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Saturday, November 5, 2005 - Page updated at 03:48 PM Reader tips for a 206er heading eastYou folks are wonderful, with all your tips and even invitations to come to dinner or stay at your cabin. Thank you. And the roadside dining suggestions have been overwhelming. I'd weigh 400 pounds if I stopped at them all. The technical logistics of this trip are challenging, which means its tough for me to keep up with my e-mail, read all your suggestions and keep up this crazy itinerary. So if I miss some good stops, forgive me. (I might not forgive myself for passing up the Cinnamon Twisp bakery, which a couple of you suggested. Wish I'd seen that tip sooner.) Even transmitting my stories is tough in areas with no cell phone service, no internet cafes, and even limited access to public phones of any kind. This trip is a technological adventure, as well as a plain old adventure. —Brian J. Cantwell
Where to eat | General comments What to see Posted Saturday, Oct. 8 You should check out Naselle-Grays River Valley, in Southwest Washington, just east of the Long Beach Peninsula. It is in Pacific/Wahkiakum County. There is an old covered bridge, an old country store called the Rosburg Store (owned by my dad) and Radar Hill which provides a beautiful view point of the town (if your little car can make it up it). There are no stop signs or city blocks so don't worry about parallel parking. Since you are a born and bred 206er you will appreciate some of the local growth that does not include 'big box' stores in downtown Yakima. A somewhat grassroots revitalization is occurring where small locally owned shops are recreating the downtown. To sample one of the best west side, bakery/coffee houses in eastern Washington — check out Essencia Artisan Bakery, then stop by some of the downtown wineries!
— Beck, Kennewick, Wash. Posted Friday, Oct. 7 I'm enjoying your visit to the East Side, where I lived most of my life. Just wondering about the onion rings...could it be that you won't find anything but the standard frozen onion rings in those drive-in restaurants? I was disappointed that Walla Walla (of all places!) could not offer big juicy slices of French fried onion rings. If you are going through Ellensburg, you might drop by The Spot, a funky art display across from the police station. No onion rings, just amusement. If you're coming to Ellensburg from the Yakima area you have to drive the canyon along the Yakima River. It is one of the most senic drives you will take! And eat breakfast at the Palace Cafe on Main St. They have THE BEST eggs benedict! Great blog! Wish I was with you. I grew up in Yakima and recommend driving by K's Coin Laundry on North Fruitvale Blvd. My dad owned and built this business and they still have the cool neon sign of an old washer woman that still works. Also, when in E-burg, MUST have a Great Western burger at Rossow's U-Tote-Em: a made-to-order burger with a fried egg! The BEST! Posted Wednesday, Oct. 5 Hey you've GOT to go through the best little town in our state: Dayton. Its not far from where you are now. Its like a Norman Rockwell painting. It has the county courthouse, lots of historic homes and a lot of history. If you haven't passed it yet, be sure to stop in Dayton. My family and I stopped there about 10 years ago on our own voyage of discovery around the state. The beautiful train depot has a fascinating museum and old pictures of the town. It was once a major train stop in our state and host to many famous vaudeville acts. There was also an amazing photo exhibit in the museum by a woman named Minnie who received a camera as a teenager. The exhibit provided a touching link to a time most of us only know from books. Posted Tuesday, Oct. 4 Do drive up Steptoe Butte, but be sure to stop and check the view half way up; at the top you are so high that the rolling hills of the Palouse seem to be flat.
En route through Ellensburg, catch the first annual Ellensburg Film Festival October 7th-9th www.ellensburgfilmfestival.com. A pass is only $69 for the entire weekend. On Sunday the ninth the wildly popular downtown and upstairs Ellensburg tours will be offered with priority to fest goers. Yes to the Tav. Yes, to a side trip to Liberty. Check out the Bison on Swauk Prairie on the way to Liberty. Besides catching a few good flicks in Ellensburg you might enjoy the 8:00 a.m. Bird Walk at Irene Riverfront Park hosted by Kittitas Audobon. This is a great riverfront park, one of the pristine gems in Ellensburg's crown that locals only seem to know about. Also, a drive through the canyon and by Dick and Jane's spot is a must for any out of towner. Your Prius is welcome in Ellensburg, just make sure you have a "my other car is a horse" license plate frame and your cowboy boots and hat in the trunk. Posted Sunday, Oct. 2 Boundary Dam where "The Postman" was filmed. Sullivan Lake. On Hwy 97, detour to Liberty to see a living ghost town. Chewelah is a small town — 2,600 pop in Stevens Co. We have the only 27-hole golf course east of the Cascades in Washington. Stop by to meet friendly people and play some golf. Stay at the Nordlig Motel. Try the Mia Casita for delicious Mexican food.
You need to visit the Metaline Falls Trading Company which is run by George and Marcel Kubota. They are the second generation to run the store. It's a unique place. If you are looking for something you will never find it. Ask George though and he will find it for you in a second. My wife Cynthia was born and raised in Metaline, just across the river from Metaline Falls. If you can, you should look up her dad Gene Adams. He has lived in Metaline since 1936 and will be worth whatever time you can spend with this truly unique individual. Don Brocha Mayor of Woodinville and a Metaline-in-law.
See Charlie Potts in Walla Walla of the Temple Bookstore. He's a brilliant mind, has a new book out of his selected writings (The Pocket Potts) and is a legend in Walla Walla. Enjoy! Posted Saturday, Oct. 1 In Pend Oreille, stop in Ione or Metaline Falls along the Pend Orielle river. If you can, go up the mountain and see the Dam (seen in The Postman). Beautiful country up there, nice people. But watch your speed when hitting the town limits. Oh you'll find these towns a half hour from both the Idaho and Canadian borders. (too bad you missed their 'down river days' last weekend in July) If you really want to get off the beaten path, head south out of Republic on 21 and take Bridge Creek to the town of Inchelium. Truly way, way out of the way. Gregg Wilson runs the Stonerose Fossil Museum in Republic. He is not a fossil although he once was a goalie for the WSU water polo team and a Peace Corps volunteer. He is worth meeting. You need to visit, Colton, Dayton, and don't forget about the small town of Starbuck, Wash. While you're in Ferry County, the most interesting place is the Malo Trading Post in Malo where they don't take credit cards. On your way back to Seattle on Hwy 2, loop around Tumwater Canyon (you've probably already seen that beautiful stretch of road) and take the Chumstick Highway (from Leavenworth) instead. Visit family/community-oriented Plain Hardware in Plain, WA (just outside of Leavenworth). While enjoying a delicious latte made by the friendly staff, you can browse through their very nice selection of gifts, and also purchase those necessary items like lightbulbs and 2x4s! A hike at Kamiak Butte (between the towns of Palouse and Pullman) is beautiful and off the beaten path. You don't gain much elevation, but you start at about 2,400 feet! Brian should stop in Odessa and visit the Rocky Coulee Brewing Company. Run by a long time Odessa family the Schafers. Odessa has Deutchfest in September where we had a great time. Rocky Coulee Brewing has six different beers, I recommend Fireweed and Dunkel, but my wife likes Cream Ale. This family shows the spirit of America. Tom injured his back could not farm anymore, so they started this Brewery. The whole family helps both the boys, daughter in law, etc., a true American Family. They are very pleasant, you will have to go behind the railroad tracks to find the little "tasting room" they have, but it is very nice. I would ask one of the locals where to stay, because after you have a couple of $2 pints and try all the brands you might be a little tipsy, be sure and get a t-shirt with Ma and Pa, too funny. Spend the night in Odessa, and check out any yard sales, they always have plenty, if you are there on a football night all the girls wear the boys away jersey's to support the team, the Odessa Tigers. A German community that was financially injured by Met Mortgage, has survived, the people are genuine and caring, the doors are always open. Also be sure and stop in and have a "brat" and sauerkraut, good grits. A friendly town and great people, a stop not to be missed. Have fun. Posted Friday, Sept. 29 Be sure to stop at Kamiak Butte on your way south from Palouse. The view south is worth the climb. The Old European in Pullman has wonderful aebelskivers and cinnamon rolls. Unfortunately, you missed the best time to tour the Palouse. In late spring, the wheat is still green and ripples like watter. Make sure to stop in and chat with the lady at the Chevron in Winthrop. She had some interesting things to say about the town and the highway! And also be prepared to spend some real time there! It was quite a fascinating place when I visited. If you want to see a ski area 49 Degrees North is right out of Usk (about 12 mile) on a great road. It is in the Colville National Forest and is devoid of snow at present. Looks like a great trip! Just north of Omak is a town called Riverside. There is an interesting piece of history on the hill above riverside. On the hill to the north side of the cemetery, just off the road, is a grave. I can't recall the name, but the grave is of a bad guy who was buried outside of the cemetery because he wasn't allowed in with the rest of the town folk. He is literally buried on "Boot Hill" all by his lonesome, with an upside down horseshoe (for bad luck). To find this gem, go into Riverside, and stop at the local store named Detro's (you can't miss it). Someone there will be able to provide better directions. Take the Lake Chelan Lady of the Lake boat up to Steheiken. Hike or bike to Rainbow Falls and get some pastry at the Stehiken Bakery. If time allows hike into Domke Lake (from Lucerne) or make arrangements to take the bus to Holden Village and get a tour of the old huge copper mine that once flourished there. Stop and eat at Blueberry Hills Farm in Manson, WA — try their pie and have the barn waffle for breakfast. Come see our town. Our school district and town is roughly 80 percent Hispanic. Our students are wonderful. And the town is pretty nice as well. When you pass through Spokane, try to swing by the local apple growing area called Greenbluff. It's a community of small, individually operated farms where you can pick up fresh apples, onions, carrots, squash, and potatoes, to name a few. And no trip back east would be complete without a romp through the corn maze at Siemer's Pick N Pack. Have fun! My wife and I just got back from one of our favorite camping spots. Steamboat state Park on the shore of banks Banks Lake where we saw the first "white" Pelicans I have ever seen. This might be worth investigating, you also have dry falls just south of there. Dig for fossils in Republic. Be careful going over Sherman Pass. If it was raining in the North Cascades it could be snowing there! There is a good historical museum in Colville. Dick and Janes house in Ellensburg. also the Windmill. Was a service station. Now a tractor repair shop.The Flying Red Horse in Ellensburg for good burgers. You must check out St. John, WA, since it is the "cleanest and neatest" town in the state. Every home is in excellent condition. The town is "squeaky clean." Posted Thursday, Sept. 29 Visit Asotin! We're the only city in Washington located east of the Idaho border, plus it's the greatest little town in the state! I should know, I'm the Mayor! If you get a chance, the sunset from Steptoe Butte in Whitman county (outside of Pullman). Unfortunately, you're too late for the Lentil Festival.. You ought to check out Box Canyon Dam just north of Ione, Wa., because all the power that it produces goes to Seattle. It's owned by Seattle Power and Light. and it also was the site of the movie "The Mailman" a few years ago. Be sure to go over Sherman Pass that goes from Kettle Falls to Republic. It is beautiful this time of year Be sure to go to Pomeroy and visit Tom Meyers who own Meyers Hardware on Main Street. He has a coffee bar in the store as well. You should stop by and see the Okanogan County Historical museum at the Legion Park in the City of Okanogan otherwise known as Omak South. (Hee hee hee. It's very interesting!!!! Just don't come during deer season as most of the people you see will be 206ers living it up for a week.) Don't let us know you're from 206. As a native of Walla Walla, I would strongly suggest visiting two institutions. Merchants Cafe on Main St. and the Ice-Burg Drive Inn tucked just off Ninth. Hot Poop is also a must see. Seattle isn't the only place where Olmstead influenced parks, check out Pioneer Park. 1. Stonerose Fossil Rainbow Falls in Stehekin is beautiful as is the entire area surrounding Lake Chelan. I like My Buddy's Place Saloon in Manson for good friendly service and food. As someone who moved from Whidbey Island to the Walla Walla area less than a year ago, I offer some observations: In Republic dig your own fossils. In Ellensburg go to Winegars for ice cream In Walla Walla the Ice-Burg Drive Inn for great burgers and shakes Be sure to see Old Molson, the ghost town northeast of Oroville. Also, Ronald McDonald's grave in Ferry County. Finally, don't miss Boundary and Box Canyon Dams north of Metaline Falls. Folks in this area drive old pickups with rifle racks, so don't be surprised if they don't appreciate your Prius. I hope you plan to drive the backroads of the Palouse. There's nothing quite like watching the breeze caress those lovely fields on a cool, yet sunny day. To be fair, they should be seen in every season, but each one is lovely. Eat at Swilly's in Pullman and don't skip dessert. Don't miss Palouse Falls (is rattlesnake season over?) and if possible, try to camp somewhere, anywhere, to enjoy an Indian Summer morning. If you outfit the Prius with a Cougar decal, wear your Gonzaga cap, and say "Go Cougs" to anyone in crimson, you won't get beat up. Check out Home Comfort Unique Mall just west of Sedro-Woolley on (1/4 mile off) Hwy 20. It's an old milking parlor (on a dairy farm) that's been converted to an antiques/collectibles store. Much of the old atmosphere is still evident. They also have peacocks and exotic pheasants. It's on your way and well worth the stop. Look for their sign on the north side of the highway 3/8 of a mile west of the McDonald's. Born at Virginia Mason Hospital, will be 50 in 18 months. Grew up in Bellevue, attended BHS and UW. Have lived in Spokane for over 20 years. Applaud your efforts to see that the state does extend past Issaquah, even North Bend. You're in for a great journey. Be sure to stop at watering holes in the small towns, Tekoa, for example. The best burger, while not technically in Washington, can be found at the Anytime Tavern in Lewiston. Go order one, then drive back to Clarkston to eat it... have fun! As a Coug who spent four years at Wazzu, I recommend the hike up Kamiak Butte and view from Steptoe Butte in Whitman County and Ferdinands Ice Cream on WSU Campus Great time of year to do this trip! You will fall in love with the Methow Valley, I guarantee this. In the Methow Valley: Make a stop at the Mazama store for a bowl of soup. Open 9-5. Good folks there. In Winthrop, try dinner at Topo Cafe — a favorite of locals, and the owners are cool. In Twisp, stop at Cinnamon Twisp Bakery for sweets. Best of all, hit the Saturday Farmer's Market in Twisp, 9 to noon. It's the gathering place for locals. Really fun. In Walla Walla, look for Reininger Winery (owners Chuck and Tracy Reininger are simply wonderful people, and old friends of mine!) Posted Saturday, Oct. 1 Brian — Please stay in our 80-year-old little log cabin on the Wenatchee river in Plain. Call 509-763-4600 if interested. There is a 5-star restaurant in Dayton. In Marysville, Quilceda Creek makes a world-class Cabernet. Cheers!— Chris Foote, Plain, Wash.
Posted Friday, Sept. 30 In Dayton, stay at the Weinhart Hotel and eat at the Patit Creek Restaurant. Check out the Victorian Neighborhood in Spokane's Brown's Addition; there are several B&B's in the hood also — in your quest to avoid chain motels. Good recommendation for eats in the Spokane area — Downriver Grill for great pork osso bucco; breakfast at the diner at Felts Field — a walk into the past for sure! Have fun. If you get to Walla Walla, stay at one of the B&B's or try the Bumble Abode www.bumbleabode.com; eat breakfast at Tommy's Dutch Lunch on Pine St., Creektown Cafe for Lunch and for dinner if you like Mexican — Ti Kalli or La Hacienda. Enjoy your trip. I look forward to reading your blogs!
Posted Thursday, Sept. 29 When you're crossing Ferry County on highway 20, make a short detour to Curlew Lake, NE of Republic. It's a beautiful lake and has good fishing. My family goes there every summer, staying at Fisherman's Cove Resort. You need to check out 'King's Row' in Selah (has been a city favorite forever...) ALSO! Cherry Wood Bed and Breakfast in Zillah. (before Toppenish) It is surrounded by wineries and offers two luxury teepees as well as rides to wineries by horseback! Posted Saturday, Oct. 8 Go to Tequila's. It's in an old railroad car, great food and really good margaritas. My wife and I do travel the state; we ate there when we went to the Ellensburg Rodeo both nights. Good food. Nice family.
Santiago's Gourmet Mexican Restaurant, 111 E. Yakima Avenue is the best Mexican food in the east side of the state! Try Carniceria Coalcahuan in Grandview. (not sure of the spelling). A little unassuming meat shop which sells excellent hand-made taquitos. Particularly succulent are the taquitos de birria (goat, i think). If you are looking for great Mexican food, check out El Caporal in Selah, or Santiago's in Yakima!
Going to Leavenworth, there is a great store just east that you need to see. There's an animal farm but the store itself is so much fun. Inside there are many different kinds of salsa, spices, canned fruits, soup mixtures spread over uneven floors, rooms that wander and many cats sitting on shelves. The last time we were there, kittens mewed at us behind displays.
Eat at Miner's in Yakima WA on First street. Have a Miner's burger meal!
Posted Friday, Oct. 7 I'm so enjoying reading about your trip. While in Walla Walla, you have to stop by the Ice Burg for a burger and milk shake. I grew up in Walla Walla and it's so exciting to watch all the changes going on and finally have the opportunity to choose from any one of many amazing restaurants there — but it's still good to know where to find a good shake. Have fun! You cannot go anywhere near Walla Walla and not have a milkshake at the Iceberg drive-in on Birch Street. Best shakes in the free world! When in Walla Walla, dining options abound. Three places that you must try are: La Monarca Taco Truck for Walla Walla Tacos with chicken, walla walla sweet onions, avocado, and a squeeze of lime, Ice Burg on 9th for an awesome burger and shakes in flavors like kiwi blackberry, and The Green Lantern Tavern for a hard cider and the best fries ever. For a great take-out experience, drive your food out to the wheat fields and find yourself a place with a nice view up on one of the hills. Posted Thursday, Oct. 6 If you stop in E'burg — there are some FABULOUS onion rings at the Campus-U-Totem. Not the Rossows-U-Totem by the highway, the campus one. You will have to search, but anyone can tell you where it's at. They have the most wonderful ranch for dipping your fries, and chocolate-peanut butter shakes. I grew up in Burbank, Wa., 45 miles north of Walla Walla. Be sure to get a Bellybuster at Zips on the East side if you haven't. And keep an eye out for a place called "Miner's" outside of Yakima for one heck of meal. There's a place in Burbank called the Hungry Horse that mom and her friends love. Never been there myself! Good Luck! PS Do you miss the trees yet? Posted Wednesday, Oct. 5 Take it from a Coug, you'll never find a better burger than at Elinore's Corner Saloon in Uniontown. Before there was Starbucks or Krispy Kreme there was the Spudnut Shop. If you are going through Richland in the morning stop by the town's oldest coffee shop (1948) and is still run by the same family today. Have a doughnut made from potato flour (trust me, they are addictive) and stay for coffee with the regulars. Posted Tuesday, Oct. 4 A visit to Pullman wouldn't be complete without stopping at the Old European on Grand Avenue. Don't miss the opportunity to try their Aebelskivers, a delicious Danish breakfast treat! When in Pullman you must eat at Cougar Country Drive-In. It might help to explain the waistlines of WSU students 760 North Grand, Pullman While in Pullman, be sure to visit The Sports Page Tavern for a real slice of Cougar life. Chat with the regulars. They're friendly (as long as you aren't wearing purple). When in Walla Walla, stop and have a Iceburger! 9th & rose. Gotta have a big burger at Miner's in Union Gap. A local tradition where ALL the visiting high-school sports teams eat after the game. Posted Sunday, Oct. 2
After you meet your cholesterol quota with a milkshake and onion rings at the Ice Burg in Walla Walla, soothe your conscience with a great bagel at Rogers Cookie Tree Bakery in College Place. MMM MMM! In Walla Walla go to the Blue Mt. Tavern and have a round-table sandwich! I miss them! On Hwy. 20, halfway between Tonasket and Republic, is the Wauconda Store in the very small town of Wauconda, Wash. When you go there you can get a home-cooked meal, fresh-baked pies and friendly conversation. On certain nights of the week, they serve some great authentic Asian cuisine!
In Yakima, Miner's Drive In. I'm 60 and have never eaten at a better drive-in.
Posted Saturday, Oct. 1 Hot dining tip: Acclaimed Chicago restaurateurs Norman and Kristen Six have returned to Norman's childhood home in the Colville area to open Lovitt Restaurant. lovittrestaurant.com. Logger Tavern in Colville...5 stars. Twisp Bakery, called the Cinnamin Twisp. Gotta drop by. Nice bakery in Pateros too; don't know the name. Broken Antler, Othello, Wash. — Try their chicken gizzards and a cold beer while chatting with the locals about the upcoming hunting season, every time I go it's a great time and good people. Be sure and try the onion rings at The Onion in Spokane — best I've ever had! Two things: 1) The Cle Elum bakery has the best doughnuts in the state. Also their Cheesy French Bread is outstanding! 2) If you like to wear purple and gold or need a Starbucks every day, go back to the 206 with all the other Christine Gregoire lovers. Have a fresh peach milkshake at Miner's in Yakima. And be sure to hit up the Barrel House at 22 North Front Street (formerly the Blue Banjo). And stop by my mom's house — she makes the worlds best sourdough pancakes, but you have to go to church with her to get 'em. Breakfast at Park Place in Colville. When you're near Pullman, head to Eleanors in Uniontown, they have some of the best burgers on the Palouse. Ice-Burg is not the spot for Onion Rings in WW — they're the frozen variety. For real onion rings try Creektown Cafe. Actually, Creektown Cafe does EVERYTHING right. Though traveling ourselves for work currently, we suggest you stop in at Esther's for great Mountain Mexican food and be sure to visit the Bar-muda Triangle (the Roost, Madonna's & Hitchin' Post) for some real local fun! If you really like what you see in Ferry County, be sure to check out www.shopthefrontier.com starting November 1, 2005! It is a web site that will be highlighting Ferry County artisans and services for those that don't want to make the drive (yet!). If you take I-82 out of Ellensburg and hit the Yakima Valley, be sure to stop by El Ranchito in Zillah. Absolutely the best and freshest Mexican food in the state. I like the chicken burritos and the homemade salsa. Continue east to Kennewick and make sure to stop by Ruff's Dirve-In on Columbia Drive for a huge and delicious burger. If fast-food is your thing, stop by the Zips at the foot of the Cable Bridge for a Papa Joe and fries, don't forget the housemade tartar. Good stuff. Try the Curlew cafe. It has really great food. a true diamond in the rough If you don't like venison don't order nachos at the Hitchin Post Tavern in Republic You're missing an experience by not stopping in Cle Elum & Roslyn you could visit the oldest operating saloon in the state. Eat a torchetti from a brick oven and visit the newest and largest resort in the northwest?? And stay in a real caboose? Posted Friday, Sept. 30 You must stop in Cashmere...the Sure To Rise Bakery has the best donuts in the Wenatchee Valley...my personal favorite...the "Bowtie"...then give us a call and we"ll treat you to some good "ol fashioned" home cooking and fresh apple pie... You NEED to eat at The Cougar Cottage in Pullman. Milk Shakes, HUGE burgers...it is a WSU Alumni must-have when going back to visit Pullman! You have to eat a Miner's burger in Yakima with a real milk shake You've got to try Cafe Italiano in Colville! It's the best Italian in the state. Try the rings at The Ice Burg in Walla Walla, order them 'soft'! M-F Drive In — Get a pizza with two movies! Just off Hwy 11 from Walla2. You need to grab a pitcher at Rico's in Pullman. The most "mature" and classy venue in town. Live music, etc. There's also this great little bar and grill between Pullman and Clarkston. I believe it's in Uniontown. Unfortunately, you're skipping Central Washington my old stomping grounds. Rancho Chico in Colville — my husband grew up there and still dreams about their burritos. You should hit the Cougar Country Drive-in on Grand Ave in Pullman. A few miles outside of Pullman on the old Moscow Highway is Round Barn. It is pretty neat for you 206ers. Also when in Colfax, check out the codger pole on Main Street. It has some neat history. There is a little hamburger place on Main Street where Bill Gates ate while in town called the Top Notch Cafe. Great burgers there. I didn't really think about bars, but if they are your thing, the Sports Page Downtown Pullman has a ton of Cougar stuff and they have the "turn the hat" celebration after the WSU Football games with the football coaches. Ask about it if you stop. Also, the Coug up on campus. It is a tiny place, but if you went to WSU in the last nearly 70 years it was there for you. Lots of writing on the walls from students. PS — I read the comments and someone said to check out Steptoe-Butte at sunset. I agree! You can drive (or hike) to the top and it is a WONDERFUL view of the Palouse and the rolling hills. I think you should walk on the trail in Riverside State Park and get a burger at Zips Drive In. It is very good and I highly recommend the Papa Joe Burger, and their tater tots or fries are both really good. Be sure to stop at Kamiak Butte on your way south from Palouse. The view south is worth the climb. The Old European in Pullman has wonderful aebelskivers and cinnamon rolls. Unfortunately, you missed the best time to tour the Palouse. In late spring, the wheat is still green and ripples like watter. I lived in Eastern WA (referred by my co-workers as IDAHO) for 23 years before moving over here after college. There are so many good places to eat, you must try Fazzarri's Pizza in Clarkston, WA, and Sharp's Burger Ranch . Delish! And try to stop by and see the Palouse Falls. Oh, I almost forgot! For the absolute best wild Huckleberry Ice Cream on the planet, stop at the Ram in Riverside (north of Spokane). Try Hart's real British Fish and Chips in Wenatchee While you're here, experience a natural resource-harvest. Spuds, carrots, alfalfa, corn, etc. Its what has built this country (USA), and unfortunately, been forgotten and overlooked by everyone who lives on the westside. If you make it through Yakima, stop in Selah at Kings Row Drive In. Get the Kings Row special with a Vanilla Pepsi. Or if you are daring, the Garbage burger. Tell Mary that Scott Swanson sent you! Check out Waitsburg! The Bullseye Tavern does great steaks and burgers or for southern fry you could go to the Whoop-em U. Waitsburg is the only town in Washington that has its own charter and does not have to follow the charter of Washington State. We just moved back from a year in Walla Walla — also a great place. You must check out some of the taco trucks or just go to Taqueria Yagapetti for awesome tacos — cheap! Have fun. There are a few of us Democrats in WW but it's thin out there.. :)
Come to Walla Walla for sure. Walk down Main Street. Eat breakfast at Merchants, Clarettes or Coffee Connection Cafe. In town on a Wednesday night? Hit Merchants for spaghetti night. Feeling more traditional road fare? Try Fast Eddies or Ice Burg for burgers and fries and shakes. Go to Brights on Main Street for dessert. For upscale, try Backstage Bistro, Grapefields, or 26 Brix, Whitehouse-Crawford, or Creek Town Cafe. Also, if you like wine, Walla Walla is a must. A huge number of tasting rooms and other wine-related fun can be found in and around town. Grab the Marquee section of the local paper ( on Thursday, FYI) for a complete list of wineries and hours of tasting rooms. Also, many quaint shops along Main Street. Don't miss Hot Poop,a great local record store. (The owner wanted to name it something else...) Two places not to miss eating — Old European and Cougar Country — both in Pullman. While you are in Pullman, go to the WSU creamery store on campus for ice cream. You absolutely need to eat some baked goods at the Cinnamon Twisp Bakery in Twisp. It has got to be one of the best bakeries in the world. I'm not kidding. The eclair is to die for. Also, as long as you're in the neighborhood, stop by Bucksin Orchards (organic) and pick up some of their creamy delicious pears or crisp apples — hand picked. Yummm! I know that you are exploring the "509" area, but if you just so happen to sneak into "208" territory east of Pullman by accident, there is a great restaurant called the Breakfast Club in Moscow that my wife and I eat at every time we visit our son who is a student at the University of Idaho. Great variety of hearty, homemade breakfast items. My wife goes off her diet when she eats there. Seattle was my home for 37 years and having lived the last 7 in Walla Walla I am amazed by the taco wagons. The best one is on Rose Street after you cross over 9th Avenue. They have no address. It is across from Adams Tractor. There is also "The Worm Ranch" on Wallula. They have great burritos — and, you can also buy fishing worms. If you are here on a Sunday morning, the gun club has 8 a.m. trap and skeet shooting. It has been around since the late 1800s. Wine crush is in full swing and I invite you to Waterbrook Winery to see what it is all about. Much more "Ag" than "Glamour". The phone number here is 509-522-1262. Happy Trails! Rusty's in Cashmere — great onion rings, burgers, and shakes! (comparable to Zeke's) Check out the Calico Cupboard in Mount Vernon, just off the freeway. Their pastries and baked goods will add several delicious (but probably unnecessary) inches to your waistline. Trust me, it's worth it. Try the chili chicken at the Bangkok 105 in Collge Place, right outside of Walla Walla. Hole-in-the -all diner with everything made fresh. Also the Woppem-up-Hollow Cafe in Waitsburg. Cajun-style comfort food. I think you'll be hard-pressed to find rings better than Zeke's! While in Leavenworth, try the 'local' places. There are lots of great places to eat, but why not go where the local outdoor enthusiasts eat and drink — Uncle Uli's. Cash or check only. And then come by the Gingerbread Factory for dessert and lattes. In the morning we bake fresh cinnamon rolls (sans raisins and nuts) Does that mean no Starbucks? Stop by the 6th Street Coffee Shop in downtown Prosser, and then go next door to Alexander Nicole Winery for some award winning wine.
Posted Thursday, Sept. 29 I'm currently enrolled at WSU, and as a westsider gone east, you must eat at the Old European in Pullman. Try the Aebelskivers, they're heaven in a pancake. Brian, In Dayton, Washington, make reservations at Patit Creek Restaurant — we tried to go there and it was booked solid. Also fried egg sandwiches at the Marina in Starbuck. Palouse Falls Definitely hit the food in Pullman, WA. Cougar Country has arguably the best drive-in style food in the Palouse and their fries and chicken strips are the best. Also Sella's up near the southern entrance to Campus has unbelievable pizza and salads. Great time of year to do this trip! You will fall in love with the Methow Valley, I guarantee this. In the Methow Valley: Make a stop at the Mazama store for a bowl of soup. Open 9-5. Good folks there. In Winthrop, try dinner at Topo Cafe — a favorite of locals, and the owners are cool. In Twisp, stop at Cinnamon Twisp Bakery for sweets. Have dinner at the Fiddlehead Bistro. Best of all, hit the Saturday Farmer's Market in Twisp, 9 to noon. It's the gathering place for locals. Really fun. In Walla Walla, look for Reininger Winery (owners Chuck and Tracy Reininger are simply wonderful people, and old friends of mine!) Editor's note: Fiddlehead is expected to close before the end of October. If you do happen to go to Pasco, try to go to Atomic Foods. (Inspires confidence, doesn't it?) It's a grocery store across the street from a park with a locomotive. They make tortillas there, and you can buy a bag of flour tortillas that is too hot to hold. They are great, even plain. Really good cookies at Leftie's in Roslyn, Wa. When you come to Walla Walla County, skip the wineries — everybody's writing about them. Check out the Tuxedo Bar and Grill in Prescott, Wildberries Cafe in Dayton, and the Ice-Burg in Walla Walla. In Garfield County, don't miss the Pataha Flour Mill — be sure to visit with Jon VanVogt, the owner. You have to go Dayton and go to the Country Cupboard and see Chuck and Rayleen. They just last week opened a deli and bakery and they are AWESOME. They moved there from Snohomish. Besides, Dayton is a historic little town. You'll like the bar in downtown Tanasket! Have fun!!! I'll be following your travels. Eat a burger with onions at the Ice-Burg Drive-in in Walla Walla. Brian should eat at the Fiddlehead in Twisp. It's so fantastic, it's like a neighborhood bistro from Capitol Hill dropped into the middle of cattle country. Editor's note: Fiddlehead is expected to close before the end of October. You've gotta check out the Ice-Burg Drive-In in Walla Walla — good burgers, great shakes! If you want to know how the other half lives, go to the Pomona Tavern on Highway 821, just north of Selah. Ask for Kelly. (And if you keep worrying about getting beat up, you're a sitting duck.) I'm living in Nevada but was born and raised in Seattle/Enumclaw and went to school at WSU. I recommend trying the ice cream at Ferdinand's Ice Cream Shoppe while in Pullman (located on the WSU campus). While in Ellensburg, my husband and I always stop for a mocha at D&M Coffee off of Pine street. We are so hooked on the coffee that we have their Sumatra coffee beens delivered to us down here. Enjoy Fazzari's Finest Pizza in Clarkston...every time I'm back in town I plan a few meals here...www.fazzaris.com A great place to stop in Ellensburg is the Valley Cafe at 105 W. 3rd Avenue. It is a 1930's Art Deco restaurant in historic downtown Ellensburg. If your schedule allows, take in a "chimposium" at Central Washington University's Chimpanzee and Human Communication Institute. You won't be disappointed. www.cwu.edu Stop at The Brick in Roslyn — supposedly the oldest 'saloon' in WA. Why Zeke's? The Alpin down the road in Startup is much better and the fries are super! Eat at the Atomic Brew Pub in Richland. With beers like the Half-Life Hefeweizen and Plutonium Porter, they really play up the nuclear theme. This is one of those places I tell people they must go when visiting the Tri-Cities. It is hip, local and backs up its quirky character with outstanding food and beer. Try the soup. As a former 509er (Ellensburg and Kennewick) you HAVE to stop at the Tav in Ellensburg and have a Super Mother burger, and then you have to stop in Dayton, see the beautiful old houses, and have a bacon cheeseburger at the A-Frame — it is called something different every year, but they have the best burgers for after a long day of hunting and fishing on the beautiful Touchet River. Enjoy! As a Yakima Valley native now transplanted in Wallingford, here are a couple of tips: For onion rings stop at Miner's in Yakima and the Ice-Burg in Walla Walla, both locally owned by the same families for eons. While at the Ice-Burg, ask for a scotch and soda. You will love it. Try the Little Gallea in Kettle Falls. They have the best fries and mushroom burger. Try the Mexican restaurant in Colville also. I think it's called Rancho Chico. Cinnamon rolls at Merchants on Main Street and a latte at Bob's Backstage Bistro on Main and Palouse are the best. Onion rings at the Ice-Burg on Birch. So many good places to visit and eat in Walla Walla, you will need to stay for at least a week. In Walla Walla, skip all of the chi-chi restaurants. Eat instead at a local joint. If you feel like Mexican, eat at Las Monarchas taco truck near West Rose and 10th. If you feel like Italian, eat at the Pastime Cafe — the owners' family has lived in WW for generations. For the onion ring odyssey, there are two — "The Onion" restaurants in Spokane. One at 02 W Riverside Ave, and the other at 7522 N Division St. They are similar to a Red Robin, but only in Spokane. The onion rings are the best I have ever had. For Onion Rings I would recommend The Onion in Downtown Spokane. For fast food, Dick's Drive-in on the corner of Third and Division in Spokane is an institution. Knight's Diner, a railroad car restaurant at the corner of Maple and Second is considered by many to be an excellent location for breakfast. Attractions in Spokane are Riverfront Park downtown and Manito Park on Grand Blvd on the South Hill. It was designed by the same architect that did Pioneer Park in Seattle. The Spokane Opera house and the Spokane Arena are local venues for entertainment. A schedule of upcoming events can be heard at (509) 325-7469. I would be happy to spring for lunch when you hit Spokane if you would like. My cell phone # is (509) 990-5875. There's a butcher in Twisp who makes the best jerky around. Everyone (but me) knows who it is....just ask. Same turnoff as the one for the fish hatchery. Brian needs to eat at the Elk in Spokane. Best beer and food in Spokane. From Spokane here... Try Pete's Pizza on NW Boulevard in Spokompton (or Spokangeles if you prefer). When in Wenatchee, you HAVE to stop for a Dusty Burger! I grew up in Toppenish, and lived in Cheney/Spokane for 20 years — for Onion Rings, check out Miner's Drive-Thru in Union Gap. Also, think about stopping at Bonair Winery off Highland Drive in Zillah — the owners are really fun people. If you like Patty Melts, you have to try the one at the Tuxedo Tavern. Posted Friday, Oct. 7 Don't have any tips — I miss the east side of the mountains. This is the best thing that's been in the paper for a long time. Thank you. Palouse is derived from the French word pelouse meaning lawn. Having visited the Palouse, you can imagine how the rolling hills might have looked to a French trapper in the spring with green prairie grass and wild flowers. OK, one last tip... Roosevelt, WA. It's on WA 14, the Washington side of the Columbia Gorge about a half hour east of Maryhill (which I suppose you are also visiting). Roosevelt's fame is as the East Gorge Mecca for windsurfing. But instead of Hood River yuppies, you'll find wheat farmers and vintNers windsurfing here. But the key attraction for a Seattleite is the land fill. This is where Seattle's garbage come to rest. By truck, by barge, by train. All waste roads lead to Roosevelt. So, as you drive in your fuel-efficient Prius, remember Roosevelt. This is where your Whole Foods broccoli stems, caffe latte cup lids, and bar napkins end their days. In its own way, Roosevelt is a monument. A browner, dryside monument to the cost of wetside "Green". But, even here our sagebrush soul has found something useful. This Seattle refuse eventually turns into methane gas and feeds three turbines that supply electricity to me and my neighbors in the Tri-Cities. Kattletown Karma, boy-howdee! Posted Thursday, Oct. 6 Not a tip but couldn't resist writing. My mom just called me. You ate at her restaurant in Asotin. I'm sorry she's so nutty. It turned me on to your blog though. Very cool. I'm a geologist and appreciated your description of the geology of the areas you've been to. Next time I visit my mom I'm going to have to go dig up some shale with Redwood needles. I'll bring my rock hammer: Did you take hwy 97 north all the way to the border? Oroville has a nice lake, and up by the Nighthawk border crossing there are petroglyphs, tallis slopes with year-round ice caves where Native American's stored their meat in the summer, and a Blue lake the color of turquoise. — Doug Lowther, Huntsville, Ala. I am REALLY enjoying following your trip online; I'm in State College, Penn., but from Redmond, and it's all making me a bit homesick, especially about your Palouse area adventures (GO COUGS!). PLEASE PLEASE write up these online reflections into some sort of book/publication form, it would be a wonderful travel collection to read. Wouldn't it be great to title it, "So — if you live in Seattle — can you see the stars at night?", as a reminder of your curiosity and discovery but also that of people you met along the way. Just an idea. Thanks for posting everything for us readers, and safe travels! — LISA Posted Wednesday, Oct. 5 Great stuff! I left the Seattle area in 1998 and now live in the suburbs of Philadelphia. Your reports have started the juices flowing again and I can't wait to trudge quiet reaches of your beautiful state! Posted Tuesday, Oct. 4 The 206er/509er "myth" is true! It takes a long time for people in eastern Washington to "accept" 206ers. The funny thing is, most of them were 206ers at some point in their life. It's really too bad that many people aren't accepting of the diversity that is offered from others moving to the area, including 206ers. In Leavenworth, hit Home Fires Bakery, O'Grady's Pantry and stop in at Leavenworth Mountain Sports to buy some gear! Your blog/trip is really cute. I am too just 50 but lived 32 years on the "wet" side. We love both sides but really enjoy eastern WA. Take a hike in the Horse Heavens, get onto the Columbia River through the Hanford Reach. The whole state is gorgeous. As a Seattle native now making my home in Spokane, I'm a bit put off by the suggestion that Brian is on an exotic safari requiring a red-to-blue translation book and political vaccinations. Washington's Third Legislative District, which includes the bulk of the city of Spokane, is represented exclusively by Democratic District Legislators. When did Seattle become so disconnected from the rest of the state? While I was growing up in Seattle, I remember the local stations running Morning Farm Reports — and I'm younger than Brian. Spokane is a great town (which I personally think was born of an affair between Sinclair Lewis and Blanche DuBois), with historic neighborhoods that are remarkably intact and affordable. The symphony might surprise you, too. The only word Brian may be unfamiliar with is "seasons." In Eastern Washington, we use a plural form of the word. Posted Sunday, Oct. 30 You're going to have to send him out again. The fact that he's been to a county doesn't mean he's BEEN to a county. Tip: Dusty's in Ephrata for a burger. Sorry he missed breakfast at the Branding Iron in Twisp. High quality diner food there.
I completely agree with Cathy from Tacoma. Your implication that you might get beat up for driving a Prius or being a 206er really shows a Seattle "Superior Complex." One reason you are likely to see fewer expensive cars in small town in 509 land is the fact that most people's per capita incomes are much less — rather than some illusion that they are all gas-guzzling red necks. I hope your trip brings you back down to earth. I'm from Seattle and am frankly disgusted by the level of conceit and self importance that permeates this community relative to it's relation to the rest of the state.
I guess I'm always receptive to the downside of a place I'm visiting. You can focus on cinnamon rolls but I'm wondering about the meth presence. Forget the manufactured Blue vs. Red divide and the other differences, which are all economic when you get right down to it. Poverty breeds drug abuse and manufacture. So are you seeing the presence of meth that law enforcement and social services people are warning us about? Posted Friday, Sept. 30 Please avoid the tired red vs. blue BS and the Rossi vs. Gregoire stuff. We are one state and many of your neighbors will be moving over here for retirement since the Puget Sound region is so crowded. We welcome all of you; we need your help in maintaining the wonderful quality of life we enjoy in Eastern Washington. When you visit Spokane, have lunch at Domini's in the Washington Trust building downtown. Order the small and good luck finishing the best sandwich you've ever eaten. You seem to be stopping at all of the trendy places that most Coasties stop at... Winthrop, Leavenworth, Walla Walla, etc. Make sure you have a "Go Cougs!" sticker while in Eastern Washington. Huskies are about as welcome as most liberal Democrats. Posted Thursday, Sept. 29 My advice: Slow down, stop and listen to what people are saying and try to understand why Eastern Washingtonians feel so distant from their Western Washington counterparts. Get rid of that car and get a 4-wheel drive Ford or Chevy or Dodge before they run you out of town. If you don't focus your writing on the politics of the region (stereotypical, dull stories about "red" towns in Eastern Washington vs. the "blue" cities in Western Washington), it should be an interesting series. I'm a Seattle native, too, but I prefer many places in Eastern Washington to Western Washington. There are scads of fascinating people and places there. I've been all over the Palouse many times, and I've never heard of the town of Eden that's on your route map. It's not on any of the maps I checked. The Methow Valley is blue amongst the red, so your car should blend right in. Don't come with preconceived notions. Expect the unexpected and enjoy the sunny side of the state. Contrary to belief, we are a civilized bunch and can be quite likeable. Watch out for deer and turkeys (both kinds ) Where to start? How about leaving the political commentary out of your story? Please? My husband and I moved here three years ago. Like you, we're born and raised Seattleites. Here are some tips about '509ers': 1.Anything west of the Cascades is 'the coast' and the people there are 'coasties'. It really is easier to answer 'I'm going to the coast' than to explain that I'm visiting family in Fife or Ballard. 2. When you hear a horn honk or see someone gesturing, they are saying hello. It took us a while to get used to that friendliness. 3. Pop's Drive-In in Moses Lake is great... best Reubens around and they'll try deep frying anything...onions, asparagus, Twinkies. Enjoy your trip! I think Brian needs to change his mindset. "What am I driving? A rented Toyota Prius hybrid, the quintessential Seattle automobile. A true blue car rolling through some red, red towns." He's implying that Seattle Democrats are the only ones who want to save gas, save money and save the environment. And the comment, "I'm going to really try not to get beat up," implies that Eastern Washingtonians are a bunch of rednecks who would beat him up for his views. Perhaps I am being too sensitive, but I, for one, am tired of the elitist Demo-Seattle-crat lofty view that they are above the rest of us... the outside Seattle, blue collar, conservative, truck driving public. I'm sorry, I shouldn't pick on Mr. Cantwell, I'm sure he has the best intentions and truly wants to see the rest of his state; however, he needs to remember that being a Seattle liberal ain't the end-all-be-all (that is, if he doesn't want to get beat up!). Copyright © 2005 The Seattle Times Company
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Calling all 206ers, 509ers, 425ers, 360ers, and 253ers
Talk about it: What do we have in common?
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