NFT Radar: The Cozy Nut Tavern

The Cozy Nut Tavern

Greenwood’s aptly named joint delightfully evokes Wes Anderson’s Fantastic Mr. Fox. Thanks to the reclaimed wood interior and soft lamplight you’ll feel like you are enjoying your cocktails or streamlined selection of local and imported brews inside the nicest damned tree trunk imaginable. Every minute spent there is a pure joy from their adorable anthropomorphic forest creature silhouettes to their build-your-own charcuterie plates. The delightfully toothsome texture of their warm, house made corn nuts (complimentary with every drink order) shatteringly transcend the commercial variety. Even the taxidermy seems pleased to be part of it all. Bring a deck of cards and settle in with friends.

From Not For Tourists – Seattle.

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NFT Radar: Burgundian

Burgundian

Burgundian

The Burgundian isn’t Seattle’s only destination for chicken and waffles. But the malt batter and bourbon maple syrup makes it one of the best. The classic pairing is only one of numerous reasons to become a brunch regular. The wood-laden, 21+ establishment gives discerning grownups a comfortable place to recharge on a late weekend morning. Dishes like the veggie-laden winter hash, bruleed oranges, or fruit-filled steel cut oatmeal prove you don’t need a grease-bomb to satisfyingly soak up the previous night’s indulgences. Bread accompaniment options include brioche or a biscuit. Enjoy your meal with a hair-of-the-dog cocktail or a flawless latte.

From Not For Tourists – Seattle.

NFT Radar: Toronado

Toronado

Toronado

Do you love beer, but find yourself let down by the paltry 10-12 options you usually find at a bar? The California-originated Toronado has your back with 40 rotating taps and a giant LCD menu that’s just begging for you to make a night of it. View the live beer board on their website so you’re not so overwhelmed once you get there. They’ve got equally massive lists of bourbon, whiskey, scotch and tequila for the more spirited folks. Somehow, they also find time to maintain a farm-to-table menu full of decadent sandwiches and charcuterie plates. Or just get a plate of bacon for $10.

From Not For Tourists – Seattle.

NFT Radar: Sushi Kanpai

Sushi Kanpai

kanpai

What’s better than an awesome happy hour? How about a happy hour that lasts all weekend and features what is practically a dinner-sized menu at low prices? Order more traditional sushi rolls or YOLO with the Heart Attack (basically a Japanese jalapeno popper). Don’t miss the tempura or the gyoza. The catch is a one-drink per person minimum, which means you can’t share that Saki unless you get a beer back. It’s a convenient spitting distance from Town Hall, so you get your buzz on and fill your belly before catching a reading by that author you heard on NPR. Of course, you can always order from their regular menu, where the food gets fancy but the prices stay reasonable. Kanpai!

From Not For Tourists – Seattle.

NFT Radar: Vittles

Vittles Neighborhood Bistro & Bar

Vittles

This up-and-coming bistro in Belltown is poised for stardom. The soft brown décor makes it ideal for dates and parents alike. The classed-up comfort food and thoughtfully crafted cocktails have something for everyone. For me, the star attraction is the generously portioned Crispy Green Beans with Broccoli, tempura breaded with a truffle aioli drizzle for dipping. Make a meal out of one or two apps or share the love. Also notable: Crab and Corn Beignets and the House Poutine, which uses a cheesy sauce in lieu of traditional toppings. For even heartier fare, venture into the surf and turf laden entrees. The service is just how I like it–attentively laid-back. Things get even cheaper at happy hour.

From Not For Tourists – Seattle.