/cities/seattle/Banquet-Rooms/ Judy's Book - Latest reviews - Banquet Rooms - Seattle, WA en-us help@judysbook.com http://images.judysbook.com/members/judysbook.png /cities/seattle/Banquet-Rooms/ Reviews - Zoos cat c.
Review of: Woodland Park Zoo

After a hiatus of about five or six years, as a member of the Woodland Zoo, I had some catching up to do. So I made a trip back on the second day of October 2007 to see what had changed. A new jaguar and one for the gorillas at the beginning of the Tropical Rain Forest were two of the most important additions. Also a "night" exhibition hall for those critters that tolerate very little light (I saw nothing myself, as I have poor night vision. Supposedly it takes 10 minutes to acclimatize to the darkness). Other than not, not that much had changed in terms of animals. Maybe it's my appreciation of the sheer beauty and fascination of the animals, that has changed. October 1 through April 30 constitutes the "winter" season for the Zoo, so I was able to wander about in serenity without having tons of screaming kids and their parent-chaperons. But the zoo closes early (4 p.m.), at which time all the indoor exhibitions are locked down. Visitors can apparently stay until about 5:30, depending on the mood which zoo staff they happen upon. Actually, it was better than when I used to remember it, mostly because it was the off-season. It felt like I had it to myself and a few other interested adult "naturalist"-types. Plus a few families ("o-o-h, see the jaguar. He is lonely. He doesn't have a mate"), a few tourists. The grizzly bears in the Northern Trail section were to use the too-often used adjective, "magnificent" in a way that makes Steven Spielberg seem all too Disneyland-ish. The Monorail, Columbia Tower, etc. seem strictly utilitarian, clunky, and boring by comparison with any of the denizens of this species. Nature wins hands-down. The giraffes, with their impossibly long, thin legs were still there, passing back and forth between their aluminum sheds and the very smallish, narrow quarters outside behind the wire fence. And in the African Savanna--probably the best of the "natural environments"--no rhinoceros, but, instead, I was able to catch a fleeting close-up glance of a male lion, truly regal, before he trotted back into the savanna. I suddenly had an insight as to how obscene hunting is, especially as it is considered a "sport" (?!) and has nothing to do with meeting real human needs, other than that of sheer (mistaken) ego. And a couple of Malayan sun bears were frolicking without self-consciousness in their own miniature neck-of-the-woods. With the improvement of the "natural habitats" of the past ten years (less of the "animals-trapped-in-cages" of earlier times), a trip to the zoo every year or two brings a kind of natural bliss. Just go in the off-season so that the families don't become the principal show. My main criticism of the Woodland Zoo remains the same, and could be directed probably at most zoos: the animals, though housed in relatively "natural" environs, are still, largely, part of a "show," without enough attention being directed towards providing a learning experience. The destruction of 1/3 of the Amazon River Valley in the past few years, the sharp declines in populations, as well as their natural habitats, along with their imminent or probable extinction is not stressed enough. Going to the zoo becomes a family outing no different from other entertainment: going to the movies, to the circus, shopping at Pacific Place, skiing, etc. On the other hand, admission, or a membership, to the zoo is at least a way of showing a little appreciation for all the other members of the Natural World that we take so often for granted and have as much right, if not more, of living on this increasingly crowded (by homo sapien!), polluted planet.
]]> http://www.judysbook.com/members/Catlover/posts/2007/10/526381/ Thu, 04 Oct 2007 13:02:50 GMT http://www.judysbook.com/members/Catlover/posts/2007/10/526381/ Reviews - Restaurants Jess M.
Review of: Wild Ginger

My first experience at this restaurant made me wish I had bought the same items at the Thai place around the corner for approximately 1/10th the cost at Wild Ginger. A few months later, I was invited here again and was able to ascertain that they actually have a handful of yummy items and am wiser about squeezing the true value out of this place. There is one item that I find truly amazing: Young Mountain Lamb Satay. Forget about proper entrées, stick with a few orders of this! A couple of ginger martinis and some skewers of this heavenly lamb make a delectable mix. If you're feeling extravagant, I'd highly suggest the duck entrée that comes with fluffy buns. Bottom line -- The majority of this restaurant is hype, so go into the experience with low expectations and try out the items I mentioned above. Even better yet, pop down to the lounge in their basement and enjoy the satay and martinis with better atmosphere! Helpful hint: If you feel like replicating the lamb satay yourself, you'll find the recipe on the Wild Ginger web site!
]]> http://www.judysbook.com/members/mapleleafgirl/posts/2007/5/521038/ Wed, 23 May 2007 20:55:06 GMT http://www.judysbook.com/members/mapleleafgirl/posts/2007/5/521038/ Reviews - Banquet Rooms Mary A.
Review of: Robb's 125th Street Grill

Anyone who steps into this restaurant for the first time will be pleasantly surprised. It's not often that you are greeted so warmly, served so promptly, and most of all, THE FOOD IS GREAT!!! I have eaten there many times over the years, as well as the Twin Teepees, which Robb owned as well, and it is by far the best food for the money. Take a look at how well maintained the place is and you will see a reflection of the owners integrity and taste. Mary Alice Altice
]]> http://www.judysbook.com/members/73003/posts/2007/4/519709/ Wed, 25 Apr 2007 00:33:56 GMT http://www.judysbook.com/members/73003/posts/2007/4/519709/ Reviews - Restaurants Carlin P.
Review of: Union Square Grill

Union Square Grill is a great choice near ACT Theater and the Convention Center (not far from the 5th Ave Theater, either). The ambiance is quiet but not stuffy, and the food is top notch (I had sirloin medallions topped with mushrooms that I still think about years later). They're owned by the same group as the Metropolitan Grill, and have a good website if you want to check them out: http://www.unionsquaregrill.com/. It's a bit off the beaten path at the base of Two Union Square, but has been around long enough to always be busy - reservations are a good idea if you're planning ahead.
]]> http://www.judysbook.com/members/2627/posts/2006/12/502859/ Wed, 20 Dec 2006 20:57:14 GMT http://www.judysbook.com/members/2627/posts/2006/12/502859/ Reviews - Restaurants Alison G.
Review of: Anthony's Homeport

I know Anthony's is well-known in Seattle for their impressive views and fresh, expensive seafood, but I remain unimpressed. Maybe it's the heavy, uninspired, boring food they continue to serve; maybe it's all the old-country-club folks that seem to fill the place. It just seems a little outdated in a town of fresh, young, innovative restaurants that, many of which, offer good seafood too. And I swear this is true: I was just telling my mom how heavy and unhealthy I thought their food was when the guy next to us proceeded to have a heart attack, thus proving my point (he turned out okay). I do have to say though: they have the best clam chowder EVER.
]]> http://www.judysbook.com/members/49425/posts/2006/12/499529/ Sat, 09 Dec 2006 17:55:29 GMT http://www.judysbook.com/members/49425/posts/2006/12/499529/ Reviews - Restaurants Covered in rain ..
Review of: Kaspar's

Kaspar's used to be a restaurant, but now they've changed their business model. They occasionally return to being a restaurant for a few nights out of the year, but they mostly stick to catering for special events. You can use their space for your event and it is quite versatile. The have a small room in the back, full of wine bottles and it is very cozy for about 10-15 people. They also have the larger dining space if your group is bigger. I went to a tasting where I got to try several of their featured dishes. Everything I had was fantastic. They make very hearty vegetarian dishes, which is great in the winter when you want more than a salad or pasta. They had some exotic dishes, like wild boar, which was a big hit. For dessert, they made crepes with several different fillings and toppings. They also host several cooking classes, both private and ones you can sign up for individually. I haven't attended one myself, but I hear they are tons of fun and people actually use the recipes and tips they pick up there.
]]> http://www.judysbook.com/members/CoveredinRain/posts/2006/12/496713/ Mon, 04 Dec 2006 11:42:13 GMT http://www.judysbook.com/members/CoveredinRain/posts/2006/12/496713/ Reviews - Zoos M G.
Review of: Woodland Park Zoo

Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle has been around for a very long time but they have managed to change the exhibits in the zoo to make it more humane and accessible. The African village provides a great learning experience for little children with limited experiences of any world outside of Seattle. While the nocturnal house is a favorite for kids of all ages with its simulated dark jungle. The zoo is the perfect size for a preschooler who will be able to make it through most of the zoo but will be ready to take a nap by the time you circle back around to the gate. The zoo also offers zoo tunes concerts in the summer and they always have a great line up. http://www.zoo.org
]]> http://www.judysbook.com/members/15515/posts/2006/11/494833/ Thu, 30 Nov 2006 21:03:06 GMT http://www.judysbook.com/members/15515/posts/2006/11/494833/ Reviews - Restaurants popcorn *.
Review of: Cutter's Bayhouse

Cutter's Bayhouse in Seattle, Washington, is a great place to dine on the water and enjoy fresh seafood. Their web site is located here for more information: http://www.cuttersbayhouse.com/ . If you're not in the mood for seafood try their Rosemary Chicken -- it's yummy. The restaurant isn't outrageously expensive -- it is moderately priced for the atmosphere and food. It's a favorite place with students for prom and other special occasions. You will want to get reservations if you're headed there for dinner because it can get crowded. Since the restaurant is downtown parking can be a problem as there isn't much that's available right by the restaurant (you can try a garage).
]]> http://www.judysbook.com/members/13223/posts/2006/11/494272/ Thu, 30 Nov 2006 13:24:48 GMT http://www.judysbook.com/members/13223/posts/2006/11/494272/ Reviews - Banquet Rooms Covered in rain ..
Review of: McCormick & Schmick's Harborside

The Harborside is the best of the McCormick and Schmick locations. The "harbor" is actually Lake Union, but there are plenty of beautiful yachts to look at while you dine. The menu is huge and printed each day with a large selection of fresh fish items, ranging from the classic salmon and halibut to more rare monkfish and snapper. My husband really liked the prime rib he ordered there. Sides are usually limited to the usual starch and veggies, so your entrée is really the star of the show. However, the best feature of this place is their happy hour. M-F, 4-6pm. It is really close to downtown and has a huge parking lot. There are actually two bars, one upstairs, one downstairs. I recommend the one upstairs, as it has a view over the lake of the downtown lights and the bartender is a real Bostonian, accent and all. No drink specials, but the happy hour food menu is amazing. Items range from $1.99 to $4.99 and the portions are perfect. They offer things like crabcakes, veggies with hummus and a huge cheeseburger. Lots of fresh, semi-healthy options so you don't feel so guilty ordering that second beer.
]]> http://www.judysbook.com/members/CoveredinRain/posts/2006/11/493162/ Tue, 28 Nov 2006 10:41:55 GMT http://www.judysbook.com/members/CoveredinRain/posts/2006/11/493162/ Reviews - Zoos Aileen O.
Review of: Woodland Park Zoo

Woodland Park Zoo ( http://www.zoo.org ) is a great zoo to have a yearly membership. We have enjoyed the zoo membership throughout the year. A common misconception is not going during the winters. On the contrary, we enjoy inclement weather- well, overcast or light rain, we are guaranteed that it won't be crowded. One perk of having a membership is that we can focus on one area at a time. In doing so, we never get bored of the zoo, there is always something new and fascinating to see. We enjoy the Zoomazium (indoors), the Birds of Prey exhibit, Willabong station (feed the birds), Butterfly exhibit (summers) and the petting farm.
]]> http://www.judysbook.com/members/40879/posts/2006/11/491210/ Wed, 22 Nov 2006 10:24:07 GMT http://www.judysbook.com/members/40879/posts/2006/11/491210/