When to Visit - Arts and Events

Seattle, Washington is one of the most inspired cultural cities in the United States. As well as being the home city of the famous grunge music scene, Seattle has a world-class opera company and a plorific theater community. The performing arts are well represented in the city with a new and exciting act on offer every night. There are also a number of museums that exhibit everything from portraits by world-famous artists to contemporary sculptures

Seattle Dining

A quick tour around Pike Place Market, where bountiful supplies of fresh seafood and produce are sold, will tell you what you're likely to find on local menus. Many of the city's chefs wax lyrical over the region's impressive seasonal larder: strawberries in June; Walla Walla sweets (huge, mild onions) in July; wild blackberries in August; and Washington's renowned apples during autumn. Whatever the produce, it's often best represented in what has become known as Pacific Northwest cuisine; basically an exciting synthesis of European and Asian cookery. Lastly, don't forget those famous coffee shops. Whichever way you like your coffee, you can bet that Seattle has an outlet that specialises in your favourite brew.

Seattle Tipping Advice

Management in Seattle's many restaurants don't usually add gratuities to the bill, so a recommended tip is 15 percent, where you're happy with the service. Should the meal and service be excellent then a gratuity of 20 percent might be in order. Tips in taxis should be paid along similar lines. The recommended rate for doormen, parking attendants and valets is one USD.