Showing posts with label Today's Business. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Today's Business. Show all posts

Today's Business: Streetzeria ... at the Beach

Thursday, September 18, 2014

Weekends can be busy and sometimes there is a short wait
Photo copyright, Marc Weinberg
Text and photos, Marc Weinberg

The former location of Pizza Mia in Richmond Beach now is the site of a family pizza restaurant once more. Most recently Greg Bye opened STREETZERIA in that same location (NW 195th St. and 20th NW, 206-755-5433) across from the ‘Little Store’. You can’t miss it.

Greg came to this location with a strong purpose and a solid background in food service. Out of high school he worked as an apprentice baker. For 18 years he was with the Hyatt Corporation in seven different locations in positions as Dining Room Manager, Restaurant Manager, and Food and Beverage Manager. He was in charge of opening many of Hyatt’s newest properties and supervising major events.

On this Friday evening the place was a buzz of activity
Photo copyright, Marc Weinberg

Greg returned to the Northwest to be near family and friends and in 2011 along with his brother and a friend built their first ‘street cart’ to bake and serve pizza. Now that portion of his business is in full swing with four carts for outdoor vending, catering, business/private social occasions like holiday parties. Greg wanted to have a strong connection to one community and in his search, found Shoreline and the current location.

You will find flavors and ingredients not found at other establishments along with local names for each pizza which makes it easy to remember your favorite. Names include Golden Gardens, Green Lake and Magnuson Park as well as one for the community of Richmond Beach. A gluten free crust is also available. Things I found particularly nice were the homemade Italian sausage, house pickled peppers and cayenne caramelized onions. Call ahead 206-755-5433 or come in for take home.

In the kitchen the action is non-stop
Photo copyright, Marc Weinberg

As a side dish how about a salad? I usually like a Caesar. But I’ve never had one made with kale before. If you want to wake up your taste buds and stimulate your senses try this crispy texture in your mouth.

Complementing that is a selection of local beer (usually 4 or 5) and several choices of wine. Of course there are the sodas and juice options including two refills with the fountain drinks. If you have room for it, there’s a nice selection of ice cream.

Try a Growler of beer, 64ozs. or the smaller Squeaker at 32ozs
Photo copyright, Marc Weinberg

I was happy to learn that Greg’s commitment to Shoreline is to hire locally and he was proud to tell me all his employees live within a three mile radius of the restaurant. Stop in and meet the staff and Greg’s son Reilly.

You can expect some seasonal changes in the menu and they will soon be offering homemade pasta dishes as well. Currently hours are 5-9pm, but watch for changes to 3-9 seven days a week.



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Today's Business: Thai Bistro

Sunday, February 2, 2014

Thai Bistro for dinner
Photo copyright Marc Weinberg

Today's Business: Thai Bistro, 18336 Aurora Ave N
Text and photos, Marc Weinberg

If you were to say that our THAI BISTRO is a ‘family affair’, you’d be exactly right. Learning from Mom, this family adventure of owning and managing a restaurant began more than 25 years ago. On occasion Mom is still preparing authentic dishes with daily activities being managed by family members like Nui, Nooch and Kane. And somewhere there’s an aunt and a husband that I’ve never met.

What makes Thai Bistro such a pleasure are the flavors, the choices and all of the serving staff along with the family. You’ll quickly feel at home in the custom designed interior with traditionally carved teak columns/décor. The artistic design elements and lighting are drawn together by a hand painted wall scene that transports you to Thailand. Seating is plentiful at both tables and booths in a large open space with carved wooden ceiling fans and custom lamps.

Custom lighting illuminates the hand carved wood
with the traditional magenta glow of Thailand,
Photo copyright, Marc Weinberg
Lunch time is as great as dinner and I’ve worked through as much of the menu as I could since they opened in 2007. Unfortunately I’ve stumbled on a few specialties that I love and have been known to repeat, like the curry dishes with a variety of meat choices and my all-time dependable “Mom’s Favorite.” What’s so funny about this is that until recently I just thought it was a ‘catchy’ name assigned to this dish. But now the secret is out, and you and I both know it is indeed ‘mom’s favorite.’

By ‘specialties’ I mean choices that include duck, lamb and fish that go beyond a typical American/Thai establishment. Yes there are spicy ones, but most can be seasoned to your taste whatever your background or discriminating palate. Beer, wine and spirits are also on the menu along with some great hot tea selections and my personal favorite again is iced ‘Thai Tea’.

On Friday and Saturday evenings the kitchen
is on a fast track to perfection with each dish.
Photo copyright Marc Weinberg

Parking is free and plentiful immediately outside in a well illuminated area. Thai Bistro is located near Bartell Drugs and the Starbucks on the SE corner of 185th St and Aurora Ave N. (Across Aurora from Fred Meyers)

I know I used the word ‘favorite’ a few times in this article, but it’s not easy talking about ‘our Thai Bistro’ without that characterization. If you give it a try, you just might be speaking like I am.

Your table is waiting
Photo copyright, Marc Weinberg

For more detail about their commitment to your satisfaction, the menu and the care with which dishes are prepared, please visit their website.

And please tell whoever serves you that you read about them in the Shoreline Area News for an extra smile at no charge.


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Today's Business: Richmond Beach Yoga

Wednesday, October 9, 2013

A Friday noon time class enjoying the sun
at Saltwater Park
Photo copyright Marc Weinberg

Text and Photography by Marc Weinberg

Richmond Beach Yoga opened in July 2011 and is located at  621 Northwest Richmond Beach Road, just east of Rite Aid Pharmacy and across the street from the QFC. Business partners Angeline and Glenn own the studio where you will also find Dylan and Molly. All four are exceptional instructors and mentors to a very loyal client base. You’ll find details about the studio on their website.

My initial inquiry into yoga was inspired by wanting to know ‘What’s it all about?’ And what I discovered isn’t what I had in mind when I started. We all have our preconceived notions about what things are before we start an inquiry and even though I try to avoid this … it’s impossible.  Here are a few things that I was sure of.

Street view of the studio in the evening light
Photo copyright Marc Weinberg

The pace of everyday life for most people doesn’t often provide much time to pursue activities that can add to our health and wellbeing without a strong commitment. For example, we often get inspired with a New Year Resolution to exercise more and eat less. Oh great … sure ... after having feasted for a month or more we can get excited about getting in better shape. Gyms and fitness centers have a big influx of new memberships in January and February and many don’t last until June. This isn’t true for all, but many. I decided to explore how it is that followers of Yoga come in all sizes, shapes and ages; even beyond 90 and seem to really stick with it in some form for a long time. 

What I discovered is that Yoga is not so easy to explain because it can be different things to many people. To some it is sort of an exercise, to others it’s about stretching. For many it may be about self-awareness and yet to others it is simply feeling good and relaxed. I see it as a ‘full body workout’ from head to toe and from inside out. According to Angeline and Glenn, owners of Richmond Beach Yoga, it can calm the nervous system, reduce blood pressure and lower pulse rate.  Sounds good to me!

Another view of the Friday class at Saltwater Park
Photo copyright Marc Weinberg

Angeline says this gives you more energy and should allow you to accomplish more in less time.  That would certainly help me get my list of projects accomplished. I’m also told that a little bit goes a long way …. meaning I wouldn’t have to do a routine every day for example. I’m sure that feeling good would encourage me to stick with it. Who doesn’t like feeling well?

Don’t expect to be able to get in all the positions that you see others doing when you start. As you progress you will always be learning and challenging yourself and your body. Workouts include positions and movements for your head, neck, shoulders, back, chest, arms, legs, feet, ankles and more. I like the focus on flexibility and balance as well as strength. These are things I notice I’m not as good at as I used to be when I was 20 or 30. Properly guided movements can help heal old injuries and strengthen the body to prevent others.

As with other discretionary activities, yoga brings like-minded people together to explore, experience and learn. But unlike some choices yoga can enrich and enhance the life you choose and support your ability to pursue your dreams.

The studio interior is spacious and bright
Photo copyright Marc Weinberg
My sense is that the instructors and management at Richmond Beach Yoga provide a profound commitment to nurturing individual progress and focused approach to their client’s well-being and success.

Does this sound too good to be true? You can give it a try for practically nothing. Consult the website, select a class and show up! If you are uncertain, simply call 206-533-9642 and inquire about which class might be good for you. Your first class is FREE if you tell them you read this article. And better than that, you can attend any or all 20 consecutive days for only $20 dollars after your initial visit. 

Life might be viewed as a race and finishing well is very important. Yoga could make a difference.


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Today's Business: Rat City Rollergirls debut in Shoreline Saturday

Saturday, August 31, 2013

Dedicated fans are an important part of the team's success
Photo copyright Marc Weinberg

CORRECTION: Bout times have been corrected. 8-31-2013 12:59pm

Photos and text by Marc Weinberg

As promised, Rat City Rollergirls (RCRG) have rolled into Shoreline and they represent our newest ‘professional sports league.’ And I did mean league, as they are not just a team. In this article I will use the term league and team interchangeably to refer to Rat City Rollergirls.

New home town location is 19022 Aurora Ave North where you are invited to attend an opening day event .. $10.00 donation at the door.

Saturday, August 31, 4pm, Chicago vs Portland
Sunday, Sept 1, 1pm Chicago vs Rat City (B Team)

Defender hits the deck during a smashing Rat City charge
Photo copyright Marc Weinberg

Women’s Flat Track Derby Association is currently composed of 160 leagues and WFTDA is the international governing body. Be assured, this is not your mom or dad’s roller derby of the 1950’s-60’s with the banked track and people being hit off the track and over the rail. This is about women athletes competing in a sport that requires strength, agility, balance, endurance and strategic thinking and planning as well as lots of practice. WFTDA sets the standards and makes the rules of the game as well as setting safety standards. They also say which leagues become members. Right now there are 198 member leagues and 98 leagues in the Apprentice Program.

By reading just the first few sections of Rat City Rollergirls home page “About Us” you will get a good sense of who our new neighbors are.
About Us… 
The Rat City Rollergirls (RCRG) is Seattle’s premiere all-female, flat-track roller derby league. RCRG is still composed of about 80 active skaters and many more retired skaters who are still involved. The skaters are divided among four home teams: Derby Liberation Front, Grave Danger, Sockit Wenches, and Throttle Rockets. In addition, a small number of skilled, dedicated skaters are chosen to represent the league on its fifth team, the Rat City Rollergirls All Stars. 
Mission Statement: As Seattle’s premier, member-owned roller derby league, it is our mission to maintain a competitive athletic program, promote the sport of roller derby, provide quality sports entertainment for our fans, and make a positive impact in our community.

RCRG got started in April 2004 when a group of friends said, "why not here?" and "let’s do it now!" Shortly after that they formed Rat City Rollergirls, the first flat-track derby league in the Northwest.

They made their first tournament appearance in 2006 in Tuscon, AZ.  Since then this league of accomplished skaters has developed a very loyal fan base. The team has continued to maintain a ranking among the WFTDA in the top 10 best teams. Rat City is currently ranked #12 in the world and holds the #3 seed at the Division One Playoff Tournament to be hosted in Salem, OR in late September.

Jammer attempts to break through a strong three-person defense
Photo copyright Marc Weinberg

RCRG will continue to not only advance local derby activities in our community, but will provide coaching for juniors and adults and look for opportunities to participate in local festivities like Bumbershoot in Seattle and Shoreline events too. They have a history of local participation in charities and community outreach through their events and skating bouts.

They are proud to be skating at Key Arena where other great teams have preceded them.  According to Alyssa Hoppe, Chief Operating Officer, in addition to community activities and trainings in the Shoreline location, there will also be team bouts. These will be public events, and yes, seating will be limited due to the constraints of the building. 

Ms. Hoppe said on July 17,  “The new Shoreline location is more than twice the size of the current Ballard location and while tickets will be limited compared to Key Arena, they will be available to the public, not just Season Ticket holders and VIPs. Fans will have plenty of opportunities to see all kinds of flat-track roller derby, including world-class All-Star competition.”

RCRG has consistently graduated to larger and larger venues, finally finding a home at Key Arena, home of the Seattle Storm WNBA team and former home to the Seattle Sonics NBA team.

Of course, there's a real rat!
Photo copyright Marc Weinberg

For a guy writing about a group of women who call themselves ‘girls’ in today’s society, I am careful to only refer to them ‘as girls’ in the context of their sport. Everyone is a true athlete and to see this you’ll just have to come to a bout and judge for yourself. For me the most exciting moments have been when the ‘jammer’ skater, the one who can score team points, approaches the pack like a lioness on the hunt and instead of penetrating the lines of the defense with a heavy hand, she simply sidesteps her opponent blockers and slips through the crowd of defenders as they wonder what just happened. The crowd roars with approval and the game goes on. If you like the extraordinary moves in football and basketball, you will love this too. Check their schedule, plan an evening out, have some fun and show up for one of their bouts.



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Rat City Rollergirls on the Move - to Shoreline

Monday, July 15, 2013

Currently skating at Key Arena, some events will be
scheduled for the Shoreline location.
Copyright, Marc Weinberg


Text and Photography by Marc Weinberg

Wow, look who is coming to town?

Rat City in the green is trying to keep the other teams 'jammer'
from squeezing past them which will score points.
Copyright, Marc Weinberg

Rat City Rollergirls have signed a new lease and are in the process of becoming our newest neighbor. They are currently renovating the property know as the 'Mattress Factory' on Aurora, just south of the YMCA and a little north of Sky Nursery.

Rat City's jammer is taking a fall. Notice the fans in the background
Copyright, Marc Weinberg

They will be a great addition to our community with their progressive outlook on life and their giving attitude, especially toward women and children. Of course they'll provide the thrills and spills of their sport which is crammed full of action. So stay tuned for another article sometime in August with more about their programs.

For a closer look at their history have a look at their website

Alyssa Hoppe, Chief Operating Officer, welcomes inquiries directly.


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CKO Kickboxing celebrates its first year in Shoreline

Tuesday, July 9, 2013

Taking control of their lives
at CKO Kickboxing
Photo copyright Marc Weinberg


CKO Kickboxing opened its door in Shoreline one year ago. Owners Garett and Jessica Renon have created a space at 15901 Westminster Way where sweat, high energy and fun are a daily occurrence.

Saturday, July 13, 2013 will mark CKO Seattle’s anniversary in Shoreline. To celebrate the occasion, the community can participate in a special 1½-hour class with multiple trainers teaching and a DJ to pump up the music. There will be giveaways and exciting specials.

When asked what Garett’s most memorable part of the past year has been, he was quick to answer, “I have had many people tell me that they are now more conscious of what they put into their mouths, that they have shaved minutes off their running personal best, that they are the strongest they have ever been, that they feel much more confident, or have had to buy an entire new wardrobe. The list of personal achievements goes on and on!”


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Today’s Business –SportClips Haircuts

Saturday, April 27, 2013

Sport Clips Storefront just south of Central Market
copyright, Marc Weinberg

Text and photography by Marc Weinberg

The latest addition to Shoreline’s list of retail establishments is Sport Clips Haircuts, 15407 Westminster Way N, just off Aurora Ave North and next to Central Market. The franchise boasts 1000 stores nationally. This shop opened March 22 and some residents (men only) were notified with a mailer offering an opportunity to stop in for a free haircut. If you haven’t received your advertisement yet, watch your mail. I contacted Wendy Liu, the owner and suggested that we meet so I could learn about the business. I fully expected to be greeted by an experienced hair stylist who probably decided it was time to strike out on her own. Well, I was treated to a big surprise! 

Tundra making a precision cut on Joe
copyright Marc Weinberg

Wendy is enrolled in Seattle University’s Graduate School of Business with some courses yet to be finished before getting her master’s degree. OK, but what about her ‘hair styling’ experience? Sorry, she doesn’t have any! Wendy is, in the truest sense, an ‘entrepreneur’ who, with the help and guidance of one of her professors, researched business opportunities with the goal of becoming an ‘investor/owner’ in her own business. After studying several possibilities that met her criteria, she selected Sport Clips Haircuts.

Nikol at work on Steve, copyright, Marc Weinberg

With the franchise in hand she advertised for the experts to operate the shop where you will now find Nikol as the general manager and stylist. The team is comprised of seven additional experienced stylists who are there to meet and massage, shampoo and cut, and give us guys what they call a precision haircut. The MVP Experience includes the cut, a steamed towel, massaging shampoo and an invigorating scalp treatment too. All this is included in a 25-30 minute visit and the charge is a reasonable $24.00. And yes, there is a discount for oldsters like me that they humorously call “60 & wiser.” Like the MVP, Sport Clips has named other treatments with appropriate sports names like ‘triple play’ and a series called ‘extra innings.’  While the haircut and treatments are underway the clients can watch and listen to large format TV sports programs throughout the shop.

Joe getting his shampoo.scalp massage, steam towel
all while enjoying the massage chair too. copyright Marc Weinberg

Sport Clips features Paul Mitchell Tea Tree products. To get your MVP or other treatment simply show up …. That’s right, no appointment necessary – just come in!  There are no appointments. Hours are M-F 10-8, Sat 9-6, and Sunday 11-5. Be assured, this is not your dad’s ‘barber shop.’ To sum it up … their advertising says “It’s good to be a Guy!”… sports on TV -- Guy smart Stylists -- Open every day -- No appointment.

Wendy, Nikol, and the team believe in being a part of the Shoreline community and are currently contributing to and promoting ‘Dollars for Scholars’ which provides scholarships to high school students. They are also supporting the Richmond Beach Little League, and Shoreline Community College Athletics.

Joanne listened to Kelton while he described the result he wanted
copyright Marc Weinberg

Men -- this is an opportunity to try something new, just for us. I’m sorry ladies, but this shop is dedicated to ‘men and boys only’.  For the salon treatment without sharing the fragrances that dominate women’s styling places or those that cater to both men and women, this could be it.  I think you’ll love the massage chairs in the shampoo area which might turn into your favorite ‘man cave’ experience.  When you walk in be sure to tell Nikol and her team that you heard about them in the Shoreline Area News.

For more information go to their Facebook page, Twitter feed, or the internet.



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Today’s Business –CKO Kickboxing-Seattle

Monday, April 8, 2013

Katy is getting wrapped up
for an evening workout,
    copyright-Marc Weinberg
CKO Kickboxing-SEATTLE
Text and photography 
by Marc Weinberg

News in Brief ..… tone your body, burn fat and live a healthier life. What a great idea when we are in this bright and warming time of year. Complement this season with a commitment to health and recreation. 

Set a new standard for the year. Meet and make friends with people who are committed to staying healthy. With this ‘quality of life’ activity you won’t have to think about your New Year’s resolution since you’ll be living and feeling your best throughout the entire year. 

Serious contenders taking charge of their lives
copyright Marc Weinberg
Who’s in Charge - Garett Renon, owner of CKO Kickboxing-Seattle came to Shoreline from New Mexico with his wife, who is in the Navy and stationed at Everett. Garett has been a personal trainer and fitness trainer including more than five years with a military fitness program.

Garett moved here and started his business in July 2012. He is committed to coaching clients to being fit. He says a fit body can change your entire outlook on life and conditioning can become a joy like any other physical activity or sport as you master the elements of this training routine. Other staff coaches at CKO Kickboxing-Seattle include Rod, Robert, Jessica and Danielle. Each offers a unique special flair and commitment to your success. 

Women outnumbers men the night of Marc's visit
copyright Marc Weinberg
What’s it all about? Cardio Kickboxing provides a routine that promotes muscle growth and strengthening which can contribute to positive bone density and cardiac health.

As a bonus, learn about practicing proper nutrition so you will also burn fat efficiently. And in today’s busy life style no one wants to spend more time than necessary conditioning their body. Cardio kickboxing makes very efficient use of your time and with only 3-4 one hour workouts a week you’ll feel great, says Garett. 

Muscle and Fitness Magazine rates Fitness and Kickboxing as the number one fat burner, with over 1.200 calories burned during a one hour class! At CKO you will be burning fat and toning up by punching and kicking a real, hanging heavy bag. You won’t be alone. By joining a class and having an instructor/coach you’ll have the support and supervision necessary to learn the moves that make a difference as you enjoy yourself with new like-minded friends. 

Punching his way to another successful evening,
Jon shares his testimonial
copyright Marc Weinberg

Getting on Board - Before you’d buy a new car you would expect to take a ‘test drive,’ You can do that at CKO Kickboxing-SEATTLE. Garett offers a FREE- 3 consecutive day trial period. 

You’ll either “love it,” or leave it. This is an open offer now, but may not be available forever. Call Garett at 206-402-3847. Don’t just observe a class -- join one on this FREE trial basis

To do that you can simply enroll as a guest either by phone or in person. When you do that be sure to mention enrollment code: SAN101 for a special thank you from Garett and the team so they will know you heard about them from the Shoreline Area News

Location: CKO Kickboxing, 15901 Westminster Way, Shoreline 98133 (You’ll find CKO Kickboxing in the shopping center shared by Sears (lower level) Marshalls and Aaron Brothers Framing.) 

Contact: Garett Renon, Owner and Head Coach – 206-402-3847 Website
Garett says…… We just finished up a 10-week challenge. General blog will be out shortly but here is a testimonial.

For other business articles by Marc Weinberg, see the Features section on the main webpage and select Today's Business,


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Today’s Business: Grinders Hot Sands

Saturday, March 16, 2013

Jeff the general manager is taking orders at the counter
during a Saturday night music event

Grinders Hot Sands
Text and Photography by Marc Weinberg

Wow, talking with Mitch Gilbert, owner and originator of “Grinders Hot Sands” here in Shoreline is as exciting as the burst of flavor you get sinking your teeth into any of the dishes in his restaurant.  And I mean he’s is in the kitchen all the time working and supervising his crew. Mitch is no absentee owner and “Grinders Hot Sands ” exists nowhere else, but right here in Shoreline.

If this is ‘news to you’…. like you never heard of this spot, then it’s about time you make room for a meal you are guaranteed to be talking about with your friends the next time you whip out your smart phone.

Just so you don't miss it....here's what Grinders looks like at night,

We have this extraordinary resource right here at home … a major presence in flavors and pizzazz, one block from Costco and you’re probably driving north on Aurora on your way to Edmonds looking for a place to eat. Well, turn around and find Grinders just south of 199th St on the west side of Aurora between Discount Tires and Bucky’s automotive. If there’s no parking right in front, park on the side streets or Bucky’s (if it’s after hours and they are closed — but don’t block the bay doors).

It's an open kitchen, so watch the show here too as a 'flambee' is in the pan

If you’re tracking with me now in my enthusiasm for Mitch and his commitment for his home cooking brought out to the public, then listen to this. Nothing is artificial and nothing is cooked somewhere else and delivered.

A personal note of 'thanks for coming' delivered by Mitch

It’s all made by Mitch, his mom and the “oh so fun staff.”  Here’s an example. Stromboli is a small island off the north coast of Sicily with one of Italy’s three active volcanos. Given what I’ve said so far it shouldn’t surprise you that Mitch has a sandwich named “Stromboli” that explodes with flavors like that volcano! It’s got grilled pepperoni, salami, caramelized onions and sweet-spicy peppers and mozzarella and a little gorgonzola piled on an Italian roll. Can’t eat it all … box it up and take it home or just get an ‘order to go’.

Don’t care to eat a volcano … well how about homemade marinated roast beef or pulled pork which is slow cooked on site for 12 hours. Even salad dressing is made from scratch, not from the bottle.

In May 2013 Grinders will celebrate their 9th anniversary and you owe it to yourself to at least say hello to Mitch, the crew and to Mom. They have created one of the hidden secrets of Shoreline with their award winning recipes and the acknowledgment of “Best in Western Washington” status.


Mark Dufresne entertained on Saturday night to a full house

And yet there’s one more secret. Mitch loves music and during the week there’s a recorded selection playing in the background. But on Saturday night you need a RESERVATION for the LIVE music of some of the greatest local performers. What’s happening that night depends on who is on stage. Choices might be Blues, R&B, Rock, Soul, Contemporary, Jazz, Folk, you name it.  

Plan on it or check the web page. Note there is a cover charge of $10 on live music nights. The place will be full, not noisy and raucous, but respectful of great taste in ‘food and music.’ Beer and wine, soft drinks … bread pudding, cheesecake and everybody’s favorite Italian treat, Tiramisu.

Zero in on Grinders. 19811 Aurora Ave N. 206-542-0627,
Be sure to tell Mitch and company you read about him in the Shoreline Area News!

Today's Business is a featured column by local writer and photographer Marc Weinberg.


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Today’s Business – Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt

Sunday, March 10, 2013

Bright lights and friendly people at Menchie's

Text and photography by Marc Weinberg

New to Shoreline, but not the rest of the world; we’re lucky to smile because we now have one!  With stores from Australia and Japan to England, Saudi Arabia and South Africa, Menchie’s is now also right here in town. You all know where the Fred Meyers is at 185th St and Aurora ….. so go across Aurora and you’ll find Menchie’s in the southern part of the large parking area in Gateway Plaza. 

Evening at Menchie's

There’s something about Menchie's that will make you smile when you enter the store. Notice how you sort of perk up with the brilliant colors, upbeat music and bright lighting. That’s the idea. It’s a fun and sparkling atmosphere and you are guaranteed to find 16 flavors to choose from every day from the more than 100 that are in their recipe book. If you can’t decide, just take a little ‘sampler cup’ and go for it! 

Filling up with goodies

One great feature is that you don’t have to begin by deciding if you want a small, medium, large, or supersize like other places. There’s only one container and you fill it up as much or as little as you wish. But don’t forget to top it off with your selection of some of the 50 toppings and 4 sauces. There are lots of fruits to select from as well as low fat, milk free, sugar free, low carb products. If you’d like your container to include a waffle cone they have that too. And during the month of March they are having ‘Waffle Cone Madness’ which means the cone is FREE (normally $1). 

Weigh your selection

And speaking of cost, there is one price. No matter what you put in your cup, Menchie’s weighs your selection of goodies and it’s all 45 cents per ounce. So get a container, walk up to a machine and select any number of flavors or make a swirl of two choices. It’s all up to you.

What you’ll also find there are really friendly, happy people, both among the 13 staff members employed as well as the customers. Between the music and the gathering of friends and families you’ll be surprised how enjoyable and uplifting the atmosphere can be. It could even be Seattle’s remedy for the winter drizzle. But watch out, it’s also the solution for blue sky and sunshine when thirsts need to be quenched and cold thrilling flavors make the difference.

Find Menchie’s and you find a friend at the counter or at a table. The nicest people seem to be there.  Make a date, plan a party or just fly in solo. Please tell them you heard about Menchie’s in the Shoreline Area News.


Today's Business is a new feature by local writer and photographer Marc Weinberg.  For more of Marc’s photography go here.


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Today's Business: Bill the Butcher opens in Edmonds

Tuesday, January 22, 2013


"Holy Cow ... We're Open!!!!"
Photo by Marc Weinberg

By Marc Weinberg

After two years of waiting and reading the sign in the window "Coming Soon" at 323 Main St (corner of Main and 4th) in downtown Edmonds, Bill the Butcher opened the doors for business at noon on January 20, 2013.


People lined up down the block for the opening
Photo by Marc Weinberg

People were lined up outside for at least 30 minutes before the opening. 30 minutes after the opening the line at the register was nearly 20 people deep.


Shelves are full of sauces and glazes
Photo by Marc Weinberg

You name it - in chicken and beef - and you'll find it at this refined shopping location. The shelves are also full with sauces, glazes and other treats to spice up your cooking.

For a more detailed look at the features in food go to their website.

Edmonds Shop, 323 Main St, Edmonds, WA 98020, 425-361-1341


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Today's Business: Euro Deli - Lakomka

Monday, January 21, 2013

Euro Deli Lakomka
Photo by Marc Weinberg


Euro Deli - Lakomka, 20011 Aurora Ave. North in Shoreline -  (NW corner of 200th and Aurora)
By Marc Weinberg

I know many people who emigrated to the United States. For those who were at least teenagers at that time they left their country,  one thing they all seem to have in common is that they miss certain foods and beverages. I often hear  comments about the bread in the US isn't as good as....,  or I can't find the cheese we used to have with....., or why don't we have the smoked fish or beer I remember having with my family and friends. And so it goes like that.


Flavors from another culture at the Euro Deli
Photo by Marc Weinberg

Here's the perfect chance for some enterprising people to fill the void for not only emigrants from other countries, but to promote the interest in flavors for another culture to long time residents of the US.

And that's exactly what Maria and Gino have created with Euro Deli - Lakomka (translation = gourmet). Euro Deli Lakomka is on Aurora Ave N. just north of 200th St near the NW corner, 20011 Aurora Ave N, 206-629-5478. Hours Mon-Sat 11am-9pm, Sunday 12-6pm.


You'll be surprised by the variety of meats and cheeses
Photo by Marc Weinberg

For a small store you'll be surprised by the variety of meats, cheeses and other flavors in the cold cases. Then there are shelves of everyday and specialty foods, candies and drinks. My particular favorites are the breads and rolls imported from Germany.

I don't know how they do it, but Gino has me hooked on one bread. Now I don't even have to go in to find out if he has a fresh one for me. I just call and ask for him to pop one in the oven and I stop by around 4pm and there it is - still warm and waiting for me. I love it. Yes, I mean the bread, but also the special friendship and chat I have with Maria and Gino. One day I happened to tell Gino I was remodeling my garage and for a few weeks after he never failed to ask 'how is the garage project going?'  In our hurried world and big crowded stores, even though you may go to them often, it isn't the same as going to 'your deli' and having a chat with the folks behind the counter.

Give Euro Deli Lakomka a try. Experiment with some of the foods if you're not familiar with them.  You may even be eating something like it now and don't know where it originated.  Learn something new about foreign flavors and tell your friends. I'm sure you will like it. And please, be sure to say 'hi' to Gino and Maria and tell them you heard about them from me. 


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