Cardinals headed to Seattle; There’s a lot to do there including tourist attractions, music, seafood and wine

Compiled by staff with help from Suzanne Corbett, VisitSeattle.org

The Mariners play at T-Mobile Park, considered by some as one of baseball’s prettiest ballparks (plus they have gourmet food).

For those who love to tour stadiums T-Mobile park does offer behind-the-scenes tours during the offseason and when the teams areaway. For a tour during season, call ahead.

Each year the rosters at MLB stadiums expand to add new “players.”  STLSportsPage.com’s Travel/Food Editor, Suzanne Corbett checked out what is new at T-Mobile Park.

When the Cards play the Seattle Mariners fans going to the game can indulge in several new foods beyond the hallowed hot dog, which by the way pops up on its new Value Menu for just three bucks.

When in Seattle at the game check out the eats.

Chick Chick Boom (shown left)  is their new chicken concept. Launched as the first all emoji food stand, fans will be able to indulge in favorites such as: (chicken tenders and waffle fries with bottled water)

MOTO Pizza,the popular West Seattle-based restaurant will be at the ballpark this season, bringing unique and deep dish-style pies.

Fans can choose from four of Moto’s popular offerings including Mr. Pig, a nod to Chef Lee’s heritage and mother.It’s topped with pork belly from Carlton Farms prepared Filipino “Lechon” style with spicy sausage, a bright tomato sauce, Lee’s mango cilantro chimichurri and garlic banana ketchup. Continue reading to find out why this will be such a popular dish among the locals.

Brisket Quesadilla with chipotle crema pico de gallo pineapple sauce, is another food at the ballpark; and since it is Seattle, Shrimp quesadillas will be popular as a new offering in 2023 at Edgar’s Cantina a southwest food stand at T-Mobile Park.

Those who go to the game will not be at a loss for what to eat. The problem will be in making the choice.

There is a lot to do in Seattle, from the Space Needle to the Pikes Market to the boating and waterfront activities.

We’ll start with the food and head around town from there.

St. Louis has its favorite foods and when visitors come St. Louisans take their friends to “the Hill” or to Ted Drewes. They want them to know about gooey butter cake and ravioli. We wondered about Seattle, so we asked former St. Louisan and lifetime Cardinals fan, Kevin Mest, who now lives there about the food. Kevin traveled from Seattle to Jupiter for Spring Training this year and he’s shown second from left in the photo with his friend  Mike Dugger from Spokane and of course Zack Thompson and Brendan Donovan.

“The simple answer is seafood reigns here,” he said. “Specifically it’s salmon.  Everyone loves salmon and there are many species to choose from with no one (regional) favorite.”

In case you are wondering what high school he went to (because that’s what St. Louisans wonder) — he was a 1975 graduate from Lindbergh.  Kevin says the type of salmon requested is more about seasonality.

“The Copper River salmon from Alaska is the most expensive,” he said. “The local legacy seafood chain is Ivars.”

Ivars has several locations with both fast food style and sit down restaurants. More about that chain at end of this article. Mest recommends the chowder.

“Their chowder is the best,” he said, “There’s one down on the waterfront.”

Besides salmon, shellfish is common but not as universally enjoyed.   According to Seattle Magazine, Oysters are the number one food item listed in their “Top 16 Quintessential things to eat in Seattle.” Elliot’s Oyster House is a popular oyster restaurant. More information on the 16 things to eat are listed at the end of this article.

Halibut is an often requested fish in the Seattle area. Sushi is also big as is Thai food.

Seattle has a large population of people from around the Pacific Rim– the lands around the rim of the Pacific Ocean including Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and the Philippines.

Based on that, there are many restaurants with Filipino, Vietnamese, Cambodian, Japanese, Chinese, Korean, and Indian food. Seattle ranks fourth in the country as the place Filipinos like to settle and that is reflected in many food and restaurant choices.

“Food from around the Pacific rim is very common and popular in Seattle,” said Mest. “We have a great International District about 10-12 blocks from downtown which might be worth a visit.”

He advises to go to the International “Gate” and wander from there. It’s fairly close to Lumen Field the Seahawks stadium (which incidentally offers a tour for those interested. It’s a multi-purpose stadium and also houses their soccer team.)

As VisitSeattle.org says, “The ornate Chinatown (International)  Gate welcomes you to this diverse neighborhood, where the food scene is incredible. After eating your fill of everything from pho to sushi, visit Wing Luke Museum, dedicated to the Asian Pacific American experience; practice your pinball game at the Seattle Pinball Museum; and shop for Japanese snacks and cute gifts at the Uwajimaya supermarket.

Visit Seattle calls the area Chinatown-International District and says it is “one of the nation’s most dynamic and historic Asian American communities.”

According to  VisitSeattle.org, Seattle is home to the best Macaroni and Cheese in the world.

“Yes it is. Beecher’s Cheese at the market is known for  it,” said Kevin Mest.  “Their mac and cheese is the best and can also be found at SeaTac airport….so if you don’t get a chance to get it while you are in Seattle, grab some for your flight home!”

Our Travel/Food Editor Suzanne Corbett prefers the home-made mac and cheese and we know most of you aren’t going to Seattle so you can’t check it out there. Suzanne gave us her home-made macaroni and cheese recipe.

Suzanne Corbett’s Six Cheese Crispy Macaroni and Cheese

• 1 lb elbow macaroni pasta uncooked
• 1 tsp salt to salt the water for the pasta
• 8 cups water
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 1 1/2 cup half & half
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter not margarine
• 2 tbsp all purpose flour
• 4 oz cream cheese
• 8 oz gouda cheese shredded or cubed
• 8 oz creamy havarti cheese shredded or cubed
• 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese shredded
• 4 oz mozzarella cheese shredded
• 4 oz colby jack cheese shredded
• 1 tsp seasoning salt OR plain salt
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika

Instructions

1. Pour 8 cups of water into a pot, and sprinkle in 1 tsp of salt.
2. Bring the water to a boil, over high heat, then add in the elbow macaroni pasta.
3. Cook the pasta until it is al dente ( cooked but still firm), then drain the pasta and rise it under cool water.
4. Place a large sauce pan over medium heat, then toss in 4 tbsp of butter.
5. Melt the butter down completely, then sprinkle in 2 tbsp of flour.
6. Whisk the ingredients until they are well incorporated, then pour in the evaporated milk and half & half.
7. Whisk the ingredients, and continue to cook it over medium heat for about 3 minutes.
8. Reduce the heat to low, then add in the cream cheese, gouda, and havarti.
9. Stir the mixture until the cheese melts, and you have a nice creamy cheese sauce.

• Sprinkle in the seasoning salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix until well incorporated.
• Toss the macaroni pasta into a large pot, and pour in the cheese sauce.
• Stir everything until it is well combined, then pour half of the macaroni and cheese mixture into a 9 x 13 bake dish.
• Sprinkle some of the sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and colby jack on top of the mac and cheese.
• Next add the remaining macaroni and cheese into the bake dish, and top it off with the remaining cheese.
• Bake the macaroni and cheese, in a preheated oven, on 350 F for 25-30 minutes.
• Remove from the oven, and let sit for 5 to 10 minutes.

Mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food. Music is another provider of comfort. Seattle is known for its music and The Royal Room is a music venue, restaurant & bar hosting jazz and other sounds. They serve what they call a Southern-influenced menu, which includes, burgers, sandwiches and macaroni and cheese. It’s located at 5000 Ranier Ave S., Seattle. Phone: (206) 906-9920

Their website says, “Columbia City’s premier live music venue since 2009. We have live music six nights a week! Please check out our calendar to see what’s coming up. With permanent backline, recording and video, a Steinway B grand piano and a generous stage, the Royal Room was designed to serve musicians and artists.

Such famous musicians as Jimi Hendrix, Nirvana, The Foo Fighters, Brandi Carlile, Alice in Chains came from Seattle. One famous musician, Grammy winning guitarist Jeff Beck was from Seattle and he passed away in January 2023.

The day before the Cardinals get to town, April 20 – The Royal Room is having a night of Jeff Beck music. They bill it as “some of Seattle’s greats dig deep into Jeff’s style and emotional compositions.” For information on this phone (206) 906-9920 or go to their website: theroyalroomseattle.com

Our Food/Travel Editor Suzanne Corbett advises to check out the wineries in Seattle and the state of Washington. “They are second only to California in wineries” she says.

Wine lovers may want to take the 30-minute drive from downtown Seattle to Woodinville, a charming little town with more than 100 wineries and tasting rooms there. Chateau Ste. Michelle, the state’s first winery is there. Woodinville Wine Country

What to Do in Seattle-  Suggestions from VisitSeattle.org

St. Louisans who have gotten used to our Union Station Ferris Wheel will be happy to see that Seattle has had a wheel for a long time. Their Wheel, which opened in 2012 as the tallest Ferris Wheel on the West Coast.  is located in the Pier area, and has colorful light show displays on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights.

As you check out all the possible venues, keep in mind that Seattle offers a City Pass that can help save on expenses. They have both 5 stop and 3 stop passes.

Visit Seattle has many more than just the ones listed below plus they are arranged by area, so if you are staying in Downtown you can find out what is near there.

Space Needle

Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, the 605-foot-tall Space Needle quickly became an icon of the city that today is recognized far and wide. On the observation level, which you can reach via a 43-second elevator ride, see the doodle-on-a-napkin concept that led to the Space Needle design. Views from the top feature Elliott Bay, the Cascade Mountains, and even Mount Rainier.

Starbucks Reserve Roastery & Tasting Room

You won’t have trouble finding a Starbucks here in the company’s hometown, but you’ll want to seek out this special Starbucks experience on Capitol Hill. The Starbucks Reserve Roastery is a Willy Wonka–esque coffee wonderland, where you’ll find exclusive beverages, various brewing methods, a coffee library, and more.

Seattle Center Monorail

Another World’s Fair relic, the Seattle Center Monorail links Seattle Center—home of the Space Needle and several other notable attractions—to downtown’s Westlake Center along an approximately one-mile route. The designated historic landmark can reach a top speed of 45 miles per hour and weaves between skyscrapers above the city streets.

Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)

Music, science fiction, and pop culture all come together at the fascinating Museum of Pop Culture. The Frank Gehry-designed building looks like a smashed guitar from above, while inside, its colorful exhibits cover everything from the history of indie video games and horror films to Nirvana, the Seahawks, and more.

Chihuly Garden and Glass

The Chihuly Garden and Glass museum is dedicated to the work and career of locally born, world-renowned glassblower Dale Chihuly, who was introduced to the craft while studying at the University of Washington. It is the most comprehensive collection of his art to date, with interior galleries featuring a variety of his work in the medium. The pièce de résistance is the glasshouse, with a vibrant 100-foot-long sculpture in hues of red, orange, and yellow suspended from the ceiling.

Pike Place Market

From the iconic market sign and Rachel the Piggy Bank to the gum wall, the original Starbucks cafe, well over 225 local artisans selling their wares, the famous fish-tossing tradition, and music-playing street performers, there are enough sights and sounds at Pike Place Market to pack a day (or more). The market added its historic MarketFront expansion in 2017, featuring an open-air plaza and fantastic views of Elliott Bay.

Seattle Art Museum

The Seattle Art Museum is the city’s largest museum dating back to the 1930s and housing a varied collection of artwork that spans multiple eras and geographic regions. Take the time to visit the Olympic Sculpture Park, an outdoor extension of the museum that’s open to the public for free about a mile away at the waterfront.

Seattle Aquarium

Down at the Seattle Aquarium on the waterfront’s Pier 59, learn all about salmon, meet a few adorable sea otters, and greet the various sea creatures of the Pacific Ocean, from puffers to giant clams. Watch scuba divers feed the fish, gawk at sharks swimming overhead in the underwater dome, and even touch a sea anemone.

Washington State Ferries

A ride across Puget Sound aboard one of 22 Washington State Ferries vessels is a quintessential Pacific Northwest experience. Enjoy the breathtaking views from the bow of the boat as you cruise to the nearby communities of Bainbridge Island or Bremerton. This is one of those cases where the journey is as much fun as the destination.

The Future of Flight Aviation Center & Boeing Tour

This bucket list–worthy experience in nearby Mukilteo lets you tour a working Boeing factory, the world’s largest building by volume, to see 747s, 777s, and Dreamliners in the making. After exploring the factory, learn more about airplane advancements, from jet fuel to in-flight entertainment systems, at the Future of Flight Aviation Center.

Pioneer Square

Seattle’s original downtown is full of beautiful old buildings in Romanesque Revival style, underground tours that take you beneath the streets to see the remains of the city’s first buildings, and an ever-growing slate of hip shops and restaurants. Take an afternoon or more to explore Pioneer Square‘s ivy-covered buildings and pop into bars, boutiques, and hidden gems, like Waterfall Garden Park.

Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI)

Known as MOHAI, this museum on the shores of Lake Union encapsulates what Seattle is all about, with a dash of smart history, a dose of technology, and quirky artifacts around every corner (think a pink truck with toes). Permanent exhibits showcase everything from the city’s maritime history to modern tech innovations.

According to Seattle Magazine:

The Top 16 Quintessential Seattle Things to Eat

• Oysters. The Walrus and the Carpenter. Ballard
• Chicken teriyaki. Toshi’s Teriyaki Grill
• Short rib pho. Pho Bac Súp Shop
• Triple coconut cream pie. Dahlia Bakery
• Hot dog. Deep Dive
• Canlis salad. Canlis
• Passionfruit yogurt. Ellenos Real Greek Yogurt
• Dick’s Deluxe. Dick’s Drive-In.
• Omakase (sushi)
• Dutch Baby Tilikum Place Café
• Curry Beef home bow
•  Old-school geoduck sashimi
•  World’s Best Mac and Cheese
  Beecher’s Handmade Cheese
  Pike Place Market and other locations
• Salted Carmel Corn Ice Cream
• Seafood Salad
• Salmon with kaso “risotto”

To get the specifics of where to get those things in Seattle CLICK HERE.

Ivars Seafood Chain:

Ivar’s Seafood Bar

13448 Aurora Ave N · (206) 365-2131

Open ⋅ Closes 9 PM

Dine-in·Drive-through·No-contact delivery

Ivar’s Acres of Clams

1001 Alaskan Wy Ste. 102 · (206) 624-6852

Open ⋅ Closes 8 PM

Dine-in·Takeout·No-contact delivery

Ivar’s Fish Bar

401 NE Northlake Way · (206) 632-7223

Opens soon ⋅ 11:30 AM

Dine-in·Curbside pickup