Neighborhood beat: Madrona

One of Seattle's lesser-known, ultimately walkable neighborhoods with a small town vibe hugs the westerly slope adjacent to Lake Washington, between Leschi and Denny Blaine.  (Many Seattleites who are not longtime residents might not know that Denny Blaine is the neighborhood just south of Madison Park/Washington Park....)  It's funky, stylish, artsy, and homey, all at the same time.

For food lovers, there are many delicious choices.  Some of my personal favorites are St Cloud's, where I've had only absolutely mouth-wateringly wonderful food.....

....the recently opened June - French wines and innovative ingredient pairings....

 .....the local institution, Hi Spot Cafe, elegant bistro Dulces Latin Bistro , the newish Bottlehouse Tasting Bar and, of course, amazing cupcakes and espresso at Verite Coffee and Cupcake Royale!

For home furnishings and accessories, I love browsing - and buying! -  at Decor on 34th ....

.....or the Glassybaby  store and hotshop.

One of my favorite jewelry designers, Xenia Callahan, combines vintage chains, stones and baubles in new and wonderful ways, and is featured at Hitchcock, a chic and charming boutique. 

And last, but certainly not least, of my faves is the kitschy, warm, welcoming canine wonderland of Fetch Doggie Daycare and Grooming.  My dog, Samantha, (you can catch a glimpse of her in the window, above) LOVES spending time at Fetch!  When I pick her up, not only is she beautifully groomed but she's happily exhausted from running, jumping, and playing - her favorite activities!   Below is a shot of the check-in area - how fun is that?.....

Madrona has something for just about anyone - check it out!