74th St. Ale House

The seasonal beer has arrived at the 74th St. Ale House, a dark, cheerful, homey pub in Greenwood that was conceived, along with its sister pubs The Hilltop Ale House and The Columbia City Ale House, as a British style “local” pub meant to be frequented by regulars. Wainscoting lines the walls, which are dotted here and there with London Tube signs and photos. The place has a very comfortable feel to it and is usually crowded and noisy with chatter and easy laughter.

I’m not usually much of a beer drinker; it’s not that I don’t like the taste of the stuff, I’m just not big on carbonated beverages as they tend to fill me up too quickly. I like to be made full on food, not drinks! I thought I should try some of the limited time offerings at the 74th St. Ale House, however, because in my experience they tend to be worth it. I was not let down. The Baron Oktoberfest was great: light and fresh with a very clean, slightly sweet finish. It came in a giant stein and I am proud to say that I finished the entire thing (with just a little help from my friend Grandmaster Flash). The Boundary Bay Harvest Ale was also good, being rich, full and malty, filling the mouth like food. When asked how long these seasonal ales would stick around the waitress gave an ironic laugh and told us they’d be here until around the time the Christmas ales came out, which according to her happens earlier and earlier every year. Much like holiday advertisements and department store decorations. Try the autumn offerings while you can before Christmas plows its way inevitably into our lives.

I order the cheeseburger and mixed green salad with goat cheese pretty much every time I eat at the 74th St. Ale House, the reason being that it is good. Very, very good. The burger is served on a french roll, hearty, thick and soft, and topped with cheddar, grilled onions and red and yellow peppers. The onions are crunchy and sweet and make a nice contrast to the soft roll. The burger itself is nicely lean, smooth and savory. And the goat cheese salad! I’ll just state right now that I’m one of goat cheese’s major fans–a chief supporter, if you will–and I love the slight crunch of the breading on the warm, creamy slice served atop the salad at the 74th St. Ale House. The light vinaigrette and croutons are a nice touch but the goat cheese is the real highlight for me.

I am always left feeling warm, cozy and satisfied after visiting the 74th St. Ale House. I believe that they have succeeded in their mission to make their pub inviting and familiar, no matter if you are a “local” or not. Check it out and see for yourself.

The 74th St. Ale House

7401 Greenwood Ave N

Seattle, WA 98103

(206) 784-2955