By the Footloose Foodie
Hello friends and neighbors! I have returned from summer adventures. Alaska, crabbing on the Peninsula, visiting family, and embracing new friendships. The last I wrote the plan was to visit, breweries on Vashon. I tried, but was disappointed. One was not following posted business hours and the other, well, was less about food and more about the brew! And I am all about the food!
I felt that the dining experience was less than an experience and more of a tourist attraction, not very exciting. Hey, on the up note, I was told the brew selections were wonderful and tasty. I got myself a “Meatball sandwich.” The price per-bite was not well balanced. Tater tots not something I would pay top dollar for. Pizza I was told is delicious; however, not my choice of business to purchase a pizza. All and all, I could not see reason to return. I would suggest the brew enthusiasts to go and enjoy! I know many who do and enjoy the brew offerings.
I am brought to mind the businesses of Vashon. I have considerable experience in operating various types, serving our Island community. My personal experience leads me to believe that there is much emphasis on the “Tourist Dollar.” I know well how such dollars are a needed boost to our business community – approximately a 30% increase during tourist season.
That “tourist season” is fast becoming a year-round event. We as a community must not forget “our people.” Those who year-round support and would like to enjoy nights out. Saturday family lunches. Sunday morning breakfasts and brunches. Perhaps it’s time to create family-structured menus, priced with our resident families as a priority. Let’s get our core Vashon community to get out and enjoy the foods of Vashon, prepared by our local chefs. served by our neighbors who happen to be servers.
I am told that being land-locked, product cost is a bit higher. Yes, this can be a reality, but it need not prohibit stepping out of the box. A food service loses its love when preparing, cooking, and serving becomes just another “for dollars” event. Not an event of sharing great food available to all in an all-inclusive venue.
Show the love we Vashonians have for our community and serve it well and with “Love!”
I remember a few years back, one of our largest eateries had an Italian Dinner Wednesday night, served family-style. A sense of community was present, with much laughter and friendly conversations among neighbors and friends. This “Foodie” sees so much potential in our community eateries. Perhaps as a whole, you can get creative. We have ugly bike nights, First Fridays, holiday street gatherings, Strawberry Festival. Why not a second Wednesday of Family-encouraged dining! Bring out the spirit of love in sharing a meal!
A side note. My birthday meanderings took me to Anthony’s at Point Defiance. The food was amazing. The menu attractive to all in my party. Great beverages that were only enhanced by the personal, caring servers. Price comparable to many Island businesses. Yes, I hit the ferry jackpot, so no issues with walking across and a ferry ride home.
Please remember. My “Friendly Foodie” meanderings are of my choice and opinions and thoughts here are my own. Agree or disagree even agree to disagree, it’s all good and makes for stimulating thoughts turned to ideas! Perhaps you would like me to visit an eatery? Let me know.* I would be happy to oblige.
Perhaps this “Friendly Foodie” should try being a food critic for our Island community? Please make known what you would like to see in a meal out! Send me out to your favorite, and if it rates a high score, a drawing will determine if you receive a gift certificate so you may also enjoy one of your “Favorites!”
* Write the Footloose Foodie at editor@vashonloop.com.
