BEST OF THE NORTHWEST

      HOLIDAY GUIDE

    

 

The season is upon us...it's time for that special gift for your friends, co-workers, and loved ones. Here you'll find a special selection we've put together including some of our very favorite ideas for shopping, dining and festive getaways for the holidays. An exclusive sampling of restaurants perfect for group gatherings, spas, and NW shops filled with chocolates, food & wine and beautiful gift baskets.

 

                                                     

Northwest Country Baskets

Explore the pristine coastal shorelines with this great assortment of Sea Foods.  Includes a bottle of Washington Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, roasted almonds, crackers, cheese spreads, scrumptious bread dips, Alaskan Smoked Salmon, and much more from the Pacific Northwest Gourmet Foods. "The Sea Stack"

Northwest Country Baskets is a Gourmet Food and Gift Boutique located in the River Walk Village at 404 Bradley Boulevard in Richland Washington. This locally owned and operated company offers customized gift baskets for every occasion both online as well as in their retail shop. Each basket is structured around the products made in the Northwest. According to Carol the owner, it's the little details that add up to the exceptional gift-giving experience. A Northwest Country baskets the experience begins with the helpful customer service and user-friendly website, to the final delivery and presentation of your gift - which will impress both you and your gift recipients. You can relax and know that they will make it easy for you to look good.

1-877-412-6242 or 509-946-9970. E-mail Address:  ncgb.carol1@verizon.net, www.northwestcountry.com

 

The Pacific Northwest Shop

The Pacific Northwest Shop specializes in providing personal and Corporate gifts from 'Our Corner of America'. Whether you want one item or one hundred they offer complimentary gift wrap service and ship daily. The selection includes unique, handcrafted, specialty products made exclusively in the Pacific Northwest. They offer everything from the most delicious Alder Smoked Wild Pacific Northwest Salmon to collector Glass Ornaments and Vases & Bowls made by the Glass Eye Studio and Jones Glassworks from ash collected at the site of Mt. St. Helens Volcano in Washington state. In the Wild Blackberry Syrup. Walla Walla Sweet Onions, Almond Roca, Aplets and Cotlets, Commencement Bay Coffee and Market Spice Tea even Cookbooks. Especially wonderful are the Space Noodles for some of the spirit of Seattle and low-sugar red Raspberry Jam from Puyallup among many other Pacific Northwest food products. They offer an exclusive selection of ready made Pacific Northwest Sampler Boxes too or can fill an empty box with selections of your own . Whether you want one item or one hundred The Pacific Northwest Shop offers complimentary gift wrap service and ship daily.

"The Pacific Northwest Shop in Tacoma's historic Proctor district" 
1.800.942.3523  253.752.2242   FAX: 253.752.8094, www.pacificnorthwestshop.com

 

Frans Chocolates

A visit to Paris inspired Fran's European-like passion for pure flavors and simple, yet exquisite ingredients. She opened her first patisserie and chocolate shop twenty-five years ago to share that philosophy of joie-de-vivre. Many confections later, she has been credited for sparking the artisan chocolate renaissance in the United States, and is considered one of the best chocolatiers in the nation. Her pursuit of maintaining the purity of chocolate and pairing it with only the finest ingredients has been an inspiration to both chocolate artisans, and aficionados alike.

From the tantalizing light ganache found in her luscious truffles, to the bold, and slightly addictive gray and smoked salt caramels, take a moment to note the textures and harmonious flavors that layer themselves, one on top of the other. It is the magic of this experience that compels Fran’s to continue to seek the extraordinary. For the holidays Fran uses vibrant colors of the seasons with elegant boxes and bows which are almost gifts in themselves. Great detail goes into creating each color palette, knowing that custom dyed ribbon and linen boxes serve as a wonderful complement to the artisan chocolate inside. Fran's is located in three locations now, Downtown, University Village Store and the Bellevue Store.

Order Toll-Free 1(800) 422 FRAN, www.franschocolates.com

 

Heartwarming Treasures

Whether your message conveys, "welcome to your new home", "congratulations on a successful project", or "we appreciate your business", these theme recognition gifts and gourmet food and wine baskets offer an impressive way to reward clients, colleagues and associates for their hard work and dedication to your company.

Brimming with diverse flavors from Washington, Oregon and Idaho, each gift from Heartwarming Treasures is beautifully wrapped with delicious Northwest food and wine and then packed in a high-quality keepsake container for your recipients to treasure long after the products have been enjoyed.

Choose from a large selection of designs online or call (206) 547-2623 to design a custom gift to make your occasion a sweet success!

Order Online or Call Toll Free (866) 332-6904, www.heartwarmingtreasures.com

 

Washington Wines  

 

Palouse Winery

Named after the smooth, round, rolling hills of the Palouse in Eastern Washington, their wines are exquisite and sensuous.  Always smooth and round on the palate.  At Palouse Winery they strive to extract soft and silky tannins from the fruit they use.

They take pride in being a small, handcrafted, family owned winery,  making limited quantities of extremely high quality wines. At this winery they take special care in every step from vine to bottle to strive to make the best wine possible. IT WORKED!

The vineyards where they source the fruit is located high above the valley floors where the soil is very thin, ranging from a few inches to a few feet over a caliche layer of calcified mud.  The grapes have to struggle to survive in this environment and give the fruit incredible flavors and intensity. Palouse Winery is located on Vashon Island in the Puget Sound just west of Seattle.

We are not the only ones raving about this wine...here are just a few of the reviews. " Fifteen Best Washington Wine Makers" &  "Best New Puget Sound Winery - Palouse" by Gene Stein, Ph.D., Seattle Wine Blogger read the full article at www.seattlewineblogger.blogspot.com www.palousewinery.com

 

The Great Wineries of Washington

For a look at some of Washington's finest wineries we recommend finest wineries we recommend SPECIAL PLACES Great Wineries of Washington - Exclusive Vine to Wine Experiences... by Fred and Mardi Nystrom. So many wineries, so little time. With 550 in Washington State alone...it's nice to have some expert guidance to help solve the dilemma of which are the best for your particular taste.

 

Visit SPECIAL PLACES Great Washington Wineries of Washington

 

 

 

Dining Destinations

 

Salty's on Alki Beach

Salty's on Alki Beach is truly in a class by itself. They bend over backwards to please you with award-winning fresh Northwest seafood cuisine and attentive friendly service. "The view is not only the best in Seattle, this is one of the world's great view restaurants. . . . the best salmon preparation I've encountered," says local critic John Owen of the Seattle Post Intelligencer. Salty's, with sweeping views of Elliott Bay and the Seattle city skyline, is like no other restaurant in Seattle. Whether enjoying live Dungeness crab and Maine lobster (swimming in the lobby) to our world-famous Alaskan salmon and halibut in season, oysters and clams from Northwest beaches or USDA prime aged charbroiled steaks, pasta, chicken or luncheon salads and sandwiches, you will find many choices on the menus to please even the most discriminating palette. To complement your meal, order wine from an extensive list of outstanding Northwest and world-class selections. Not to miss is the award-winning Sunday brunch - now on Saturdays, too – is like none you’ve ever seen elsewhere. It’s no wonder they've been voted the Nation's Best Brunch by MSN - Citysearch.com. What can we say...other than - Book em' Dano - ASAP! P.S. If you plan a party here...it will be a fantastic memory you'll never forget.

They also have locations at Redondo Beach in South Seattle and Columbia Portland. Call (206) 037-1600 or book your reservations at alki@saltys.com, www.saltys.com

 

The Hunt Club at the Sorrento

This classy Seattle restaurant never goes out of style. Featuring Northwest cuisine with Mediterranean influences and 52 seats, The Hunt Club restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, as well as brunch Saturday and Sunday.  The Hunt Club received Wine Spectator's 2008 "Award Of Excellence" and was a finalist in NW Source 2008 "Most Romantic Dinning".

The Hunt Club offers a warm atmosphere with rich mahogany walls and leather banquettes. The adjoining bar is a popular spot to meet before dinner and after a night downtown at the symphony or theater. The Hunt Club restaurant at the Sorrento Hotel also serves as the exclusive caterer of banquets and events held at the hotel and provides 24/7 in-room dining.

For reservations please contact us at 206.343.6156, www.hotelsorrento.com

 

Christina's Restaurant


In the sleepy little village of Eastsound in the San Juan islands on Orcas Island...is a wonderful jewel called Christina's Restaurant. A destination restaurant now for over 28 years in keeping with the island way of life. Christina's has been nationally acclaimed for a menu that features the best foods from the bounty of the NW region. Kudos from countless magazines and TV programs have made Christina's famous, but the enjoyment of each customer remains the ideal. Christina's is delightfully intimate yet at the same time bustling with energy with the help from the new executive chef/owner, Maureen Mullen and chef, Jami Plummer. The real art of the cuisine is in the fresh, indigenous products which include an excellent selection of wines, produce and seafood of the Pacific.

Christina's is located just 90 miles north of Seattle in Eastsound, Orcas Island. A stay at Beach Haven Resort or Cascade Harbor Inn would make this a very festive getaway for the holidays.

(360) 376-4904

 

 

Birchfield Manor Country Inn


Yakima's True Country Inn only 2 miles from town. The Birchfield Manor offers a relaxing get-away featuring dinners prepared for you by trained chef/owners, and served in the casual warm atmosphere of a gracious home. Park like ground surrounds the outdoor pool. Visit the Wine Cellar with extensive selections of wonderful Washington wines - and you may find your favorite winemaker at the next table! The can even personalize a tour of the local wineries, direct you to roadside stands for fresh fruit and vegetables, - or, talk to Brad or Tim about tee times at the best golf courses around including Apple Tree.

Whether you are looking for a relaxed dinner with friends or clients, a romantic getaway or a secure, peaceful rest for the business traveler, this quiet pastoral setting (only 2 miles from town) is sure to please.

 Call (800)-375-3420 or 509-452-1960, www.birchfieldmanor.com

 

Buca di Beppo

 

Buca di Beppo is all about in-city fun. An authentic Italian restaurant that offers flavorful Italian dining. Dine with family and friends while enjoying the Italian traditions of food, friendship and hospitality. In the spirit of Italian culture, the dishes are served family style and are meant to be shared. They offer Buca Mio - single portions of Buca favorites made especially for you! The first Buca di Beppo opened its doors in 1993 in the basement of a Minneapolis apartment building. We’ve since grown to 88 locations nationwide.

Dishes enjoyed for generations in villages throughout Italy inspire the menu, giving Buca its authentic Italian flare.  They seem to be adding new menu items often which are inspired by Northern and Southern Italian cuisine.  Indulge in the Buca experience of unforgettable appetizers, salads, pastas, pizzas, entrees, desserts, beer and fine wine.

Reservations: 866-930-7887, www.bucadibeppo.com


                        

Getaways & Gatherings 

                         

 

Hallmark Inns and Resorts

Hallmark Inns and Resorts is like your "home away from home" whether you're traveling for business, with your family, or looking for a romantic getaway. Once you step into this world of spectacular oceanfront views, comfortable guestrooms & suites, and discover the Legendary Customer Service you are hooked.  Located on the oceanfront in Cannon Beach and Newport, Oregon, Hallmark has the experience you are looking for.

Choose from family-friendly guestrooms and suites for up to 6 people to romantic, oceanfront spas with cozy fireplaces, in-room, 2-person, 10-jetted spa tubs and luxurious pillow-top king beds for just the 2 of you. Most of our guestrooms are oceanfront with spacious walk-out balconies. Some offer full kitchens and many have cozy gas fireplaces. They also offer family-sized beach homes near both locations. When it's time to re-discover what it feels like to have sand between your toes...this holiday getaway will offer you the total relaxation you are long for.  Dining at the
Hallmark is also fabulous...

Call 888.448.4449, www.hallmarkinns.com

 

Selah Inn

Selah Inn B&B offers a memorable and relaxing experience on the north shore of Washington State's Hood Canal in an elegant Northwest lodge. A magnificent rock fireplace dominates the comfortable living room. Guests enjoy "feeling at home" whether it is settled by a cozy fire, enjoying tea and a good book in the library, or soaking in the deck hot tub.

The king bedroom includes a large master bath with a Jacuzzi tub, a fireplace, and a private deck with a majestic view of Hood Canal - a part of Puget Sound. Prices vary by room and always include afternoon tea or coffee and a full country breakfast. Also wonderful for gatherings is the Board room and conference facilities for small business meetings or parties. All four guest bedrooms feature private baths, luxurious bed linens, fresh flowers and chocolates. Selah Inn is located on Hood Canal, just past Belfair State Park.

RESERVATIONS ARE A MUST - Call (360) 275-0916, www.selahinn.com

 

La Place Sur La Mer

If you are wanting a waterfront escape just steps away from the beach....then La Place Sur La Mer is the place you've long been dreaming of. Great for couples yet it also affords privacy for groups inside as well as spacious grounds for an outside holiday affair. This is one-of-a-kind beach-side "Bed and Breakfast Inn" and Concierge Vacation Rental is located on the breath-taking shores of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Just one of the highlights is the big beautiful gourmet-style kitchen with banqueting facilities which can be personalized to suit your needs.

At La Place you have endless breathtaking photographic vantage points at every turn...which makes this a getaway experience you're sure to treasure for many years to come.

La Place Sur La Mer, Phone: (360) 565-8029, Toll Free: (888) 248-1277
Email: lyndee@magicalbeach.com, www.magicalbeach.com

 

Inn At Rooster Hill

The Olympic Peninsula is well known for its beautiful change of seasons so whether it is summer, fall, winter or spring there is something to do, and something fabulous to see.

The Inn at Rooster Hill is romantic for couples but it's also wonderful for groups of 8-12 that you would like to have a party or weekend getaway. They have great murder mystery games that work well when you have the whole house reserved for your party or a girlfriend getaway.  With the room combinations you can book with families and Friends to create what you would like. Of course this is also great for romance packages and family reunions, honeymoons, small Weddings and business travelers as well.

Whether you are staying one night or many nights, you will find the location to be central to everything.  Exploring the Olympic National Park and visiting the Hoh Rain Forest is easily done during your stay at Rooster HillThe gracious innkeepers Peggy & Layne Frehner will be more than happy to help with all your plans on day trip, restaurants and other fun excursions. Btw, Breakfast is a gourmet feast and then some.

info@innatroosterhill.com, www. innatroosterhill.com 360-452-4933 or 877-221-0837

 

Freestone Inn

 

Located just 15 miles west of Winthrop in Mazama, Washington, the Freestone B & B Inn offers a quiet setting and casual atmosphere. Our 12 spacious rooms each have a lake view, private veranda or deck, soaking tub and fireplace. Amenities include: complimentary wireless internet access, telephones, irons, hair dryers, coffee makers, LCD TV, and mini refrigerators. Plush terry robes put the final touch to these exquisite accommodations. Two suites are enhanced with living room areas and extra large balconies with panoramic views and jetted tubs. A complimentary continental breakfast is served each morning from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. in our dining room. The restaurant here is absolutely wonderful!

For reservations call  (800) 639-3809 or  509-996-3906, www.freestoneinn.com

 

        Spas & Retreats

 

Illahee Manor Day Spa


Illahee Manor, an unbelievable haven just minutes away. Imagine yourself relaxing to the sound of water lapping on the rocky shore, smelling the sweet fragrance from a fruit filled orchard, soaking in a soothing whirlpool tub, savoring the romance of a fireplace, enjoying an incredible view. All this and more await you at Illahee Manor.

You can enjoy any or all of this while staying in one of the five incredible suites inside the Bed and Breakfast. Most of the accommodations have fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and of course, the fantastic views. The Day Spa offers a wide variety of massage techniques and Body Treatments. They can cater to most any needs. To make your Spa visit all the more relaxing enjoy a refreshment from the wine list or small plates menu during your visit to the Spa. IIahee is also offering dinner on selected Thursdays, Fridays and Saturday evenings. Dinner is always served promptly at 5:30 pm in the dining room or on the Veranda if weather permits.

(800) 693-6680, www.illaheemanor.com

 

Salish Lodge & Spa

Get a jump on your shopping spend the night at the Salish Lodge and enjoy 40% off all merchandise at the Country Store, Falls Gift Shop, and the Spa. Now that's what you call shopping in style...especially with savings on Northwest home décor, chic clothing, spa amenities, and regionally focused gifts. Even if you don't get a chance to shop you can prepare your feet for the long walks through shopping malls with a 20% discount on a Foot Revitalizer (or any spa service). This package is offered through December 24, 2008. You can enjoy a truly "Salish" experience by sampling from the very best they have to offer.

Toll-free: 800.2.SALISH (800.272.5474), www.salishlodge.com

 

 

 

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