Washington's diverse climate can feel like a riddle, with different problems and possibilities depending on where you are within the state. But climatologists like Nick Bond love the challenge, and their research is helping make agriculture flourish.

Some of the most versatile ingredients in the produce aisle are also some of the most interesting to cultivate.

In the adorable Bavarian-style town of Leavenworth, whose food options are mostly associated with bratwurst, schnitzel, and beer, Larch’s pasta-heavy menu is reminiscent of a country a little south of the Alps — but the Italian-inspired menu attracts a crowd.