Bookstore Bar

At the Alexis Hotel, just off downtown's Madison Street and close to Pioneer Square, the cozy yet hip Bookstore Bar & Cafe stocks its shelves with impressive reading material and an extensive stash of Scotches, bourbons and whiskies. Executive Chef Eric Rivera sends out delectable, locally-fueled dishes. "It's an exploration of the whole flavor spectrum, where you can go from sweet to savory to sour in one bite," he explains. "We have all these great local ingredients at our disposal, and we'll be highlighting flavors of the Pacific Northwest, but in a way that will feel fresh and new to locals and visitors alike." Highlights range from weekday breakfast spreads and weekend brunch to a coveted happy hour (daily from 3n.to 5 p.m.). For great-value options, try the 'Local' 9-course dinner offered every Friday (nine courses for less than $100), as well as The Chef Incubator Series, which takes place once a month, features up-and-coming culinary talents and costs only $38 per person.