Eating good food, overcoming fear of flying

A couple of weeks ago, I was invited to spend a little time in Seattle with some of my cousins. My youngest cousin, C.J., works for American Express Travel and was on an assignment in the Seattle area for a month, and my oldest cousin, Sean, lives just outside Seattle in Bellevue, so it was a great excuse for me to take to the skies.

Only those closest to me know that a few years ago I developed a fear of flying. It is not debilitating enough to keep me home, but it is just enough to elevate my blood pressure and interrupt my sleep before I go on an adventure. In an effort to face my fears head-on, I booked a sightseeing trip aboard a two-man helicopter on my first day in Seattle. 

Everything was wonderful, but the best food I had while in the Pike Place Market complex was at a little hole in the wall called Pike Place Chowder . It was across the street from the main marketplace. I found it at the end of an alley as I explored the nooks and crannies of the market.

There was a long line of people and a smell I could not deny, so I joined the line. As I came closer and closer to the serving counter, I was able to read the signs about PPC with accolades that include being named the Best Clam Chowder in the country and in Seattle.

I waited for my turn and ordered a cup of the classic New England Clam Chowder , which was served with fresh sourdough bread and butter, and half a lobster roll. The meal was so scrumptious, I would venture back to Seattle just to eat there again.