Kirkland Weblog

Menchie's Frozen Yogurt Opens in Houghton

 

Lucky for Kirklanders, new gyms appear to be opening at the same rate as frozen yogurt shops.  There is hope for us yet.  Although from what I see on these unusally hot and sunny days, people are skipping their indoor workouts and going for the cold and tasty temptation of a treat.  Menchie's much anticipated opening in Houghton (Meze's old spot) came just in the nick of time. With a circular layout and bright fun kid-friendly colors, this self-serve frozen yogurt shop has about 10-12 flavors and a mind-boggling array of toppings.  You get charged by the weight of your creation: .49/ounce (which equated to about $20 for our-oink oink- family of 5) Summer Hours are Sun-Thurs 11am-11pm and Fri-Sat 11am-12am. 

Steve went for the chocolate/vanilla swirl with Reece's peanut butter cups while I had the coconut froyo with strawberries and mini chocolate chips (we forgot about paleo for this hour of our day).  The kids all tried red velvet and a little classic yogurt tart and put a whole bunch of "jelly bellies" on top which sounds kinda sick to me but they were smiling and humming and dancing happy jigs... so what do I know?  I will say that jelly bellies turn into little fruity rock pellets when you put them in frozen yogurt, so may want to go with a more malleable option. 

Just for fun I asked our Kirkland Blog Advertisers to share their favorite Menchie's flavors and toppings with us so we could copy them if we're not feeling creative.  Thanks to these great local businesses for their support and being good sports when I forced them to go eat frozen yogurt....

Dana Adams with Windermere: Pineapple Dole Whip & Classic Tart with graham cracker crumbs and strawberries

Diane at First Rate Insurance ($5 Starbucks card with your free quote now): Blueberry Pomegranate with blueberries on top

David at Columbia Athletic Club (it's FREE to join right now) :  Blueberry & Blackberry frozen yogurt

Stan at Gregg's Cycle (Summer Sale- Aug30-Sept 3rd!!): Vanilla with hot fudge and nut topping

Jaymie at Eye Candy ($125 full set/$55 fill til Oct 1, mention us or Menchie's!): Pina Colada Tart w/strawberries and graham crackers

Pam for Hometown Values Coupon Magazine (ask about their FREE ad upgrade!): Red Velvet with hot fudge and oreos on top

Megan  at Rock Star Tan Bar ($15 lash tints now!): Cake Batter with fresh mango topping

Do you DeRu?

You should.  What a cool little concept for a  neighborhood artisan market!   A few people have mentioned it to me, so I decided the seek them out.  You have to look carefully because I barely spotted DeRu Market when I was staring straight at it on 723 9th Ave, east of Market.  This  renovated space has an awesome kitchen where they focus mostly on catering and renting out their kitchen to other businesses, hosting corporate events and putting on cooking classes.  But lucky for us, they also have a daily take out menu for people like me that don't like to cook. 

Check out this custom made wood fire pizza oven. Their local organic menu changes frequently so check the website for the daily offering- when I was there they were serving up 4 different thin crust pizzas: margherita, chicken pesto, apple & arugula and chorizo.  They also have soups, sandwiches and salads along with some fun and always changing items from the deli case (chicken roulade, roasted baby carrots, roasted sunchokes perhaps?).  There is nowhere to sit down- but it's a great spot to call and pickup.  We had a meeting at our house the other night and didn't feel like dealing with dishes, so we ordered up some stuffed pork loin ($8/ea), skillet potatoes and onion ($4), and pizzas for the kids ($11-14/ea).  We told them we'd be there at 6:15 and Jordan (photo at top), one of the owners, had it all warmed up and ready to go.  Everything was delish, including the chocolate chubby cookie that I got to sample (oink oink).  

DeRu is open Weds-Fri 11-8pm and Sat 11-6pm.  Daily menus are on their website or it's easy to call 425-298-0268 and they will tell you what's cookin' for that day.    Go ahead and comment if you've given it a try. ~j

Zero One Vintners: Kirkland's First Downtown Winery

You knew it wouldn't take me long to sniff out this new winery in town.  I'm like a bee to honey. 

A couple of locals, Thomas and Kristin Vogele, have been in business as Zero One Vinters for four years, but just recently decided to open a tasting room in Kirkland.  Thomas has been in the wine business for over 20 years and has also worked with Michael Mondavi. Nestled at 131 Lake Street South, just below Via Lago, the Vogeles loved the idea of being a hidden treasure in downtown Kirkland. 

Zero One has a fun clean space that Kristin decorated and which can also accommodate small private events and barrel tastings of up to 49 people.  Grab a stool and taste some wines for $5.  They have three varietals of which they are best known for their Wild Sky Cabernet and their Golden Delicious Riesling (both received 91 points). The merlot blend, fondly named "Sauce" is also definitely worth trying.  Touted for their quality and value, the price per bottle very reasonably ranges from $12-30 so we bought a few to enjoy at home too.  Venture down and say hello - the stemless Zero One glassware are giveaways for the first month.  Right now they are open 4 days a week: Thurs & Fri 1-6 and Sat & Sun 12-6.  This will change in the summer--for now you will have to drink during the day ;-).

520 tolling? I'll drink to that...

Beach Cafe has decided to help ease the pain of the new 520 tolling.  How thoughtful of them! For $5.20 during happy hour (4-6 and 9-close) you can enjoy the following drink specials:

The Good to Go Cosmo: Rejuvenate your commute with freshly muddled Basil and Lime, Veev, Acai Superfruit Spirit, Pama Pomegranate Liqueur and Absolut Mandarin that is shaken and served up in a chilled martini glass

 Bumper to Bumper Special: Choose your favorite draft beer - from Mac & Jack’s to a rotating local IPA, there are eight options to choose from - and pair it with a Fresh Made Pretzel served with Chef Matt’s delicious Signature Cheese Sauce

Today was Steve's first day back at work and he breezed over the 520 into South Lake Union and home to Kirkland at what used to be high traffic hours.   Whether you are doing the 520, the park/ride, the 90, going around the lake or just working from home these days- you can still raise a glass and toast to the bridge from the Kirkland shoreline at Beach Cafe. Just don't drink and drive, of course.

City Council members Bob Sternoff and Penny Sweet aren't scared!
Christi looks like the happiest first time turned lifetime plunger I have ever witnessed. Can you spot her?

Speaking of shorelines, here are a few photos from the Polar Plunge on Sunday.  The water and the air were both in the 50's so it was more like a springtime dip.  Lots of takers this year, my dear fair weathered friends.  You could tell by everyone's smiles as they WALKED out of the water....no screams or running or ghastly faces of shocking electric cold.  It's still a good cleanse and a fun way to start the new year with some good luck (at least that's what I told my friend Christi to convince her to do it and she believed me). :-)

Kirkland Holiday Guide: Dining!

There's a whole lot of eating you can do in this town, and you know we are one of Santa's favorite places.  So I've scoured the local restaurants looking for special holiday delights that you should know about.  And, of course I sprinkled some good cheer in the posts--- eyes open for the prizes and freebies my little elves!! Keep your answers in the 'comments' section below (don't email me directly please, share the fun of your answers!) And it's only fair if each person can win just once. Enjoy..

 

George's Place- THIS Thursday 12/8- Come visit with Santa Claus from 5-8pm (love that guy!). George's partners with HumanaturePhotography to host Santa, his elves, festive music and Froni's treats. Details are here.  A great night for the whole family.  George's is also doing the 12 days of Christmas on their Facebook page where they have a contest or fun holiday promotion each day- check it out!

I love this story about George's and the holidays: George used to always put Mr. and Mrs. Gingerbread on the roof of the restaurant to decorate for the holidays.  With his thick accent he would ask his son where the "Caesarbreads" were each year. Pete would respond, "The Gingerbread men, Dad?" and George would say, "Yes, the Caesarbreads." Everyone still chuckles as they put them out on the roof every holiday season.  

**We have (2) $25 George's gift cards to give away!!  In the comments section below, tell us about your fondest memory of George's.  Santa is going to pick his two faves to win the gift cards. hohoho!

Anthony's Homeport- Take in the beautiful views and fabulous seafood at Anthony's--they are open for dinner Christmas Eve 3-8:30pm (bar open til 10pm) and New Years Eve (4pm-1am).  They also have some holiday party space you should know about- a private banquet room that holds about 50 and a semi-private space for 15-20 people. 

**Do you know where their newest location is that opened in October? Comment below to win dinner entrees for two! I also want to know what you are going to order if you win.

Argosy-Ahoy mateys- waterski season may be over (sigh..) but you can still take your dining to the waters of Lake WA on an Argosy Cruise.  Lots of fun holiday choices but they fill up fast.  There's a dinner/dance cruise with the Christmas Parade of boats, an early family buffet with the parade, and even a Santa brunch.  Don't worry, you can stay warm inside or take in the holiday lights and some crisp air on deck.  I know some little people in my house that would think this is SUPER COOL! Schedule/menus/pricing here.

Trellis-How about treating your Christmas guests a dining experience at Trellis in The Heathman Hotel? Uncle Freddie will love it- they don't have places like this back home!  Christmas dinner at Trellis will be offered 12-8pm- a 3 course line-up for $59 ($24 for 12 yrs and under). I love all the cozy comfort sounding foods on the menu-- winter squash soup, roast rack of lamb, caramel apple bread pudding.  Lots more choices too- here are full menus. Holiday hrs: Christmas Eve: dinner 4-10pm (regular menu), Christmas Day: bfast 6-10am, closed 10-12, 3 course dinner 12-8pm, New Year's Eve: 4-10pm (4 course prix fixe menu $79/pp), New Year's Day: bfast/brunch 6am-2pm, 5-10pm (regular menu)

Le Grand Bistro Americain- Fete de Noel- Beginning Dec 1 Le Grand starts celebrating the holiday season with Parisian Joy.  They will be in their warm glory with joyeaux noel seasonally inspired interior additions designed by Cathy Conner. Indulge, relax and savor items that are full of luxury but won't break the budget- foie gras, caviar, champagnes, iced oysters and of course the Noel Kir (lime, pomegranate seeds, ginger liqueur, plum bitters and bubbly). Also in Dec they kick off three-course meals for $29. They also do parties large or small- contact Holly for those 425-828-7778.

 Purple- Watch out- they are making their house-made sea salt caramels available for retail purchase! They even come gift wrapped: 3 caramels for $5 or a dozen for $18.  Purple is also sharing their wine list with the public (except for a few allocated wines), you can get 40% off list price or 50% off for a case- mixed cases are available.  And for every $50 gift card you purchase, you receive a bonus $10 card for yourself. 

Purple has also partnered with the Kirkland Performance Center for a special holiday offering. You can purchase a dinner and show packagewhich includes a $50 KPC Card (good for any show) and a $50 Purple gift card all for $75.  Great way to put together a last minute gift!

Lucia-Private space for your par-tay! Upstairs the loft accommodates 35 seated/50 standing or main dining 55 seated/80 standing. Details for private events here. Email events@iloveluciakirkland.com . 

**I'm going to try this again just to see who's paying attention....what was the name of Lucia when it first opened in 1988? Think people think-look back in time.  $25 gift card.  You can do it.  I am practically handing you gifts now. 

Rikki Rikki- Private dining in their Tatami Room for up to 25 people.  What is a Tatami Room you ask? Let me help you with the big words.  They also do party platters to go-with any purchase over $100, enjoy 20% off your entire order. 12 hours notice please! And there are gift cards available also- buy a $50 card, receive a free bottle of Masa's dressing. Purchase $100 gift card and you score a complimentary $25 certificate.

The Woodmark Hotel- Their 3rd annual tea is on Sat 12/10 from 1-3pm.  Tasty treats, holiday sweets and an assortment of teas and hot cocoa.  Cheryl Serio and Hans Brimmer of the KPC will be on hand to provide festive holiday music.  Kids will love the holiday cookie decorating station and of course visiting with Santa.  That guy is going to be pretty busy in town this week! ($45/adult, $20/children). 

Paws and Claus! You can also join Woody (too cute!) for pet photos with Santa from 10am-12pm on Sunday Dec 11th.  Bring the whole family to get snapped by Best of Northwest's Bailey and Banjo.  Bring your pooch dressed to impress! Suggested donation of $20 per pet will benefit the National Canine Cancer Foundation.

bin on the Lake- On Sunday 12/25 from 12-6pm there will be a three-course Christmas Menu for $55/person.  Look for items such as smoked duck confit lentil soup, Lobster Tortellini, Beef Tenderloin and Cardamom Donuts (spiced caramel apple sauce/chocolate sauce/peppermint creme anglaise- oh my!). Call for reservations: 425-803-5595.

And where to go for other sweet treats?  Don't forget to try one of these seasonal flavors at Sirena Gelato: cinnamon, pumpkin pie, pecan pie, eggnog or candy cane! Side note: I have to distract myself from constantly ordering the skinny peppermint mocha lattes everywhere I go. Darn it they're good. That's it-that's all I've got- go eat and laugh and be merry.  Next week will be the last installment of this holiday series and the topic is BEAUTY, which I know nothing about but am learning lots as I chat it up with the fun shop owners around Kirkland.  Get ready for more smokin' deals too ;-)....., j   

 

 

Coca-Cola Freestyle Coming to Kirkland

 
Watch out--you are going to start seeing these cool new "Freestyle" machines popping up around town.  The Freestyle is Coca-Cola's high tech "fountain of the future" which can dispense 106 different drinks, many of which have never been available in the U.S. before.  Raspberry Coke, Orange Coke and Peach Dasani are just a few you might try.  Steve and I lived in Atlanta prior to Kirkland and I remember going to the Coca-Cola museum (HQ is there) where there was a giant room full of dispensers where you could try Coke products from all over the world.  Some were kind of crazy. Heading to the Coca-Cola museum with visitors in Atlanta is equivalent to going to the Space Needle in Seattle.

The first local Freestyle will be at the Taco Time on Elliot in Seattle on March 9th.  By mid-month our Taco Time on 116th Ave NEin Kirkland will have one as well.  Feel free to post here about the new flavors you've tried! ~j

Here's a quickie for ya....

 
As much as I love you guys, I don't have time for a great big write up at the moment.  But I do have some little gems to share and I figured you'd rather enjoy a brief synopsis than nothing at all. :-)

-Fly Fitness is opening at Carillon Point.  Of course I will try it out and let you know since I am now a gym sampling specialist. Official open not til Dec/Jan but you can catch some of their bootcamps NOW.

-Jalisco'sis closed.  Same owners are giving those place a MUCH NEEDED revamp.  Did I say that outloud? And rename: Mi Mexico.  Expect to see something fresher opening in 4-5 weeks.

-Pho Tai opening at the end of Park Lane.  Looks like they have other locations around the area. We love pho (vietnamese, pronounced 'fuh') so excited for this one.

-Sports Clips opened next to Metropolitan Market in Houghton.  Sports themed hotspot for guys to get a quick inexpensive cut and the game too.  Expecting a write up from Steve on this- he and Brady just went in last week.  yes, that's right, Steve may be coming out of his blogging retirement. Found a free first haircut coupon here.

-Kathy Evans Beauty Studio- opened on Central Way.  I've heard she's an amazing make-up artist (formerly of GEM Salon) and also do hair.  Sounds like a good spot for a wedding party.  need to investigate!

-Remedies Pharmacy- opening on Central Way.  I just saw the sign.  I know you can read too but in case you didn't see it..

OK- you guys take it from here.  Little chatter please..

Kirkland Kids Eat FREE

I love to make lists.  Lists and sticky notes rule my days.  How did you think I stayed so organized?  So I thought we could work together to compile a list of our favorite "Kids Eat Free" spots in Kirkland.

I'll start it off:

Rikki Rikki on Tuesday nights

Beach House Bar & Grill on Sunday nights

Your turn.