along with sprinkles, food coloring, aprons, etc. It's located on 2211 NW Market Street and is a destination all by itself.
2. The Quilting Loft makes the drive to Ballard (from the East-side) worth the gas...it's a real quilt shop and has great fabrics - it's at 2601 NW Market Street.
3. Cupcake Royale has 4 Seattle locations but the one in Ballard is my fav...go for the salted-chocolate cupcake (skip the pumpkin cupcake - YUK!) and the designer hot cocoa: 2052 NW Market Street.
4. The Locks - watch the ships pass through and maybe spy a salmon or two hundred. Paseo - the best Cuban sandwiches in the world - I've droned on and on about them - go, eat. La Carta De Oaxaca ...no name out front but you'll know it from the line out the door and they don't take reservations. Ryther's Thrift has great garbage stuff, and all of their profits go to benefit the Ryther Children's Center. Lunchbox Laboratory has been mentioned here before - great burgers and shakes but bring your life's savings, they're not cheap, and don't eat at Cupcake Royale BEFORE going here for lunch!
There are plenty of other great little shops on Market Street however their names escape me. I love Ballard and look for any reason to go there...and as you can see, I have plenty of them.
