The first crush I remember having as a child was on Papa Smurf. You
may focus on the bizarre/perhaps mildly inappropriate nature of this
crush, but I prefer to revel in thoughts of his fitted red pants,
sagacity, and assured voice. These days I am anxiously awaiting the
arrival of another older, bearded man: Beard Papa. For the last
few months, there has been spirited talk and speculation on local food
message boards about the imminent arrival of this Japanese-owned chain
that sells a variety of delicious cream puffs. (Than Brothers, I will
always love you, but Beard Papa offers a filling that is thicker and
more custardy. The Papa also offers green-tea-flavored cream
puffs.) According to the Beard Papa website, two Seattle locations
(one in Uwajimaya, one in Safeco Field) were set to open in June. But
as of July, no Beard Papa. (A phone inquiry to Uwajimaya regarding the
arrival of Beard Papa placed on July 31 yielded this reply: “Should
open next month. But there is no exact date.”)
This weekend brings the commencement of the
Chinatown–International District Night Market, and the
elusive Beard Papa is listed as a food vendor at the August 9
market. Will he and his cream puffs actually materialize? We must
believe.
Chinatown–International District Night Market, Sat Aug 9,
16, and 23, Hing Hay Park, Maynard Ave S and S King St, 5–11
pm.
For more information on Beard Papa, visit www.muginohousa.com.
