Pre-flight Ritual

There aren't many things I truly hate about flying other than the hecticness and stress that ensues if you are running late. Seattle traffic is unpredictable, so I try to get to the airport 3-4 hours in advance to play it safe.

Back in the day when my parents and all their friends still smoked - yet the airport had already banned smoking, we discovered 13 Coins. We were seeing off some friends that were moving back to Norway and needed a place near the airport to eat, drink and smoke.

13 Coins has two Seattle area outposts - downtown and at the airport. It's known for the dark, woodsy interior, antipasto platters and 24-hour dining. The decor is pretty cool - with high back leather stools at the counter - where you can watch the chefs at work, and cavernous booths with high backed leather benches.

The food is fairly unremarkable except for the price. Fritattas are a safe bet and I am also fond of their steamed clams. Usually when I go to "The Coins" however it is more about the drinks than the food.

Pre-flight ritual is arriving at Sea-tac by 3 or 4pm, when the check-in desk at SAS has little or no line. I check my bags while my folks wait in the car and then we zip across the street to 13 Coins. I always have a Manhattan *special* (a double) and graze at the antipasto platter.

After a quick bite and a cool, classic cocktail, I feel ready to tackle the security line.