I don't know about the likes and dislikes of you Northerners, but there are several good eateries down South, amongst the towns of Tukwila, Kent, Renton, Seatac(that god-awful name), and Auburn. The finest Chinese to be found anywhere outside of the I.D. is located in Southcenter. The finest ale is found there also. A very decent Teriyaki can be located, and then there is the Riverrock. The Riverrock is located tucked neatly within the Maple Valley Golf Course, surrounded by hundred-year-old second growth and a fountain that looks like a water main just exploded. It just opened last year and is small with only about 15 tables or so. Each table has it's own golf clubs to gaze upon. It is a bit pricey. A bowl (read "cup" anywhere else) of Clam Chowder is $3.95, and a small (as opposed to what you can get at Duke's or the Red Robin) Cobb Salad is $8.00. But, their menu shines otherwise. Friday and Saturday's are prime rib nights and are always sold out before 8:00 PM, and what they serve isn't half fat like I've found at other places. This costs around $9.00. The wait staff is quick. The bread is served cold, but they will warm it up for you with the education that bread is supposed to be served that way (cold), even though they serve it wrapped up in an overstarched napkin, I suppose to protect it from errant golf balls or something. A good brand of margarine is provided and you can get all you want; just ask! The cooks, however, are slow. But then, goodness takes awhile. This gives time for proper conversation. They take checks, also. Next door is an ale house. Riverrock also has its own ale, but it is of a poor grade, tasting bitter. Afterwards, you can cross the highway to Maple Valley and then walk along the old railway rail-trail and see the Cedar River run underneath the old railroad bridge decorated with messages from various cultures which have been added over the years. All of this represents the good life here in the South. Next I will tell you about the Chinese Restaurant in another review. I'm about to run out of time, so I need to send the off quickly. Bye
Washington