Discover secret coves of wholesome fun in Seattle.

I love this empty lot in Old Ballard. It’s so cool looking that you almost miss how cool it is … until it’s a bunch of CONDOS! Go there and roll around in the grass. Or, if you’re like me, bike ride there on Fridays with your brother and drink tea and eat a baked good @ Cugini Cafe—actually walk next door to the empty lot and sit on the covered patio. It’s even better in the rain.

Walk due west past the brass pig and flying fish until you arrive at the public seating area. I think it has one of the best views in the Market. I used to eat there at least twice a week when I worked downtown. I went this past weekend and was reminded what a great public area we have there. One thing to note—it used to be enclosed as a small room with windows. They’ve removed the walls so it’s open to the actual market. Not sure if this is better or worse.

There also used to be a small public sitting area in Post Alley on a deck above the street. That was another little gem in the market.

Driving south on Raineer, just after the big intersection before you get to Genesse … on your right in the abandoned lot with the stacked wooden frames holding up the carport roof. Right there is a taco bus. The back half is the kitchen, the front have is a diner-style restaurant. Ingenious use of space.

There are plenty of buses that serve Mexican food all over the west coast (like Benny’s Food Wagon in Anchorage, AK) but this one struck me as uniquely unique. I think it’s definitely a SCOWFIS. The setting alone is worth the trip, and I thought the food was great.

... makes this a goal worth joining. My first secret cove of wholesome fun in Seattle is 7th Avenue Service. Do you have a SCOWFIS? Do tell.