Ben Closson, photo credit: The Heathman Hotel

Trellis at the Heathman Hotel on Kirkland Ave is shaking it up a little.  Not only is there a new chef, Ben Closson from the Nordstrom flagship in the kitchen, but they are working on a more relaxed and approachable image at the hotel.   In order to achieve this goal, they have re-vamped their menu with new items while still keeping some of the old faves.  Expect to start hearing about live music each month, in case Victor the Ukranian bartender wasn't already entertainment enough with his Absinthe concoctions.  You'll see new dinnerware, silverware, fresh outdoor-themed artwork on each floor and room renovations are also in the works for all 91 rooms.  An improved price point on the happy hour menu is designed to lure the crowd that wants to meet for a burger and a beer to watch the game.  

    Why yes, I'd love a Chambong. thank you.

Wait a minute...did somebody say "happy hour?" Ding-ding-ding-ding-ding-ding-dingggggg!  It's 2-6p and 9-close and YES I was there. Don't be ridiculous I wouldn't miss that. Try the Smokey Duck Manahattan- it's an award winner and although I wouldn't typically intuitively order a drink with duck fat in it, it is a deliciously robust liquid meal all in itself.  Don't be scared- do it.   If you're still feeling summery, I really enjoyed the Pear/Thyme martini because it was super refreshing and not too sweet.  And then there is the Chambong (photo)- great for a date or a unique way to start or finish your evening off with some bubbles, in a much-classier than a beer bong but same sort of concept kind of way. $5 wines, $4 well drinks. Infused liquors and great beers abound along with some fancy brewed organic Rishi teas in case you're the driver.

   pea vines, salmon poke

The happy hour menu had some great food options, especially for the price-point.  There's a delicious green pile of pea vines for $5 (yes, martinis AND greens in one sitting- dreams do come true), lamb meatballs for $9, salmon poke (yum!!) for $9.  And I didn't try the 'fried squeaky cheese' (Beecher's cheddar, tomato fondue) but I have heard this treat alone is worth coming for. Their menu changes seasonally too so be ready for new surprises at any moment.  Feel free to stay in your shorts and flip flops and roll on down to Trellis at the Heathman on any random day to get check out their new vibe.