Local Flavor: Ivar’s Clam Chowder
Ivar’s Acres of Clams has been a local waterfront institution in downtown Seattle since 1938. The regionally famous clam chowder is also available in local grocery stores. As they say at Ivar’s—Keep Clam.
The Local Flavor column will introduce you to food traditions known to natives of the Pacific Northwest, with a dose of nostalgia and the occasional recipe thrown in.
Ivar’s Acres of Clams has been a local waterfront institution in downtown Seattle since 1938. The regionally famous clam chowder is also available in local grocery stores. As they say at Ivar’s—Keep Clam.
Teriyaki is everywhere in Seattle, but it’s not quite like the teriyaki you get elsewhere. Invented and popularized by Toshi Kasahara at Toshi’s Teriyaki, Seattle teriyaki has been a favorite locally since the 1970s. Plenty of recipes are available online, but for a special Seattle twist, add a little pineapple juice to the marinade.
Developed and grown in Eastern Washington, the Walla Walla Sweet onion is exceptionally sweet, very large, and the Washington state vegetable.
Ah, the lure of freshly-baked refined white flour, slathered with butter and raspberry jam. If it’s fall in the Northwest, it’s time for the Washington State Fair, and buying Fisher Fair Scones by the dozen.
Coffee culture is ubiquitous in Seattle, and it’s not an exaggeration to say that you can find a coffee shop on almost every corner. Home to Starbucks, Tully’s, Seattle’s Best Coffee, and a wide range of smaller local roasters and coffee shops, locals are passionate and opinionated about their coffee.
In the Northwest, we love our berries. You’ll frequently see pies, syrups, and all manner of desserts featuring not just strawberries and raspberries, but loganberries, marionberries, gooseberries, huckleberries, and others. This recipe for blackberry crisp can be made gluten free and vegan with simple substitutions. It’s a summertime favorite.