This issue of Karte Blanche & Co.'s ALL NEW complimentary publication for Living Well Luxury & Elevated Mind-fulness is an escapade around the Emerald City of Seattle - a nickname given in part of the vast forests of evergreen trees that surround the city as well as being known for its conscious aesthetic to living green and the Verdant Vibes that carry throughout the metropolis...
Seattle has more than 6,000 acres of land devoted to city parks with urban areas containing a wide diversity of moss, flowers, shrubs and evergreen trees - many of these deep green in colour, due to the moisture in the soil from all the rain. Emerald City culture is just as diverse as its cuisines, craft cocktails & coffees - so take a peek inside this issue...
SUITCASE
EMERALD CITY ECO
IMMORTAL PERFUMES PEMBERLEY is a Jane Austen-inspired perfume (of Mr. Darcy and his estate) made in Seattle. Like walking through a forest after it rains, floral with undertones of rosewood, coriander, cedarwood, honeysuckle, hyacinth, peony + vetiver 1oz $150.
THE BRELLI Biodegradable Umbrella crystal clear umbrella offers protection from rain and sun (blocks 99% of UVA/UVB rays), and it can withstand winds up to 40 mph. Tote-sized clear umbrellas are handmade using sustainable, renewable bamboo, organic cotton and biodegradable PVC $104.
BOMA JEWELRY Harmony Jade Necklace sustainably designed with a vintage jade gemstone & 100% recycled sterling silver dipped in 14k Gold $95.
FAIR TRADE WINDS in Seattle sells Rattan Round Moon Bag from a women's cooperative in Bali - large size $90.
BALEEN JEWELRY - Reef Hoops are a reminder of the unique beauty of mother nature living in every one of us. Handmade in Seattle with recycled metal and zero waste manufacturing. Gold Vermeil Hoop $72.
AMOUR VERT Itana Long Sleeve Dream Rib tee in white $68. With every purchase of a tee, AMOUR VERT plants a tree in North America in partnership with American Forests®
PRAIRIE UNDERGROUND a Prairie Underground exclusive -Wool Above/ Below in Gray Plaid can be Worn Two Ways as a convertible boatneck jumper or Sarouel pant - worn as a top or bottom by turning it upside down and opening or closing the button pocket. Sustainably made in Seattle $330.
UZURA Matsushima t-shirts Eco-Friendly Screenprinted apparel made in Seattle organic- cotton/hemp/bamboo $34.
FOREST LUNGS by The Nue Co. a scientifically designed fragrance featuring phytoncides (the chemical emitted from trees that promote a calming sensation) inspired by the Japanese concept of forest bathing - evidence proven that spending time amongst trees improves health. This mood balancing unisex fragrance is woody, smoky and clean $95. METAMORPHIC GEAR Marble Boat Tote made in the PNW with more than 85% upcycled materials. 1% of every sale goes to help and support clean oceans - Large Camo $150.
A PUBLIC SHOP - No Tox Life ONYX detox cleansing bar - vegan, palm oil free $14.
DEATH & CO. a trendy cocktail lounge started by David Kaplan and Ravi DeRossi in New York City, and their popular cocktail book, “Death and Co.: Modern Classic Cocktails” will be expanding to Seattle. One of the biggest names in the craft cocktail scene, the bar will open most likely in the Capitol Hill neighborhood in late 2024/early 2025. The past five years, Death & Co has expanded to Denver, Los Angeles, and this summer will open its fourth bar in Washington, D.C. - Kaplan will focus on their Seattle debut with plans to host pop ups around Seattle to introduce the Death & Co brand to the local cocktail community later in 2023.
BAR SUR MER in the Greenwood neighborhood of the Emerald City, is the latest opening by award-winning Chef Eric Donnelly, a hub for fresh seafood, regional veggies with a variety of cocktails and Spanish wines. Chef Donnelly and his restaurants have been recognized both locally and nationally for using fresh, local and sustainably sourced ingredients. “Spanish in spirit” is how Donnelly describes "the food at his French-named boite, after a visit to San Sebastian enamored him of places where you could stop for a drink and a couple bites at one bar, before moving on to the next..." With seating only for 35, this local hangout doesn't accept reservations, so grab yourself a seat at the counter - chat with members of the culinary team and catch all the action behind the bar.
TEA NOIR is a glamorous evening soirée featuring a playfully dark twist on high tea with sensational music and dance performances at The Garden Room of the Fairmont Olympic Hotel located in the heart of the Emerald City. Experience a dawn-to-dusk-inspired culinary menu from Fairmont Olympic Chef Eraj Jayawickreme as you journey through tea-infused sensorial delights spanning the savory and sweet, from tea smoked duck breast and creamy Earl Grey tea panna cotta to tea mousse with spiced apple cake and uniquely crafted tea-infused cocktails such as Earl Grey Gin Martini and 411 Old Fashioned with LOT 35 Grand Bazaar Spice Loose Leaf - $75. per person. Dress code: Dress to Impress Glam - thru MARCH 31st.
EIGHT ROW First class dining to really experience locally sourced PNW cuisine that brings the flavors of Central Washington farming communities to the heart of Seattle’s Green Lake neighborhood. Simply outstanding seasonal fare - innovative and farm-inspired, pan-american food with a carefully curated lineup of beer, cider, and wine from around the world. Crafted cocktails are named after tree fruit cultivars, a nod to their family orchards just over the mountains. Eight Row refers to the largest cherry size found on a standard cherry gauge. As kids, (owners- chefs and brothers) David and Ian spent hours every harvest scouring their family orchard near Cashmere for the elusive eight row cherry. A pillar of the Eight Row concept is to buy from small, family-run farms and forge personal relationships with all their producers - to celebrate and tell the story of family and home through heartful food and hospitality.
citizenM This is one of the green-est hotels in Seattle, known by locals for its eclectic bar area and near some of the best South Lake Union restaurants. In terms of eco-friendliness, the hotel is certified LEED Gold with their rooftop solar panels three-year aged solar reflectance value, low water use, auto shut-off LED lighting and electricity coming from 90% renewable sources. To make things even greener, they've partnered with TooGoodToGo to minimize food waste from their breakfast buffet - breakfast bar serves coffee, including espressos all day. High-tech and practical vibe.
WEST SEATTLE take a leisurely Sunday stroll at the West Seattle Farmers Market open year-round from 10am-2pm at the corner of Alaska Way and California Ave. Fresh produce, flowers, mushrooms, and plenty of delicious finds in a seemingly less touristy neighborhood. DOUGH JOY - Emerald City's only 100% plant-based donuts - all handmade with the finest ingredients without egg, dairy, tree nuts, peanuts - so yummy with amazingly fun flavours, like our favourite - the Everything But the Bagel glazed donut with Everything Bagel Seasoning and dollop of cream cheese. This is their second shop from the original one on Capitol Hill, and which also features their second most favourite thing - plants. So, you can seat yourself and enjoy your donuts in their dedicated plant area, Botanic! at the Disco.
Shoppes: FLEURT Collective - a family-owned boutique with everything from plants and apothecary to jewelry MYSTERY MADE - Good Times Bad Hombres Gentlemen's Boutique & agency.
EMERALD CITY
THE LODGE AT ST. EDWARD - escape into the woods of the Emerald City's nearby Saint Edward State Park. Set on the eastern shore of Lake Washington, the Park comprises 326 acres, with 3,000 feet of freshwater shoreline and 71 walking trails weaving through a lush Pacific Northwest setting. The Lodge is a wellness retreat in a restored landmark building, marrying modern hospitality with stunning historical architecture. The Lodge offers 84 spacious guestrooms, each designed to blend the building’s original character with modern touches. The Lodge's Vita Nova Spa offers a full menu of services focusing on organic herbal infusions and pure products. Plus, seasonal spa treatments to entice the senses and create balance - organic aromatherapy oils, heated hydraulic tables and aromatic towels. The Lodge also houses a Gallery of Fine Arts for guests and visitors to enjoy a rotating display of artwork by local PNW artists. The first-floor hall hosts another gallery by Catalyst Fine Art, showcasing artwork that is available for purchase.
LODGE AT ST. EDWARD
photos courtesy
The Lodge at St. Edward
THE SPHERES 3 Giant Globes, Amazon's HQ in downtown Seattle serve as a home to thousands of plants that usually live in cloud forests worldwide. Elevators and stairs connect the many levels with tables, chairs and comfortable sofa seating that hug the perimeter. A living wall 65 feet high displays delicate gourd-like orchids with meandering paths throughout areas of more dense vegetation and a short canopy walk on a wooden bridge that sways ever so slightly. On the second level you'll find Renee Erickson's General Porpoise - a coffee and doughnut bar spherical in shape while the top level resembles a sundeck with wooden lounge chair seating. Visits are by reservations only for non-employees, but you can visit the "Understory" bottom of the Spheres at no cost without a reservation.
DEEP DIVE
Speakeasy
Under the Spheres
photos courtesy
Deep Dive/Sea Creature Group
A Curtis Steiner art installation turned swanky lounge bar underneath the bowels of the Spheres with an interesting "underwater speakeasy" theme unlike other projects by Renee Erickson /The Sea Creature group restaurants & bars. The cocktail list is extensive with pages of classics and Deep Dive originals plus a huge spirits list, wine, cider and "good beer" as well as free-spirited (alcohol free) concoctions. This is an intimate place for a group of 2-4 with limited seating and the best views are at the bar. Smart attire encouraged (no athletic nor overly casual clothing) ages 21+
Future Found Sanctuary
Table Mountain
Nature Reserve
Cape Town, South Africa
Future Found Sanctuary by Time & Tide - opening in 2023, is a secluded getaway on the slopes of Table Mountain (one of 7 new natural wonders of the world). Surrounded by a sustainably landscaped garden that inspires sensory rejuvenation. The trees of Table Mountain’s slopes shield a splendid garden, protecting and honouring its mission to bring whole-being to all who visit, balancing mind, body, heart and spirit. Two luxury Villas - Maison Noir and Villa Verte are located on a seven-acre estate part of the Cape Floral Kingdom, one of the most biodiverse places on the planet with 70% of the plants not found anywhere else on Earth. Five gardens spread across the property to entice and engage with nature at leisure. Learn about the benefits of the plants in the healing garden and experience wind, fire, earth, ether and water in the 5 elements garden. Forage for fresh produce in the herb and vegetable gardens or pick fresh fruit from the myriad of fruit trees scattered about the estate. Sacred space designed natural meditation areas span the estate, and you can rest/restore yourself in many outdoor spots overlooking the magnificent Hout Bay valley or bask in the Japanese practice of forest bathing in the forest pines.
photos courtesy
Future Found Sanctuary
MacArthur Place
Hotel, Spa & Culinary
Sonoma, California
MacArthur Place, situated in the heart of Sonoma is a charming six-acre estate of intimate gardens, winding flagstone paths, verdant archways, fire pits, secret nooks and verdant tree canopies. Once a 300-acre farmstead, the grounds are a vast array of flora nestled up against the Nathanson Creek Preserve. Majestic tree canopies are comprised of stately redwoods, pines and spruce, ancient oaks, graceful magnolias, lively gingkos, fragrant oleander, bamboo groves as well as fig, pomegranate and espaliered apple trees. Ever-present rose bushes, as well as lavender, rosemary and other herbs and native grasses accent the winding pathways and garden groves. The Chef’s Garden is a robust vegetable, herb, flower and micro-greens garden, providing organic produce and edible garnishes for Layla restaurant and The Bar at MacArthur. More than just an annex to the kitchen, the Chef's Garden is a verdant sanctuary, enclosed by jasmine and espaliered apple trees, for guests to connect with Sonoma’s agrarian culture.
The Spa, Pool, and Fitness Center are currently undergoing a rejuvenation and the Pool and Fitness Center will remain closed until August 2023. The Spa is continuing to provide an array of facial and massage treatments. And all three culinary experiences - LAYLA Mediterranean-meets-Sonoma inspired restaurant, cocktail-forward Bar at MacArthur and The Porch coffee shop continue to provide seasonal dining with farm-fresh ingredients.
photos courtesy
Macarthur Place
Aman Niseko
Wilderness Wellness Resort
Hokkaido, Japan
Opening in 2026 Aman’s fourth Japanese property - AMAN NISEKO on the slopes of Mount Moiwa in Hokkaido, Japan’s untamed northern wilderness, famous for its summer flower fields and legendary ski resorts. The only development on the mountain, it encompasses Japan’s first destination wellness retreat and 31 exclusive Aman branded Residences, all set within a nature reserve. This Aman destination will provide access to nature's doorstep and seasonal outdoor pursuits, from skiing to hiking, mountain biking to river rafting. Befitting the onsen capital of the world, indoor & outdoor onsen (Japanese hot spring bathing pools) main focus of the Spa & Residences.
photos courtesy
AMAN Niseko
El Monte Sagrado
Eco-Retreat
Taos, New Mexico
El Monte Sagrado offers a serene setting surrounded by waterfalls, ponds, and towering cottonwood trees. The grounds make this retreat, situated in the mountains of Northern New Mexico - a true oasis. El Monte Sagrado features the award-winning De La Tierra Restaurant inspired by international and local influences. It has also been named one of the Top Spa Resorts in America by Forbes, providing an eco-friendly, healing retreat complete with artistically designed treatment rooms and beautifully landscaped grounds for meditation and relaxation.
photos courtesy
El Monte Sagrado
BEING GREEN
in the Emerald City
and beyond...
MATCHA is green tea on steroids with 1/3rd the caffeine of coffee and an energy profile that lasts twice as long while being calm. focused and relaxed. The sustainable energy of Matcha comes from its theanine content that promotes the production of GABA, serotonin and dopamine which are relaxing, anti-anxiety, mood regulating neurotransmitters. Theanine imparts a savory taste known as umami flavour. The vibrant green colour of Matcha comes from it being rich in chlorophyll which is a phytonutrient that can simultaneously nourish and detoxify.
NANA'S GREEN TEA in Seattle is a modern Japanese cafe specializing in green teas and Japanese foods and desserts delivered in a modern fashion. A global matcha brand originating from Tokyo with traditional Japanese ingredients such as matcha, azuki, and warabimochi used in new, creative ways of presentation - such as a Matcha Soft Serve Latte with Chocolate Crunch and Matcha Warabimochi Frappe with jelly mochi and brown sugar syrup.
MIRO TEA began with the simple idea that people could enjoy fresh, artisan-quality teas in a vibrant, community-oriented tea shop and was welcomed into the Ballard neighborhood of Seattle in 2007 as a centerpiece for connecting the community with the world’s finest grades of tea. The result is a menu of more than 150 exceptional teas & herbals sourced from around the world and a tea bar that features a new selection of teas daily for sampling and enjoyment. Along with loose leaf tea, they also serve a variety of tea beverages, from chais and tea lattes to fresh iced tea fusions made with fresh fruit, juices and homemade syrups plus whisked organic matcha and Ceremonial Yamabuki matcha.
Sugar Bakery &
Coffeehouse
Queen Anne, Seattle
SUGAR BAKERY & COFFEEHOUSE (previously Craftworks Coffee) locally owned and operated with locally sourced ingredients in a central location to Queen Anne and a nice, quiet place for coffee next to Seattle Center. Service was with a smile and decor was tasteful with local original artwork AND where you can also purchase a live plant to-go with your coffee. The Powderpuff Latte is a pastel swirl of cardamom and spices and tasted delightful (not too flowery nor too sweet). The red velvet cake was creamy and delicious, with an added richness of chocolate ganache between the layers. They also serve matcha lattes, a London Fog tea latte and bakery choices from sweet to savory.
FERN THAI
Eatery & Bar
Capitol Hill, Seattle
Romantic eatery in Seattle's Capitol Hill district. We stopped in for a cozy lunch on a cold and grey afternoon to be greeted with a warm, inviting ambiance. Fresh floral and fern, island vibe feel and beautifully designed interior. Tasty Thai food classics were fresh and flavorful. The atmosphere draws you in - we recommend a late-night drop-in with friends for craft cocktails and bites with plenty of seating for group parties as well as cozy tables for two.
BRUNCH's
Jack's Wife Freda Collab
SoHo - West Village
Chelsea - Williamsburg
New York
photos courtesy
BRUNCH/Jack's Wife Freda
New York based label BRUNCH a lifestyle brand inspired by hotel slippers - the ultimate in leisure class footwear, that embraces luxury with a touch of nostalgia to put you in a state of permanent vacation by upgrading the signature hotel accessory. BRUNCH has teamed up with New York's favourite brunch spot JACK'S WIFE FREDA to launch the perfect Sunday morning must haves - a selection of slippers, hats, totes, and hoodies with the restaurant's beloved logo (the namesake grandma Freda). BRUNCH also has a POP UP in Aspen for your après-ski essentials through the end of the season. Exclusively designed slipper-wear with EVA recycled outsole,100% recycled footbed inspired by cobblestone streets of NYC designed for outdoor traction with padded insole for all-day comfort and lasting support.
FOREST BATHING
A recent study led by Dr. Anu W. Turunen from the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare found that increasing the frequency of your visits to green spaces helps to lower your need for psychotropic, anti-hypertensive, and asthma medication. Exposure to nature has been shown to improve mood, reduce stress, and boost overall mental well-being. Forest Bathing also known as Shinrin-yoku is the practice of immersing yourself in nature in a mindful way, using your senses to derive a whole range of benefits for your physical, mental, and emotional health. Disconnect and surrender to the relaxing process. Stay in the present moment - listen to the sounds of nature, breathe in the scents of the forest, walk mindfully and appreciate the time you are dedicating to your well-being. Stay safe, mark your trail and use a map - it is always a good idea to alert someone of your plans to be in nature especially without cell service.
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