Ballard oyster bar with soul

Tipple of choice: The Euro-centric wine list is extensive, but it's hard to go past the craft cocktails. Try a 'bearded lady' with anejo, cynar, averna and laphroaig mist.

"I like the Walrus best," remarked Alice, when Tweedledum and Tweedledee recited the poem about a carpenter and his ally who feasted on a bed of oysters after luring them out of the ocean. With its appropriately rustic, seaside-style furnishings, this whimsical little oyster bar has the ultimate storybook ambience.

On top of a daily changing menu of fresh Washington state oysters, the bar offers a range of tasty small bites - from sea urchin custard to offbeat salads and artisan cheeses - to nibble on with your glass of wine or beer.