Seattle - December 20, 2006

Homecoming Queen

Qube Opens

As any world-weary traveler knows, the best part about wandering far and wide is coming back home. (It’s certainly not the malaria or useless tchotchkes.)

Just ask chef Lisa Nakamura. After stints in kitchens around the world (from Germany to Korea to French Laundry), the former Seattleite has made a triumphant return with Qube, which opened Monday.

Throw on your weekday best and go see what Nakamura and owners Fu Shen Chang (of Typhoon) and his wife, Kerry Huang, have created: a mod downtown spot with an ambitious Asian-French menu and vibrant apple green and orange decor.

Entrees (roasted duck breast with wildflower honey and pomegranate, miso-marinated black cod) come à la carte, but the real draw is the prix fixe. Called “Qubed sets” (wink, wink), each course delivers a different ingredient (butternut squash, prawns, or crème brulee) served three ways.

Sound overwhelming? Don’t worry: All it takes is a little explanation from your waiter.

Before you know it, you’ll feel right at home.

Without having had to wander very far.

Qube, 1901 Second Avenue, at Stewart Street (206-770-5888 or quberestaurant.com).