This week I took my friend Radonna out to lunch at The Commons here in Woodinville. I was forcefully encouraging her to take a break and enjoy a day off from her jobs. She’s been working extra hard, with the busy festive season approaching, and I’m worried she is exhausting herself. I thought a nice meal out and a pedicure would help her relax and enjoy some downtime.
Radonna volunteers several days a week at Hopelink, sorting and processing food so the organization can feed hungry people. But on top of that, she runs Free Little Pantry in Rose Hill out of her home in Kirkland. Her pantry feeds 600 food-insecure families from all Kirkland, Woodinville, Redmond, Bellevue and all over our area each month. Most of those are working people who can’t make it to Hopelink’s very limited open hours, and are grateful for Free Little Pantry in Rose Hill’s 9am-9pm six days a week open hours.
If you’re interested in donating to Radonna’s “Nourishing Networks,” visit her Facebook group.
We loved settling into a cozy table for two in front of the giant windows at The Commons.
Radonna ordered the Veggie Scramble, which they were happy to leave off the peppers and onions on. (Good to know, I can’t eat either and have been badly wanting to try the scramble!) She added on bacon instead.
I was overjoyed to be able to try my first Vegetable Shepherd’s Pie! As a lifelong vegetarian, I haven’t eaten shepherds pie before. It came perfectly cooked, and stayed hot the whole time I was attempting to eat the giant portion. I ended up taking 1/3rd home and reheating it in my oven later that night for a snack. It was even better after sitting in my fridge overnight, if you can believe it!
I couldn’t resist ordering a side of The Commons’ delicious Home Fries. So crispy outside, tender inside, and addictive!
The Commons is participating in “Drinks of the Resistance” this month. (So is Purple Cafe & Wine Bar). Proceeds from your specialty cocktail purchase go to Northwest Immigrant Rights Project. See this link for more information on “Drinks of the Resistance.”
I had too many errands to do and had to go back to work, so unfortunately couldn’t indulge in a cocktail. But next time I’m back, I will order a “Cot in the Act!”
-Carrie
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