by Dennis Augustine
Whenever Cecile and I find ourselves in Seattle, we make it a point to call on our sweet niece Annabel—daughter of Cecile’s brother Laury and sister-in-law Jessica. Having moved to the greater Seattle area from Ann Arbor some years ago, she’s become our local connection to good company and great food.
Today we had the joy of treating her to lunch at Place Pigalle, her excellent recommendation nestled in the heart of Pike Place Market. With views of Elliott Bay and dishes that wow, it’s no wonder this spot has such staying power. And what a story: this place dates back to the post-Klondike Gold Rush boom, originally known as the Lotus Inn—a speakeasy during Prohibition and a tavern in its next life. A perfect mix of old charm and current flavor.
Speaking of history, it’s hard to believe it’s been 11 years since our 2014 trip to Alaska with Annabel and her parents. We’ve included a few photos from that time—Annabel was just a young girl then. Now she’s all grown up, smart, gracious, and still a joy to be around.