Do It Like a Local, A Weekend Guide to Seattle

Seafood is the bright star of this fine dining establishment, though steaks and poultry are also on the menu. Accessible from the plaza or from within the Pan Pacific Hotel, the Seastar enjoys a close partnership with the hotel and it's easy to see why. Both exemplify a complete culture of service and hospitality, creating a seamless experience between the two establishments. The restaurant is the brainchild of Chef John Howie, whose older Seastar sibling is a hit with patrons on the Eastside. Fans of that location will be happy to know that its excellence extends to the Seattle site as well. We started off with the Northwest Oyster Sampler ($21.) that included three varieties of fresh oysters, though it was hard to choose between that or the Seastar Tower ($30.) with Dungeness crab cakes, saifun shrimp and diver scallops with tropical fruit chutney and macadamia nuts. I loved the combined flavors of the Dungeness Crab & Sweet Corn Bisque ($7. cup, $11. bowl) in a Madeira-Port reduction. The Sesame-Peppercorn Crusted Ahi ($34.), with jasmine ginger rice cake and the Northwest Shellstock Stew ($25.), with Penn Cove mussels, white shrimp , Manila clams and scallops were both winning entrees. And the Pear Panna Cotta ($7.) with lavender syrup and macadamia cookies was just the right touch to polish off this delightful meal, served by an attentive and personable waitstaff. Phone: 206.462.4364 | Fax 206.462.3609 | 2121 Terry Ave, Suite 108, Seattle, Washington, 98121 seattle@seastarrestaurant.com.

What's the perfect Seattle weekend without a little shopping? Pay a visit to Clover House for a selection of unique gifts for that special person (including yourself) on your list. For life's little luxuries, choose from among candles and home fragrances, bath and body care, jewelry, home accessories, stationery or Seattle blown glass. While you can order on-line, the plaza location gives you the opportunity to view and touch (carefully, please) the products in person to truly appreciate this distinct Northwest showcase. Located at 900 Lenora St. in Seattle, WA in the 2200 Westlake Retail Plaza above Whole Foods. Free two-hour parking with validation is available.