Being a spicy food maven, I’m always skeptical about ordering a Bloody Mary in Seattle. I was encouraged by the introduction of the Firehouse Mary by the Hi-Life (at the site of the Ballard Firehouse). But it seems become a bit less potent over the years.

I’m embarrassed to admit that I made my first visit to Hattie’s Hat after 10 years in the neighborhood. It’s definitely an old-time Ballard establishment. It makes nearby Madame K’s look like the Ritz instead of the old-time brothel its decor is meant to evoke. (I’m pretty sure some of the stuff in Hattie’s is left over from when it was a brothel.)

I went in skeptical and I came out smiling. The smile was certainly helped by the two excellent Bloodies, but the food was a nice surprise, too. We really enjoyed the vegetarian black beans & rice and the fish tacos. Pub food, to be sure, but fresh and tasty. Definitely get some cole slaw, if you like that sort of thing. The salsa was refreshingly spicy to boot.

As a caveat, I ordered my Bloody ‘extra-spicy’ from Brady, who works Sunday brunch. I can’t vouch for any of the other bartenders.