On this April Fool’s Day, join us as we look back at some of our favorite pranks through the years, many which have already stood the test of time in Pacific Northwest lore. Whether excited for a “new” venture or shocked at the possibility, Ivar’s has always had one hand stirring the pot (no we’re not talking about our chowder, though someone is probably stirring that right now).

Spring in the Pacific Northwest means more sun breaks, longer days and beautiful bright blossoms, but it also rings in a very tasty treat at Ivar's: fresh Alaska (Pacific) halibut! For a very limited time, our first-of-the-season, fresh wild Alaska halibut will be featured on fresh sheets during lunch and dinner at Ivar's Acres of Clams, Ivar's Salmon House and at Ivar's Mukilteo Landing.

March is Taste Washington Wine Month, and at Ivar’s we’re uncorking a few beauties from our own collection of fabulous Washington wines in shellebration. Whether you care to taste Washington at your own private table, wish to join us for a spirited winemaker dinner, or sip-and-swirl your way through an extravaganza of Washington wine, we’re all in to show you the way!

Did you know our famous Dancing Clams actually have o-fish-al names? That’s right. Meet Clem and Clara, our mascots, or clamscots as we like to call them. They were named after the characters that appeared in the Ivar’s whimsical comic strips from the 1950s, and have a storied history dating back all the way to 1985. 

Our flounder, Ivar Haglund, was a true Seattle icon, known as an entertainer, folksinger, restaurateur and ultimately the "King" of the Seattle waterfront. On March 21, we’ll celebrate what would have been his 112th birthday by offering fans who purchase one regularly priced entrée, and wish Ivar “Happy Birthday,” a second entrée of their choice – from a special birthday menu – for just $1.12.    

Take time to learn more about the story of Hawaii, the stories and histories of multiple cultures over hundreds of years.

Here are 15 ways to experience the “real” Hawaii.

As winter continues, it’s tempting to want to keep the family inside, budded up on the couch, watching movies and munching on popcorn. But even in the winter there are some fabulous places in the greater Seattle area to see and experience.

Ubiquitous coconut trees, open-air huts and cotton-candy sunsets, complemented by carafes of mai tais, plates of pineapple, bowls of poke and kind, laid-back souls who roll with the rhythm of the waves and swaying palms. There’s no denying that Hawaii carries a magic unlike anywhere else on our globe. The best news? Ivar’s is giving away a trip to The Aloha State, and we highly recommend you put your name in the hat to win here. 

Here in the Pacific Northwest a bitter cold wind is streaming in from the north and snow-capped mountains are greeting us on every horizon. But we can at least dream of sunny, warm, exotic settings, and instantly take our taste buds from Seattle to the Hawaiian Islands with a plated escape to paradise. Ivar’s restaurants are doing just that! 

For us here at Ivar’s there’s just one thing that makes for a clamtastic game-day experience: food. And, by food, we mean seafood. So, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite recipes that are good for sharing with friends during this weekend’s Big Game where the Falcons take on the Patriots in Atlanta.

Let’s face it, Seattle can be kind of a drag in its perpetual state of gloom with no hope of sunshine for months. On occasion, people actually forget what real Vitamin D is. That’s why we’ve devised a plan to offer the perfect tropical escape with Ivar’s Island Getaway! Now through March 12, you can enter to win weekly prizes and the big kahuna grand prize, a trip to Hawaii.

Gone are days of the contemptuous “side-eye” from your dinner dates and servers when asking about gluten-free menu items at restaurants. These days, not all, but most restaurants offer gluten-free entrees that make dining out a breeze. No matter where you choose to eat, you can successfully dine out gluten-free by planning ahead and communicating clearly with your server. 

The PNW is packed with everything adventure-lovers like us could want or need. When I think about what I love most about the Pacific Northwest, there are 4 topics that keep coming up: its natural diversity, inspiring people, endless adventure, and countless opportunity. Each of these hold a special place in our hearts. 

Comfort food. It’s a staple during the holidays and for good reason. There’s something about being surrounded by family, friends and the foods you grew up with that brings back this sense of nostalgia, a feeling all too familiar this time of year. Give your family something new to look forward to this holiday season by treating them to a little piece of the Pacific Northwest. Our seafood inspired comfort food dishes are the perfect addition to any tradition. 

Fall is a beautiful time to be in the seaport city of Seattle. Mixed in with the city’s signature emerald green colors are vibrant, warm fall leaves. With moderate temperatures, and nestled between mountains and seas, Seattle is a city that shouldn’t be missed.