Wet autumn days call for Row House Cafe, a cozy cabin around Lake Union.

I’m really critical of coffee shops and cafes. Sure, they provide free Wi-fi when I need to get out of the office space also known as my apartment, and they let me buy a $2 Americano and sit there for three hours. All the freeloading freelancer stereotypes aside, a good cafe comes down to the simple things

Drink and eat now, articulate later.

It’s pronounced exactly how you think it is — Gru-ner Velt-LEEN-er. The German rolls off your tongue, thanks to the Germanic roots of our English language. Grüner Veltliner is arguably one of the most food-friendly white wines out here, as well as a great value — sometimes sold at ridiculously low prices. Thought you’d like that one, Mr. Debt Ceiling.