Quinn's Pub
Quinn's is located on Capitol Hill above downtown Seattle on the corner of 10th and East Pike. I have been wanting to go since they opened but hadn't made it by until last night. I had family in town visiting and we stopped in quickly to order a few snacks to share before we headed out to see my cousin's band (The Sons of Light - ridiculously talented gents!) play. I must note that I was already a huge fan of Scott and Heather Staples (the owners) because they operate my favorite restaurant downtown, Restaurant Zoe. Needless to say, my expectations were high.
I called about 15 minutes before we arrived because there were five of us and although I knew they didn't take reservations I wanted to know how busy they were and if it was even worth driving up the hill (don't judge me - I detest lines and long wait-times...there....I said it). The host was super warm and welcoming and said she would work something out as soon as we got there. Perfect. Once we arrived, we were seated quickly and greeted by an enthusiastic (and well-informed) server ; nothing excites me more than waitstaff that know their stuff.
The space was warm with dark tones, exposed concrete, and recycled wood beams. It felt very cozy even though the front of the restaurant had floor to ceiling windows looking out to the street. Water was served from reused glass liquor bottles (IE Bulleit Bourbon, etc). Most of the lighting was Edison bulb-inspired. The dining room was comfortable and masculine... perfectly pub-like.
We skimmed the menu and ordered a couple of things: Spicy Fried Peanuts, Warm Pretzel with Beer Cheese Sauce, Frites with Fontina Fonduta and Demi-Glace, Pork Belly with Apple Butter, Baby Lettuce and Radish Salad, and their Painted Hills Burger with Cheddar and Bacon.
Everything was absolutely delicious. The peanuts were strangely addicting...smokey and sweet at first with a bit of heat after. My Aunt Kathy would have put a straw into the beer cheese sauce had she found one ....I love you Aunt Kathy. Overall, just totally awesome gastropub fare. Service was quick and efficient. Expectations were exceeded. I need to go back immediately and order the rest of the menu. Cannot wait.
1001 East Pike Street
Seattle, WA 98122-3818
(206) 325-7711
Seattle, WA 98122-3818
(206) 325-7711
Sarah Simms