Seattle's Best Patio Dining; Three Renee Erickson Restaurants Eliminate Tipping

DOWNTOWN — Two years ago when we learned that a Phillip Starck-designed luxury SLS Hotel was destined for the new Fifth and Columbia Tower (replacing Seattle First United Methodist Church), there were whisperings that it might house a restaurant from the world famous James Beard Award-winning chef José Andrés. Those rumors are now confirmed: The Spanish chef will bring his cuisine to Seattle when the 184-room hotel opens in 2017. Many credit the chef with introducing the concept of small plates to the U.S., and The Seattle Times says he's been called "the face of Spanish food in America."

EATER MAPS — Eater today released its map of 18 of Seattle's best bets for patio dining. Break out those sunglasses and order some Vitamin D to go with your meal.

CONTROVERSIES — Following Ivar's lead, Renée Erickson is the next to cut tips from her restaurants since Seattle's new Minimum Wage Ordinance went into effect April 1. Beginning Monday, May 4, The Walrus and the Carpenter, The Whale Wins, and Barnacle will no longer accept tips. In their place, the restaurants will add an 18.5 percent service fee to meals that will be shared between front- and back-of-the-house employees.