Welcome back to Eater News, a semi-regular round-up of mini news bites. Have info to share? Email intel to seattle@eater.com.
Fiery food at Kirkland’s Heathman Hotel
Kirkland’s dining scene is about to get an intriguing new addition. After announcing plans earlier this spring, the Heathman Hotel on Kirkland Avenue will open the appropriately-named Hearth — its new American restaurant with an open fire oven — on June 3. Patrons should expect a menu focused on local ingredients, including Hama Hama oysters with charred, strawberry vinegar, and a weekend brunch that features Puget Sound Dungeness crab omelets with bacon, tarragon onions and hollandaise. There will also be a happy hour seven days a week, from 3pm-6pm and 9pm-close. The new restaurant replaces Trellis, the well-received spot that closed back in March.
Super salmon swims into town
It’s that time of year again. The first shipment of the highly coveted Copper River salmon from Alaska — said to be the best in the world because of its especially rich flavor — arrived in Seattle on Friday morning, a well-known annual rite in the city. Since 1996, Alaska Airlines has turned the prized salmons’ arrival into a public relations bonanza, with a red carpet and everything. But, really, diners just want to know when they can start seeking it out. Look for the fish at dozens of local restaurants, including Ray’s Boathouse, Elliott’s Oyster House, and Ivar’s Acres of Clams. And if you want to cook the Copper River salmon yourself, you can find it at seafood-focused markets such as Pike Place. Just start saving up: In the past, the special fish has sold for $50-60 per pound.
Molly Moon’s makes another move
Here’s a pretty cool scoop. According to Seattle Met, Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream — one of the most popular dessert chains in town — will open up a new location in downtown Bellevue sometime this summer. The shop will be small (200 square feet), but will have the full menu on hand, from the popular Earl Grey and honey lavender, to more seasonal offerings (currently orange habanero cookie dough). This expansion will be Molly Moon’s eighth location in the city.