The latest property to spring up as part of the city’s hotel boom invites pets to sit, stay and play (and you’ll like it too)
1. A concierge for you – and the pooch
This boutique property, a landmark-designated structure, was once known as the Eitel Building. Built in 1904, it originally housed medical offices but remained largely vacant for decades until its reopening in March following a multi-million-dollar renovation. Bucking modern hospitality trends that do away with the staff concierge, the State Hotel ups the ante with two: Gabriel Diaz, who makes recommendations and reservations, and keeps a supply of pet waste bags handy, together with Aspen, the hotel dog who knows all the best dog-friendly restaurants, cafés and parks, and whose picks are provided as part of their special “Urban Pooch” package.
2. In the thick of it all
State Hotel’s downtown location puts many of the city’s sights within walking distance – perfect for a scenic stroll with your pooch. Explore the passageways of the nearby Pike Place Market, where smells galore await both man and dog, or head to the Olympic Sculpture Park, the Seattle Art Museum’s outdoor garden filled with a myriad of awe-inspiring installations by award-winning sculptors including Richard Serra and Jaume Plensa.
3. Morning to night delights
Brunch is a standout at the hotel restaurant and bar, Ben Paris, where sous chef Ethan Leung was recently dubbed one of the city’s “Next Hot Chefs” by Seattle Metropolitan magazine. Try the ricotta pancakes and a cortado made using locally roasted Caffe Ladro beans – you are in coffee country, after all. The ambience of the place adds additional polish to the terrific food: a large, nature-inspired mural covers the far wall, lit up by ample daylight streaming in. Take it all in while seated in one of their booths, which come kitted out with plush leather benches accompanied by marble-topped tables.
4. A roof with a view
The hotel’s rooftop terrace, available only to guests, overlooks Pike Place Market and the glittering Elliott Bay. It serves as an inviting retreat after a day spent exploring. Order a craft cocktail such as the Gin Griffey Juniper – made in honour of local baseball Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr and crafted with botanicals from the market – from Ben Paris and then head up to enjoy the view. Dogs are welcome too, of course, so you can watch the sun go down with your best friend by your side.
Singapore Airlines now flies direct to Seattle four times weekly. For more info and to book a flight, visit singaporeairlines.com.
SEE ALSO: 5 local businesses to check out in Seattle
This article was originally published in the November 2019 issue of SilverKris magazine
