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May 22nd 2009
Oh, Seattle. Last weekend we saw the city at its best. It’s these days that remind us how much we love this area. Other places get more sun than we do sure, but they just aren’t as naturally beautiful. Unfortunately though, we spent a lot of time on Sunday driving northward and now have a killer tan on our left arm and left side of the face from the ear down. It’s just our luck to have crappy weather since then with no real opportunity to balance the red out. Dang. Like to drink, eat, and watch movies? We have 200 free tickets to the soon-to-open Cinebarre theater in Mountlake Terrace. The first 100 readers to forward this issue to 1 friend and copy in picks@seattlepicksformen.com will win two free tickets to an upcoming show ($20 value). Make sure to include your full name in the email so we know who was first to 100th. |
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Seattle Picks for Men: |
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| 1 | When in Stumptown… We travel a lot, for business and pleasure. One of our favorite destinations to go is also the closest—Portland. For years we’ve driven down, crashed on friends’ couches, and called it good. Recently though, we’ve discovered what a great stay in Portland is like. Conveniently located just north of the city and near the airport, the new, ultra modern Aloft Hotel is a great mix of comfort and style. Less than a stone’s throw from the MAX, guests are able to leave their car (or complimentary airport shuttle) at the lot and ride quickly downtown for an evening out. Once you return, the night continues at the posh wxyz hotel bar. If after a strong cocktail you’re still a bit restless, there is free wi-fi and the swanky pool and gym are open 24/7 to burn off some energy before bed. In a regular or pet-friendly room, you and your companion(s) will find a sleek, well-thought out space (with an exceptionally comfortable mattress) to rest your head. To round off the experience you can check in or out, get your room keys, and print your boarding pass all from the self-service kiosks in the lobby. Cool. Aloft Hotel |
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| 2 | Far West Midwest We’ve come to expect regionally influenced restaurants and bars in Seattle. We have Belgian, German, and Irish pubs; restaurants from all over the world; and some very tasty pizzerias covering the traditions of Naples, New York and Chicago. Now enter Minnesota pizza. The folks at Zayda Buddy’s bring you the best from the Midwest. Mixing it up, the pizzas are all made with 100% Wisconsin Cheese and the house red sauce, then for some reason cut in squares. Other dishes to try: the Tater Tot casserole, Macaroni and Cheese, and the Milwaukee brat. Traditional and tasty sandwiches, burgers, and salads are also on offer. We know, though… why stop there? The bar takes you back with a selection of Midwest beers including Old Milwaukee, Blatz, Grain Belt, and Leinenkgels. Belly up to the bar and relive scenes from “Planes, Trains, and Automobiles.” Seriously, the décor has just enough hints of being in fly-over country that after several rounds you might start to panic that you’ve missed your flight. Zayda Buddy’s |
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| 3 | Re-Think Building When springtime rolls around, it’s hard for many of us guys to look around the house and not want to demolish the cabinets, put in new flooring, or finally fix the (enter your much-needed and long-delayed project here). The excuses for putting it off are many, but no longer can you say it’s too expensive or not green enough. The RE Store, Ballard’s economically and environmentally friendly used-building materials store, is the perfect place for all those projects. Recycled and reclaimed materials flood the warehouse; everything from doors and cabinets to piping and art is half the price you’ll find in the suburban giants. They also offer do-it-yourself workshops and will come out to your place to haul away any materials that can be used again. It’s green, inexpensive, and a place you can find unique and high-quality pieces. The RE Store is the comic book store for many of us guys who never quite grew up; only this time we have a lot more money to spend. And we get to use sledgehammers. The RE Store |
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| Mandatory Gear: | |||
| 1 | Da’ Balm One look at our old man lets us know we hit the genetic jackpot with regard to aging. But our guess is he didn't live quite as hard in his twenties, so we take no chances. Natural oils to seal in the moisture and repair the damage done is all you really need, and Portland apothecary Willamina includes only the best of these in their men's line that includes both a daytime and nighttime moisturizer as well as an aftershave. |
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| 2 | Andy for President If you’re a “watch guy,” and we’ll admit right here that we certainly are, you know undoubtedly of those times when the rest of your wardrobe is so super-casual that you want to go without. The problem is wondering if anyone is catching you looking at your blank wrist all day. For these occasions you need a fun, damn near disposable-looking timepiece. And why not have one that features Andy Warhol? He’s always a conversation starter. |
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| 3 | Gimme’ Shelter The sun has returned to the Northwest, so we couldn’t leave you without a “must-have hat” recommendation, could we? A brand new line out of Toronto, available at Nordy’s, nobis offers headwear made of recycled materials such as cork and cardboard, making for a not too funky, but stylishly inventive vibe. From the beer drinker to the martini must-haver, nobis gives every summer lover the ability to not only be stylish, but help the environment out, too. |
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Hip Happenings: |
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| 1 | 1st Annual BBQ and Drunkfest |
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| 2 | Bad Boys of Cuisine For those of us who love food and foodies, Anthony Bourdain and Mario Batali have attracted a cult following. These two celeb chefs will be coming to the Paramount for one night to discuss the world of restaurants, chefs, and cooking. It is sure to be an interesting evening—no doubt they’ll be entertaining! What: STG Presents: Anthony Bourdain and Mario Batali Where: The Paramount Theatre When: Saturday, May 30, 8 pm Cost: $45–$175 Visit: www.stgpresents.org |
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| 3 | SIFF is Back |
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Are you gearing up for summer? We certainly are… stay tuned for the next issue to find out what’s up~ |
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