Flavor of Seattle was born out of sadness. A few years ago, several large national chains began moving into the Puget Sound area. In the few years since, I saw more and more local Seattle landmark restaurants close or being purchased by national chains. In the spring of 2008, the Jitterbug cafè on 45th street in Wallingford closed its doors, and some of my favorite dishes were no longer available. I was struck how a successful local restaurant had been run out of business and saddened at the contrast of the large malls being redone and filled with national Pizza Kitchens and Cheesecake places. Something had to be done.
Being in the Publishing business had given me a unique vantage point on what works and what doesn't work in the world of promotions. Being a foodie and restaurant regular made me realize that I was missing out on discovering local restaurants in other neighborhoods. I decided to combine those pieces of knowledge and set out with pen and paper to interview some of the owners of my favorite local places.
I discovered the inherent truth that local restaurants don't really compete with each other. The national chains ability to buy bigger locations, and spend lots of money on mailers, TV ads and newspaper pages is what really endangers a local neighborhood restaurant. Local restaurants are what really give Seattle its unique flavor. So I started Flavor of Seattle to help local restaurants "get discovered" by customers in other areas. We all have our one or two favorite places, but usually, there are a few more places we'd love only a few blocks away.
And so, after crafting and tweaking the concept with the help of local restaurant owners, Flavor of Seattle cards hit the street in September of 2008. Every restaurant on the card is locally owned and operated, and is dedicated to great food, great wine, and a great dining experience! There is a difference, and the Flavor of Seattle card's mission is to help you discover the difference a local touch makes. Not only will your taste buds notice the difference, but you'll also feel good knowing that 80 cents of every dollar you spend stays right here in Washington, and supports a local small business ownerS, instead of being sent to a corporate headquarters somewhere in the midwest.
Have a suggestion on what we could do different, or another restaurant we need to feature? Please let us know. We love to hear from our clients!