Once upon a time in a land not too far away (lower Queen Anne), there existed a sprawling urban events center with indoor arena, theater and ballet stages, museums, and even a Fun Forest drawing thousands of ladies and gents to its courts.

But there was nary a drool-worthy restaurant in sight. Until Pop Kitchen + Bar stormed the castle, so to speak.

Inside Experience Music Project, hungry revelers now indulge in classic American dishes with a localized, upscale twist: bacon-wrapped Kobe dogs; Caesar deviled eggs; and the Cheese Dream, a fancy grilled cheese sandwich with mozzarella, Tillamook vintage white cheddar, sweet pickles, and garlic aioli on Macrina brioche.

A sound track worthy of a (rock ’n’ roll) king accompanies lunch and dinner feasts.

Living happily ever after has never been easier.

Pop Kitchen + Bar, Experience Music Project, 325 Fifth Avenue North (popkitchenseattle.com).

Photo: Rebecca Cameron / Courtesy of Pop Kitchen + Bar