Designed To Last
 
For most of us, we are happy to spend some extra time and money on quality—whether it's great food, tasty microbrews, or handmade clothing. When we do, we expect in return something unique and full of character. When we apply this principle to clothing, we are too often disappointed by how quickly "quality" items fall apart and become dated.
 
For those who can relate, you'll be happy to hear about Veridis, now open on Capitol Hill. The men's section is comprised of classic items that strike the balance between unique and timeless. Something we particularly like: the designers selected are generally smaller and independent and create clothing that stays fashionable and is built to last. Great items on the rack now are from Built For Man, Adam Lippes, Obakki, and Buddhist Punk. If you are looking for some respectable shoes, you're bound to find some handmade Italian classics along the wall that will last you more than a few years.
 
Check out the Verdis blog for upcoming news, events, and sales! We dig it.
 
Veridis
1205 E. Pike St.
Seattle, WA 98112
206.402.3789
www.veridisclothier.com

On Your Way
 
In Seattle, it's common to find a decent drink menu at most restaurants of note. In fact, it's almost mandatory—who wants to spend two hours at a nice place and drop a pocket full of change on a good meal, but drink a cocktail or beer that tastes like watered-down disappointment? What is less common than this, though, is a great neighborhood pub that also serves quality, tasty food.
 
There are several gastropubs in the city that we like (a lot), but the problem with most of these is their size and feel. They are often too big or crowded, and either pretentious or impersonal. A few months ago, The Leary Traveler opened its doors to neighbors near and far, and for that we are grateful. Casual, friendly, and serving up strong beer and a great assortment of European foods, The Leary Traveler is a great destination for those looking for a European-style neighborhood bar. 
 
Along with drinks, we suggest the Belgian mussels and fries and the Irish corned beer sandwich. Enjoy.
 
The Leary Traveler
4356 Leary Way NW
Seattle, WA 98107
206.783.4805

There are certain expectation that come with real Italian restaurants—the food must be tasty, filling, but not too heavy or elaborate; the wines should pair with the food and be deep-bodied; and the atmosphere should be inviting and have a neighborhood feel to it. Too often Italian joints miss the mark on one of these points and become all too reminiscent of the Olive Garden.

Tavolata in Belltown squarely hits on these expectations and does what many places in the neighborhood seem unable to do—be neighborly. With fresh and seasonal appetizers and entrees, Tavolata welcomes diners into the family—or at least the neighborhood—and seats them on one of their many communal tables. The neighborhood feel persists despite the 30-foot high ceilings and industrial warehouse roots that are obvious in the surroundings. All the pasta is handmade, and all the wines are Italian (and refreshingly priced).

While Seattle generally dresses down for everything from work to operas and weddings, you'll feel comfortable looking sharp while eating very well.

Photo courtesy of www.lilleboutique.com.

Town to Trail

We have found the best of both worlds thanks to our outdoor-guru college buddy. We meet annually on the mountain (not Brokeback… we're skiing… with our girlfriends!), and this time he was wearing what he claimed to be the most comfortable après-ski, around-the-lodge shoes ever.

Made by Kuru, the line utilizes a mid-sole chassis and something called HeelKradle. While we have no idea what that means, we took our buddy's advice and even checked out the hiking model. As per usual, we weren't steered wrong.

www.kurufootwear.com

We Don't Need No Stinking Cords
 
We spied our enviro-friendly neighbor with some new electric tools in the yard recently. Not to be outdone, we went about seeing how we might outfit ourselves with some gas-free goodies. Problem is, we loathe cords.
 
What we found was an 18v string trimmer by Black and Decker that runs on a compact battery. We also found a chainsaw, cultivator and more that all ran on the same battery. Between the convenience, the mobility, and the price, we bought the whole line.
 
www.blackanddecker.com

Stay Warm in Soup Lines

OK, the recession hasn't gotten that bad… yet. But it has warranted a little bargain-hunting on our part. One of the best deals we've found is the Price for Life deal from Artificial Flavor.

Here's how it works; choose one or more jackets from their stylish line, and not only are they only 50 bucks, but that is the price you'll pay for jackets from future lines for (you guessed it) life! Remember… windbreakers are set to make a big comeback.

Artificial Flavor

Crazy Happy Hour

Sazerac Restaurant is upping the happy hour ante with a $2 real-food menu that lasts from 4 to 8 pm, Monday to Saturday. Not just bar food, real food is on the cheap: good-sized salads, wood-fired pizzas, and sandwiches are all $2. Also, beer is $3 and cocktails are $5.

What: Crazy Happy Hour at Sazerac
When: Monday to Saturday from 4–8 pm
Where: 1101 4th Ave.
Visit: www.sazeracrestaurant.com

Valentine's Day Bash

The Stranger's Dan Savage will be teaming up with Neumo's Crystal Ball Reading Room for the 12th annual Valentine's Day Bash. Bring a memento from a failed relationship and Dan will destroy it in an appropriate way—blender, sledgehammer, blowtorch etc.

What: 12th Annual Stranger Valentine's Day Bash
When: Saturday, Feb. 14, 8 pm
Where: Neumo's Crystal Ball Reading Room,
925 E. Pike St, Seattle
Cost: $5
Visit: Valentine's Day Bash

Wine on Valentine's Day

Can't think of anything to do for Valentine's Day? Swing by Woodinville Wine Country's online event calendar for about a dozen local wine-inspired Valentine's Day events in and around the city. It’s sure to make her drunk with love (for you).

What: Valentine's Day Wine Events
When: Saturday, Feb. 14
Where: Around Lake Washington
Visit: http://www.woodinvillewinecountry.com/