Pool Time!

Ok, so you’re not really feeling too adventurous tonight. Or maybe you’re just looking for a place a little more low-key to take your date. Or you’ve had a rough day at work, and just want a place to lounge, have a drink, and shoot a game of pool without rubbing elbows with the Biker Dude that’s always at your local dive bar.

Then head across the 520 bridge to The Parlor, the 20,000 square foot billiards parlor in Bellevue’s Lincoln Square. It’s an upscale place that contains 2 full bars, 34 pool tables, plenty of seating, and banquet rooms for groups. There are even a few areas with couches that are perfect for relaxing with a date. You don’t have a date, you say? The Parlor is a perfect place for you, too—there are bound to be plenty of singles there, waiting for a cute girl or guy to challenge them to a game of pool.

Pool tables are $10 an hour, parking is validated, and there is free WiFi throughout the building. You can even get pool lessons from the Pro Shop!

Check out The Parlor’s website athttp://www.parlorbilliards.com/for more info.

Written by: Chris Akerman - SpeedSeattle Dating Resident Blogger

More Cheeky? Yes, Please!

SpeedLA & NBC/Oxygen's 'Bad Girls Club' Gets Cheeky Again!

In 2009, SpeedLA Dating had the pleasure of hosting NBC/Oxygen's 'Bad Girls Club' Season 3 @ the fabulous Les Deux in Hollywood. The episode went on to become one of the most popular, fun and of course, cheekiest episodes of the season.

For 2010, the 'Bad Girls Club' is back and once again calls upon the hottest dating company for all their speed dating needs. Filmed this year at the extraordinary, Highlands @ Hollywood & Highland Center.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HbKCH9R1RcE

SpeedLA Dating would like to thank the Producers, Crew and Cast for once again choosing SpeedLA and would like to say "We still love you too!"

Love,

Anoush x

To see last year's episode of the "The Bad Girls Club" -

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ubgkKy-3LNU

Distinctive in a 1000 ways...

Chic and comfortable - sexy and understated - fabulous and wonderfully romantic, are all qualities we at SpeedSeattle look for when searching out hot spots for our events and blog. We're quite chuffed to have found such a place that embodies all the above and more. Start your journey through the doors of the incomparable, Hotel 1000. The sleek lobby exudes urban elegance from the moment you arrive. With a friendly staff leaving stuffiness at the door, whether for a weekend stay or a night out, Hotel 1000 proves sophistication does not have to equal attitude.The Hotel's design is wonderfully intimate, mature and sophisticated, balancing Asian sensuality with the warmth of the Pacific Northwest. The feeling is soothing yet energetic, sensuous yet vibrant. Stroll through the glass revolving doors, past the bamboo installation by glass artist J.P Canlis and into the world that is BOKA.
BOKA's interior is a literal work of art. Frosty bamboo stalks stretch up to the ceiling in the front bar, and giant blown wineglasses make a jazzy stand above the dinner tables. Sporting a stylish urban decor that features digitally controlled art and wall covering that changes several times over the course of an hour. BOKA is short for“bold, original kitchen artistry”. As such, the feast for the senses continues to the palate. We had the pleasure of sampling a few of the delicious treats offered on the BOKA menu for our guests and the response couldn't have been more positive. Each dater gushing and praising more than the one before, we knew this is a spot where the foodie in you can indulge - letting you relax and enjoy - leaving the flirty to us.

Set within the chic Hotel 1000 is the wonderfully romantic and equally fabulous, Studio 1000. Sister bar to Boka Kitchen & Bar, Studio 1000 offers a distinctly different experience. Its soothing, modern fireside environment is accented by dramatic, back-lit onyx and rich dark brown leather-wrapped walls that frame the anchor of the room – a contemporary steel and concrete open fire pit with flames that appear to float.

Hotel 1000 and BOKA Kitchen & Bar raise the bar and redefine what comfortable luxury means.

We at SpeedSeattle Dating like to consider it cheeky chic and think you will too.

Hotel 1000 - Downtown

Studio 1000 - Boka Kitchen & Bar

Written by: SpeedSeattle Dating

Fun With a Fish!

Long known as one of the most popular tourist destinations in Seattle, Pike Place Market (or simply “the Market”) is a wonderful local landmark that everyone knows of, yet few Seattleites ever take advantage of the awesome possibilities the market has to offer. A great date in and of itself, a trip to Pike Place Market can also serve as a fun prelude to an afternoon spent together preparing a fresh and delicious meal together, crafted with ingredients from only local farmers, fishermen, butchers, and peddlers, the experience is sure to please.

If you are going to do the market as a stand-alone date, go at lunch time (if you work downtown) or in the morning/early afternoon on a weekend. Weekends will obviously involve more crowds, but bumping shoulders and hips with trying to navigate the markets halls is part of the experience, so embrace it.

Two musts are: come hungry and come with cash. In addition to offering excellent ingredients to cook with, the market’s vendors also sells countless prepared options for as little as $2-$3, and plastic is frowned upon if not simply rejected in such transactions. Fifteen dollars, and a small something from five or six stands is the perfect way to fill up on a variety of vittles. The pantheon of choices is constant fuel for conversation, and if you have different tastes in food (fresh grapefruit for her… fried chicken gizzards for him?), the market is practically certain to please all, vegans and veal-fanatics alike.

While practically every tourist makes the fish toss a destination within the market, the showmanship and theater of these fishmongers is sure to entertain every time, and I always am sure to spend a few minutes at their counter each trip.

After having your fill in the marketplace, check out the original Starbucks retail location and grab a quick post-meal cup to fight off the alkaline tides. If the sun is out, head to Victor Steinbruek Park to enjoy the view of Elliot Bay while watching the ferries sailing in and out of the downtown piers to Bremerton and Bainbridge Island.

Written by: Samuel Fisher - SpeedSeattle Dating Resident Blogger

Find Love...At Assaggio

In a time when chain restaurants are taking over, it's a challenge to find a place that really stands out from the Red Robins and Olive Gardens. But finding a hidden gem is well worth the effort.

One such gem is Assaggio Ristorante, on 4th and Virginia in downtown Seattle. This cozy but elegant Italian restaurant was founded by Mauro Golmarvi in 1993, and the hospitable Mauro himself still personally greets every single visitor to his restaurant. The walls are adorned with replicas of Michelangelo’s most famous murals, creating an authentic Italian atmosphere.

The menu is filled with authentic and delicious (but reasonably priced) fare. Try the Pollo Pizzaiola--sauteed chicken breast with kalamata olives, garlic, and marinara sauce for $17; or the Capellini Marechiaro--angel hair pasta with gulf prawns tossed in white wine marinara sauce, only $14.

Of course, no Italian meal would be complete without a bottle of wine. Impress your date by ordering a bottle of one of Assaggio Ristorante's excellent selections, hand-picked by Mauro himself.

And if you’re wondering about the service, it’s the best you’ll find anywhere. After a waiter mistakenly threw out my date’s leftovers instead of boxing them, the chef whipped up an entire new dish for us, free of charge. That’s Mauro’s way.

Check out http://www.assaggioseattle.com/ to see the menu and the ambiance. Bring your date to Assaggio, and you're guaranteed to make an impression.


Written by: Chris Akerman - SpeedSeattle Resident Blogger

Green Lake Style!

Nestled in between Phinney Ridge to the West, Wallingford to the South, Roosevelt to the East, and Licton Springs to the North, lies Seattle’s favorite urban oasis- Green Lake. This 259 acre lake and the surrounding park is one of the best date options the city has to offer due to its cost, versatility, and overall aesthetic pleasantness.

Minutes is all one needs to leisurely stroll the 2.8 mile paved path surrounding the lake, but this is really the bare minimum required for the date. This can be great for first dates, because after 45 minutes of walking and talking with that new someone, you’ll be sure to know whether the date will swim or sink. If after a minute stroll things are going well and you don’t feel the urge to get back in your car and hightail it out of there, there is still plenty to do. Here is where the variety of options in the surrounding area really has the potential to make the date excellent.If you’re hungry after your walk, head to happy hour (3pm-6pm then 9pm-close) at Duke’s Chowder House at the north end of the lake. The menu boasts seven generously priced yet stiff cocktails at $5 a pop, while both wells and draughts are each $3. A selection of excellently crafted appetizers is available for only $5 each (I recommend tuna wasabi quesadilla). The roomy south-facing deck is a great spot to soak up rays and mojitos in the summer months.

If seafood and drinks isn’t your scene (or the weather isn’t cooperating), jaunt over the East end of the lake for a smooth and piping beverage from the Starbucks on 71st and Green Lake Drive, or if you favor the trendier and independently owned establishments, venture one block North to the 72nd Street Café and take in the local art displayed on the walls while sipping on one of the best cappuccinos the neighborhood has to offer, or nibbling at a unique panini crafted with gourmet cheese and artisan bread.

These ideas are literally a tiny fraction of activities the neighborhood and park have to offer, so explore on your own, or check back soon for more ideas and variations on the Green Lake date.

Written by: Samuel Fisher - SpeedSeattle Dating Resident Blogger

The Seduction Shuffle

Alright, so you and your significant other are about to enjoy one of the perks of a perfect match -- otherwise known as 'getting busy.' You've got the candles lit, the curtains drawn and the massage oil standing by. Sweet, sexy sounds are streaming in from your iPod, and everything's perfect. Until the next track comes on.

Nothing can ruin the mood quite like your date finding out your iPod is just as likely to play Miley Cyrus as Marvin Gaye. Of course, you can always build a 'passion playlist,' but that takes time. And, if you've got any sort of sex life, that playlist will probably play itself out after a few rounds of play. The last thing you want to do in the bedroom is get stuck in any sort of routine, and nothing says stale faster than finding yourself choreographing your moves to the same predictable rhythm every time you get it on.

That's why God (or Cupid) invented Pandora. Using its proprietary music genome technology, Pandora will automatically build a custom playlist based on any artist or song. Basically, Pandora hones in on certain traits of the tunes you give it, and uses those traits to pick a whole playlist of similar songs. If you're into rhythmic drums, hard bass lines and minimal vocals, it'll build you what amounts to an entire radio station of that particular kind of music. If uptempo jazz beats and classical orchestration are more your thing, then that's what you'll get. And, with almost a century's worth of music in their database, Pandora will keep serving you up with something different every time you turn it on. With Pandora, you'll always have a new playlist to put on when you're looking to get turned on. And anyone who has ever gotten it on to the sweet sounds of a Sade or a Sam Cooke knows that nothing makes the mood quite like a little mood music.

Basically, if variety is the spice of life, think of Pandora as cinammon for whatever you're baking in the boudoir. Because a little sugar in your bowl is good and all, but sugar and spice is just so much more nice.

Written by: Mollie Vandor - SpeedLA Dating Resident Blogger

Getting Cheeky with FOX News!

SpeedLA Dating had the pleasure of hosting Fox News & Good Day LA. When it comes to cheeky - there is no substitute! We are chuffed to have such trendsetting singles and are thrilled to be bringing our unique brand to LA.

We have changed Speed Dating and brought a new way of Matchmaking to Seattle. Where we felt other companies lacked with have set out to redefine. For our events, we bring our charismatic hosts, Complimentary Make Over's for the ladies, the absolute best venues, plate after plate of gorgeous nibbles and cash prizes - our SpeedLA standard. Spoil yourself in our popularity and let us be your Matchmaker. With an audience of thousands from our Dating, Networking and Televised events - we bring together a personalized, straightforward approach to Matchmaking in Los Angeles & Seattle.

Fox News & Good Day LA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nMhmpHLYBMU

SpeedLA Dating & Matchmaking

http://www.speedseattledating.com/

Fancy a go?

Pink on Pike

The chemistry is there, the awkward career questions have been answered (or in this economy, dodged), and the initial follow-up calls were made. Bars and restaurants are the go-to first date venues in a budding romance. In the beginning stages, you may get to a third or fourth date and find awkward minutes still lingering. How to keep yourself entertained and, if necessary, distracted, without leaving the comfortable haze of dim lights and a cocktail? Pink Door.

When it opened its doors in 1981, The Pink Door provided more than an authentic Italian meal for its patrons. Nestled in the core of Pike Place Market, Pink Door has attracted its guests for nearly 30 years with its cozy and eclectic environment.

Walk inside the restaurant and the romantic, lively ambiance is consuming. Once my date and I narrowed down our drink from their extensive wine list, we shared the leporati prosciutto di parmato start. Soon, your eyes drift up to the burlesque trapeze artist. Yes, in the restaurant. Burlesquing and trapezing her way over your head throughout your meal. The entertainment - she, as well as the music – is always free, and guarantees a good conversation starter. The food is delicious, and won’t break the bank. After dinner, my date and I wandered past the dining room to the patio, where we took in gorgeous views of Elliott Bay.

You won’t see a sign, but you will see a pink door. And inside, you will have a great time, even if your date’s not one.

http://www.thepinkdoor.net/

Written by: Rebecca Gelbart - SpeedSeattle Resident Blogger

The Honey Hole

Cheap, quick, and DELICIOUS.

Nestled among coffee shops and vintage stores in Capitol Hill, Honey Hole Sandwiches is one of those gem of a spots that you will label in your go-to folder for a date or an out-of-town visitor. You know, the mental list of restaurants, parks, attractions, bars, and general Seattle what-not that will deliver a good time, every time, without any disappointments or fancy strings, just plain ol’ fun and dependable.

The Honey Hole is known for their sandwiches, first and foremost. Between the day and night menu, cold and hot, vegetarian or not, the choices are endless. The first time I went, it was a rainy summer day, and I channeled my past Hawaiian summer vacations by ordering the Buford T. Justice, a tangy pulled pork sandwich drizzled with pineapple BBQ sauce and melted provolone on a French roll. To add to my delight, I complemented the scrumptious treat with a Two Beers Blonde Ale. Yes, that’s right. Honey Hole is not just a jazzed-up Subway, but boasts a fully stocked bar as well.

Honey Hole also serves burgers, salads, and other light fare, but as they say, their sandwiches are “almost legendary.” The second time I returned, it was a casual evening visit to start the night off. My date and I shared the onion ring and French fry platter, and the mouthwatering taste overruled any concerns I had had before with my bikini body. The lights were dim and we selfishly snagged a larger booth in the front but were the couple who sat annoyingly close. I gadged him out while sipping on a blueberry lemondrop; he gadged me while drinking a Pacifico. I’m originally from Southern California, and anywhere that I can get a sandwich and a Paicfico for $9 has scored a place in my heart. Honey Hole, I adore you.

703 east pike street

Seattle, Wa

206-709-1399

11am-2am 7days/wk

Written by: Rebecca Gelbart - SpeedSeattle Dating Resident Blogger

Fancy a Go?

We at SpeedLA Dating are tickled pink to be so sought after by the press and media. Thousands are finding themselves getting cheeky at an alarming rate! Recently, VH1 stopped by to see what all the fuss is about. Cheers to the production and producers for choosing SpeedLA Dating.

VH1 - SpeedLA Dating Promo

Find out if NBC/Oxygen's "Bad Girls Club" found love or just got plain cheeky!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ubgkKy-3LNU&feature=channel_page

To view more of SpeedLA Dating's Videos -

http://www.youtube.com/user/SpeedLAdating1

Written by: SpeedLA Dating

Are you havin' a laugh? Is he havin' a laugh?

Laughter is the best aphrodisiac! So get those endorphins flowing and take a trip out to Jet City Improv. Jet City performs at the University Theatre, on University Way NE. The show is an interactive performance, where all of the scenes, games and songs are based off of suggestions by you, the audience.

This isn’t your High School’s theatre—it’s fast paced and professional. Think Whose Line is it Anyway plus cheap drinks, minus Drew Carey. The actors are talented and fun, and they’ll keep you laughing through the entire performance. In fact, I thought it was better than the live improv show I saw in Vegas, but that one cost 5 times as much! Jet City Improv will only set you back $10 per ticket, and the drinks cost the same as you’d find at your local dive bar.

This is a great cheap date, and a great way to break the ice with the lucky guy or girl you bring along. The show is on Fridays and Saturdays at 10:30 pm, with an early show on most Saturdays at 8 pm.

Check out http://www.jetcityimprov.com/ for more details, official show times, and directions.

Written by: Chris Akerman - SpeedSeattle Dating Resident Blogger

Guiness? Yes, Please!

Nothing will warm you up on a cold winter night better than a pint of Guiness and a hearty bowl of Irish stew. And who has the best Guiness and Irish stew in Seattle? The Owl ‘N Thistle!

You’ll feel like you’ve stepped right into Ireland when you visit the Owl ‘N Thistle Irish Pub. It’s very cozy, with a fun and lively décor. There is a small bar area near the stage, with a dance floor (perfect for doing an Irish jig), a separate room for those who prefer the restaurant environment, and even a side room with additional seating and pool tables.

There are various bands (and occasionally comedians) that perform at the Owl ‘N Thistle—but you’ll really want to make sure you catch aptly-named Owl ‘N Thistle band, who tend to play on Fridays and Saturdays.

They’ll play all your favorite Irish tunes, and feature one of the best fiddle players in the country.

They’ve got a great Irish stew for only $6.95 and a host of other deliciously traditional Irish selections.

Visit http://www.owlnthistle.com/ for a calendar and more info. The Owl ‘N Thistle is located at 808 Post Avenue in Seattle.

Written by: Chris Akerman - SpeedSeattle Dating Resident Blogger

Have a Laugh - UK Style!

Looking for something to watch... something funny... not too long... Show her you have a sense of humor with an English twist. If you haven't heard of 'Fawlty Towers' do try to extricate yourself from the rock you have been under and get ready to laugh...hard. "Fawlty Towers" is a British sitcom made by BBC and first broadcast in 1975. Now before you cry "That's before my time!", this is timeless. The setting is in a fictional hotel called Fawlty Towers, located in the seaside town of Torquay, along the "English Riviera". Written, created and performed to perfection by the great John Cleese of 'Monty Python' fame, this is one sitcom not to be missed. Considered by many to be the greatest comedy of our time, the show blends sarcasm, biting humor and wit like no other has before and since (except maybe Seinfeld... but it's a close call).

The series focuses on the exploits and misadventures of short-fused hotelier Basil Fawlty, his wife Sybil and their employees; porter and waiter Manuel, maid Polly and chef Terry. The episodes typically revolve around Basil's efforts to succeed in 'raising the tone' of his hotel and his increasing frustration at the numerous complications and mistakes, both from his own and those of others, which prevent him doing so. Much of the humour comes from Basil's overly aggressive manner, engaging in angry but witty arguments with guests, staff and in particular his formidable wife, whom he addresses (in a faux-romantic way) with insults such as "my little piranha fish" and "my little next of vipers". At the end of some episodes, Basil succeeds in annoying (or at least bemusing) the guests and frequently gets his comeuppance.

Due to the show's popularity, DVD sets of the series are a snap to find. If you are out and about, pop into 'Best Buy' or check out 'Netflix' if you can't leave the sofa. Both are sure to have plenty of copies on hand. Episodes are a half hour each and provide that perfect opportunity to snuggle up and laugh with your date while not encroaching too much on the rest of the night. And whatever do, "Don't mention the war!"

Fawlty Towers - BBC - DVD Sets & Additional Information

Love & Romance

We’ve all seen it in the movies. The lovebird couple takes a drive up to the bluff that overlooks the whole city. They park right on the edge and admire the view (both of the city and of each other). Lights sparkle in the distant valley below. Stars twinkle in the clear sky above. If you’re like me, you always wondered—where on earth is that park? And where can I find a date to take there?

The answer to the first question: Kerry Park. It’s a strip of land on the south slope of Queen Anne Hill, at the corner of 2nd Avenue W. and Highland Drive. When you just don’t feel like ending the date quite yet, take the drive to Kerry Park. The view is absolutely breathtaking. You will see all of Seattle, including the Space Needle, Key Arena, and various other landmarks on your left. On your right you’ll see the vast expanse of Puget Sound, complete with ferries coming and going. And if you make it to the park before sunset, you can even catch a glimpse of majestic Mt. Rainier towering above the horizon. It’s the perfect quiet place tokick back and get to know each other a little better.

Don’t worry, there’s also plenty of fun to be had nearby if the park gets too quiet for you. My suggestion is Ozzie’s, just down the hill on Mercer—it’s got nightly karaoke and a 3:30-6:30 pm happy hour that provides a magnificent dive-bar atmosphere. It’s a great place to spend a casual weeknight, or to experience the weekend party life.

Click on over to http://www.ozziesseattle.com/ to see the menu and upcoming events.

Written by: Chris Akerman - SpeedSeattle Dating Resident Blogger

Date My Space

Alright ladies, it's date 4 and you've decided that the guy you're seeing isn't a serial killer.

It's time to stop meeting in crowded public places, and let the dude pick you up from your apartment. If things go well, you might even invite him back up for a nightcap -- or a SportsCenter recap, either way. But, before you start planning your whole 'would you like to come up' line, there are a few things you need to make sure you've got handy in that humble abode. Think of it like the dating version of baby-proofing -- instead of covering outlets, you're making sure you're covered when it comes to the necessary apartment accoutrement required to maintain that whole sassy, successful single lady thing you've been selling since date one.

First of all, there are few truisms that are...well, truer, than that whole way-to-a-man's-heart thing. We all know there are certain organs that guys tend to defer to in times of need, and one of them really is their stomach. So, a well stocked fridge is a must. I'm not saying you need to have homemade cookies and pot roast chilling on your shelves. Hell, you don't even need a real kitchen. But, you do need to have cold water, cold beer and a decent bottle of wine on hand. Depending on the type of guy you're going after, a nice bottle of whiskey couldn't hurt either. I've found that you can get a lot of bang for your buck out of Firestone Double Barrel Ale on the beer front, Barefoot Pinot Noir in the wine rack and Maker's Mark on the liquor shelf -- most guys love all three brands, and none of them will cost you more than a twenty. Have some chips and salsa in your cabinets -- if unopened, they keep forever -- and you're all set for a lovely post-date rendezvous on your couch.

While we're on the topic of booze, nothing is worse than pulling off the perfect wine purchase only to find yourself struggling with the cork while trying to maintain that whole smooth seductress vibe. So, make sure you invest in a decent wine opener and a bottle opener to boot. If you've got $30 to blow, check out The Rabbit (http://www.amazon.com/Metrokane-6004-Rabbit-Corkscrew-Black/dp/B00004SQ0K/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden&qid=1254602887&sr=8-2). Like the famous fun-time toy that shares its name, it's the Cadillac of its class of gadgets. But, if you'd rather save your cash for the wine, you can do just as well with a model like this onehttp://www.amazon.com/Pedrini-Wine-Pocket-Waiters-Corkscrew/dp/B0002AKKYO/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden&qid=1254602860&sr=8-12, which basically relies on leverage to get the job done. It's what I have, and let me tell you, it's a boon for babes who don't want to spend the whole night fighting with a stubborn cork when they could be spending the time with a good syrah.

Of course, once you've got the food and booze covered, what else could a guy possibly want? Well, depending on how much wine you've downed, or how late your little post-date party went, there's a very good chance he'll want a cup of coffee. You know how that old book goes. If you give a mouse a cookie, he'll want a glass of milk. If you give a guy enough booze, he'll probably need a cup of coffee. The easy solution to becoming your own barrista, impressing your date and saving the seven bucks you'd spend at Starbucks? My new favorite toy -- the Melitta one cup coffee brewer, which has all the cool science experiment appeal of a french press without any of the expense. In fact, I got mine for less than $10 at the Ralphs on Sunset. You can also buy them for $8 and change on Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/Melitta-Coffee-Maker-Ready-Black/dp/B001OBY37U/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden&qid=1254603163&sr=8-5). It's also a great single girl accessory that saves you the counter space, expense and cleaning of a real coffee maker and actually makes a better cup of joe than any electric coffee maker I've ever had.

So, now you've got the food, the booze and the caffeine all taken care of. All you have left to do now is hide those stuffed animals on your bed (save 'em for the fifth date), change the channel to ESPN and make sure you've got your shoe pyramid tucked away in a closet (save all hints of potential high maintenance-ness for the fifth date too). Then, it's time to find the last and possibly most important apartment accessory for us gals dating in LA -- a parking space for your man. Because nothing says 'I'm committed to seeing where this relationship goes' quite like 'I just fought that angry guy in the convertible so you would have a convenient place to put your Prius.'

Written by: Mollie Vandor - SpeedUSA Group Resident Blogger

Off to the Island!

From May to September, Tillicum Village on Blake Island opens its doors to the general public to experience and partake in this special Puget Sound gem. A local caterer opened the village in 1962 in preparation for the 1963 World Fair to showcase the ancient culinary techniques of the native inhabitants of the region.

The 4 hour journey starts on Pier 55 in downtown Seattle, where guests board a private ferry and start the 50 minute cruise Southwest through Puget Sound to Blake Island, which lies directly North of Vashon Island and West of Lincoln Park and the Fauntleroy state ferry launch in West Seattle.

After arriving on Blake Island, stroll up the bleached clam shell-lined path for a reception of steamed clams in the traditional long house built with cedar logs and planks and adorned with Pacific Northwest American Indian Art. Upon entering the long house, the central focus of the Native culture becomes evident- the salmon. Relied upon for centuriesas a source of nutrition, and numerous other necessities, Pacific Northwest Tribes placed a great deal of importance on the role salmon played in their societies. At the Tillicum longhouse, the fish are prepared in the ancient method- by skewering them with short sticks of wood and slowly cooking the flesh over a fire of alder planks.

The salmon is served with a fresh vegetable salad, steamed red potatoes, wild rice pilaf, and a dark earthy bread. Local wines and beers are also available for purchase. This delicious and hearty meal is paired with an amazing visual performance called “Dance on the Wind” by a collection of Native American Elders. The show is put on by world-class producer Greg Thompson and similar to the food, does not disappoint.

I recommend this date on the clearest of days, when the cruise from downtown to Blake Island will be best, and the views of the Cascades, Olympics, and Mt. Rainer will be most breathtaking. Weekdays performances are scheduled at 4:30- which is perfect if you can duck out of work early on an easy summer afternoon. For weekends, chose a Saturday or Sunday right after Labor Day when kids are back in school, but Seattle’s Indian Summer is still in full swing.

Written by: Samuel Fisher - SpeedSeattle Dating Resident Blogger

Simply The Best

The Los Angeles Lakers have won the Championship - Again!

We at SpeedLA Dating love our Lakers and can't wait to share our excitement with you. Sign up for any event this summer, enter LAKERS at checkout and receive $7 Off!

We are changing the Speed Dating scene and attracting a more sophisticated crowd than ever before. Some have called us Speed Dating 2.0; others just can't get enough of the fun! Where we felt other companies lacked, we have set out to redefine. With organized, personable hosts, Complimentary Make-Over’s for the Ladies, plate after plate of gorgeous nibbles and cash prizes, we are all things fun wrapped in a UK bow.

Same great value, same level of service and same cheeky fun to every city in the SpeedUSA family.

SpeedLA Dating - Los Angeles, Seattle & New York City

Written by: SpeedLA Dating

Looking Good!

If you haven’t already been to Zappos.com, it’s definitely a go-to site to check out when searching for that perfect first date outfit. My top three reasons to love Zappos.com are as follows: their new home page, “Zeta”, their culture, and the site’s fantastic selection of items and search/filtering system.

Home Page

“Zeta” kicks the old homepage’s butt! Instead of the old home page focus on shoes, Zeta organizes items into categories delineated by pictures and links to subcategories (ie. “Women’s Clothing” links to tops, shorts, skirts, etc.). Zeta also features a “View All Departments” click-down menu in the top left corner, as well as an alphabetical brand index across the top of the page.

The bottom of the page features “What’s New” and “Top Sellers” categories sorted by Men’s, Women’s, and Kids’, as well as a “Find What You Need Quickly” section sorted by gender, special interest, and specialty site.

The homepage also publicizes some of Zappos’ uber cool policies, such as free shipping, free returns, and free return shipping, 24/7 customer service, weekly free clothing give-aways, and Zappos’ safe shopping guarantee.

Culture

Zappos is renowned in business circles for the entrepreneurial values which led to its tremendous growth and success. Zappos’ core values include, “deliver WOW through service”, “embrace and drive change”, and “create fun and a little weirdness”, and it succeeds at all three.

The site is personal, fun, and creative, with blogs on topics ranging from snacks to movies to exercise, videos, such as “How Big is Pat’s Noggin?”, and videos of real people sharing their Zappos stories. Additional features include twitter links, community involvement projects, customer testimonials, and pictures of “furry customers” and “customers-in-training”.

Women’s Clothing

Zappos has a ridiculously specific search system. When searching for Women’s Clothing, one can narrow down by item type, popular items, or a quick search feature which searches items by style, size, width, and color. Additional means of narrowing down include searching clothing category, specialty size, brand, new and sale items, and recommended items.

If you’re looking for a perfect first-date dress, click “Dresses”, and prepare to be amazed! You can narrow your choices by dress type (A-line, empire, high waist dresses, etc.), size, color, brand, and price. Below this feature, 20 pages of dresses are shown, and may be sorted by newest, most popular, name, low price, and high price.

Once you find the dress of your dreams, Zappos provides product information, complete with a glossary of terms, as well as “Add to Favorites”, “Share This Product”, and “Tell a Friend” features. Reviews are enabled, and brand information is included. Customers may even opt to be notified by email when new styles of the brand are added to the site. Zappos also offers free overnight shipping on clothing.

Zappos.com

Written by: Lauren Blackwell - SpeedUSA Group Resident Blogger