A weekend. By violet

It was a lovely weekend around Seattle this past weekend. And since the theme of the summer is busy, busy, busy, this weekend was no different. There was yoga, a visit to the Bite of Seattle, a walk around Discovery Park and a visit to an excellent burger joint.

I’m sure you will get to hear about all that but I want to talk about Friday. We got a few friends together, had dinner at Kushi Bar, saw Inception and hit up the Melrose Market for an after dinner drink.

It just so happened that J.P. had been there earlier today a delicious sandwich for lunch, so he suggested a darling little wine bar, Bar Ferd’nand.

First off, the Melrose Market is a cool little spot. It’s a lot like a miniature version of San Francisco’s ferry building. Along with a sandwich shop, there’s specialty meat and cheese shop, it’s the new home of Stika and Spruce. (And p.s. the cheese shop is called Calf & Kid. How awesome is that?) There’s also a record store and clothing boutique.

Since we came late night for wine most shops were closed. But given all the awesome, interesting shops and of course the great wine, I’m sure we will be back.

Second, Bar Ferd’nand is a great little spot. When I say little, I really mean little. But the market is open so it doesn’t feel cramped (that and there weren’t a lot of people there). The staff was very friendly and gave me a great recommendation for a reasonably priced glass of wine.

With so many places that are so loud that you can’t hear the person next to you talk. Or trying to be too cool for school, it’s nice to find a little gem like this.

 
Violet in Jessica Simpson Cody, brown, leather flats with brass toe buckle

Quinn's. by violet

Sometimes the variety of choices on Capitol Hill can be a bit overwhelming. Not only are there a stunning amount of choices so much of it is so good.

I recently discovered Quinn’s. The interior is full of dark rich wood and exposed brick. Much for the front wall is large windows which mean great people watching. With J.P.’s parents in town last week we decided it would be a good stop.

The menu with my Hot Lava beer

The sun finally came out last week in Seattle the place was bathed in beautiful evening light. The last time we were at Quinn’s our server was incredibly helpful and funny, this time was no different. Even with the hipster edge the staff was all friendly and welcoming.  In fact, Mrs. P even got a "first prize" ribbon for her pronunciation of asparagus. (I think it's a midwest thing...)

We didn’t get any pictures of the food because, well, we were too busy eating it (bad blogger). But the selections included, devils on horseback (or cheese-stuffed dates wrapped in bacon), wild boar sloppy joe with crisp sage leaves and frites fontina fonduta. It was all delicious, way above your typical pub grub, even though the beer list formidable.

Decisions, decisions

The next time you find yourself wandering around Capitol Hill not sure where to eat, I suggest Quinn’s.

Violet in Jessica Simpson "Jessica" pump in ivory patent

bar i like: Quinn's Pub. by violet.

so, it's true. i just might have the biggest crush in the history of all my crushes (which is quite extensive). because it is so new, i don't want to jinx it by spilling all the details... but i will say that last night was the best date yet! it could have been the bottle of Chateau Ste Michelle chardonnay he bought (which we all know is my weakness) or the bouquet of daisies he had on the bookshelf or shoot, just being near him… but this pub also made for a wonderful night.

Quinn’s Pub is on E Pike in Capitol Hill, a neighborhood i don’t explore often enough. but after last night’s experience, i know i will be going back for sure! as soon as we walked in, we were completely enchanted by the dim lighting and the sound of the Fleet Foxes playing. it just got better as we found a little pocket at the end of the bar and ordered a couple of IPAs and some small dishes. the menu is a unique, exotic take on gastropub-style. we enjoyed the mussels and chorizo, the asparagus salad and the fried oyster sliders and spent the majority of the meal planning what we would order next time. the bartenders are wonderful, the atmosphere is ideal and hands down, it is THE perfect date spot.

so, be sure to visit and order a plate of the mussels! you will not be disappointed.