Meet Russell, Spire’s Chef Concierge

Only in Spire. A dramatic two-story lobby with on-site café greets residents as they arrive home and a familiar face is on hand to help. Let us introduce you to an integral part of the Spire Team, Russell Hathaway, our Chef Concierge. From the French, “Chef” meaning “Chief”, the Chef Concierge oversees the concierge team as the Lead Concierge. Spire’s concierge team is monitoring visitors and deliveries to the building daily, answering residents’ and owners’ ​questions, addressing their needs, and working to ensure the safety of the building by paying close attention to all our security systems.

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“The truly unique task that I have as Chef Concierge is sitting down with each and every new resident, whether they own or rent at Spire, for the New Resident Orientation. We talk about the different procedures in the building, go over important rules and expectations, and I answer questions about how things work, from our amazing Automated Parking System to the barbecue grills. This is a wonderful opportunity to get to know each new resident and, hopefully, to provide them with a warm and sincere welcome to their new home.”

As Chef Concierge, Russell is responsible for training and ensuring the team is on the same page, providing excellent service for all residents, and for the Homeowners Association as a whole. The team provides knowledgeable, friendly, and hospitable service for residents, vendors, and everyone at Spire, including giving personal recommendations to residents new to Seattle or the neighborhood.

What must-attend Seattle events does Russell recommend you get on your calendar? Here’s his (short) list:

Farmers Markets and Night Markets. Russell loves the South Lake Union Farmers Market, just a block from Spire in Denny Park, the Night Markets in South Lake Union, as well as Chinatown/International District and Pike Place Market. And he reminded us not to miss the highlight of the Farmers Market experience at Pike Place Market’s Sunset Supper.

Indulge in Seattle Arts. Enjoy a performance at Seattle Opera Company, Pacific Northwest Ballet, or the Seattle Symphony. Experience the best of local theater at Seattle Rep and ACT, see a Broadway touring company at the Paramount or a new show Broadway-bound at Fifth Avenue Theater. Get into the groove with live music at The Crocodile or Jazz Alley or catch a cabaret. Cabarets are big in Seattle and Russell says the best are at Can Can in Pike Place Market and Triple Door.

Eat Local. Seattle has such an incredible restaurant scene. Don’t miss the big restaurants events, like Seattle Restaurant Week or Plate of Nations in South Seattle for a fun way to discover new favorites and take in some of the many brewers, winemakers, distillers and other food-related festivals that happen all throughout the year!

“We’re all new to Spire, so we’re all learning as we go. But we (at the concierge desk) can pick up little hints along the way to help encourage more cooperation and good relationships between residents and with staff.”

Russell tells us that the best part of working at Spire is being in a new building, offering his team the exciting opportunity to set the tone for the community that will carry forward.

“Because we are all more involved in the new residents’ onboarding process, from turning over keys, New Resident Orientations and move-ins, we all get to know new residents and I think that personal connection makes us want to go the extra mile when a resident requests our help.”

If you ask Russell about restaurants, he’ll always find a reason to recommend Wa’z for an unforgettable traditional Japanese kaiseki experience (be sure to sit at the Chef’s Counter). Others on his short list are Portage Bay Cafe for the quintessential PNW brunch. Tip: The Breakfast Bar has all the fresh fruit and house-made toppings for waffles and pancakes.  Jerk Shack is another local favorite for casual Caribbean food and cocktails. Russell’s favorite dish is the deep-fried softshell crab frybread sandwich with a rum punch on the side.

Looking for other favorite spots recommended by Russell? Head to the Seattle Glassblowing Studio, where visitors can purchase exquisite glass pieces from local artists or take a glassblowing class. Shop at Buki, a luxury technical clothing maker, where you’ll find incredibly comfortable pieces of casual ware. Enjoy a long soak at Banya 5, an amazing spa that provides a unique blend of hydrotherapy, body treatments and old-world wellness rituals.

Seattle is also home to a thriving arts scene, plenty of history, culture and some exciting outdoor activities. Spire is conveniently located where Belltown, South Lake Union, and Denny Triangle meet, with no shortage of fun things to do. Our downtown Seattle location makes it easy to enjoy all the action and retreat back home, so start planning out your Seattle summer with these recommendations from Russell:

Get out on the water. Whether you’re sailing on Elliott Bay, taking a ferry to Bainbridge or Vashon Island, or putting around Lake Union in a super fun and cute Donut Boat.

Enjoy the long days. From a sunrise bike ride on the Burke-Gilman trail to late night clubbing in Capitol Hill. Don’t waste a moment of sunshine.

Take in an outdoor show. Whether it’s a big music festival like Bumbershoot or Capitol Hill Block Party, Zootunes at Woodland Park Zoo, Shakespeare in the Park, or the buskers in Pike Place Market.

Get into the Seattle state of mind. Spire is now selling luxury condominium homes and penthouses starting from the $500,000s. Move in today. Contact the team for your personal tour of our model residences and building.