CAPITOL HILL. The ambience, not to mention the coffee, is terrific at this much-loved bookstore / coffeehouse. Pull a book from the shelf, order a cappuccino (perhaps even a scone), and relax in the cool, bohemian environment. If you can grab a table outside, there are great views and great people watching to be had. Occasionally, Bauhaus sponsors live musical entertainment as well.

REDMOND. An authority in classic British cuisine for more than 20 years, British Pantry offers menus for lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner. There's also a separate shop decked out with posters and British memorabilia and stocked with candy, sausage rolls, iced teacakes, fruitcakes, and biscuits packaged to go. Also look for gift items such as English bone china.

PIONEER SQUARE. Tucked away in the basement of Pioneer Square, Bud's carries the best selection of jazz recordings in the city, including an extensive inventory of early and contemporary artists. The knowledgeable staff only adds to the shop's charm and user-friendly atmosphere.

DOWNTOWN. This popular Italian gourmet market boasts a phenomenal inventory of meats, olive oils, sauces, breads, vinegars, cheeses, and pastas. An espresso café, serving food and pastries, is available upstairs as well.

QUEEN ANNE. Nominally a grocery store, this fascinating local market is much more. Prepare to be blown away by the vast selection of goods, including gourmet prepared foods, top-quality meats, live fish, housewares, decorative items, gifts, and books. There's also a fabulous on-site cafeteria that'll tempt you with its incredible selection of gourmet treats (both sweet and savory). Additional Seattle area locations in Redmond, Bellevue, Kirkland and Tukwila.