Yes, I know, today’s blog title sounds a little elementary, but sometimes, it’s the only way to go.
Today is my first day back to work from my vacation. I went to Seattle, then on to a seven-day Alaska cruise. Then after a few days of rest and laundry, I went to Lexington, KY for the Kentucky Women Writers Conference, to work on my memoir/cookbook and meet fellow scribblers.
My brain is percolating with fresh ideas and new recipes.
The food I ate transformed and inspired me. There is nothing like vacation food.
The people I met nourished my soul. There is nothing like making new friends in new places.
For the next several weeks, while I edit and compile a vacation photo album and try new recipes, I’ll be sharing a few things that made my vacation special.
There is plenty to do in Seattle, (Space Needle, fishing, sightseeing), but it is also a seafood-lover’s paradise.
And there’s no other place like Pike’s Place Fish Market.
And yes, I was in fish heaven.
You can buy wild salmon, halibut, crab, prawns, sable fish, oysters, clams and more. All of it, sustainable. And the friendly fish mongers clean it, pack it and ship it.
If you stick around long enough, like I did, to talk with Taho, you’ll see the fish mongers sling fish as big as your thigh, across the shop. It’s refreshing to see such a light-hearted attitude in a somewhat serious industry.
Lunch on Friday in Seattle took us to Elliott’s Oyster House on Pier 56.
Check out these fresh-shucked, raw, west coast oysters, or rather, check out the chili-infused, bubble-gum pink, sorbet-like mignonette. Yes, that fancy French term applies to the icy concoction in the center of the platter.
I don’t know about you, but this is a long way from the traditional cocktail sauce, fresh lemon and saltines crackers. Don’t get me wrong, I love that oyster combo, too.
But this post is about new people, places and things.
The oysters at Elliott’s were, sweet, creamy, cold, salty and delicious. The mignonette was spicy and tart. Talk about a mouthful.
I ordered the sampler platter. Twice.
No vacation post is good without a few scenic pictures and some cold Alaska brews, which is also considered a food. Sort of. Especially on vacation.
Here’s a few pictures of Juneau, Alaska.
So check back for more about my vacation and thanks for stopping by.
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