A Weekend in Woodinville Wine Country

With over 100 tasting rooms, many restaurants, beautiful walking trails, and an exquisite resort, Woodinville Washington is a wonderful town to explore when visiting Seattle or for locals looking for a relaxing respite.

Where to stay

Nestled along the Sammamish river and located walking distance to a variety of tasting rooms and restaurants, T he Willows Lodge is the clear lodging choice when visiting Woodinville. The property is a pacific northwest gem with exceptional hospitality and lush landscaped gardens. With luxuriously appointed rooms, cozy fireplaces, deep soaking tubs, onsite dining and full-service spa, The Willows Lodge has all the amenities for a relaxing and indulgent getaway.

Did I mention this little paradise is also fido friendly? Our golden Retriever, Rhys loves visiting this property. He particularly enjoys the plush dog bed appropriately placed next to the fireplace and doggy room service (sorry not currently available…darn COVID!).

Be sure to make room in your schedule for a cocktail at the onsite Fireside Lounge. The impressive rock fireplace is the perfect back drop for a pre-dinner libation or night cap.

Where to Eat

There really are so many delicious options in Woodinville to choose from that it is difficult to narrow it down, but here are a few of my favorites. The Commons is the go-to brunch spot boasting a drool worthy menu filled with scratch made pastries and classics like Chicken & Waffles, Biscuits & Gravy, and a scrumptious Eggs Bene! Admittedly, though I’m fond of the Avocado Toast topped with a sunny farm egg. Haha, I see you rolling your eyes, but you haven’t tried it yet. And it wouldn't be proper brunch without a boozy "juice". You cannot go wrong with their Bloody Mary, but if you want your taste buds to swoon, order the Mimosa flight. The Blood Orange and Blackberry versions are sensational.

PicNic Table is an absolute must for lunch. Sourcing seasonal, organic ingredients from local famers the menu is a vibrant collection of constantly rotating dishes blending Mediterranean flare with the bounty of the Pacific Northwest. You can dine in or order one of Chef Danilo Amato’s famed picnic baskets to enjoy at one of the tasting rooms or maybe along the Sammamish river trail. Tip: Gluten free and other dietary needs accommodated, just ask.

If you’re looking for a casual meal or better yet want to multi-task wine tasting with lunch or early dinner, then Vivi Pizzeria is the place to be. This Italian superstar shares outdoor seating with Gorman Winery and Patterson Cellars. The menu includes an assortment of dazzling salads, an embarrassment of small plates (perfect for pairing with a flight of wines), pasta-o-plenty and some mighty fine pizza combinations (the Rugola is awesome). Place your food order, grab a table, and then saunter into one of the tasting rooms to select a tasting flight or glass of wine. You can sit back, relax, and enjoy your wine tasting with your meal. Plus, there are plenty of gluten free option making this a win, win, WINE!

The Herbfarm, is a fine dining experience on par with culinary legends such as Canlis, Chez Panisse and The French Laundry. I highly recommend enjoying this experience after a day of cycling or hiking to prepare you for the four-hour epicurean indulgence. Begin your journey with the pre-dinner Wine Cellar Open House and hosted tour of the Herbfarm gardens. Once inside the salon, you will be greeted by the prized 100+ year old sea-themed fireplace. You will make your way into the dining room where you will be serenaded by Spanish Guitar and delight in a nine-course dinner and wine pairing showcasing the exceptional foods and wines of the Pacific Northwest. Tip: Make reservations now. The Herbfarm books out months in advance.

Activities

Jog, walk or cycle along the Sammamish River Trail. If you need something a little more vigorous challenge the Redmond Power Line Trail for some serious calf burning and gorgeous views of the Sammamish Valley.

For those seeking even more adventure, head to nearby Bellevue for an adrenaline rush and heart pumping fun Ziplining trough the lush tree top canopy.

Check out the Eddie Bauer outlet. The famous outfitter opened its first store over 100 years ago in Seattle in 1920. Local legend has it that this is where the brand tests some of its new product concepts before launching them into stores nationwide. We don’t know if that’s true or not, but we do know this is the place to get your hands on some fab fitness wear & outdoor gear.