The Blue Glass

My first visit to The Blue Glass in Ballard was in February 2011, and I liked it so much that I brought another friend there the following week. I had not returned for several months simply because it's not on my everyday path, but two recent visits reminded me why I liked it so much in the first place.

The menu includes bar bites, small plates and large plates priced from $4 to $20 (avg. entree was $15.)We ordered several small plates, including some of the best fried chicken and gravy that I've eaten in Seattle. Being from the South, I didn't expect much from the crab hush puppies, but they were the star of the evening. 

I've also been to The Blue Glass twice for brunch. The chicken fried pork cutlet was cooked just right. I expected it to be a thin, brown piece of pork, but it was a thick, white pork steak with the same batter they use on the fried chicken. The caramelized bacon was the biggest surprise. I knew the bacon would be good, but the surprise was the maple bourbon goat cheese that was actually a savory whipped cream. I dipped both the bacon and the thinly sliced apples in the frothy goodness and was more intrigued with every bite.

The Blue Glass has an excellent cocktail list, and my first drink was the Scottish Monk (one of three savory cocktails on the menu.) I thought it might be too much of a "spring/summer" flavor, but I was pleasantly surprised at the depth of the cocktail, making it the perfect before dinner drink. My friend ordered the Ginger Lemon Drop and was very satisfied as well. Because I can't stand horseradish, I asked the bartender to make a bloody mary from scratch, and both times I was there for brunch, he gladly accommodated my wish.  Despite the extra effort by making it from scratch, I was only charged the regular $7, which for a pint of a strong drink, seemed like a good deal.

The service each time was really good and lacked that pretentious air that new Ballard restaurants tend to have. There are two owners -- one who worked at Bicks for years and then managed Saltoro for several more, and one who owns The Tractor in Ballard. The place was packed by 7:30pm, but the food was served in a timely manner and I never felt rushed. 

This is a great place to go with friends or for a romantic evening. I'll be back!