Bars and Cafes in Belltown (Seattle)

Queen City Grill

Located in the popular Belltown area, Queen City Grill restaurant is more than it appears. Long and narrow with dark wooden pew-like booths, warmly colored walls that are almost tea-stained in appearance and a well-worn floor makes this shabby-chic place a popular stop for locals and visitors alike. While success has perhaps slightly overwhelmed the kitchen, you can always rely on the Grilled Salmon and Crab Cakes. Come to meet people and savor one of the approximately 500 wines from the cellar.

The Crocodile Cafe

Just look for the crocodile skin-patterned sign in the window and you'll have found this popular hangout. Part eclectic diner, part rock club, it draws people from all over to its location in chic Belltown. This popular 21+ dive club attracts people from all over to hear live rock and alternative music. Famous rock stars that have Seattle roots are said to play inexpensive, unannounced shows at this location. There is a full bar and a full menu of burgers like the Cajun Burger is especially popular.

Viceroy

Combining today's urban style with hints of the 70's, Viceroy is a great late-night place for those looking for good cocktails and music. Viceroy's atmosphere is chic with a vintage appeal as it's decorated with a wall-mounted boar and a den with brown-leather couches. The musical ambiance is comprised of the DJs' sets that feature Motown, funk, 80's, and so much more. The drinks are affordable and happy hour is daily (5p-8p). Viceroy can also accommodate private parties.

El Gaucho

Recalling upper-crust New York in the 1940s, El Gaucho is not typical Seattle, but it is excellent. The waiters are tuxedoed. Live piano plays in the background. Candles flicker, shedding light over lots of dark wood. Perfectly prepared steak and seafood dishes fill the menu. Order Chateaubriand for two, carved table side, or an 18-ounce Australian Lobster Tail. The establishment also includes two cigar lounges and a full bar. Private rooms accommodate up to 45 people.

Avenue One

The young fashionable crowd gathers at the bar over appetizers. Couples out for a romantic evening sit just off the main dining room near the fireplace and take in the view of Elliott Bay. The dining room of Avenue One has a 30-foot ceiling and the tables are covered in white tablecloths with candles and roses. And, a chandelier drips from above giving the whole place a very classy look. Yet the feel is still that of a modern bistro. Classic savory bistro entrees on the seasonal menu usually include steak frites, roasted duck and rabbit. First courses may include seared sea scallops, tuna tartare or a salad of sweetbreads.

Cascadia

In restaurant-heavy Belltown, Cascadia makes a bold statement. Its North West style has hints of true elegance such as the use of Limoges china. Light floods through the many windows while the pianist plays soulful melodies. A fire flickers in the fireplace and water flows over carved glass. Chef Kerry Sear, formerly of The Georgian Room, uses only the freshest, most flavorful ingredients from the Northwest to prepare exceptional dishes. Wines include many North West varieties.

Two Bells Tavern

The burgers at this Belltown tavern are likely to put you in a state of ecstasy. They are considered by many locals to be the best in town. Oh sure, there's other standard American pub grub on the menu (soups, salads, sandwiches), but it is hardly worth mentioning. People of all kinds flock here for the fat, juicy burgers. Strangely, visitors still seem unaware of this tavern's existence, but that is bound to change. The friendly, crowded atmosphere can't be beat. Please call ahead for timings.

Rendezvous

If you want a taste of what Belltown was like before its economic skyrocket, take an evening here and at the 211 Billiard Club. The drinks here are inexpensive but incredibly strong. There is a selection of simple American fare, including sandwiches and salads. The real attraction here is the slightly mossy velveteen decadence of the Jewelbox Theater in the rear. It hosts alternative bands (ranging from awful to excellent), poetry readings and other events.

Belltown Pub & Cafe

Located in an 1880s building, this pub in the trendy Belltown area has been serving its patrons since 1993. The storefront space has high ceilings, an exposed brick wall, tall mahogany booths for privacy and a bistro-style checkered floor. A pint of ale goes well with fresh mussels and clams steamed in a lemon grass-ginger broth. Or try one of the hearty burgers. Vegetarian options include a grilled eggplant sandwich and fusilli loaded with fresh vegetables. In warm weather, dine at the outside tables.

Ohana

The tiki-torch and beach decor may not thrill everyone but no one who stays to eat will be disappointed. Making the most of Hawaiian plate-lunch tradition, Chef Dennis Odea serves up delicious island comfort food from appetizer pupus to hearty entrees. Try the classic ahi poke. Also try the Japanese menu items. A tender and not-too-sweet beef teriyaki competes with Seattle's best. Desserts include a decadent bananas foster. The full bar features more tiki drinks. A late-night menu is available. Reservations are recommended.

Shiro's Sushi Restaurant

This little corner eatery serves some of Seattle's best sushi and provides a stage for one of the city's best-known sushi chefs. Shiro Kashiba left his heralded Nikko restaurant, then installed himself and his considerable talents in this simple but elegant Belltown storefront. He turns out crisp cuts of fish and hand rolls as much flourish as food. The chef's-choice Sushi Dinner covers the basics but it's also rewarding to sample from the sushi list. The restaurant serves sake, beer and wine.

Shilla Restaurant

If you want to treat your taste buds with exotic Asian flavors head to Shilla Restaurant. The menu here offers many choices of fresh vegetables and marinated meats, grilled right at your table. Popular entrees include Bi Bim Bap which is marinated vegetables and beef tossed together with a fried egg on top and Mandoo Gook. Also order from the full-service sushi bar. Entrees come with white rice and zesty sides of Kim Chee that are pickled cabbage. There is also a full-service cocktail lounge.