MR. TOM T. O’KEEFE goes about being Big Business in a lowercase, Seattle sort of way; while he is the founder of Tully’s—the third largest company-owned specialty coffee retailer, wholesaler, and distributor in the U.S.—his title at the company is the understated (some might say cutesy) “Head Barista.” He does, however, seem to golf, and his enthusiasm for exclamation marks is unparalleled. And yes, his middle name is Tully.
Best Local Corporation Other Than Tully’s
Tie: Boeing and Microsoft—but without all the small companies and entrepreneurs that make up the bulk of the Seattle workforce, we wouldn’t be the community we are today!
Best Place for a Business Lunch
Calcutta Grill at the Golf Club at Newcastle—great food and view!
Best Steak House
Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, but Daniel’s Broiler at Leschi is a close second!
Best Martini
Seattle Tennis Club—and always made by Paul!
Best Local Politician
[King County Council member] Peter von Reichbauer. I just love that name!
Best Fancy Restaurant
Fancy, schmancy—I hate getting dressed up, but I love what sisters Leslie and Laurie do at the Kingfish Cafe on Capitol Hill.
Best Place to Spend Money Recklessly
Any fly-fishing shop, candy store, or Victoria’s Secret.
Best Freeway
Are you kidding? None. Except after midnight and on weekends.
Best Place to Buy a Tie
Mario’s.
Best Place to Get Your Shoes Shined
From Dave Blanks and Raymond Brown at Tully’s!
Best Luxury Car Dealership
Phil Smart Mercedes. Is there anyone more giving in the community than Helen and Phil Smart Sr.?
Best Car Wash
Elephant Car Wash at Sixth and Denny. Wonderful team!
Best Place to Park a Corporate Jet
If you are on it, anywhere! Or, at the Museum of Flight next to the Blue Angels and Air Force One.
Best Downtown Parking Lot
Any load zone!
Best Golf Course
Member’s Club at Aldarra, but Broadmoor isn’t too bad, either!
Best Marina
Any, as long as I’m on someone else’s boat!
Best Thing About Working in the Former Rainier Beer Factory
Great Seattle history, and the “T” is taller than that old mermaid!
Best Place to Dispose of a Giant “R”
Exactly where it is: the Museum of History and Industry in Seattle. 
