Curator’s HQ sits in the middle of Seattle’s Pioneer Square neighborhood. We moved here four years ago and the energy is an inspiring backdrop for the work we do every day. 

Whether it's the porchetta sandwich from Salumi or a kimchi quesadilla from Marination Mobile, we have an embarrassment of riches when it comes to lunch spots near the office. That said, when I break away from my desk at the noon hour lately, it’s not the restaurants that get me excited, but rather Pioneer Square’s emerging retail scene. 

A recent New York Times article shared a few of these neighborhood gems. I wanted to add three more to the list. 

Drygoods Design

Perhaps the most beautiful (aka Instagram-able) shop in Pioneer Square right now is Drygoods Design. It sits directly across Occidental Pedestrian Mall from THE most Instagram-able restaurant in Seattle, London Plane. This airy, light-filled shop offers an amazing collection of fabrics, irresistible gifts, artsy cards, and a gorgeous studio space where you can drop in for open studio time or take a class. I’m the girl who got a “C” in sewing, but I still love to visit this shop. My last purchase here was a stack of birthday cards that are so beautiful that I’d just a soon hang them on my wall.

Velouria 

This independent boutique specializes in independently made clothing, jewelry and accessories made in the U.S. and Canada. For a small shop, they have an amazing collection of unique jewelry. I visit the shop at least once a week, try on about a hundred pieces, and have never once left empty-handed. My latest purchases —both gifts, included a delicate, gold infinity knot ring by Favor and this expressive piece by The Artist and the Alchemist. 

E. Smith Mercantile

Frankly, this hybrid boutique and bar confused me at first. The front of the store, “The Merc”, features shelves stocked with American-made denim next to artisan toothpicks next to fancy shave cream next to cardamom bitters. In their own words, "We offer a curated collection of adventures, delights and wild imaginings...” Wild, indeed! Once I fully embraced the weird, I find I am now drawn to it. What will I find there next? My latest purchases were three air plants and a few ceramic and wood planters. If you visit, don't miss the the Back Bar, with a fabulous cocktail menu and a star-studded guest bartender series, that really draws the crowds. The city is buzzing (pun intended) with news that Murray Stenson will tend bar on Sunday and Monday nights 

Do you have a favorite "lunch" spot in your neighborhood? Tweet @amricard with your suggestions.