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Daily news for Seattle's Ballard neighborhood |
allisonw
onlineMember
By new, I mean, sort of along the lines of when the neighborhood started heavily gentrifying, maybe the last 3-4 years or so?
I like the Loft for excellent food and drink and it's a good hangout. I wonder how it is when there's any kind of sporting event being televised. Also wonder if they are going to show the Olympics every night. I don't have a TV but love watching the Olympics.
I also like Hazlewood for a very hip vibe and an upstairs that encourages lasciviousness.
What about you?
Anonymous
offlineUnregistered
Ahh, Summer nights outdoors at the Loft enjoying a beer or two with friends... good times. :)
BriarRose
offlineMember
Heavily gentrifying two or three years ago? LOLOLOLOLOLOLOL, catches breath…LOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOL
Do you even know what that means?
Ballard Giant
offlineMember
BR,
Some might ask you if you can read. It says 3-4 years not 2 or 3. LOLOLOLOLOL.
Anywho...Allison, Shelter can be fun.(Better during nice weather)
Nora Bell
offlineMember
I'm straining the brain to think of a 'new' Ballard bar I go to. I've got nothing at all against new bars but I don't think I have any of the new ones on my 'route.'
I have been, once or twice, to the bar at Thaiku. While the oolong-tini is a wonder to behold and the food is very good it's not a place I would just hang out in. Are there 'new' places I won't feel old and underdressed?
shallow.end
offlineMember
Heavily gentrifying two or three years ago? LOLOLOLOLOLOLOL, catches breath…LOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOL
Do you even know what that means?
no. i have no idea what that means.
you're laughing out loud out loud out loud out loud out loud out loud out loud?
nora, you'll only feel old and under dressed if you feel old and under dressed.
my favorite "new" ballard spots are (can we please not refer to it as ballardia? does everything have to be cutesy?)
Shelter. Outside.
Hazelwood
Bastille back bar
allisonw
onlineMember
Having lived through the gentrification of Belltown in the middle 80s, I think I can recognize it when I see it.
As far as 'Ballardia' goes, my grandmother and her 2 brothers went to Ballard High, and one of her brothers was one of the original three owners of SeaMar, so I think I can call it anything I want. We've been here plenty long enough.
doug11
offlineMember
Don't feed the trolls. It's Ballard.
Ballard.
Not Ballardia.
Ballard.
BALLARD.
Thank you.
Novalis
offlineMember
Have to agree with doug11 there.
It's Ballard.
And I noticed a change around 99-01.
Hazelwood is very small though pleasant, if someone slips and falls down that long stairs... insurance has to be extremely high.Ceiling seems alittle low upstairs.
BriarRose
offlineMember
OK 3 or 4 years ago, let’s say 2006, Ballard was a rough part of town with only a small population of low income folks and substandard housing and boarded up businesses. Yeah right that was Ballard in 2006, just like Belltown.
Houses in Ballard in 2006 were worth more than they are today and there were fewer empty storefronts in the business areas.
Did your grandma go to Ballard back when it was a rollicking wide open border town? Say 1999? LOLOLOL
“Ballardia ” is no doubt hurl causing but I suppose it is a step up from profanity. I think the poster feels she is an urban pioneer? : )
Jules
offlineMember
Stepping Stone on 24th! It's a tavern, not a bar *beer and wine only* BUT they are very nice, they have sports on the TV, Vinyl Night, and it's very cozy and inviting- and no, you aren't going to be "too old or underdressed." It has a real neighborhood pub feel. They televise all the Sounders games- I'll bet they will have the Olympics on.
And it isn't a "dive bar." It isn't a "sports bar" either- which are typically noisy. It used to be a wine shop; they have a very nice selection of wine, BTW.
SPG
offlineMember
Hmm, I've used the "Ballardia" term, not to describe the area but rather the sense and feel of certain Ballard things like the term "Americana" or Miscellania.
If you're in the east end of Ballard and you're partial to soccer and fine beers I'd recommend The Dray on 65th/7th.
LY
offlineMember
I've been calling it "Ba-LLARD" (accent on the Lard) for over 20 years, as a joke to myself. It's funny when people say to me, "Oh! Is THAT how it's pronounced?" Of course, I've been hanging out with my husband, old time Seattle family, who says "Blah-view" and "Brothel"--I forget those aren't the real names of those towns as well.
I call myself a Ballardian.
Or should that be Ballardienne?
LY
offlineMember
Oh, and to try to stay on topic, I love the back room at Bastille (as shallow.end suggests). What a chandelier!
eric
offlineMember
heh heh, BR that was chuckle-worthy.
doug11
offlineMember
Shelter is a modern classic.
Bastille belongs in Bellevue.
BriarRose
offlineMember
For serious alcohol consumption and deep 'intellegent' conversation Fado. For happy hour, The Met.
Oh and I call myself a Seattlite who happens to live in Ballard. Actually I really think of myself as a human being who lives in Seattle since I have never felt the need to identity myself with any kind of groupthink type mentality or locale.
Xtophe
offlineMember
"I have never felt the need to identity myself with any kind of groupthink type mentality or locale."
Yes, you're such the rugged individualist, with that cushy gub'ment job you can't get fired from, just counting the days til you live the good life on your Social Security.
Nora Bell
offlineMember
I like the back bar at Bastille too, actually, but it's a little spendy.
Jules, I have been curious about Stepping Stone on 24th as it sounded so wonderfully Celtic. I'll check it out.
SPG, regarding the Dray, I love the place depending on where available seating is. Those barstools are the least comfortable ones I've ever experienced. They're fine for short visits but my ample hindquarters start to fall asleep after about ten minutes. I do like when I can curl up in the fluffy chairs at the front and read back issues of Mad magazine. :-)
Nora Bell
offlineMember
And BR - why go to Fado when I can round the corner and go to the Owl and Thistle? :-)
Jonathan Pryce
offlineMember
Here's shout for Ocho at SE corner of NW Market and Shilshole NW.
Jonathan, avocado loving Balladeer, proud resident of BowelLard.
I hate the loft. Meathead central. It's like living on the east coast again.
I second Ocho. Great place. Been going to Kiss Cafe quite a bit too. The jar of pickles is a nice touch.
BriarRose
offlineMember
Because Nora they are two totally different places with different atmospheres, clientele etc. etc. etc.. Apples and oranges basically. Owl and Thistle is basically a frat boy hang out, amateur hour. Fado is a place where you can get a good bottle of scotch and find a quiet corner to talk to good friends and get seriously drunk when you sneak out of work at 2pm.
I have read scathing reviews of Bastille, most particularly for the food but also for the bar atmosphere so I doubt I will be dropping in.
You must understand I am not a bar person and enter a bar about once every two months. There was a time, back when the earth’s surface was still cooling to steal a phrase from Jules, when I was a bar person. Then I preferred places like Franco’s Hidden Harbor where one really did occasionally meet a millionaire or Thirteen Coins or maybe Oliver’s where I always felt elegant. The Copper Gate where you could get three for a dollar schooners was good in Ballard but even then the Sloop and the Bit were sleazy.
AND of course there was Blaze's in Ballard which I admit I need to pretend never actaully existed in case I might have a scrap of reputation left.
Nora Bell
offlineMember
Even I won't wander into the O&T when there's a soccer match on, but not sure I would call it a frat boy hang out. I dismissed Fado on the second visit, both times the bartender was a cold fish who seemed irritated that I would interrupt his long chat with a regular to request a beer. I'm a very patient person but even I can't stand a bartender ignoring me for very long.
Jonathan, I have yet to give Ocho my customary second chance, but the one time I went in there I felt a little uncomfortable. Maybe it was the size of the place, the strange martini list (and lack of taps), the decor, or all of the above.
BriarRose
offlineMember
I don’t want a bartender to be my friend so if he or she is cold I have no issue. I do of course want a drink and want it fast. I have never waited more than a minute to have someone come over to my booth to take an order. I guess I just look thirstier than you did?
Nora Bell
offlineMember
I'm not looking for a friend either, but being short already has me at a disadvantage ordering at a crowded bar (which is why I go right to the bar rather than waiting for somebody to notice me sitting at a table). I'm used to waiting my turn. But this guy thought I was invisible. Twice!
leeanimal
offlineMember
Not quite sure why we got distracted into the O&T vs. Fado debate. But I will put a good word in for O&T. Good food, great beer and locally owned. Fado is a chain that tries to play off as being quaintly local. Feel free to visit their 13 other unique locations in places like Atlanta, Denver, Philadelphia and Vegas!
leeanimal
offlineMember
The bacon wrapped stuffed dates served at Ocho will grow on trees in Heaven, I'm sure of it.
BriarRose
offlineMember
Quaint Irish Pub is pretty much the last thing I look for in a bar. I look for a comfortable place to drink with friends that also serves a decent drink for a good price. Fado certainly does have the worst bar food in downtown so it is out for happy hour. The Met has the best bar food, the Brooklyn a close second.
Ocho just LOOKS uncomfortable.
allisonw
onlineMember
Takes rather expansive thinking to put O/T and Fado in Ballard.
Sorry to hear the Loft is a meathead joint, it was nice the one time I went, but it was a weeknight and there was no big sporting event.
What about Zadya whateveritis?
I'd love to keep this on topic, thx.
BriarRose
offlineMember
There are no rules regarding topic. Some of us think beyond Ballard.
allisonw
onlineMember
I started the thread asking for places you like in Ballard. I hate all this o/t BS--take it elsewhere. You want to talk about your favorite bar that's in downtown Seattle, feel free--start your own thread.
Gah, this forum is frustrating as hell sometimes.
BriarRose
offlineMember
Frustration is healthy. It builds character.
doug11
offlineMember
Allison you actually asked for places in BALLARDIA. Maybe renaming the neighborhood then declaring "I think I can call it anything I want. We've been here plenty long enough" is not one of the best ways to start a "frustration-free thread" and then to start to argue about neighborhood boundaries?!?!?!
Just a tip, BE FRIENDLIER!!! and I know you are struggling with the Forum rules lately with posts getting removed and all.
+1 for Ocho!!!!!
Nora Bell
offlineMember
My apologies for aiding and abetting the thread hijack. I obviously haven't given myself enough to do today. ;-)
Okay, back on topic. Ocho doesn't just look uncomfortable, it was uncomfortable. I can't pinpoint any ONE thing that caused the discomfort for me, though.
shallow.end
offlineMember
Ocho! sherried mushrooms with basil on toast.
Laura
offlineMember
No one has yet mentioned the Copper Gate on 24th and 63rd. I haven't been, but wonder if anyone has and what you thought of it?
cdpenne
offlineMember
Copper Gate is a great place with some very interesting and tasty drinks. Don't ask for the usual and just try one or two off the menu. I have never seen meth activity at The Loft and have spent a bit of time there. It's mostly locals from the Shilshole and Leary businesses and some college kids. Hatties is my all time favorite for just a drink and because I like the old bar and mural on the wall. The I also have a soft spot for the OP, the Lock and Keel, and Connor Byrne. Hell there are so many good bars in Ballard, just pick a couple to try out. I don't think you can go wrong. Also, Bastille is great at happy hour and very reasonable. The Stepping Stone is way cool, small, and intimate. Shit, I should start writing bar reviews.
As to what "Ballardia" means, I'm clueless.
BriarRose
offlineMember
I find the new Copper Gate way too precious and absurdly overpriced. Really a step down for one of the best neighborhood tavs in Ballard and all of Seattle.
cdpenne
offlineMember
oops totally missed the "new" part of the original post.
E.S.
offlineMember
Ocho? Really? The food sucks, the drinks sucked, and the atmosphere (crowded elevator) sucks even more.
allisonw
onlineMember
You didn't like the food at Ocho? I've only been once, but really liked the bites a lot. Is it that you don't care for tapas, or was it something about their tapas?
doug11
offlineMember
Ocho food sucks????
LOLZ 4 realzzz!!!!!! You are going to have to try harder than that.
Ocho food is wonderful and you must own the Azteca next door!!
IStream
offlineMember
I must say that I used to love Ocho, but on my last visit they'd changed some of my old faves (e.g. chorizo and eggs) such that they're a shadow of their former incarnations. I never pan a restaurant from one bad experience but if the next visit doesn't cut the mustard, I'm afraid they'll be off my list.
Also, my wife and I tried Shelter for the first time a couple of weeks ago and were really turned off. We left after five minutes of neglect followed by both the bartender and the waitress copping an attitude. As I said above, maybe it was an off night so I'll try one more time but there are too many good bars in Ballard to put up with that crap.
BriarRose
offlineMember
What an odd thing to ask if someone does not like tapas? It’s basically asking if they like food at all. It’s like not liking hors devours. What kind? Tapas can be anything. They are basically finger food is all. Is it possible for anyone to not like ALL finger food? It’s not like saying I don’t like Thai food or Mexican food or avocados or brussel sprouts or bananas or pork or milk etc. etc. etc.
pennygirl
offlineMember
OK Briar Rose...
You and I don't like each other - but come on - hors devours? That's so easy I'm not going to bother. Get a dictionary before you start bitching. Or Google. Google might be your new friend.
chud
offlineMember
Tapas == "To Cover", as in hold over to the next meal. It can literally be anything. BR is spot on.
allisonw
onlineMember
Didn't tapas "to cover" refer to the slice of cured meat, that was placed atop one's sherry glass? The origin of this being something about King Alfonso being on a road trip, and the meat was to keep dirt out of the glass, IIRC.
I love me some cured meats, but I'm sure others don't.
pennygirl
offlineMember
Hors Devours == "Not found in the English/French/Spanish Language", as in BR makes no sense. Tapas I'm aware of - hors devours - not so much. Maybe it's an 'Old' Ballard thing.
allisonw
onlineMember
Perhaps it's a spelling error. Spelling may not be in her oeuvre.
chud
offlineMember
Christ Pennygirl, give it a rest. Do you really want every one of your enemies here to go spell check all of your entries? HORS D'OEUVRES. Happy?
pennygirl
offlineMember
Oh give it a rest Chud. BR is a nasty piece of work and someone should call her out. If I decide to challenge her spelling. then I say more power to me. It's got nothing to do with her spelling - it;s the fact that she's a mean old witch who has an issue with anyone who moves to her precious Ballard, and I can't do anything about that - but I will call her out on her extremely bad grammar.
BriarRose
offlineMember
http://spanishfood.about.com/od/discoverspanishfood/f/faqtapas.htm
Question: What are Tapas?
Tapas are snacks, canapés or finger food. Tapas come in many different forms and can vary from town to town! But, what are they?
Answer: Tapas can be practically anything from a chunk of tuna, cocktail onion and an olive skewered on a long toothpick to meat with sauce served piping hot in a miniature clay dish. They are served day in and day out in every bar and café in Spain. So much a part of the culture and social scene that the Spanish people invented the verb tapear which means to go and eat tapas!
http://spanishfood.about.com/od/discoverspanishfood/f/faqtapas.htm
Question: What are Tapas?
Tapas are snacks, canapés or finger food. Tapas come in many different forms and can vary from town to town! But, what are they?
Answer: Tapas can be practically anything from a chunk of tuna, cocktail onion and an olive skewered on a long toothpick to meat with sauce served piping hot in a miniature clay dish. They are served day in and day out in every bar and café in Spain. So much a part of the culture and social scene that the Spanish people invented the verb tapear which means to go and eat tapas!
Cubrir would be Spanish for 'to cover.' Tapar would be 'to close.'
As for spelling and typing? Well, if I had to make a living doing either I would starve to death. We can all thank goodness for secretaries.
Enemies? Chud do I have enemies on a web site? Do you? : )
Now penny be fair or maybe don’t read until you are sober. I have never complained about new or old Ballard, (I do in fact laugh at both) I like condos and townhouses and don’t care where you were born or even where I was born for that matter. I was not born in Ballard. I am not Scandinavian, never have been or do I have any desire to be. I never attended a May 17th parade until 2006 and will never gain as it was a crashing bore.
I think Ballard is in many ways a better and prettier place than it was 40 years ago I moved away from Seattle in ’80 and returned in 2006 and only ended up in Ballard because I had to use an address of family to register my daughter in school when I moved back here and then had to live where she could catch a bus.
I have been looking for a place outside of Ballard now for months because frankly I am a bit sick of it and prefer other hoods in Seattle. I am too old to be a bar stoll fixture and that is the trend today in Ballard. Ballard is and was a nice neighborhood but it’s just a part of Seattle like any other. I think you get confused.
julesage
offlineMember
it is NOT in ballard, but, has anyone been to the new speakeasy in capitol hill....The Knee High Stocking Company?....its quite a place. It is a true speakeasy and is very very cool!...also difficult to spot! hence that it is a speakeasy i suppose....
If you get invited to go, you should! it is a very hard place to "get into" as you must text the morning of the evening you want to go. I was invited by a friend so please do not ask me how it "works" bc I do not really know. I just know it was alot of fun:)
fourtwonine
offlineMember
i only moved to seattle/ballard in october, but as far as my favorite ballard spots go so far, i love hazlewood and kings hardware... a lot...
Nora Bell
offlineMember
Never stayed at Ocho long enough to eat so I'll keep out of the whole tapas debate.
The Copper Gate - went in there once, drank one of the 'traditional' Scandinavian drinks from the drink menu. It gave me a very nasty headache. And what's with the Barbie parts in the women's restroom? Is that art? Sure, the old Copper Gate was an old battered tavern but at least I understood it.
yachtrocked
offlineMember
as far as new bars in this neighborhood- i like shelter - its a very cozy space- great classic PNW design. i especially like the cut logs used as cocktail tables in the waiting area. their food/bev selection is tasty and the service is friendly.
allisonw
onlineMember
BR, people have been sitting on bar stools in Ballard for quite a while. It's a welcome break from hard work on your feet all day. Me, I'm sore and tired after a hard day at work. I don't have a gym membership because I sit on my butt all day at work, I have one so I'm strong, limber and fit FOR my day at work.
Ballard is changing, but there are still many people here who work with their hands for a living. I'm sure there are many places nearby with more white collar workers who poo-poo the idea of sitting on a stool having a pint after work. Maybe you'd be happier there.
plasticbags
onlineMember
Sorry for being late to the game, but Owl and Thistle a frat boy hangout? LOL. Everytime I go there all I see are other federal employees. BR, I don't blame you for not wanting to feel like you're still at work, but I definitely don't get a frat boy vibe from there.
Ballardissmallilikeanonymity
offlineMember
The problem with Ocho's tapas is that it's infinitesimal even by tapas standards. Nothing even rises to the level of small-yet-effortfully-prepared plate; it's like ordering one tiny hors d'œuvre at a time. If you're the least bit hungry, you might have to order 8-10 items, and your $20-$30 would still satiate you less than a real meal.
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