ML Interest Tag: korean

12 Signs You’re an Andersonville Parent

by writerredri

Indie over national chains and a fondness for diversity are signature to this easy-going North Side hot spot. If you call this neighborhood home, you already know you’ve found a sweet spot to put down roots with its stroller-friendly sidewalks, tree-lined streets and fabulous bakeries. Read on for 12 telltale signs you’re living, loving and raising kids in Andersonville.

1. You’ve had your kid’s birthday party in the back room of George’s Ice Cream.

photo: Anthony Doudt via flickr

2. When it comes to getting Mediterranean, Mexican, Swedish, Korean, Japanese, and American food all within a three block radius you’re a total pro.

3. You know that TMLMTBGB means Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind and where you can catch that show.

4. Your kids have pretended to be Swedish Immigrants at the Swedish American Museum.

photo: JR P via flickr

5. You know what gløgg is!

6. When you see zombies having their own bar crawl down Clark Street you don’t bat an eyelash.

7. You have lots of opportunities to buy local.

photo: Charles Carper via flickr

8. Your farmers market is next to a Starbucks.

9. You know what a puppet bike is!

photo: garbagetime76 via flickr

10. On more than one occasion you’ve shopped for hours in the Galleria and lost track of time.

11. You know that it is Midsommarfest, not Mid-summer fest.

photo: Andersonville Midsommarfest by Scott Wyngarden via flickr

12. Your kids rave about the story time at Women and Children First bookstore.

What else makes Andersonville special? Share your thoughts below!

— Story written by the fun folks at NPN

Neighborhood Parents Network (NPN) has been connecting a diverse community of families with the resources they need to navigate parenting in the city for 35 years! NPN is essential for all expecting, new and seasoned parents.

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Got Aloha? Where to Get a Taste of Hawaii in Seattle

by Jenifer Castillo

While Seattle has its fair share of sunshine, it also has (more than) its fair share of what seems to be endless cloudy days. When it seems like the clouds and rain won’t ever go away or when the sunshine is so bright it leaves you longing for a tropical vacation, cozy up to one (or all) of these Hawaiian restaurants and let your mind and your taste buds relax in the comforts of island-inspired cuisine.

Kona Kitchen

Nestled in the Maple Leaf neighborhood of North Seattle is a little slice of island paradise. The magic of Kona Kitchen rests partially in the fact that breakfast is served all day long. This is a dream for anyone who has ever raced to their local fast food joint at 10:26 a.m. hoping to make it in time for a breakfast sandwich.  Fear not, you can enjoy a plate of their heavenly Hawaiian French Toast made with Hawaiian sweet bread for breakfast, lunch or dinner. If you haven’t ever had the pleasure of eating rice for breakfast, this is the perfect place to start. A plate of the Hawaiian Style Fried Rice, packed with BBQ pork, spam, green onions and topped with eggs (cooked to your preference) is the perfect addition to your breakfast rolodex (that’s right…rolodex). Although this plate is quite large enough to share, you just might find yourself guarding this dish from incoming forks once you have that first bite. If you are in the mood for a hearty island staple, try the Loco Moco which boasts rice and eggs topped with a gravy drenched hamburger patty (also available with Katsu).

While breakfast is undoubtedly chockfull of palatable dishes, the reason to drive out of your way to Kona Kitchen is for the Korean Chicken. This family recipe fought long and hard to reserve a regular place on the menu. Previously only (as Cher Horowitz would proudly say) “sporadically” offered, loyal customers would call to find out what days it would sneak onto the specials board. Now the savory, juicy filled bites of chicken can be enjoyed every day. Served with perfectly rounded scoops of rice and mac salad, this meal won’t leave you hanging. If you have a hard time narrowing down your choices, order Da Kanak Attack. This lunch style plate is designed so you can explore the many different menu items in one perfect dish. Teriyaki beef, mochiko chicken, Spam (embrace the Spam), and Portugese sausage sit among the traditional rice and mac salad for a dish that will leave you dreaming of your next visit.

Insider Tip: Kona Kitchen is owned by film actor Yuji Okumoto, who you may recognize as the villain, Chozen, from Karate Kid 2. More recently he has been spotted in episodes of Grimm and NCIS: Los Angeles. You just might catch him and his family enjoying a meal among an assortment of signed photos of his famous friends (including Pat Morita, aka Mr. Miyagi).

8501 5th Ave. N.E.
Seattle, Wa 98115
206-517-5662
Online: konakitchen.com

photo: Cynthia L. via Yelp

Where do you find your favorite Hawaiian grindz? Let us know in the Comments below.

— Jenifer Castillo

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A Spa for the Whole Family

by Jennifer O'Brien

In the heart of Koreatown, a tranquil oasis awaits, begging to pamper you and your entire brood for the day. Yep, that means kiddos, too! Wi Spa offers a truly unique opportunity for families to spend a spa day together whether it’s enjoying an extensive list of spa services, cozying up in mineral saunas or simply relaxing on a nap mat in the family area.

photo credit: Wi Spa

Welcome to the JimJilbang
It’s extremely rare to find a spa that would dare welcome your rag tag group of minions, but Wi Spa believes the spa experience is even more special when it’s enjoyed by the entire family. The “jimjilbang” is the traditional, co-ed center of Korean spas. Here, Wi Spa guests can unwind together while lounging on the heated floor, or parents can take little ones into any of the five signature sauna rooms, together.

Clay, Jade or Ice?
Pick your pleasure.  At a steamy 231 degrees, the Bulgama Sauna provides an intense cleansing by removing toxins and reducing muscle tension. The nearby Salt Sauna helps strengthen your respiratory and immune systems and even aids in healing skin conditions. In the Clay Sauna, you can immerse your body under layers of clay balls which stimulate the lymphatic system—just think of it as an uber healthy ball pit! The Jade Room relieves muscle tension and is even known to help with hormonal imbalance. And the piece de resistance, and most guests’ final stop at the end of the day, is the Ice Sauna which helps bring down body temperature, improves circulation and tightens the skin. (Tell kids it’s like the Ice Palace in Frozen!) Recommended usage for most saunas is 10-20 minutes, but use your best judgement on what little ones feel comfortable with, temperature wise.

photo credit: Jennifer O’Brien

If tots get antsy with all this relaxation, the kids’ zone portion of the jimjilbang is is the perfect escape. Here, rugrats can play video games, explore endless toys and treasures, conquer a pirate ship fort and slide, and read an array of colorful comic books. Parents can keep an eye on their tikes from a large monitor outside the playroom while they lounge nearby reading a good book or working from their laptops with free wi-fi. On most Friday and Saturday evenings, the spa even hosts special entertainment for kids, including magicians, bubbles and clown shows.

photo credit: Wi Spa

Services for the Small-fry Set
A great variety of services are offered on the women’s and men’s floors of the spa, respectively. Before your service, tots can enjoy the dry and steam saunas, as well as the hot and cold tubs as long as they’re accompanied by mom or dad. Most parents choose to use the body scrub towels to scrub down tikes themselves, and kiddos often love getting a special manicure, pedicure or facial as part of the overall experience.

For mom, the 90-minute “Buff and Aroma Massage” treatment is a must-do. Imagine a thorough body scrub from head to toe, aroma oil massage, cucumber face mask/collagen face mask and gentle hair washing at the end. Hello, Heaven! Afterwards, skin feels as soft as a baby’s bottom. No, really. It’s life changing.

Clean and Relaxed.  Now Hungry!
When hunger strikes (and you know it will), Wi Spa features a full-service restaurant, back in the jimjilbang area, offering a wide variety of fresh Korean cuisine that tots will devour. From spicy cold noodles, ramen and Belgian waffles to fried chicken wings and unforgettable french fries, there’s something on the menu for every finicky palate.

photo credit: Jennifer O’Brien

Up on the Rooftop
For a great finale to your spa day, bring the family upstairs to Wi Spa’s stunning rooftop terrace. With gentle breezes, warm sunshine and ample lounge chair seating, it’s the perfect place to kick back, enjoy a beverage and reflect on the incredible day you shared together. (It’s also a fabulous chance to plan the next one.)

Pricing: Entrance to the spa is $25 per adult (ages 13 and up), but spa fee is waived with the purchase of any service $110 and above. Babies and Toddlers under 3 are free and kids aged 3-12 are $15. Be sure to check the Wi Spa site often for coupons and discounts on entrance fee and services.

Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Parking: Free parking is available in the big lot next to the spa.

What to Wear: Leave swimsuits at home. T-shirts, shorts and towels will be provided to all guests for your stay. Wristwatch style keys will also be given upon check-in to store any valuables in the locker area.

Nearby: If your tots have any extra energy left after a long day of spa fun, Chuck E. Cheese’s is conveniently located right next door to the spa.

Wi Spa
2700 Wilshire Blvd.
Koreatown
Phone: 213-487-2700
Online: wispausa.com

Been to any other great spas around town that welcome families? If so, hit us up in the comments section below! We’d love to find more spots like this.

–Jennifer O’Brien

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The Insider’s Guide to Food on the West Side

by Kelley Gardiner

There’s plenty to feast on in Portland proper, but the west side offers some serious gems, too. From juicy burgers to handmade Korean noodles, the following are some of our favorite places west of the Willamette, when you’re out and about with hungry kids in tow. Flip through our album to see them all.

Marco’s Cafe and Espresso Bar

Multnomah Village is a perfect neighborhood for wandering on a carefree afternoon, but you’re going to need some fuel before or after all that exploring. Marco’s Cafe has a kids' menu including scrumptious huckleberry pancakes for breakfast or a turkey sandwich for lunch. Luckily, brunch items are served all day, so if your little foodie wants that pancake for lunch, you're golden. Be prepared for a line for brunch -- but it's worth the wait.

7910 SW 35th Ave.
503-245-0199
Online: marcoscafe.com

photo: Marco's Cafe and Espresso Bar by Stephanie M. via Yelp

What are your favorite places to take kids to eat on the west side with your kids? Tell us in the Comments below!

— Kelley Gardiner

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Six Super Scenic Places to Fly a Kite

by Beth Shea

Remember the final scene in Mary Poppins, where the Banks family skips merrily down the lane while singing “Let’s Go Fly A Kite” before launching one into the sky with utter glee? Those simple pleasures are still just as fun, and just as available.  In a day and age where iPads give your kids the world at their fingertips, technology still can’t replace the jubilant feeling of channeling a gust of wind and making a kite soar in the sky with your own two hands. Here are six easy, breezy places to fly a kite in the city for some good old fashioned fun in the great outdoors. Bonus: Each place has views of the city and the ocean that will make your kite-flying adventure the perfect photo opp.  Now take that kite up to the highest height, and send it soaring…

Bruce’s Beach
Where: Manhattan Beach at Highland and 27th Street
Insider Tips: Don’t be fooled by the name. Bruce’s Beach is really a public park, not a beach — but the views of the ocean and the sunset from the oldest park in Manhattan Beach are spectacular. Spread out across three acres, Bruce’s Beach boasts plenty of open space and a tiered, sloping grassy hillside that is perfect for kite-flying — or rolling down sideways and laughing until your sides hurt.

Silver Lake Meadow
Where: Silver Lake Boulevard
Insider Tips: Dubbed by locals as LA’s version of NYC’s Central Park, Silver Lake Meadow is a lush and expansive grassy field that’s a breath of fresh air in an urban jungle. Signs posted in Silver Lake Meadow let you know that “bare feet are welcome.” Kids will love running across the grass as it tickles their toes, with the hope of catching enough wind to make their kites soar in this often breezy locale. Take a blanket and pack a picnic because you will definitely want to linger in this peaceful setting that offers a serene respite from city life. (However, the one thing this park doesn’t have is potty’s, so go before you go!)

Korean Bell of Friendship and Bell Pavilion
Where: Angels Gate Park, 3601 S. Gaffey Street, San Pedro
Insider Tips: You’ll most likely be amongst fellow kite fliers at the Korean Bell of Friendship, which is a popular kite-flying destination due to its renowned windy conditions. In addition to taking advantage of the wind-factor, you can add to your knowledge of history by visiting the 17 ton, 12-foot tall bell, which was donated by the Republic of Korea in 1976 to celebrate the bicentennial of the United States and to honor American veterans of the Korean War.

 

Burton W. Chace Park
Where: 13650 Mindanao Way, Marina Del Rey
Insider Tips: Voted one of our favorite spots in LA to have a picnic, Burton W. Chace Park is comprised of 10 acres of lawn set against the magnificent backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. Take advantage of the cool sea breezes and the wide open space to fly a kite. Captains in training will also love taking in the sights of all the boats in the harbor, and hopping on the Marina Del Rey water bus for a ride around the marina that costs only $1!

Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook
Where: 6300 Hetzler Road, Culver City
Insider Tips: This kite-flying locale is most appropriate for older kiddos because climbing to the top of the 511-foot peak entails walking up a very steep staircase on uneven terrain… and it’s not for the faint of heart. But the panoramic view from the top, of the entire Los Angeles basin and the Pacific Ocean is worth every step. Additionally, there are beginner to advanced hiking trails on which you can not only fly your kite, but behold wildflowers, birds and other wildlife in a beautiful natural setting.

Will Rogers Polo Field
Where: 1501 Will Rogers Park Road, Pacific Palisades
Insider Tips: Not only are you in a gorgeous spot, surrounded by hiking trails, horses, and ocean breezes that drift up Sunset Blvd., you have an entire luscious green field with nothing on it (a polo field is roughly 10 acres, or the size of 9 football fields!) to run unfettered while you fly your kite.  Hike up for ocean views, hike down to a rushing stream, or tour the historic house.  And on weekends in the summer, you can catch a polo match, too!  Parking in the lot is $12.

Psssst: Stop by Sunshine Kite Company in Redondo Beach if you’re looking for a great selection of kites! They even sell “easy” kites that require no kite competence to fly!

Do you love flying kites with your kids? What’s your fave neighborhood spot to fly a kite?

– Beth Shea

Photo Credits: john k in buffalo via Creative Commons, katrinket via Creative Commons, Michael Newton via Creative Commons, Brandon O’Conner via Creative Commons, and Orin Zbest via Creative Commons

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Getting’ Fresh: Makeover Ideas for Multi-tasking Moms

by Phebe Wahl

Heat have you feeling a bit haggard? Think you don’t have time (or the budget) for a fresh look? Think again. Whether you need a new ‘do but hate the thought of shelling out for a haircut and a sitter—or in need of the perfect postpartum wardrobe that is trendy instead of tired—we’ve got you covered. Here’s your busy mom’s guide to looking chic on the cheap.  

Take Time for a Trim

Salon Red Kids
Technically, this Decatur haircut spot is just for kids—but the grownup salon is right next door. And since the kid salon includes all sorts of fun entertainment, including cool car seats with individual TVs, the awesome people here have been known to bring over a stylist from next door to give mom’s hair a quick cut while your little one is getting one too. Just don’t try this with a toddler who won’t sit still for a movie, because if your kid gets distracted by the candy and toy shop at the front of the store, your haircut experience may get cut short.

123 East Ponce De Leon Ave.
Decatur
404-377-6230

Lifetime Spa
You thought Lifetime was just a gym, right? Think again. You don’t have to be a member to get your hair done, and standard cuts start at only $32. You can get your kids’ hair trimmed here too, and after Junior’s hair is out of his eyes, drop him off at the complimentary childcare center so you can get your own done in peace.

5590 Roswell Road #250
Sandy Springs
678-832-2324

Trade Up Your Togs

Given Take Swap Boutique
Given Take was the brain child of East Atlanta mom Adrienne Tankersley. Not wanting to spend a lot of cash on a temporary postpartum wardrobe, even at consignment prices, she thought it’d be easier if she could just swap clothes with friends—and Given Take was born. Given Take organizes swap events. You buy a ticket and bring at least 10 items of clothing to swap—in season and in great condition, with no stains or tears. You leave with a bag of new clothes. Bonus? Each event also includes free spa activities. You will need to hire a babysitter for this one, since only infants-in-arm are invited to most swaps, but when the ticket costs less than one item of clothing, splurging on a babysitter ain’t so bad.

Soak Away Stress

 

Jeju Sauna and Spa
Jeju is hard to describe. Modeled after traditional Korean spas, it includes everything from massage to exfoliation to a pool and a restaurant. Kids are welcome, but be prepared: nudity is also welcome in some areas (separated by gender). Jeju is open 24/7, so you can also leave your partner with the kids and head out for some relaxation after bedtime.

3555 Gwinnett Place Drive
Duluth
678-336-7414

How do you freshen up when you are frazzled? Share your multi-tasking mama secrets below!

–Lisa Baker

Photos courtesy of Salon Red via Facebook, Given Take via Facebook and Jeju Sauna and Spa via Facebook

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A Seoul-ful Dr. Seuss Birthday Party

by scott wardell

Our kiddo’s first birthday is one that they’ll, scratch that, we’ll always remember. While our little birthday boy or girl probably won’t recall the cake flavor, who showed up, or the color of the party decorations, at least we’ll have plenty of photos and videos to remember the occasion. And thanks to photographer Cathy Murai, now we can share the pics from one-year-old Wilson’s Suessical birthday party, inspired by the book Oh! The Places You’ll Go! With the help of crafty friends and an awesome party planning team, Wilson’s family was able to pull of this party that blended traditional Korean culture with the wacky and whimsical world of Dr. Seuss. Just take a look at all the hard work that went into this celebration and grab some inspiration for your next DIY party.

Wilson’s parents were inspired by the Dr. Seuss book Oh, The Places You’ll Go! and it’s positive message about the endless possibilities that lie in one’s future. Wilson’s mom says she wants the best for her son, and the themes of Seuss’ book really resonated with her high hopes for Wilson. Using the playful colors from the book, Wilson’s mom and her two party planning superstars, Hanna and Christina from One Sweet Day, took over the banquet room at the Los Coyotes Country Club in Buena Park, transforming it into whimsical playspace for Wilson and all of his party guests.

While the party planning team from One Sweet Day crafted the majority of the decorations at the party, Wilson’s family received lots of help from friends, who also happen to be rather creative and imaginative themselves! They created several of the table toppers, including the yarn balls and felt poms as well as the tablecloths, centerpiece stationary, and the dessert buffet stand. The yellow and teal color scheme came directly from Oh, the Places You’ll Go! as did the font for the photo board, the table decorations, and signage.

To play off the whimsical motif of Seuss’ book, Wilson’s family hired a caricaturist to create wacky and humorous drawings of the party guests and a photo booth complete with silly hats, masks, and jewelry. According to Wilson’s mom, the kids loved getting themselves drawn in a cartoon form but they also really enjoyed taking pictures in the photo booth with all the crazy and kooky props.

Wilson’s family also wanted to blend some traditional Korean activities into Wilson’s party. The Korean doljabi game involves laying out certain objects before the birthday boy or girl and based on what he or she picks, reveals something about their future talents or career paths. It’s amazing how perfectly this traditional game fit in with the themes of Seuss’ book, and by the looks of things, everyone was pleased with Wilson’s choice.

The party was a big hit with the littler partygoers, and as a way for guests to share their memories of Wilson’s special day, each was invited to create their own page in a scrapbook for Wilson. Using pictures from the photo booth, markers, and stickers, they went all out designing beautiful and memorable pages to let Wilson know how much fun they had at his party.

Before the guests left the party, they were given a Dr. Seuss floor puzzle and book to take home. We love the colored bottle vases filled with flowers that look like they jumped right off the pages of a Dr. Seuss book.

Wouldn’t it be nice if we all had friends who could craft like Martha Stewart? When we asked Wilson’s mom how she was able to organize such an awesome party she said that internet research was her go-to resource for ideas (read: Pinterest). She gathered all the ideas and inspiration herself and was able to find friends and party planners who made her dream a reality. With all that pressure off the hostess, she was able to spend quality time with Wilson preparing for his special day. We can only imagine what Wilson’s mom has in store for the next party!

Like this story if you’re inspired to throw a Dr. Seuss party for your kiddo. What is your favorite part of this amazing party?

— Scott Wardell

A very special thanks to Cathy Murai photography for all of the amazing photos!

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Date Night: Best Seattle Dining Deals

by Erin Lem

Let’s face it, after you pay the babysitter, there’s not a whole lot left over for dinner. That’s why we’re lucky that our friends at Seattle Magazine dished up 18 Seattle restaurants serving up affordable, and delightfully delicious meals. From the Korean Tofu House to La Medusa, you’ll be sure to find cheap eats to satisfy any palate.

$13
Korean Tofu House
University District
True value: Not only do you get exceptionally generous portions, but every meal comes with side dishes. You will not leave hungry.

While most diehard kimchi-heads will claim that the only reliably good Korean restaurants are either to the north or south of Seattle, Korean Tofu House in the U District is a happy, and welcome, exception. Dinner options arrive with a fleet of expertly prepared banchan (side dishes)—chilled bean sprouts fragrant with the taste of sesame oil, neat wedges of savory chive and jalapeño pancake, marinated fish cake, kimchi and sweet, glazed potatoes—all free. For the main event, offerings such as spicy seafood soup with shrimp, oysters and clams, beef bone broth, house-made dumplings and more hover around the $8 range. All come bubbling hot, brought to your table by a server who’ll gladly crack an egg into the tofu soup.
What we ordered: Beef bone broth ($8.99) + soda ($1) + tax/tip = $13 per person

Want to read about the 17 other restaurants? Read on!

This is our weekly guest post from our friends at Seattle Magazine, which keeps readers on the pulse of restaurants, personalities, arts, entertainment and culture that reflect the tapestry of our dynamic landscape. We’ve teamed up for an exciting partnership to bring you a weekly dose of fantastic Date Night ideas throughout greater Seattle.

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