Willows Lodge, Barking Frog - 20 minutes from Seattle
The obvious question it seems would be, what the heck is a "Barking Frog" and why would they name a fine restaurant after it? If a barking frog is known for attention to detail then we would know where this stylish bistro in wine country in Woodinville got its name. The fire draws you in and you want to stay.
Twenty-five minutes from downtown Seattle puts you in this beautiful river valley where hot air balloons frolic and music floats in the summer air from the nearby concerts at Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery http://www.ste-michelle.com/. Also in the immediate vicinity are Columbia Winery http://www.columbiawinery.com/home.asp, Redhook Ale Brewery http://www.redhook.com/, nationally renowned restaurant The Herbfarm http://www.theherbfarm.com/, and across the drive the quintessential Northwest hotel Willows Lodge http://www.willowslodge.com/. A five minute drive takes you to downtown Woodinville, the home of Molbak's nursery http://www.molbaks.com/.
According to one server, barking frog is named after a Haida legend telling the good luck surrounding the sound of the loud frog. By their own depiction, they serve "country fresh Northwest cuisine". Upon being seated a black or white napkin appears on your lap to coordinate with your clothing. The collection of pristine beverage goblets, the silver laid flawlessly upon white linen is something for this housewife to behold. If you order beef (tenderloin $50.) you will be given the "sharp knife". And the meat itself will melt in your mouth. Summer seating on the patio amid the vines and heaters (this is the Northwest) would be a very pleasant experience indeed. Your typical across the parking lot from the motel restaurant this is not. http://www.willowslodge.com/culinary.php.
