Nice beer, decent food
Thursday, August 18, 2005
Hale's is in that odd stretch of Leary Way between Ballard and Fremont, interspersed with shipyards and storage units. Despite its odd location, once you enter, it's clearly a haven for good beer and good food.
The big fermenters are on proud display in front, and the entryway smells like a brewery -- malt and bleach. Once inside the restaurant, the decor is a bit sterile but the bar is big and wooden and comfortable, and the booths are cozy. A dozen of Hale's own beers are on tap and are all worth a try; the house flavor is distinctive and pleasant, and the brews are generally European-inspired. The dinner menu is a mix of sandwiches, salads and very good looking pizzas. You won't find any greay culinary adventurousness here, but the food is solid and a good counterpart to the beer. On Monday nights they barbecue, and though I haven't tried it, it smells wonderful, smoky and meaty.
Of note, Hale's is a restaurant, not a pub, so children under 21 are allowed; this makes it a good choice for parents who want a craft-brewed beer with dinner.