By: Sima Morrison
Home to fish markets, overcast weather and grunge rocker legends like Nirvana and Pearl Jam, Seattle boasts an energetic culture that is far from “sleepless in Seattle.” Although I was not used to the damp temperatures, there was something natural and welcoming about arriving on a typical rainy day. Although this city is known for its booming tech industry with such internet moguls as Amazon and Microsoft, it felt more like a colorful fisherman's town. And when I say fish, I really do emphasize the deliciously high quality seafood I found. From fresh crab, lox and wild salmon, I was in heaven amongst a thriving food scene. Because of its laid back and low key energy, many people don't realize that this city is a hub of innovation and eclectic culture. It truly is a hotspot nuzzled into the Pacific Northwest clouds.
Restaurants
Matts in the Market
This typical Seattle restaurant is a simple choice. It’s a go-to amongst Pike Place natives, as it is right above the marketplace and boasts fantastic views of the city. Although it is located in a touristy area, you do not get that feeling with dining at this superb restaurant. With all local, seasonal produce and top notch seafood, this is a great rest stop while exploring the city.
94 Pike St #32, Seattle, WA 98101 | (206) 467-7909
Capital Cider
This find was the golden ticket. Capital Cider is the largest independent cider bar in the country with a 100% gluten free tap and food menu. There are over 40 ciders on tap to choose from, which are all local from Oregon and Washington.
818 E Pike St, Seattle, WA 98122 | (206) 397-3564
Cinque Terre Ristorante
Located in Downtown Seattle, this is a sophisticated Italian restaurant that presents classic tastes with a modern twist. It is a farm to table restaurant with delectable wine, seafood and wood-fired pizza options. Their octopus was particularly exquisite.
2001 Westlake Ave, Seattle, WA 98121 | (206) 456-6300
Storyville Coffee
This is a very special coffee chain that deserves promotion, as 100% of its profits go to anti-human trafficking charities. On top of being philanthropic, their innovative menu is diet friendly and delicious! Try one of their organic homemade nut milks, flourless brownies or just grab a steaming cup of classic Seattle coffee. You will be uplifted by extremely high quality service and positive energy emanating from their grateful workers.
1001 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98104 | (206) 780-5777
Franky and Jo’s Ice Cream
And for when your sweet tooth kicks in, we found the top of line vegan ice cream parlor! Made with sprouted cashew nuts, Franky and Jo’s also utilizes unique ingredients such as activated charcoal and turmeric to create winning flavors. They also have a cane-sugar free option that is sweetened with dates!
1010 E Union St, Seattle, WA 98122 | (206) 257-1676
Plum Bistro
A cozy organic and vegan cafe that will settle your stomach with healthy comfort food options. Beautiful gluten-free handmade pizzas and seasonal carrot ginger soup.
1429 12th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122 | (206) 838-5333
Cafe Flora
A fantastic brunch spot with welcoming luminescent windows that you and your friends will love. They have a very creative vegan and vegetarian friendly menu, as well as, juice, tea and tonic options.
2901 E Madison St, Seattle, WA 98112 | (206) 325-9100
Niche Gluten Free Cafe and Bakery
Eat. Drink. Smile. This is Niche’s motto and we have to agree. Although completely gluten free, there are also plenty of dairy free and paleo options as well. The Wild Salmon Cake plate is our personal recommendation.
808 12th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122 | (206) 999-2801
Marmite
Marmite is obscure with an esoteric, meat heavy menu. On those gloomy cold days, this is a great place to pop in for a warm and nourishing bone broth.
1424 11th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122 | (206) 755-8606
Modern Steep Tea Room
For all of the non-coffee drinkers, this independently owned tea house has a relaxing vibe and sells high quality organic teas and tisanes. A great place to wind down, listen to some light music and read a book.
345 15th Ave E, Seattle, WA 98112 | (206) 323-4832
Indi Chocolate
Who couldn't love this Washington chocolate brand? You can purchase both food and drink options in their new factory location that just opened in the Pike Place Market. Don’t be thrown by their use of cane sugar, as their cacao and taste value is high quality.
1501 Pike Pl, Seattle, WA 98101 | (425) 243-2089
Pettirosso Seattle
Pettirosso is a lovely dinner option as you gaze upon radiant Puget Sound sunsets. The menu has eloquent comfort foods for vegans and omnivores, and especially delicious Duck Confit Croquettes appetizers.
1101 E Pike St, Seattle, WA 98122 | (206) 324-2233
Chaco Canyon
This delicious, bright and healthy organic cafe has bowls, burgers, fresh smoothies, treats and everything in between. The food is outstanding and you leave feeling deeply nourished and like you got away with something sinful - it's that good. They have multiple locations throughout Seattle.
Pizza Pi
Located in the U District, this vegan pizza place is funky, gluten free, and claims to be America's first vegan pizzeria! The toppings are creative and you will get that fun pig-out feeling you expect with a pizza splurge.
5500 University Way NE Seattle, WA 98105
Flying Apron
Gluten free. Vegan. Bakery. We found heaven! Fresh made desserts, bites, breads and more that are amazingly delicious - this place figured out the art of baking without gluten and dairy with no compromise.
3510 Fremont Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103
Mighty-O Donuts
This vegan donut shop places their donuts in so many Seattle coffee shops that you probably don't need to visit their Greenlake location (even though Greenlake is a neighborhood not to be missed). Their donuts are similar in style to Whole Foods vegan donuts, but better :) Can't go wrong with the maple!
2110 N 55th St, Seattle, WA 98103
Activities
Pike Place Market
No Seattle trip is complete without visiting Seattle’s original and most beloved public market. Located in the heart of downtown, it hosts a collection of vibrant goods from hundreds of farmers, craftspeople, small businesses and residents. The true culture and colorful makeup of Seattle resides here.
86 Pike Pl, Seattle, WA 98101
Melrose Market Studios
If you are looking for a more upscale and low-key public market setting, check out Melrose Market, which is located in an industrially-chic building and hosts unique food artisans and.
1532 Minor Ave, Seattle, WA 98122
Olympic Sculpture Park
There is nothing more glorious than walking outdoors on a sunny, warm Washington day. And when the weather is fitting, we recommend browsing the intricate Sculpture Park. Free to the pubic and open 365 days a year, browse the dynamic and landscape driven art pieces outside.
2901 Western Ave, Seattle, WA 98121
Museum of Pop Culture
This leading non-profit museum is dedicated to the ideas and risk-taking that fuel contemporary popular culture. With exhibits surrounding such topics as rock and roll and science fiction, the museum is both educational and entertaining.
325 5th Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum
Located directly next to the Space Needle, these stunning glass pieces were inspired and created by artist Dale Chihuly. His work is vividly avant-garde and will take your breath away.
305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109
Seattle Art Museum
The eclectic art scene is rounded out by a visit to the classic Seattle Art Museum. Filled with fine modern and contemporary art, spend your day wandering through collections of galleries inspired by Asian, African, Ancient Mediterranean, Islamic, European, Native American, and Oceanic influence.
1300 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98101
City Sweats
A much needed escape from exposure to city pollutants and stressful travel, enjoy an infrared sauna session to detox and replenish the body. Best part, your first time is free, so walk on in and enjoy a complimentary, addictive sweat!
1928 43rd Ave E, Seattle, WA 98112
Sima Morrison, founder of House of Citrine, is a vibrant soul with a potent zest for life and the beauty in its simple pleasures. As a holistic nutritionist and herbalism student, Sima has made it her life's journey to experience, to empower, and to explore the synergy between the mind and the body, embracing the liberty and power of mindful living. She earned her Bachelors Degree in Science in Public Health Education from California State University Northridge and studied Holistic Nutrition at The Natural Healing Institute.