
Sam's Favorite Places

Since 1996, the Kea'ala 'O Kamailelauli'ili'i Foundation has been a living vessel for cultural transmission, education, and community connection. As we look to the future, we remain steadfast in our mission while embracing new ways to serve the evolving needs of our people. Guided by the wisdom of kupuna and propelled by the responsibility of kuleana, we continue to holomua - moving forward with the purpose, care, and aloha - toward a future where Hawaiian culture not only endures but flourishes, inspiring generations yet to come.

Grayson Corrales brings her grandmother’s Galician cooking to this cozy tapas bar in the old Café Presse space. Galicia is known for octopus, and the version here is a beautiful twist on the classic. Dishes like oxtail fideuà and tahdig-inspired paella blend her culinary training with family tradition. The result? Incredible food, a bar stocked with kalimotxos and Spanish wine, and a warm, welcoming vibe. Even the ambitious dessert menu is a standout—no small feat in today’s restaurant scene.

Hamlin Robinson School is an incredible independent school in Seattle that specializes in educating students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. My daughter goes there, and we absolutely love it! The school provides a supportive, structured environment where kids build confidence and develop a love for learning. Their research-based approach, small class sizes, and dedicated teachers make a huge difference. Beyond academics, they foster a strong sense of community and celebrate each child's unique strengths. We’re so grateful to be part of the HRS family!

Broadway Bound is an amazing youth theater program in Seattle that gives kids the chance to shine on stage while building confidence and teamwork. My son has been in two plays with them and just auditioned for his third! The program is incredibly well-run, with passionate directors and a supportive environment where kids of all experience levels can thrive. They put on high-quality productions, and it’s been incredible to watch my son grow as a performer and gain so much from the experience. Broadway Bound isn’t just about theater—it’s about building lifelong skills and friendships. We love being part of this community!

Tucked into Downtown Edmonds along the Fourth Avenue Arts Corridor, Salt & Iron has been serving up Pacific Northwest cuisine since 2013. Think fresh local oysters from Taylor Shellfish, premium steaks, and inventive seafood, all in a warm, contemporary space. Weekends bring a popular brunch with eggs benedicts, house pastries, and loaded Bloody Mary's, while the full bar pours craft cocktails, local wines, and draft beers. Just a short walk from the Edmonds Fountain and the Kingston Ferry, it's a perfect spot for anything from a casual bite to a special night out.

Paper Delights is a charming gift and stationery shop in Burien, born from a mother-daughter dream first sketched out over a bottle of wine in Southern California. Since opening in 2008, founders Kathy Perkins and Alicia Olsen have filled the shop with an ever-changing selection of unique cards, scented candles, delightful wrapping supplies, and carefully curated gifts. It's a trusted little spot for party hosts, gift givers, and anyone with a love for beautiful design. It's the perfect place to drop in and find something that lifts the spirit.

Audrey's Holistic Skin Care is one of my favorite places in Seattle, and Jen, the master esthetician behind it, is someone I try to see regularly. Tucked into the heart of Columbia City, her family-owned studio has this calm, welcoming energy the moment you walk in. Jen has a real gift for making you feel completely comfortable. She never rushes, takes her time with every treatment, and genuinely educates you along the way so you learn how to care for your own skin. She uses only the best, highest-quality products and customizes every facial to exactly what your skin needs. I always leave glowing, relaxed, and feeling like I spent time with family.

Kuzma's Fish Market is a full-service fresh fish market and eatery in Edmonds that blends the best of Asian and European fish market traditions. Owner Ken "Kuzma" Hewitt has been in the fish business since he was seven years old, getting his start at his Croatian grandmother's West Seattle market before spending decades honing his craft at Mutual Fish and building Uwajimaya's seafood program. When he opened Kuzma's in 2018, it was the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. The result is a neighborhood spot offering top-quality seafood backed by a true lifetime of expertise. Open Monday through Saturday, 9am to 7pm.