Sambar is in lower Phinney Ridge or East Ballard depending on your perspective. In any event, it's a terrific bar and definitely worth a sidetrip. It's really, really small and generally full (but... More

Sambar is in lower Phinney Ridge or East Ballard depending on your perspective. In any event, it's a terrific bar and definitely worth a sidetrip. It's really, really small and generally full (but not crowded) so be advised. They serve fantastic cocktails (always ask for the specials - I had a refreshing aloe/lime cocktail the last time I went and I loved it) as well as high end bar food. It's adjacent to Le Gourmand and they share the same kitchen so the menu's limited but the food is really good. Check it out.
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Sambar is swanky. It's so small you might miss it, but it's so very romantic because it's so small. Drinks are spendy but incredible quality and very interesting recipes (there's one with rose water... More

Sambar is swanky. It's so small you might miss it, but it's so very romantic because it's so small. Drinks are spendy but incredible quality and very interesting recipes (there's one with rose water that I will be sure to try next time). A little out of my budget (our drinks were $9 a piece), but worth it for a special occasion or to impress a date. The outside seating area looked lovely, but was full so we couldn' t actually sit out there. We got a very European feel from the experience, even down to the slow bill. They are not afraid to let you linger, and it's such a nice place you want to anyway.
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...and they serve a little food too. This is a GREAT little spot in Ballard (east of 15th). It's attached to Le Gourmand and serves a mini appetizer menu that draws inspiration from the... More

...and they serve a little food too. This is a GREAT little spot in Ballard (east of 15th). It's attached to Le Gourmand and serves a mini appetizer menu that draws inspiration from the restaurant. But the best part by far are the cocktails... be sure to ask your server for the daily special, they are always fantastic. Downside... there's only about 7 tables, 10 if it's nice out, so keep that in mind...
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For those looking off the beaten path, this has been a great place for years that still seems untouched--rare find. It seems like it's one of those places that only locals should know about (and for... More

For those looking off the beaten path, this has been a great place for years that still seems untouched--rare find. It seems like it's one of those places that only locals should know about (and for those ballardians that wish it was, apologies).. but what the heck...it reminds me of a lot of the small cafe/bars/bistros that you would see in europe without having to try to be such--JB readers should treat themselves. Next door to Le Gourmand. Great outdoor seating area, some of the most creative cocktails in town and a delicious, light menu. Warm staff, best atmosphere...and very romantic or perfect for a small gathering of good friends.
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