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When I say Seattle wasn’t even in my top five, I mean it. I wasn’t going for the coffee (sorry, Starbucks), the grunge music, or to see if Grey’s Anatomy’s hospital was real. But somehow, the (PNW) Pacific Northwest called and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. Matter of fact, it over-delivered like Beyoncé with a surprise album drop.

First Impressions: More Diversity, More Flavor

I landed in Seattle with zero expectations and a light jacket (yes, the weather is unpredictable). What I didn’t expect? Diversity. Real cultural variety. From Black curated events to Afro-Latin owned eateries to an all-Black karaoke night that had the whole room singing “Can We Talk”.

And the food? Whew. Let’s talk.

Where I Stayed: Hyatt at Olive 8 

If you’re bougie on a budget or luxury light, the Hyatt at Olive 8 in downtown Seattle is for you. Chic, eco-conscious, and the rooms? Spacious enough to do a full Beyoncé “1+1” performance with choreography.

Their on-site restaurant, Tidal+, is where ocean-to-table becomes personal. But what truly sets this hotel apart? The classes. Daily offerings include yoga, cocktail crafting, and yes oyster shucking & sipping. I took that class and now I’m planning an oyster cooking night at my house as we speak.

Afro-Latin Flavors & Fire Grilled Pizza Dreams

Now let’s get to the main course. First stop: Lenox, an Afro-Latin-owned gem that needs to be protected at all costs. The portions? Generous. The flavors? Soulful. The backstory of the restaurant? Beautifully rooted in culture and family. This is more than a meal it’s an experience.

 

Next, we hit Capitale Pizzeria. I’ve had pizza in Italy and NYC, but nothing like this. Every pizza is named after a different country. I ordered the “Morocco” because, of course, they’re all fire-grilled to perfection. Flavorful, fun, and nothing cookie-cutter about it.

 

Seafood to Snatch Your Soul

Seattle without seafood is like brunch without the bottomless mimosas, it just doesn’t make sense. So we rolled up to SuperKim Crab House, from the crab croquettes to the spicy seafood boil sauce, I have to spread the word! This place was fire and, I’m low-key mad I didn’t eat here twice.

 

Thursday Nights = Black Karaoke Magic

If you’re in town on a Thursday, do yourself a favor and head to Island Soul for a karaoke night curated by Black Seattle. It’s giving Black joy, good drinks, amazing vibes, and that one auntie who sings every Mary J. Blige song as she lived it. The drink specials are strong, and the energy? Unmatched.

Bonus Moment: My First WNBA Game

Seattle also gave me my first-ever WNBA experience at a Seattle Storm game. Even though they lost to Atlanta (my home team no shade!), the energy was electric, the crowd was lit, and it made me want to follow the league heavily.

Seattle? You Got Me.

Seattle came with no expectations and left me wanting more. It’s a city with hidden gems, flavorful bites, and cultural moments that feel like home even when you’re far from it. So go ahead and add Seattle to your travel list. And don’t forget your appetite, your karaoke voice, and your stretchy pants.

Planning a trip to Seattle?

Save this guide, share it with a friend, and thank me later over crab croquettes and cocktails!

 

Photo Credits📸:Alex Jackson