Gingerbread Lighthouse: Trellis Restaurant

by Shona Milne on December 9, 2014

TRELLIS RESTAURANT CHEFS BUILD EXTRAORDINARY EDIBLE CREATION:  A GINGERBREAD LIGHTHOUSE COMPLETE WITH BEACON AND KEEPER’S HOUSE
“Sugar and Spice and Everything Nice” on Holiday Display in The Heathman Hotel-Kirkland Lobby

Trellis Restaurant Executive Chef Brian Scheehser and Pastry Chef Sandra Watson have been working overtime to create an impressive Gingerbread Lighthouse complete with a working beacon and keeper’s house.  After weeks of meticulous planning and architect worthy sketches, the iconic 5.5 feet tall spicy holiday maritime structure took 80 hours to construct, with Brian and Sandra assuming the roles of general contractors.  On display in The Heathman Hotel lobby through the New Year, it is sure to bring smiles to the faces of everyone who views it.

“A lot of blood, sweat and sugar (tears) went into this creation,” says General Manager Troy Longwith.  “This edible form of art was literally a labor of love, using staggering amounts of sweets in the building process.  It is definitely the start of a heartwarming tradition, when combined with our magnificent tree, beautiful decorations and roaring fireplace, making The Heathman a holiday ‘photo stop’ for children of all ages.”

To complete the display, Brian and Sandra framed the Lighthouse in wood and cardboard.  They worked with 20 pounds of gingerbread, 50 pounds of royal icing, 45 pounds of sugar cube bricks, 2 pounds of marzipan, 8 pounds of candy, 1 pound of cocoa nibs, 1 pound of almonds, 1 pound of pretzels, and 1 pound of sesame crackers.  Then gelatin sheet windows were installed in the keeper’s house, followed by decor and accent lighting showcasing hand-formed furniture, chandeliers and craftsman flooring.  Surrounding the landscaping of lights, ribbon and Pacific Northwest greens are Orcas, swimming about.

Other noteworthy Heathman Hotel seasonal experiences include Afternoon Tea service – a traditional offering of sweets and savories – served near the lobby fireplace. Guests can extend their visit with dinner at Trellis Restaurant and an overnight stay in one of the luxury rooms.  Trellis will be open on Christmas Eve and Day as well as New Year’s Eve and Day.  For reservations call (425) 284 5800 or visit www.heathmankirkland.com.

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About The Heathman Hotel in Kirkland
Located on Seattle’s Eastside, The Heathman Hotel provides guests with the ultimate in gracious service in an ambience of understated elegance and comfort.  In 2013, the hotel was featured on Condé Nast Traveler’s Gold List and the 2013 edition of U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hotel Rankings.  Additionally, the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice awards ranked the property as the 88th best hotel in the world in 2012.  The hotel has also garnered the AAA of Washington Four Diamond Award, an indicator of excellence that promises travelers and unparalleled lodging experience, and is also a member of the Preferred Hotel Boutique Group.  The Heathman Hotel features 91 classic guest rooms and suites, and Trellis, a 90-seat wine-country-inspired restaurant and bar helmed by Chef Brian Scheehser.  Trellis’ rustic, robust menu evolves with the seasons, often featuring items from Scheehser’s own 18-acre farm. For reservations and information, visit www.heathmankirkland.com or call (888) 264-5464.

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