The venerable Virginia Inn in the PIke Place Market recently re-emerged after a far-too-lengthy remodel. It looks better than ever. . .the space expanded to twice the original size with the beautiful tiled floor and brick walls intact, brilliant artwork lining the walls, and an air of familiarity and antiquity combined with contemporary charm. 

We enjoyed our lunch al fresco as the floor show that is First Avenue flew by. Here are the light and luscious crab cakes, which contained lots of Sherry-flavored, creamy crab dusted with panko (Japanese) bread crumbs and either baked or very lightly sautéed. Also noteworthy were the Mediterranean mussels in a white-wine broth that wasn’t overblown with butter. A glass of Rosé for me and Sauvignon Blanc for Spencer, and we were very happy campers.