Seattle's Best Bars

Since I turned twenty-one, I've enjoyed getting to drink at all the great places in Seattle, and not just the grimy ones that don't check ID's. Your choice of bar depends on your goal for the night: to get a drink with friends, possibly hear some decent music, dance, or just hang out and play pool. I like to try everything at least once, but when it comes to bars, there are some that you just tend to gravitate to. Usually, it's because of the neighborhood they're in, or the regulars you'll see, or the entertainment they book on any given night. These are the places that I would head towards:

The Rendezvous. Belltown The Rendezvous is a cozy place with warm red lighting and some of the greatest bartenders in existence. They remember you, they remember your drink, and they look after your driver's licence when you leave it on the counter. The Rendezvous also offers great entertainment, including cabaret and movie nights. The place is deceptive, however: I was going there for months before I realized there were other rooms than the steet level space. Try and score one of the coveted window tables, and keep an eye out for regulars. 2320 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA, 98121 (206) 441-5823.

Belltown Pizza, Belltown Located in the same neighborhood, Belltown Pizza has the Rendezvous beat in one crucial area: here, you can have a slice of cheese with your vodka collins (or whatever your choice of poison may be.) The pizza would be less good without the cocktail, but hand-in-hand makes for a very satisfying meal. Avoid most of the clubbing, mock-glamorous Belltown crowd, although some of them venture in every so often. It's not a dive, but you won't feel stupid in your jeans. 2422 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98121 (206) 441-2653

The People's Pub, Ballard. This is a great place to go with a few friends for a beer or a whiskey. it's dark, it's smoky, and the patrons are cool, down-to-earth Ballard residents. The cuisine is South German. For satisfying barfood, get the heaping plate of fries, or, for the more adventurous, yummy fried pickles. 5429 Ballard Ave NW 98107 (206) 783-6521

The Matador, Ballard The Matador might be Ballard's most chic drinking venue. The decor is ultra modern, the staff is ultra good-looking, and the happy hour is amazing. It is the kind of place I usually try to avoid, but since it's surrounded by so many earthy Ballard bars, it is kind of unique for the neighborhood. Sit at the bar with the cute bartenders, or at a private table. 2221 NW Market St. Seattle, WA 98107 (206) 297-2855

The Hideout, First Hill. The first time that you go looking for it, you're not going to find it. Even people that know about it walk right by. Located in First Hill by the hospitals and a few chinese food places, the Hideaway doesn't even try to grab your attention. The windows are black, and the only clue is a diminuitive sign and a 21 and over notice. It looks like a coverup (and not a very good one) for something depraved. But dare to go inside: artsy decor, chandeliers, velvet, wood panelling... this is one of those unforgettable bars that everyone forgets abouts about. 1005 Boren Ave, Seattle, WA, 98101 (206) 903-8480

The Fiddler's Inn, Wedgewood. This friendly, neighborhood joint doesn't have a trace of that bar seediness. instead, you'll hear great music with friendly people of all ages, and have the opportunity to sample all different kinds of beer. For the serious beer lover, this folksy joint is perfect. 9219 35th Ave NE, Seattle, WA, 98115 (206) 525-0752.

The Reading Gael Ballard/Phinney Ridge This could be the world's perfect bar. The staff is friendly, the lighting is perfect, and everything just feels really comfortable. Nothing is overstated or obnoxious, including the people. There are dozens of beers on tap, and a full bar. It's not the place to go to really let loose, but it's perfect for conversation. And they have pool. 408 NW 65th St, Seattle, WA, 98117 (206)783-3002

611 Supreme, Capital Hill. For a serious night of barhopping, you have to go to the Hill. Everything is in close vicinity, and this is a good place to start, before things get ugly. The place is divided between a bar section and a french restaurant. I recommend that you treat youself to a cosmo and a brie and mushroom crepe at the bar, before you degrade yourself with jeiger shots later across the street at the Cha-Cha. 611 E. Pine, Seattle, WA 98122 (206) 328-0292