Lordy, Lordy, Lily's Forty...two!

Happy Birthday to my sweet Lady Lily Belle! Yes, she does have a formal name since she is AKC registered. I am not totally certain today is her birthday, it could have been yesterday, but I think it is more fun and easier to remember on a Mexican Holiday. I picked her up in Puyallup almost six years ago, and can no longer recall a time without her...

My "phat bitch" as we lovingly refer to her, has one heck of a personality, complete with questionable glances, doggy ADD, "I have to go potty real bad" pacing, snoring, really horrid toots, crazy excited "welcome homes", Marge Simpson-esqe noises that gently wake me up every morning, loving stares at her new roommate (Jeremy), great cuddle skills, amazing feet warmer, AND she keeps me in shape (she loves long walks on the beach and jogs in the park).

I. LOVE. MY. DOG.

Lot 3

Last night I had the pleasure of catching up with two of my besties at a new (ish) Bellevue eats, called Lot 3.

The decor and ambiance is very reminiscent of Purple Cafe (its neighbor actually), but the menu is completely surprising! I had intended on ordering a glass of wine, but when I took a closer look at the menu, I noticed the majority of the back side was .... BEER! So excited. They have an amazing selection of Northwest/West Coast brews. I enjoyed a Red Seal Ale from Northcoast Brewing Co., in addition to a Free Range Red, from Laurelwood Brewing Co.

To accompany the yummy beers, we enjoyed their famous Plate O' Bacon. Yes, bacon on a plate as an app! Genius. Coated and candied, a plate of about five slices arrived at our table and was gone in minutes. I love this idea and plan to replicate with perhaps a cheese plate, maybe some olives and collection of nuts. Lot 3 also has other fun apps such as popcorn, pretzels, onion dip, corn fritters, salted peanuts, deviled eggs and more down-home treats!

For the main course, we shared the roasted chicken with an amazing gravy that was a little sweet, a little savory and a touch creamy; braised lamb stew; baby carrots with tarragon and shallots; and roasted fingerling potatoes, tossed in olive oil and rosemary. SO good. I'm not a huge comfort food person, but this place has definitely turned the tables for me.

To finish things off, we had the spiced jar cake. Served in a mason jar (so cute and creative!), this flawless desert combines cinnamon pudding cake with a light maple glaze. Not too rich, very light and sweet and just perfect for sharing.

I give this little enclave 4 stars! I hope yo go back and try more beers and apps very soon. Way to go Sonali for the rec!

Check out the rest of the menu here!