(neighborhoodgrills.com/eastlake) – Eastlake
How I heard of this place: It’s part of the Seattle neighborhood Bar & Grills that are noted in the Entertainment Book. This venture out was a late night suggestion for happy hour from Paul.
Type of cuisine: Pub grub – burgers, Tex-Mex fare, other salty, greasy options.
Ambiance: Large, open space with tables and chairs or booths available. Bar seating also available for those inclined to watch TV, sport, the game or the news. Quiet for a late-night evening out (11:00 p.m.), and so much space that the establishment can accommodate many groups or pairs.
What I ordered: Among the four of us, I was the only one to order something different. After asking for suggestions from the busser and the server, I opted for the grilled chicken sandwich ($5.99), which was more of a chicken burger with Provolone cheese, fresh, crispy Romaine lettuce, slices of tomato and red onion. The addition of BBQ wing sauce made for a slightly spicier, yet runny option. The meal was served with a small side of shoestring fries and ketchup. The other three at the table ordered the salmon burger ($5.99) which was a patty of salmon and other things squished into a circle and placed on a bun with a dill cream sauce, lettuce, tomatoes and red onion. Again, each was offered with a side of fries and ketchup. As part of the happy hour rules we each ordered soda ($2.50 each) as our one-drink minimum; two diet Cokes, one Shirley Temple and one virgin margarita ($3), complete with salted rim.
What I loved: I loved the crispy fries and the spicy BBQ sauce.
Why I loved it: It was the perfect place to go for a late night bite to eat, where we could chat, hear each other, laugh and not disturb others.
Cost: Low to average ($6 per happy hour entree)