October 26, 2007

Blonde Ambition

Quinn’s Opens

It’s not that you’re picky, Miss Goldilocks. Just that you know what you want.

Take restaurants: This one’s too snooty. That one’s not cozy. And that other one is way too dirty — unless, of course, you’re drunkity-drunk and it’s open at 2 a.m.

Fair enough. But Quinn’s, Seattle’s first gastropub (opening today), might end your search for just right.

Inspired by similar London and NYC establishments, chef/owner Scott Staples (Zoë) and his wife, Heather, lovingly renovated a funky old building and are serving white tablecloth-quality fare in a casual, pubby backdrop.

Soaring original wood ceilings, smoky transom windows, and vintage light fixtures set an old world mood, while Staples’s house-made sausages and pâtés, braised meats, and towering sammies are unmistakeably food-forward.

Still not convinced? All wines are served by the glass and half-bottle and not a single dish is over $20.

Which even you’ll admit is beary nice indeed.

Quinn’s, 1001 East Pike Street (206-325-7711).